With its enviable coastal setting and golden sweep of sand, Essaouira is a deservedly popular Moroccan destination in the summer months. The sea breezes blowing in from the Atlantic Ocean keep things a little cooler than in Marrakech, bringing with them the intoxicating aroma of fresh sardines being grilled - to me, this is the smell of summer holidays in Morocco!
Finding a hotel in Essaouira with a pool is highly recommended if you’re visiting in the summer months as you’ll have somewhere to cool off and relax in between sightseeing expeditions. While the beach is never far away, Essaouira hasn't been nicknamed the "Windy City" for nothing, meaning it can be more pleasurable to be poolside on a sun lounger than being whipped by sand.
That being said, there aren’t a huge number of hotels in the Essaouira medina with a pool, so you may want to consider expanding your search to outside the city itself. Many of the villas and riads that dot the surrounding countryside offer not only sparkling swimming pools but also spacious gardens where you can relax.
In this article, I’ll highlight 10 of the best hotels in Essaouira with a pool, including options in the city centre, beside the beach and in the surrounding countryside.
For more information about visiting Morocco's "Windy City", check out my Ultimate Travel Guide to Esssaouira.
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Best luxury hotel with a pool in Essaouira
While there are only a handful of hotels in the Essaouira medina with a pool, this luxury property (part of the Relais & Châteaux collection) is definitely one of the best. Its refined rooms and suites are set around a plant-filled patio and the hotel boasts lots of additional amenities (a hammam, a spa and a cinema) that elevate the experience. From the rooftop pool, there are incredible views across the medina (and no shortage of sun loungers) while the onsite restaurant, Le Salon Oriental, dishes up everything from locally caught sardines to lobster.
"Wonderful, elegant, had a hard time leaving the hotel for sightseeing.” - Emre (read more reviews here)
Spending summer in the "Red City"? Here's my pick of the Best Luxury Riads in Marrakech with a Pool.
Best private villa near Essaouira with a pool
Nestled amidst picturesque countryside to the southeast of Essaouira, this private villa is perfect for families or small groups travelling together. It features four bedrooms, a well-equipped kitchen and (most importantly) a gorgeous swimming pool dotted with shade umbrellas and lounges. Guests frequently comment on the tranquility of the natural setting and the property’s proximity to Essaouira Mogador Airport. Coupled with an incredible welcome from concierge Ibrahim and this is definitely one of the best villas with a pool near Essaouira.
"Very clean and luxurious for families. Well-equipped and amazing staff. Highly recommended for a calm and lovely holiday.” - Chaimaa (read more reviews here)
Best hotels in Essaouira with a pool
Best adults-only hotel near Essaouira with a pool
Fusing contemporary design with Moroccan-inspired luxuries, this adults-only Essaouira hotel lies a 15-minute drive south of the city centre. It features four stunning suites, all with ensuite bathrooms and private terraces overlooking the beautifully manicured gardens. A highlight of staying at this luxury villa near Essaouira is cooling off in the swimming pool where you can retreat after a day’s sightseeing.
“Magnificent riad! The decoration of the rooms, the cleanliness, the beauty of the gardens, the pool.” - Giselle (read more reviews here)
Best Essaouira hotel with a pool for golfers
Close to the fairways and greens of Mogador Golf Club, this eclectic riad receives rave reviews for its cleanliness and hospitality. The stone architecture of Riad Dar Etto adds loads of charm to the property and the leafy garden (with a pool) feels like an oasis after the hustle and bustle of the Essaouira medina. There are lots of cosy nooks where you can find a quiet moment to read, as well as a fireplace offering plenty of warmth in the winter months.
"We had a fantastic stay in Riad Dar Etto, the staff are extremely helpful and friendly. The rooms are lovely, spacious and clean. The pool is beautiful and a great place to relax.”- Matthew (read more reviews here)
Best hotels in Essaouira with a pool
Best riad with a pool in Essaouira for families
Just two minutes' walk from the beach and 20 minutes from the medina, this affordable Essaouira riad with a pool is ideal for a budget stay. Moroccan textiles and handicrafts decorate the 23 rooms, some of which have balconies and sea views, and there are family suites if you’re travelling with kids in tow. I particularly love the grand staircase in the leafy interior patio and, of course, the outdoor swimming pool where you can refresh on hot, summer days.
“Highly recommended! One of the best places in Essaouira.” - Laura (read more reviews here)
Best boutique hotel with a pool near Essaouira
Perched on a ridge overlooking the Atlantic Ocean, Riad Tamayourt occupies a 19th-century residence that's been lovingly remodelled by Moustapha Boumazzour. It’s designed around four traditional gardens dotted with the artist’s sculptures and has just seven rooms (including a spacious suite) to ensure an intimate stay. From the heated pool, there are magnificent views across the coastline, and the food served onsite is worth the stay alone. Essaouira’s medina is 10 minutes’ drive away.
"This place is soooo lovely - every detail is perfect. The owners are so nice and it feels like home.” - Madelaine (read more reviews here)
Best hotels in Essaouira with a pool
Best sustainable hotel in Essaouira with a pool
Perched atop a cliff overlooking the beach, this upscale hotel in Essaouira is an ideal retreat for anyone looking to unwind. It occupies a serene coastal setting to the north of the medina and boasts an outdoor pool, perfect for cooling off after a day of exploring. The rooms are generously sized and elegantly decorated, with a focus on eco-friendly design. For dining, the Tissa Restaurant offers an enticing mix of French and Moroccan dishes, including vegetarian, halal and gluten-free choices.
"It’s the perfect place to disconnect from city life - a magical oasis where you feel very welcomed. It’s home away from home.” - Moussaoui (read more reviews here)
Best hotel with a pool near Essaouira Airport
Occupying a beautiful villa in the countryside near Essaouira Airport, this elegantly decorated hotel fuses European, Moroccan and African designs. It features just a handful of rooms designed for solo travellers, couples and families, as well as an onsite hammam, a children’s playground and a large swimming pool. Warm hospitality is provided by the owners Emma and Gilles, with guests always commenting on the delicious breakfast that’s included in stays.
"Everything was just perfect…One of the best accommodations worldwide.” - Judith (read more reviews here)
Best hotels in Essaouira with a pool
Best hotel with a pool near Essaouira for couples
With just two rooms, this beautiful hotel near Essaouira is ideal for two couples wanting a relaxed escape and receives incredible reviews (it’s nearly all 10/10) for its design and tranquility. It’s located a short drive south of the medina, en route to Essaouira Airport, and is managed by attentive hosts who will go above and beyond to ensure you have everything you need. Aside from enjoying access to a private swimming pool, breakfasts are included in stays and optional dinners can be arranged that are of exceptional quality.
"The property is beautiful, with spacious suites and stunning decor - set in lush gardens with a beautiful pool.” - Lesley (read more reviews here)
Best budget hotel in Essaouira with a pool
Just steps from Essaouira Beach, this laid-back surf hostel features individually themed rooms, suites and apartments that cater to all travellers. Traditional Moroccan breakfasts are served each morning before you hit the waves and there’s a small swimming pool where you can enjoy a plunge when you return. Equipment for windsurfing, kitesurfing and board riding can be rented on-site and Moroccan cooking classes arranged on request.
“Great place, large rooms, and awesome location close to the beach. Cool surf vibe!” - Jordan (read more reviews here)
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