Agadir is best known for its long sandy beach, but there is far more to do here than sunbathing. The city is a perfect base for exploring the Atlantic coast, the Anti-Atlas mountains, desert-like dunes, palm-filled valleys and some of Morocco’s most interesting towns. Here are fifteen experiences we recommend to visitors.
In the city
1. Watch the sunset from Agadir Oufella
The ruins of the old kasbah of Agadir Oufella sit on a hill above the port, with sweeping views over the bay, the marina and the city. The kasbah was badly damaged in the 1960 earthquake, and today the hilltop is a place to remember the old city and to enjoy one of the best views on the coast. Since 2022, a cable car has linked the lower city to the top, making the visit easy. Go late in the afternoon for the light.
2. Walk the beach promenade
Agadir’s beachfront promenade stretches for several kilometres, lined with cafés, restaurants and hotels. It is busy and safe in the evening, when locals come out to walk, and is a pleasant place for a morning run or a sunset stroll.
3. Explore Souk El Had
Souk El Had is one of the largest markets in the region, with sections for spices, fruit and vegetables, argan oil, leather, clothes, pottery and household goods. It is much more local and relaxed than the souks of Marrakech. Bargaining is normal for crafts, while food usually has fixed prices. The souk is generally closed on Mondays.
4. Visit the fishing port
Agadir has one of Morocco’s most important fishing ports. In the area by the port you can eat freshly grilled fish and seafood at simple stalls, where you often choose your fish and pay by weight. Ask for the price before ordering.
5. Discover the Medina Polizzi
Medina Polizzi, south of the centre, is a modern reconstruction of a traditional Moroccan medina, built by an Italian artist with local craftsmen. It is a calm place to see traditional architecture and artisans at work, without the crowds of older medinas.
6. See the crocodiles at Crocoparc
Crocoparc, a few kilometres outside the city, is home to hundreds of Nile crocodiles in a landscaped garden with exotic plants. It is a popular family outing. We offer a Crocoparc tour with tickets and transfer.
Adventure and outdoors
7. Ride a camel on the dunes
South of Agadir, near the Souss estuary, coastal dunes and beaches make a beautiful setting for a camel ride, especially at sunset. It is suitable for most ages. See our camel riding tour.
8. Try quad biking or a buggy safari
For more adrenaline, quad bikes and buggies take you across dunes, tracks and small Berber villages. No experience is needed, as you get a short briefing and ride with a guide. Try our quad biking tour or buggy safari.
9. Learn to surf in Taghazout
The fishing village of Taghazout, about 20 km north of Agadir, is one of Morocco’s best-known surf spots. Beginners can learn on gentle waves in nearby bays, while experienced surfers head for the famous point breaks in winter.
10. Spend a day on the water
A boat trip along the coast is a relaxing way to see the bay from the sea, with chances to fish, swim and enjoy a fresh lunch on board. See our boat trip with lunch.
Culture and relaxation
11. Enjoy a traditional hammam
A hammam, the traditional Moroccan steam bath, is one of the best ways to relax after days of sun and activity. A scrub with black soap and a kessa glove, followed by an argan oil massage, leaves your skin incredibly soft. Read our guide to the Moroccan hammam, or book our hammam and argan oil massage.
12. Watch a Fantasia show
Fantasia is a spectacular traditional horse show in which riders charge together and fire their rifles in unison. Combined with dinner, music and dancing, it makes a memorable evening. See our Fantasia Berber night.
Day trips from Agadir
13. Swim in the pools of Paradise Valley
About an hour from Agadir, Paradise Valley is a palm-filled gorge with natural rock pools in the foothills of the High Atlas. Read our complete Paradise Valley guide.
14. Spot rare birds in Souss-Massa National Park
South of Agadir, this coastal national park protects wetlands, dunes and cliffs, and is home to the world’s main wild colony of the endangered northern bald ibis. Read our Souss-Massa guide.
15. Visit Essaouira, Taroudant or Marrakech
Agadir is within reach of some of Morocco’s most beautiful towns: the windy, artistic port of Essaouira, the walled market town of Taroudant, and the vibrant city of Marrakech.
Plan your days
With a week in Agadir, you can easily combine a few relaxing beach days with two or three excursions. A good mix is one coastal activity, one adventure activity and one cultural day trip. If you would like help planning, contact us and we will suggest a programme that fits your interests and travel dates.
