Essaouira is on the Atlantic Ocean in the western part of Morocco. On the compass, it points west about 190 km (118 miles) from Marrakesh and north about 170 km (106 miles). The area around Essaouira is called Marrakesh-Safi.
Essaouira has a flat shoreline with wide, sandy beaches and strong Atlantic winds, making it popular for kiteboarding and windsurfing. It was once a major port and trading hub. Its medina, or old city, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its well-preserved 18th-century European-style architecture mixed with traditional Moroccan features.
People love the city’s laid-back vibe, cute narrow streets, whitewashed buildings with blue shutters, and lively cultural scene, which includes Gnawa music events and arts and crafts shows. Because it is on the coast, it is known for its fresh seafood and thriving fishing business.