Visiting Essaouira in July: Weather + Festivals + Things to Do
Is July a good time to visit Essaouira? With long, sun-drenched days and mild coastal temperatures, visiting Essaouira in July is bliss!
The reliably warm weather makes it the perfect time for a relaxing seaside getaway, whether you want to laze on the beach, shop for handicrafts and artworks or people watch in the city’s bohemian cafes.
While Marrakech (just 2.5 hours away) is scorchingly hot in July, the ocean breezes in Essaouira provide a welcome respite. As a result, many Moroccans flock to the coastline, particularly once the summer school holidays swing into action.
As a result, accommodation prices tend to be high and booking well in advance is highly recommended.
But even with the peak season crowds (the medina is definitely busy in July), I think Essaouira is the perfect destination for a summer vacation in Morocco.
In this article, discover everything you need to know about visiting Essaouira in July, from the weather to crowds and special events. I’ll also share with you some of the best things to do in Essaouira in July to help you plan a seasonally suitable itinerary.
Planning a longer Moroccan escape? Discover everything you need to know about travelling to Morocco in July here.
For more information about visiting Morocco’s “Windy City”, check out my Essential Travel Guide to Essaouira.
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Essaouira weather in July
Much of Morocco experiences intense heat in July, with temperatures often exceeding 40°C in cities like Marrakech and Fes. But Essaouira offers comfortably mild conditions due to its coastal setting.
The city benefits from refreshing ocean breezes, which keep daytime temperatures around 26°C (79°F) and nighttime lows at about 18°C (64°F). Although there are rare days when temperatures may rise above 30°C (86°F), this isn’t the norm.
July in Essaouira typically brings bright, sunny days with little to no rain. That being said, the winds are definitely on the strong side. While some days are calm and still, others can see the beach transformed into a sandstorm, attracting kitesurfers and windsurfers eager to seize the conditions.
Occasionally, a thick sea mist rolls in, shrouding the beach and creating a mystical atmosphere. This usually lifts later in the day.
Is July a busy time in Essaouira?
July is one of the busiest months of the year in Essaouira. The mild temperatures draw an influx of both domestic and international tourists.
Moroccan families flock to Essaouira during the school holidays to escape the scorching heat of the inland cities and cool off in the refreshing Atlantic waters.
At the same time, the city sees a significant number of European visitors. Many come to spend time in their summer homes or discover the city’s unique blend of North African and European influences.
As a result, accommodations in Essaouira during July can be in high demand. Prices are high and some hotels even require a minimum stay of three nights.
As such, I’d highly recommend booking your Essaouira hotel or riad well in advance, especially if you’re considering a long-term stay.
Top tip:
If you want to avoid the crowds, aim for a visit early in July or take advantage of the (slightly) quieter weekdays.
Restaurants in Essaouira can also get really busy during July. This is particularly true in the last couple of weeks during the school holiday period. It’s wise to make reservations in advance, especially on weekends.
Moroccans tend to eat late. So you might be able to get away without making bookings if you’re an early diner.
Visiting Essaouira in July and don’t want to stay in the medina? There are some amazing villas in the surrounding countryside that are perfect for a summer stay.
Alternatively, check out these beachfront Essaouira hotels to stay just steps from the sand.
What’s on in Essaouira in July
Feast of the Throne
Every year on July 30, the Throne Day commemorates King Mohammed VI’s ascension to the throne. This sees government offices, banks and businesses close, allowing people to gather with family and friends to feast in honour of their king.
The main celebrations occur at the Royal Palace in Rabat, where the king delivers a speech to the nation. Meanwhile, the military parades and air shows take place throughout the country.
Best things to do in Essaouira in July
Essaouira centres around a UNESCO World Heritage-listed medina. Wandering through the narrow streets is a “must-do” experience, no matter what time of year you’re visiting.
It’s filled with artisan boutiques, art galleries and historic buildings, as well as a great choice of eclectic cafes where you can watch the world go by.
There are also several fascinating museums that delve into cultural heritage and contemporary art. Many of these provide a cool retreat from the midday sun.
If you’re visiting Essaouira in July, be sure to explore the Skala de la Kasbah. This 18th-century coastal fortress features impressive brass cannons and stunning views of the Atlantic Ocean.
This is one of the most popular spots to watch the sunset in Essaouira. There’s usually a large gathering of people here with cameras in hand!
Top tip:
In July, the winds can be quite strong in Essaouira, stirring up sand and making beach lounging less enjoyable. They tend to be milder in the mornings and build throughout the day, so head out for a swim early if you want to avoid the worst of it. This is also a much quieter time to be on the sand, with more and more beachgoers arriving throughout the day.
By mid-afternoon, the beach can be packed (especially on weekends). That being said, it’s a really lovely opportunity to experience Moroccan beach culture, with some families even bringing their tagines to cook lunch.
If you want somewhere away from the sand to retreat to, I’d recommend finding an Essaouira hotel with a pool.
The windy days are ideal for kitesurfing and windsurfing, and Essaouira is renowned for these water sports. There are numerous shops where you can rent gear or book a lesson if you’re just starting out.
For seafood enthusiasts, a visit to the port for lunch is a must. You can choose your fish and have it grilled at one of the barbecue stands. Most also prepare delicious Moroccan salads and bread to complement your meal.
While there are lots of day trips and tours available from Essaouira, including market visits and village walks, it’s worth keeping in mind that the temperatures rise considerably once you head inland.
On hot days, my advise would be to stay close to the coastline. A camel ride or horseback excursion at sunset is a really memorable way to end the day.
Is July a good time to visit Essaouira?
July can be a wonderful time to visit Essaouira, with reliably sunny and warm weather that’s ideal for a coastal escape. The gentle ocean breezes help to keep the air temperatures comfortable. It’s a striking contrast to Marrakech!
Essaouira really comes alive in the summer months and there’s such a buzz in the medina.
That being said, accommodations tend to be pricier in July. This is understandable, considering its peak travel season. Booking well in advance is recommended to secure your preferred Essaouira riad or hotel.
While the medina and beach can get quite busy, you can still find peaceful spots to relax and soak up the beauty of the Moroccan coast.
Overall, with its consistently lovely weather, vibrant energy and picturesque seaside setting, July can be an ideal time for a Moroccan getaway in Essaouira.
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About Me
I’m Malika, a global traveller who first visited Morocco in 2014 before marrying a local and settling down in a little village on the Atlantic coast. Over the years, I’ve developed an intense love for Morocco, its incredible landscapes, storied cities and the exceptionally generous hospitality of its people.
Malika in Morocco is a place to share my years of experience exploring the country, from north to south and from the Atlantic Ocean to the Sahara Desert. As a resource for travellers visiting Morocco, I want to encourage others to experience this captivating destination the way they desire, whether that’s independently or under the expert guidance of local tour operators.
I believe strongly in supporting responsible and sustainable tourism initiatives while inspiring travel experiences that are life-impacting and mutually beneficial for both travellers and locals.
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