Essaouira
Morocco · Kitesurf · Windsurf
- Best winds N, NE
- Level Beginner · Intermediate
- Water Chop
- Best months Apr–Sep
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About this spot
Essaouira on Morocco's Atlantic coast deserves its nickname "Windy City of Africa": the north to north-east trade wind blows here on a great many days, especially in summer. The kilometre-long sandy beach south of the old town gets side-onshore wind and offers room for kiters and windsurfers, with chop close to shore and waves further out. The medina is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and makes Essaouira worthwhile off the water too.
When is the best time to visit Essaouira? From April to September the wind is most reliable, and in high summer it is often strong at 20 knots and more. In winter there is less wind, but better waves for surfers at nearby spots such as Sidi Kaouki to the south. Cold upwelling keeps the water fresh, so a wetsuit is needed even in summer.
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Location
Wind & weather through the year
According to model data for 2021–2025, July is the windiest month: on 90 % of days the wind blows at 12 knots or more from a direction that works at this spot for at least three daytime hours. It then mostly blows from the north. The most reliable period runs from May to September. The least wind is in December (28 %). The water ranges from about 17 to 19 °C over the year.
| Month | Wind days ≥ 12 kn | Avg wind | Direction | Air | Water |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| January |
36 %
| 10 kn | N | 17 °C | 17 °C |
| February |
43 %
| 11 kn | N | 16 °C | 18 °C |
| March |
48 %
| 12 kn | N | 17 °C | 17 °C |
| April |
61 %
| 14 kn | N | 18 °C | 18 °C |
| May |
70 %
| 15 kn | N | 18 °C | 18 °C |
| June |
73 %
| 15 kn | N | 19 °C | 18 °C |
| July |
90 %
| 18 kn | N | 20 °C | 18 °C |
| August |
89 %
| 17 kn | N | 20 °C | 18 °C |
| September |
69 %
| 14 kn | N | 20 °C | 18 °C |
| October |
42 %
| 11 kn | N | 20 °C | 19 °C |
| November |
51 %
| 11 kn | N | 19 °C | 19 °C |
| December |
28 %
| 9 kn | N | 17 °C | 18 °C |
Wind day = at least 3 hours at ≥ 12 kn in daylight (09:00–19:00 local time). Only hours with wind from N, NE (usable according to the spot info) are counted. Model data (ECMWF IFS, approx. 9 km grid) – local venturi and thermal effects can be stronger. Weather data: Open-Meteo.com (CC BY 4.0)
Insider tips
The wind is often gustier at the northern end of the beach near the town and becomes steadier further south. In summer a small kite is often enough – do not rig too big. For waves and fewer people, a trip to Sidi Kaouki or Moulay Bouzerktoun is worthwhile. A 4/3 wetsuit is a good choice all year.
⚠︎ Hazards
Strong, sometimes gusty trade wind – only go out in strong wind with enough experience. Further out there are waves and currents. Horse riders, walkers and football players use the beach, so keep plenty of distance when launching and landing.
All information without guarantee. Please check locally whether kiting, windsurfing, winging or surfing is currently allowed here – protected areas, swimming zones and seasonal closures change. You go on the water at your own risk.
Trips & camps
Kite trip to Essaouira
Kite trip to the Atlantic coast at Essaouira with riad/guesthouse accommodation and a local kite station. The one-week price example includes breakfast, kite storage and launch, landing and rescue service.
Frequently asked questions
Is Essaouira suitable for beginners?
Yes. According to the spot info, Essaouira suits these levels: Beginner · Intermediate (water: Chop).
Which wind works at Essaouira?
Best with wind from N, NE. In the windiest month (July), model data show the wind mostly blowing from the north.
When is the best time for Essaouira?
The best months are considered to be Apr–Sep. According to the wind statistics, July has the most wind days (90 % of days).
How warm is the water at Essaouira?
Over the year about 17 °C in March to 19 °C in November (model data).
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