A Family Escape to the Coastal Charm of Essaouira

A Day of Coastal Exploration
Today was a delightful blend of nature, adventure, and culinary indulgence here in Essaouira. It's amazing how each day unfolds with new experiences, further enriching our family trip. The beauty of this coastal town continues to captivate us, and I'm excited to share the highlights of our day.

Our day began with a hearty breakfast at Ocean Vagabond. David and Aina both opted for the 'Le Beldi,' savoring the traditional Moroccan flavors with mint tea and fresh orange juice. I chose the yogurt bowl, a delightful mix of yogurt, granola, red fruits, bananas, and flax seeds. The atmosphere was incredibly relaxing, with the gentle sea breeze and the sound of the waves creating a perfect start to the day. Ocean Vagabond certainly lives up to its name, offering a serene escape with a stunning beachfront view.


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

After breakfast, we headed to Zouina Cheval for a morning of horseback riding. The stables were filled with beautiful Arabian horses, each with its own unique personality. Aina, being the most experienced rider among us, was paired with a spirited mare named Safiya, while David and I were given gentler steeds. The guides at Zouina Cheval were incredibly professional, ensuring everyone felt comfortable and safe before we set off.


Unleash your adventurous spirit at Zouina Cheval, the ultimate horseback riding destination in Diabat, Morocco, surrounded by stunning landscapes.

As we rode along the coast, the views were simply breathtaking. The landscape was a mix of sandy dunes and rocky cliffs, with the vast Atlantic Ocean stretching out before us. The rhythmic sound of the horses' hooves and the salty air filled our senses, creating a sense of tranquility. I couldn't help but reflect on my childhood in Omaruru, where I often rode horses through the Namibian savanna. Those memories felt so distant, yet the connection to nature remained as strong as ever.

The best view comes after the hardest climb—or in this case, the most exhilarating ride.

After our ride, we decided to venture to Sidi Kaouki Beach, a short drive south of Essaouira. Known for its serene atmosphere and stunning coastline, it was the perfect spot to unwind. The weather in December is mild, with highs around 20 degrees Celsius, making it ideal for a leisurely beach visit. We strolled along the shore, collecting seashells and watching the waves crash against the rocks. David, ever the history enthusiast, shared stories about the area's past, adding another layer of depth to our experience. Aina, meanwhile, was busy capturing the scenic views with her camera, always eager to document our travels.


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

For lunch, we chose Restaurant Sayef, a hidden gem tucked away in a small alley off the main street. The restaurant is known for its authentic Moroccan cuisine and cozy atmosphere. We started with a flavorful olive tapenade served with toasted bread, a delightful change from the usual brined olives. I opted for the grilled octopus, which was cooked to perfection and seasoned with paprika and garlic. David enjoyed a hearty bowl of harira, a traditional lentil and chickpea soup. Aina, always eager to try new things, chose the squid tagine, a unique dish that was both flavorful and tender.


Experience authentic Moroccan cuisine at Restaurant Sayef in Essaouira's enchanting Medina - a culinary delight not to be missed.

In the late afternoon, we returned to Essaouira and decided to explore the local bar scene. We stumbled upon Bar Orson Welles, named after the legendary filmmaker. The bar had a unique ambiance, with vintage decor and a relaxed atmosphere. David and I enjoyed a glass of local Moroccan wine, while Aina tried one of their signature cocktails. The bar was conveniently located near our hotel, Hotel Des Iles, making it a perfect spot to unwind after a day of adventures.


Experience a blend of classic cinema charm and local flavors at Essaouira's Bar Orson Welles, a must-visit for relaxed evenings.

As the day drew to a close, we headed to Restaurant Laayoune for dinner. This restaurant is known for its traditional Moroccan dishes and cozy interior. We shared a variety of tagines and couscous, each dish bursting with flavor and spices. The atmosphere was warm and inviting, making it a perfect ending to our day. I particularly enjoyed the chicken tagine with lemon, while David savored the lamb couscous. Aina was impressed with the vegetarian options, which were equally delicious.


Experience authentic Moroccan cuisine at Restaurant Laayoune in Essaouira - where tradition meets flavor in a captivating atmosphere.

Reflecting on the day, I am filled with gratitude for the experiences we shared as a family. From the exhilarating horseback ride along the coast to the delicious Moroccan cuisine, each moment was a treasure. Essaouira continues to surprise and delight us, and I am eager to see what tomorrow brings. Tomorrow, we plan to explore the ecotourism and hiking trails, followed by a visit to Lou's Rides for some more adventurous activities. I'm also looking forward to trying the rooftop breakfast at The Hungry Nomad and dinner at Taros. And of course, Aina is already planning a shopping trip to La gazelle d'Essaouira. I have a feeling tomorrow will be just as memorable as today.

As I sit here writing, I am reminded of the importance of embracing new experiences and cherishing the moments we have with our loved ones. Life is a journey, and it's the memories we create along the way that truly matter. Until tomorrow, Essaouira!