Visiting Essaouira in February: Weather + Events + Things to Do

Is February a good time to visit Essaouira? In my opinion, February can be a great time to visit Essaouira. This charming coastal city is known for its laid-back vibe, historic medina and breezy beaches.

Compared to the busy summer months, the streets are relatively uncrowded. Plus, the mild temperatures make it great for leisurely explorations and sightseeing. 

That being said, visiting Essaouira in February might not be everyone’s cup of tea. This is particularly true if you’re craving a classic beach vacation with long days lounging on the beach.

In winter, the air and water temperatures may be a bit cool for swimming. Although there are still plenty of opportunities to enjoy the coastal setting while windsurfing and kitesurfing. 

The trade winds that have earned Essaouira the nickname the “Windy City” are still prevalent in February. However, it’s usually a bit calmer than in the summertime. This makes it perfect for long walks along the coastline and horseback riding on the beach.

If you’re visiting Essaouira in February, the reduced tourist numbers mean you can often find better deals on accommodations and enjoy more authentic interactions with the friendly locals. 

In this article, discover everything you need to know about visiting Essaouira in February, from the weather to crowds and special events. I’ll also share with you some of the best things to do in Essaouira in February to help you plan a seasonally suitable itinerary. 

Planning a longer Moroccan winter escape? Discover everything you need to know about travelling to Morocco in February 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 February

Mild and comfortable is how I would describe the weather in Essaouira in February. It will come as a warm respite if you’re travelling from northern Europe. You can expect daytime highs of around 18°C (64°F) and nighttime lows of about 10°C (50°F).

Rainfall is relatively low during winter in Essaouira, with an average of only four wet days throughout the month. You can probably get away without bringing a waterproof if you’re travelling light. 

While Essaouira is known for its strong winds, January tends to be one of the calmest months. This is one of the reasons I love it so much!

However, the weather can shift rapidly from one day to the next. Brilliantly sunny skies can quickly give way to overcast, blustery conditions before cycling back to sun again.

The chilly mornings may see you rugging up in a jumper or jacket. But by midday, you’ll likely be stripping down to short sleeves. 

Is February a busy time in Essaouira?

While February in Essaouira is definitely the “off-season”, there are still enough tourists around to create a lively atmosphere. Compared to late January, there are usually more families visiting Essaouira in February. This is due to the mid-term school break in some European countries.

That being said, the city is still much quieter than in the peak summer months and you won’t be jostling for space in the medina. 

Essaouira is usually at its busiest on weekends, when domestic tourists come to enjoy the coastal setting and the sun-drenched beaches. On Fridays and Saturdays, it’s still a good idea to make dinner reservations at the city’s most sought-after restaurants. Although you can probably just walk in on weekdays.

While February may not see the crowds of the summer high season, Essaouira still hums with vibrancy as visitors come to soak up the winter sun.

What’s on in Essaouira in February

February is a really quiet month in Essaouira in terms of events. Morocco doesn’t have any public holidays during this month and it’s too chilly for the music festivals that energise the streets in the warmer months.

That doesn’t mean there’s not lots of things to do in Essaouira in February. In fact, there’s everything from cooking classes to horseback riding and kitesurfing lessons on offer.

Best things to do in Essaouira in February

Due to the relatively uncrowded conditions, January in Essaouira is a wonderful time to wander the whitewashed medina and shop for handicrafts in the artisan stores. You can appreciate the creativity of local artists in the art galleries and enjoy some people-watching at the vibrant cafes scattered throughout the city.

Yes, the Atlantic waters might be too cold for swimming, with temperatures around 16-18°C (61-64°F). But there are still numerous beach activities to enjoy.

February is a great time to learn to windsurf or kitesurf due to the milder winds. There are plenty of surf schools offering lessons and equipment.

For those seeking a more relaxed pace, the quiet beaches provide the perfect setting for leisurely strolls or horseback riding excursions. 

The brisk February weather in Essaouira also makes it a great time to indulge in a traditional hammam, a quintessential Moroccan experience. If you’re looking for a riad with a hammam, consider staying at Riad Dar Maya or Heure Bleue Palais, a Relais & Châteaux property. 

If the weather is unfavourable outside for sightseeing, you can book in for a cooking class in Essaouira to learn the secrets of Moroccan cuisine. 

Is February a good time to visit Essaouira?

In my opinion, visiting Essaouira in February can be great if you love mild climates and fewer crowds. While the temperatures aren’t really warm enough for lounging on the beach, there are still plenty of opportunities for coastal exploration.

If you’re into cold water swimming (like I am), you’ll love the bracing waters of the Atlantic Ocean at this time of year!

Essaouira is a popular destination for windsurfing and kitesurfing throughout the year. Generally speaking, the conditions in February are good for beginners. 

Rather than winter rains, the skies are often clear and sunny, perfect for long walks along the beach or strolling through the medina. 

While visitor numbers see a slight uptick during the mid-term European school break, Essaouira still retains a relaxed, uncrowded atmosphere. With fewer tourists compared to the busy summer months, you can really take your time.

Browse the shops and art galleries, sip mint tea in the quiet cafes and simply soak up the unique ambiance of this breezy, bohemian enclave.

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.