A Family Adventure in Essaouira: Culture, Cuisine, and Coastal Beauty

A Day of Sun, Sand, and Sustainable Exploration

Today was a delightful blend of coastal serenity and eco-conscious adventures here in Essaouira. It's amazing how much this Moroccan gem has to offer, from its stunning beaches to its commitment to sustainable tourism. Aoife, Róisín, and I were eager to explore beyond the medina, and today's itinerary promised just that.

Our day began with a hearty breakfast at Resto Vague Bleue. This cozy spot, recommended by a local I chatted with yesterday, was a real find. It's a small, unassuming place, but the food was incredibly fresh and flavorful. I opted for a traditional Moroccan breakfast of msemen (pancakes) with honey and a pot of mint tea. Aoife enjoyed a selection of pastries, while Róisín, ever the adventurous one, tried the seafood tagine. The owner, a friendly woman with a warm smile, told us that all the ingredients were sourced from local farms and fishermen. It’s this dedication to local produce that really makes a difference, reminding me of the importance of supporting local businesses, much like we do back in Dublin with our own restaurant.

With our bellies full and spirits high, we set off for our first adventure of the day: ecotourism and hiking. We booked a guided tour through a local company that focuses on sustainable tourism. Our guide, a Berber man named Omar, was incredibly knowledgeable about the local flora, fauna, and history. He led us on a scenic hike through the surrounding countryside, pointing out various plants and explaining their traditional uses. We learned about the Argan tree, its importance to the local economy, and the traditional methods of extracting Argan oil. It was fascinating to see how the local communities are working to preserve their environment and culture.


Explore the breathtaking landscapes of Essaouira through ecotourism and hiking, experiencing nature's beauty while supporting sustainable tourism.

The landscape was breathtaking, with rolling hills, lush forests, and panoramic views of the Atlantic coast. Omar shared stories of his ancestors and their connection to the land. It reminded me of my own roots in Malaysia and the importance of preserving our cultural heritage. Róisín, with her keen interest in photography, was in her element, capturing the beauty of the Moroccan landscape. Aoife, ever the nature enthusiast, peppered Omar with questions about the local wildlife. It was a truly immersive experience, one that deepened our appreciation for the natural beauty of Morocco.

The best journeys answer questions that in the beginning you didn't even think to ask.

After our hike, we were ready for some beach time. We headed to Sidi Kaouki Beach, a beautiful stretch of coastline about 25 kilometers south of Essaouira. Getting there was an adventure in itself, as we opted for a local bus instead of a taxi. The bus ride was a great way to see the countryside and experience local life. The bus was packed with people, and the atmosphere was lively and festive. We even shared some snacks with a group of local women who were on their way to a wedding.


Discover the serene beauty and vibrant surf culture of Sidi Kaouki Beach, the perfect retreat for relaxation and adventure on Morocco's stunning coastline.

Sidi Kaouki Beach is known for its wild, unspoiled beauty. The wind was strong, creating perfect conditions for surfing and windsurfing. While I'm more of a landlubber myself, Aoife and Róisín were eager to try their hand at surfing. We rented some boards from a local surf shop and spent the afternoon riding the waves. Well, they rode the waves; I mostly watched from the shore, enjoying the sun and the scenery. I must admit, watching them brave the Atlantic swells gave me a thrill almost as great as if I were out there myself. Sidi Kaouki is also known for camel and horse rides along the beach. We saw many tourists and locals enjoying this activity, but we decided to pass, as I wasn’t sure how comfortable Aoife would be with it. Instead, we took a leisurely stroll along the shore, collecting seashells and enjoying the fresh sea air.

For lunch, we decided to try Triskala, a restaurant in Essaouira known for its Moroccan and vegetarian cuisine. It's set in an 18th-century kasbah, adding to its charm and atmosphere. The restaurant is cozy and artistic, with vintage décor and candlelight. The menu changes daily, depending on what's fresh and in season. We started with a selection of Moroccan salads, followed by a vegetable tagine and a seafood bastilla (a savory pie). The food was delicious, and the service was excellent. The staff were friendly and welcoming, making us feel right at home. Róisín was particularly impressed with the falafel, while Aoife enjoyed the bissara, a traditional Moroccan pea soup. I savored the tagine, which was rich with spices and flavors reminiscent of home.


Experience authentic Moroccan cuisine at Triskala – an organic and vegan-friendly restaurant in Essaouira's charming medina.

In the late afternoon, we decided to indulge in a bit of shopping. We visited La Gazelle d'Essaouira, a charming gift shop in the heart of the city. This shop is a treasure trove of Moroccan crafts, from pottery and textiles to jewelry and lamps. The ambiance is warm and inviting, and the staff is eager to share the stories behind the products. We bought some souvenirs for our friends and family back home, including a beautiful Berber carpet and a set of hand-painted ceramic bowls. I even picked up a small tin whistle for myself, hoping to learn a few traditional Irish tunes while I'm here. It's a far cry from the Sapeh back home, but who knows, maybe I'll find a new passion.


Discover La Gazelle d'Essaouira, your go-to gift shop for authentic Moroccan handicrafts and unique treasures in the heart of Essaouira.

As the sun began to set, we made our way to Ocean Vagabond for dinner. This restaurant is located right on the beach, offering stunning views of the ocean. The atmosphere was relaxed and festive, with live music and a lively crowd. We ordered a selection of seafood dishes, including grilled sardines, fried calamari, and a seafood paella. The food was fresh and delicious, and the portions were generous. We ate our fill, while enjoying the cool sea breeze and the sound of the waves. As we dined, we watched the sun dip below the horizon, painting the sky in a riot of colors. It was a perfect end to a perfect day.


Experience the best of Mediterranean dining and thrilling surfing at Ocean Vagabond in Essaouira.

Before heading back to our riad, we took a stroll along the beach, hand in hand. The sky was ablaze with stars, and the air was filled with the scent of salt and spices. We talked about our day, sharing our favorite moments and reflecting on the beauty and diversity of Essaouira. It's moments like these that make traveling with family so special. It’s a joy to see Aoife and Róisín embrace new cultures and experiences, expanding their horizons and creating memories that will last a lifetime.


Discover the charm of Essaouira at Riad Nakhla, a serene retreat with spa services, close to the beach and city center, perfect for travelers.

Tomorrow, we plan to explore the historical sites of Essaouira, including Place Moulay Hassan, the Old Fortress, and the Synagogue Slat Lkahal Mogador. I’m particularly looking forward to visiting the synagogue, as I have a deep interest in history and culture. We also plan to visit Le BAR Celone, recommended by fellow travelers, for a relaxing evening drink. Until then, I bid you goodnight from Essaouira, a city that has captured our hearts with its beauty, charm, and warm hospitality. The balance between the invigorating Atlantic air and the rich, spiced aromas is something I could get very used to.