For me, Essaouira is a destination that’s all about sun, sand and surf…but you could also add “spa” into that mix. This former Portuguese trading post has a really laidback feel after the hustle and bustle of Marrakech and it’s the kind of place where you might just want to treat yourself to a little pampering experience.
Thankfully, there are a handful of hotels in Essaouira with spas, including big-name international chains by the beach and boutique riads in the medina. While some are really focused on offering hammam rituals and massages, others have sprawling spa complexes with thalassotherapy and hydromassage treatments.
Read on to discover 5 of the best spa hotels in Essaouira, which cater to everyone from solo travellers and couples to spa-loving families.
A colourful fountain and dining area at Hotel Le Medina Thalassa Sea & Spa (photo courtesy of Expedia)
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Best hotel in Essaouira with a thalassotherapy spa
Overlooking Plage d’Essaouira, this oceanfront boutique hotel forms part of the luxurious MGallery Collection. It boasts 117 contemporary rooms and suites, as well as several restaurants that include L’Arganier and MBeach. As part of its cultural offersings, Hotel Le Medina hosts changing art exhibitions and regular music/DJ nights.
At the heart of this upmarket Essaouira hotel is its Thalassotherapy and Spa Institute, where you can embark on a sensory journey of wellness and rejuvenation. It offers a range of traditional sculpting and beauty treatments using locally-sourced organic products, as well as boasting several hydromassage cabins. Not to miss is the authentic hammam ritual, followed by a swim in the heated saltwater pool.
"Great hotel in a fantastic location with all the amenities needed…The spa was really lovely and had different types of offerings, which I appreciated.” - Jacqueline (read more reviews here)
Best spa hotels in Essaouira
A traditional hammam at the Hotel Le Medina Thalassa Sea & Spa in Essaouira (photo courtesy of Expedia)
Best romantic riad in Essaouira with a spa
Occupying a former school, this eclectically designed Essaouira hotel has been carefully restored to maintain its traditional architecture while offering modern comforts and amenities. Each of its 10 rooms is colourfully decorated with Moroccan-inspired furnishings and decor, highlighting the exceptional craftsmanship of local artisans. The couple suites feature king-size beds and cosy sitting areas, with some also including fireplaces for a romantic touch.
When you're not out sightseeing in the medina, you can relax in the authentic Moroccan hammam where scrubs and massages are offered by professional practitioners. All of the products used are naturally derived, creating an authentically local spa experience. The lovely rooftop terrace and friendliness of the staff only add to the experience.
"A perfect home away from home in Essaouira: you won’t want to leave!” - George (read more reviews here)
Best spa hotels in Essaouira
Sky blue balconies decorate the interior courtyard of Ryad Watier & Spa in Essaouira (photo courtesy of Expedia)
Best luxury spa hotel in Essaouira
Under the prestigious Relais & Châteaux brand, this luxury Essaouira hotel offers enchanting stays in the heart of the medina. It features 33 beautifully appointed rooms and suites set around a plant-filled patio, as well as a rooftop pool offering incredible views across the medina. Le Salon Oriental dishes up everything from locally caught sardines to lobster for those nights when you don't want to venture out.
At Le P'tit Spa, you’ll find an intimate wellness facility where traditional hammams and massage treatments are available. Covered in black tadelakt, the hammam is particularly atmospheric and offers a quintessential Moroccan experience. For more cultural immersion, you can join one of the hands-on cooking classes run by Chef Ahmed Handour.
"Wonderful, elegant, had a hard time leaving the hotel for sightseeing.” - Emre (read more reviews here)
Best spa hotels in Essaouira
A black marble hammam at Heure Bleue Palais - one of the best spa hotels in Essaouira (photo courtesy of Expedia)
Best Essaouira riad with a spa
Set smack-bang on the ramparts, this boutique Essaouira hotel offers spectacular views across the Atlantic Ocean. It offers six beautifully appointed rooms and four luxurious suites (each of which is individually decorated), plus a table d’hôte serving elevated Moroccan cuisine.
In terms of relaxation, this Essaouira spa hotel boasts an onsite hammam where you can enjoy an authentic beldi experience with natural essential oils. Massages using deep pressure and fluid movements are also available and tailored to individual needs. Riad Perle d’Eau is staffed by a team of enthusiastic locals, who are always happy to share their insights into the local culture.
“Beautiful little gem of a hotel…You would never guess what lies behind the single front door.” - Donna (read more reviews here)
Best spa hotels in Essaouira
Sun loungers beside one of the pools at Sofitel Essaouira Mogador Golf & Spa (photo courtesy of Expedia)
Best family-friendly hotel in Essaouira with a spa
While this five-star Essaouira hotel is starting to show signs of wear and tear, it's still a value-for-money choice if you’re planning a family vacation in Essaouira and want resort-like spa facilities. It overlooks a wild stretch of coastline to the south of the city and there are complimentary shuttles to and from the medina available. With multiple restaurants, swimming pools and jacuzzis to choose from, it’s the kind of place that will keep the whole family happy.
When it’s time to be pampered, you can head to the So Spa, which has eight treatment rooms, a traditional hammam and a heated pool. They also offer relaxed parent-child treatments if you want to rejuvenate with the kids. Additionally, there’s an onsite fitness centre and a Gary Player-designed golf course, all surrounded by 600 hectares of beautiful coastal terrain.
"Yes, there are a few areas needing a little TLC. But - the hotel is beautiful, the staff are amazing and friendly and it is a great place to relax.” - James (read more reviews here)
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About the author
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 majestic landscapes, storied cities and the incredibly warm hospitality of its people. As the owner and content creator of Malika in Morocco, I share my years of experience exploring the country, from north to south and from the Atlantic Ocean to the Sahara Desert. I am passionate about helping others plan their Moroccan travel adventures to ensure they get the most out of their North African experience.