Is December a good time to visit Essaouira? If you’re craving a crowd-free vacation or want to escape the silly season frenzy back home, December is an excellent time to visit Essaouira. Without the large numbers of tourists that descend on the medina during peak seasons, you can really immerse yourself in the city’s cultural offerings and bohemian spirit in a relaxed manner.
During December, you can enjoy leisurely wanders through the city’s UNESCO-listed medina and people-watch at the cafes while sipping on mint tea and having genuine conversations with the locals. Plus, there's no rush to book hotels or riads well in advance (except if you’re travelling over the Christmas/New Year period), nor do you need to worry about making dinner reservations. This all adds up to a more relaxed holiday experience where you can follow your curiosity, rather than plan, plan, plan!
In this article, discover everything you need to know about visiting Essaouira in December, from the weather to crowds and special events. I’ll also share with you some of the best things to do in Essaouira in December to help you plan a seasonally suitable itinerary.
Planning a longer Moroccan escape? Discover everything you need to know about travelling to Morocco in December 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 December
Despite being the start of winter, Essaouira isn’t particularly cold in December, with daytime highs around 21°C (70°F) and overnight lows dipping to around 13°C (55°F). There are still plenty of sunny days, interspersed with overcast skies and drizzly rain (Essaouira experiences around four rainy days in December).
In summary, the weather in Essaouira in December can be fickle and having layers to put on and take off is key. It’s also worth noting that as the month progresses, the days get noticeably shorter, with the sun setting around 6:30 pm. That being said, if you’re coming from northern Europe, this will be considerably more daylight than you’re accustomed to at this time of year.
Visiting Essaouira in December
Is December a busy time in Essaouira?
Generally speaking, December is a quiet time in Essaouira, as the cool weather isn't as appealing (to most) for a coastal escape. Understandably, the beaches are much less crowded than during the peak summer months and the medina has a more relaxed atmosphere. This is a great time to visit if you want to be able to leisurely wander and browse the artisan stalls, without the pressure of lots of other shoppers.
Having said all of that, there is an uptick in visitors around the Christmas/New Year period when many Europeans are on a short winter break. If you’re visiting Essaouira during this time, I’d recommend booking your accommodation well in advance to secure your preferred hotel or riad. But don’t expect a really festive atmosphere! Christmas isn’t a big thing in Morocco, making it a perfect destination for those who want to escape the tinsel and carols.
What’s on in Essaouira in December
New Year’s Eve
Essaouira welcomes the New Year (in the Western calendar) with a more low-key celebration compared to cities like Marrakech. People often come together with friends and family for dinner before taking a stroll through the medina and around the port. If you find yourself in Essaouira during this time, consider reserving a table at one of the city's top restaurants, as many provide special packages for the celebration. Typically, you won't see fireworks in Essaouira on New Year's Eve, but this might change in the future.
Is December a good time to visit Essaouira?
Best things to do in Essaouira in December
December presents a wonderful opportunity to explore Essaouira’s enchanting medina without the usual crowds. You can really take your time appreciating the talent of local artists in the various galleries and browse the artisan shops for handicrafts, as well as enjoy some people-watching at the city's eclectic cafes. If you're a seafood lover, don't miss a visit to the port to witness the comings and goings of the fish market—savouring grilled sardines there is one of my top recommendations for the best things to do in Essaouira!
While the Atlantic Ocean can be a bit too cold for swimming in December (sea temperatures are around 16 to 18°C (61 to 64°F)), there are still numerous beach activities to enjoy. Water sports such as kite surfing and windsurfing are incredibly popular in Essaouira, and while the December winds tend to be milder than in summer, this is perfect for beginners eager to get started.
If you prefer a more laid-back experience, Essaouira's beaches offer an ideal backdrop for peaceful walks and horseback riding, accompanied by stunning coastal views. Alternatively, you can head for the hills - or, more appropriately, the rolling countryside surrounding Essaouira for a hike between its villages and argan groves.
The cool climate in Essaouira during December is perfect for indulging in a hammam, a traditional way to cleanse and refresh. You can opt for a local hammam (find out more here) or pamper yourself at a spa-style hammam, many of which offer body scrubs and massages. If you want to stay at a riad in Essaouira with its own hammam, I highly recommend the beautiful Riad Dar Maya or Heure Bleue Palais, which is part of the Relais & Châteaux collection.
Is December a good time to visit Essaouira?
Is December a good time to visit Essaouira?
If swimming and sunbathing at the beach aren’t at the top of your list and you’d rather enjoy a quieter experience away from the tourist hustle, December is a wonderful time to visit Essaouira. As the end of the year approaches, the crowds have thinned out, creating a more laid-back and authentic atmosphere in the medina.
While the weather may not be conducive to long days spent lounging on the sand or beside a swimming pool, it is ideal for sightseeing. Essaouira in December offers a unique opportunity for cultural immersion and a glimpse into the daily life of the locals. Without the distraction of peak-season crowds, you can take your time exploring the city's many art galleries and shopping for artisan goods in the souks. It’s also a fantastic time to visit if you want to escape the Christmas hysteria back home!
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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.