In short
August is Essaouira's busiest month: 24°C by day, 19°C at night, no rain, the sea at 20°C and still strong afternoon wind. The town is full of Moroccan families and prices are at their peak: book early and keep the beach for the morning.
The month in numbers · August
Long-term averages
- 24°C
- daytime high
- 19°C
- night low
- 20°C
- sea temperature
- 17 kn
- average wind
- 0
- days of rain
- 9 h
- hours of sun a day
August is when Essaouira plays to a full house. Families from Marrakech, Casablanca and Fes come for the cool air, Moroccans living abroad come home, and European holidaymakers complete the picture. The town is lively, noisy, joyful. And expensive.
If you like the atmosphere, it's a very good month. If you're after calm, wait for September.
Crowds and prices
The first thing to know: everything is full. The main beach in the morning, the medina in late afternoon, Place Moulay Hassan and the port grills in the evening.
- Riads charge their highest rates, and the best are booked weeks or even months ahead.
- Buses from Marrakech and Agadir sell out several days in advance.
- Popular restaurants need a booking in the evening.
Three public holidays fall in August: the 14th, the 20th (Revolution of the King and the People) and the 21st (Youth Day). In 2027 the Mawlid, the Prophet's birthday, is expected around 15 August. Offices close; the tourist town runs at full speed.
The weather
24°C by day, 19°C at night, not a drop of rain. It's the warmest month in Essaouira, and it's still a mild summer. Morning mist is common and burns off late morning. Afternoons are bright and windy.
Sunset is around 8.20pm.
The wind
Around 17 knots on average, still very present in the afternoon, a little less than in July. Kiters enjoy the end of high season; swimmers keep the beach for the morning.
The sea
20°C. It warms slowly all summer and only peaks in September and October. In the morning the bay is calm and the waves gentle: the best time for children and for first surf lessons.
What to do in August
- Early morning, before the crowds: the port and the fish auction, then the beach.
- Afternoon, somewhere sheltered: the medina, the souks, a nap at the riad.
- Evening, do what everyone does: go out. The town lives outdoors until late, families on the square and music in the alleys.
- To eat without queuing, a guided food walk through the medina avoids the waiting lists at the popular restaurants.
What to pack
- Summer clothes and a light jumper for the evening.
- A windbreaker for the beach in the afternoon.
- Sunscreen, a hat and sunglasses.
- A confirmed booking for your room, especially if you arrive by bus late in the day.
The verdict
The liveliest and most expensive month of the year. Perfect if you enjoy the atmosphere of Moroccan holidays, evenings that stretch out and a town full of life. Less suited to anyone after peace and quiet or on a tight budget: September gives you almost the same weather for much less.
The month before is the windiest: Essaouira in July. The month after is one of our favourites: Essaouira in September.
Common questions
What is the weather like in Essaouira in August?
Around 24°C by day and 19°C at night, no rain, with often misty mornings and sunny, windy afternoons. It's the warmest month of the year in Essaouira, and it's still very mild.
Is Essaouira busy in August?
Yes, it's the peak of the year. Moroccan families come for the cool air, Moroccans living abroad are on holiday, and so are Europeans. The beach, the medina and the restaurants are full, especially in the evening.
Can you swim in Essaouira in August?
Yes, mostly in the morning. The sea is around 20°C: refreshing without being cold on a hot day. In the afternoon the wind makes the beach less comfortable.
How far ahead should I book for August?
Well ahead. For a well-placed riad allow one to three months, more for the fortnight around 15 August. Buses from Marrakech should also be booked as soon as your dates are fixed.
Are there public holidays in Morocco in August?
Yes, three: 14 August, 20 August (Revolution of the King and the People) and 21 August (Youth Day). In 2027 the Mawlid, the Prophet's birthday, also falls around 15 August. Tourist businesses stay open.
