Is March a good time to visit Essaouira? In my opinion, March is an excellent time to visit Essaouira and will be particularly special in 2025 as Ramadan falls during the month. Not only is the weather pleasantly mild, with abundant sunshine, but the streets are relatively uncrowded compared to April and beyond.
In March in Essaouira, the daytime temperatures are usually in the low 20s Celsius (around 68-72 Fahrenheit) and while the evenings can still be chilly, the brisk feeling of winter begins to dissipate. Essaouira's infamous coastal winds, which can be quite strong at other times of the year, tend to be gentler in March, making strolls along the beach and historic ramparts all the more enjoyable.
Essaouira’s laid-back ambiance is especially appealing in March, before the peak tourist season hits, allowing you to experience the city at an enticingly relaxed pace. While Ramadan may impact certain aspects of your visit, such as restaurant opening hours and the availability of daytime tours, it also offers a unique glimpse into Moroccan customs and traditions.
In this article, discover everything you need to know about visiting Essaouira in March, from the weather to crowds and special events. I’ll also share with you some of the best things to do in Essaouira in March to help you plan a seasonally suitable itinerary.
Planning a longer Moroccan escape? Discover everything you need to know about travelling to Morocco in March here.
For more information about visiting Morocco's "Windy City", check out my Ultimate Travel Guide to Essaouira.
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Essaouira weather in March
Essaouira weather in March is typically mild and pleasant, making it an ideal time to visit this charming coastal city. Daytime temperatures generally range from around 18 to 21 degrees Celsius (64 to 70 degrees Fahrenheit), allowing you to explore the medina, stroll along the beach or relax at the alfresco cafes without overheating.
Evenings and nights can be noticeably cooler, with temperatures dropping to around 12 degrees Celsius (54 degrees Fahrenheit), so be sure to pack a light jacket or sweater for venturing out after dark. While March does see occasional rainfall, showers are usually light and short-lived and won’t put a dampener on sightseeing or outdoor activities.
In March, Essaouira’s legendary winds (or infamous, depending on who you talk to) are usually calmer than in July and August but there’s still enough for water sports enthusiasts to go kite surfing or wind surfing.
Visiting Essaouira in March
Is March a busy time in Essaouira?
March is a relatively quiet time to visit Essaouira but it’s definitely not “dead”. The peak summer travel season won’t kick in until the end of Ramadan, with the majority of tourists and holiday-makers descending in April. While the winding alleys of the medina won't be thronged with visitors, March still sees a steady trickle of travellers looking to experience the laid-back atmosphere of Essaouira before the crowds arrive.
As a result, you may be able to find some good deals on riads and hotels if you’re visiting Essaouira in March and most restaurants won’t require bookings. That being said, some restaurants will operate with limited opening hours during Ramadan (or might even close altogether for the month), so your choice of dining establishments may be somewhat reduced.
Best things to do in Essaouira in March
What’s on in Essaouira in March
Ramadan
In 2025, Ramadan will take place in March (roughly from 27 February to 29 March) and will be celebrated by the majority of Essaouira's Muslim community. Aside from fasting from sunrise to sunset, devotees practice prayer throughout the day and come together with family and friends for the iftar meal in the evening. If you get invited to an iftar, I highly recommend you go!
Visiting Essaouira during Ramadan offers a unique glimpse into Moroccan cultural and religious traditions while still allowing you to enjoy many of the city’s attractions. While there is definitely a change to the rhythm of daily life, Essaouira remains open and welcoming to visitors.
It's worth noting that the medina may feel a bit quieter, with some shops and street food stalls closed or operating on reduced schedules. However, the city's reliance on tourism means that an increasing number of restaurants and shops now stay open during Ramadan (although they may close during prayer times when their owners duck to the mosque to pray). It's important to note that stores selling alcohol typically close for the entire month of Ramadan and may even shut down a few days beforehand.
As the holy month comes to a close, the city celebrates Eid al-Fitr, a day of feasting as friends and family gather to enjoy daytime meals together. Visitors arriving in Essaouira around this time can expect a really lively experience as the city emerges from Ramadan to celebrate. In 2025, Eid al-Fitr is expected to fall on 30 or 31 March. After a day (sometimes two) of holiday, there will be a return to regular business hours at the start of April.
Is March a good time to visit Essaouira?
Best things to do in Essaouira in March
Visiting Essaouira in March presents a wonderful opportunity to explore the medina without the crowds and experience the unique rhythm of life during Ramadan. Some of the handicraft stores, artisan markets and art galleries may operate with reduced opening hours and many shop owners will close up at prayer times to go to the local mosque.
Top tip: If you find something you love in one of Essaouira's souks but want to think about it before purchasing, always check with the owner that they will be open if you return later in the day or tomorrow.
While the Atlantic waters may still be too cold for swimming (Essaouira's water temps are around 16 to 18°C (61 to 64°F)) in March, there are still plenty of beach activities to enjoy. With relatively light winds, March is an excellent month to learn to learn to windsurf or kitesurf and many surf schools are available to provide lessons and gear. If you prefer a more laid-back experience, the serene beaches are ideal for peaceful walks or horseback riding adventures.
For more Essaouira day trips, tours and experiences, check out my detailed article here.
If the weather isn't great for being outside or at the beach, consider signing up for a cooking class in Essaouira to discover the secrets of Moroccan cuisine. Alternatively, you can enjoy a traditional pampering experience at a hammam, with both public and private options available. If you're looking for a riad with a hammam, check out Riad Dar Maya or Heure Bleue Palais.
Is March a good time to visit Essaouira?
Is March a good time to visit Essaouira?
I think March is an excellent time to visit Essaouira, particularly if you enjoy an uncrowded experience and don’t have your heart set on lazing at the beach. March 2025 will be especially good for those who are interested in Moroccan culture and experiencing the city during the holy month of Ramadan. That being said, it’s wise to research and plan ahead for Ramadan-related closures and tour operations.
In terms of weather, you can expect abundant sunshine and daytime highs in the low 20s Celsius - perfect for sightseeing in the medina and alfresco dining at Essaouira's seafood restaurants. March is also a wonderful time for hiking if you want to explore the picturesque countryside surrounding Essaouira, with rolling hills, olive groves and argan trees stretching as far as the eye can see.
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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.