Agadir Travel Guide: Beaches, Kasbah & Day Trips
Agadir is Morocco's best-known beach resort, with a wide sandy bay, a long promenade and sunshine for most of the year. Rebuilt after a devastating earthquake in 1960, it is a modern city with wide boulevards, which makes it very different from Morocco's imperial cities. It is a good base for relaxing, surfing and exploring the south-west.
At a glance
- Setting
- Atlantic coast, Souss region
- Rebuilt after
- 1960 earthquake
- Best for
- Beaches, surfing, winter sun
- Allow
- 2 to 4 days
- Airport
- Agadir Al Massira (AGA)
In this guide
Things to do in Agadir
- Beach and Corniche: a 10 km sandy beach with cafes, restaurants and a long promenade.
- Agadir Oufella (Kasbah): the ruins of the old hilltop fortress, with views over the bay and the port.
- Souk El Had: one of the largest markets in southern Morocco, with spices, argan oil, ceramics and clothing.
- Marina and port: restaurants and fish stalls, plus boat trips.
- Medina Polizzi: a modern reconstruction of a traditional medina, created to preserve local crafts.
The 1960 earthquake
On 29 February 1960 a powerful earthquake destroyed much of the old city and killed thousands of people. The rebuilt city was planned with wider streets and low buildings, and the old Kasbah ruins serve as a memorial.
Surfing and the Taghazout coast
North of Agadir, the village of Taghazout and its neighbours have some of Morocco's best surf breaks, with surf schools for beginners. See also Paradise Valley and Legzira Beach for natural scenery within easy reach.
Day trips
- Paradise Valley: natural pools and palm groves in the Atlas foothills.
- Souss-Massa National Park: birdwatching, including the rare northern bald ibis.
- Taroudant: walled market town, about 80 km inland.
- Legzira Beach: dramatic sea arches to the south.
- Essaouira: about 2.5 hours north.
Best time to visit Agadir
Agadir has a mild climate all year. Winters are warm and sunny, with pleasant daytime temperatures. Summers are warm but tempered by Atlantic breezes, and the ocean stays cool. See our best time to visit Morocco guide.
Getting there
Many European airlines fly directly to Agadir. Buses and shared taxis link the city with Marrakech (about 3.5 to 4 hours), Essaouira and the south. Read more in getting around Morocco.
Where to stay
Most beach resorts and hotels are along the Corniche, with quieter and more affordable options in the town centre and the marina area. For surfers, Taghazout and Tamraght have guesthouses and surf camps. Prices are lowest in summer and rise in winter, when northern Europeans flock to the sun.
Eating in Agadir
Seafood is the speciality, from grilled sardines at the port to prawns and sea bass in restaurants along the Corniche. The Souk El Had has food stalls and spices. See our food guide.
Frequently asked questions
Is Agadir a good holiday destination?
Yes, especially for beach holidays, surfing and winter sun. It is less traditional than Marrakech or Fes, but easy to travel with children.
How many days do you need in Agadir?
Two to three days are enough for the city. Add more if you plan to surf or explore the surrounding coast.
Is the sea warm in Agadir?
The Atlantic is cool year-round, usually warm enough for a swim only in summer and early autumn.