In short
September is one of the best months in Essaouira: 24°C by day, 18°C at night, the sea at 21°C, among the warmest of the year, and wind easing as the month goes on. August's crowds leave in the first week, and prices come down.
The month in numbers · September
Long-term averages
- 24°C
- daytime high
- 18°C
- night low
- 21°C
- sea temperature
- 14 kn
- average wind
- 1
- days of rain
- 9 h
- hours of sun a day
Every year it's the same scene: in the first week of September the loaded cars head back to Marrakech and Casablanca, and the town breathes out. The sun is still here, the sea has never been warmer, and the wind is starting to let go.
Along with October, it's the month we recommend most often.
The weather
24°C by day, 18°C at night, nine hours of sun, practically no rain. Morning mist becomes rarer. Evenings are mild, enough to eat outdoors with just a light jacket.
Sunset is around 7.45pm mid-month, and the late light over the bay and the islands is probably the most beautiful of the year.
The sea
21°C, among the warmest of the year. The ocean has stored the whole summer. You swim without hesitating, stay in longer, and a light wetsuit is enough for surfing.
The swell also starts coming back at the end of the month, the first sign of the autumn surf season. Experienced surfers are already looking towards Sidi Kaouki.
The wind
Around 14 knots on average. The first half still has good trade-wind afternoons, often 15 to 20 knots, ideal for kiting. After that the wind eases gradually, and the beach becomes pleasant all day again.
For kiters it's the best compromise of the season: still wind, warmer water, and a spot far less crowded than in July.
What to do in September
Almost everything. With less wind, afternoons are usable again.
- The beach, morning or afternoon depending on the day's wind.
- The medina, quiet at last after summer, and a guided walk to understand a town built to a plan in the 18th century.
- A day at Sidi Kaouki, with its wild beaches and cafés.
- Sunset on the Skala, then a fish dinner at the port.
Crowds and prices
The first week is still busy with the end of the summer holidays. After Moroccan schools go back, the town empties noticeably. From mid-September riads drop their rates, restaurants have space, and the medina is back to the way residents live it.
What to pack
- Summer clothes and a light jacket for the evening.
- A swimsuit: this time, you'll really swim.
- A windbreaker for the still-windy afternoons early in the month.
- Sunscreen and sunglasses.
The verdict
One of the two best months of the year, along with October. Summer warmth without the crowds, the warmest sea, calmer wind, falling prices. If you can choose your dates, aim for the second half of the month.
The month before is the busiest: Essaouira in August. The month after is our other favourite: Essaouira in October.
Common questions
What is the weather like in Essaouira in September?
Around 24°C by day and 18°C at night, nine hours of sun a day and hardly any rain. It's the end of summer without the crowds: warm days, mild evenings, beautiful light.
Is the sea warm in Essaouira in September?
It's one of the warmest times of year, around 21°C, along with October. The ocean takes all summer to warm up. Swimming is easy, even if it's still the Atlantic.
Is there still wind for kitesurfing in September?
Yes, especially in the first half, with regular afternoons around 15 to 20 knots. The wind then eases gradually. It's a very good month to kite without the summer crowds.
Is September a good month to visit Essaouira?
It's our favourite month along with October. August's holidaymakers leave in the first week, prices drop, the sea is at its warmest and the wind calms down. The best compromise of the year.
Is Essaouira busy in early September?
The first week is still busy with the end of the holidays. After Moroccan schools go back, the town empties noticeably and finds its own rhythm again. From mid-September it's quiet.
