Sidi Kaouki Beach Morocco
A serene coastal village south of Essaouira, known for its vast sandy beaches, consistent winds, and excellent surf conditions.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Calmer winds, pleasant temperatures
Sidi Kaouki Beach Morocco
Best Time
Calmer winds, pleasant temperatures
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A serene coastal village south of Essaouira, known for its vast sandy beaches, consistent winds, and excellent surf conditions.
"It could be a perfect beach, spacious and nice scenery, but it is dirty, trash everywhere."
Pack for the Wind
Bring layers and a windbreaker, as Sidi Kaouki is known for its breezy conditions. :wind_face:
Beach Clean-up Kit
Consider bringing a bag for trash to help keep this beautiful beach pristine. :wastebasket:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Expansive Sandy Shores
Main beach area
Miles of golden sand perfect for long walks, relaxation, and soaking in the ocean views.
Surfing and Watersports Hub
Along the coastline
Catch impressive waves, ideal for surfers seeking a challenge beyond Essaouira's calmer waters.
Camel and Horseback Rides
Beachfront operators
Experience the coastline from a different perspective with traditional camel or horse rides.
Panoramic Beachfront Dining
Restaurants overlooking the beach
Enjoy local cuisine with stunning ocean vistas, especially beautiful during sunset.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Wind
Cleanliness Concerns
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Pack for the Wind
Bring layers and a windbreaker, as Sidi Kaouki is known for its breezy conditions. :wind_face:
Beach Clean-up Kit
Consider bringing a bag for trash to help keep this beautiful beach pristine. :wastebasket:
Surf's Up!
Ideal for surfers looking for bigger waves than Essaouira. Lessons and rentals are available. :surfboard:
Sunset Magic
The beach offers breathtaking sunset views with fewer people. :city_sunset:
Tips
from all over the internet
Pack for the Wind
Bring layers and a windbreaker, as Sidi Kaouki is known for its breezy conditions. :wind_face:
Beach Clean-up Kit
Consider bringing a bag for trash to help keep this beautiful beach pristine. :wastebasket:
Surf's Up!
Ideal for surfers looking for bigger waves than Essaouira. Lessons and rentals are available. :surfboard:
Sunset Magic
The beach offers breathtaking sunset views with fewer people. :city_sunset:
Local Vibe
Experience a more local and laid-back atmosphere compared to busier tourist spots. :people_hugging:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Sidi Kaouki Beach is praised for its spaciousness, beautiful scenery, and excellent conditions for surfing and watersports. However, recurring issues with litter and animal waste detract from its natural beauty, leading to a mixed experience for some visitors.
"Very pleasant beach! Rather calm and spacious. Has a “cool” feeling to it. A good mix of locals and foreigners. Lots of water sports schools available as well as places to sit down for a meal or a coffee."
Magdalena Rawecka
"It could be a perfect beach, spacious and nice scenery. However it is dirty, trash everywhere. I hope one day residents will realize the potential to have world class beach but not untill they let it be more and more polluted"
Áron Bagdi
"This beach Js a great potential with its amazing big waves and its cool waters if the locals didnt bombared the beach with horses, camels and quad bikes. I understand it’s their business and way of profit but they seriously need to clean the poop up and try to back the animals up since it’s stinking the whole beach. They are all just waiting for u to walk near the camels or horses to ask, ‘want to ride it?’ And then expect ongg you to pay 200 mad for a 10 minute ride of whatever. This is a big issue but there’s also the trash issue, there is a large amount of plastic hust sweeper into the back of the beach and also some bits of debris in the sea (not natural).
I wish that this beach was taken more care of and really cleaned because it’s beautiful and deserves more care from foreigners and locals."
Mallkum Sanchez
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Sidi Kaouki Beach is located about 27 km south of Essaouira. You can hire a grand taxi from Essaouira for a direct ride, which is a popular and convenient option. Some visitors also mention using local buses or arranging transport through their accommodation. 
Parking is generally available near the beach, though it can get busy during peak times. Be mindful of where you park, as some areas might be closer to animal activity.
While possible, it's a long day trip from Marrakech to Sidi Kaouki (around 3-4 hours each way). Many travelers prefer to stay closer to Essaouira to fully enjoy the beach and its surroundings.
Grand taxis are the most common and recommended way to travel between Sidi Kaouki and Essaouira. They offer a balance of convenience and cost.
While grand taxis are prevalent, some local bus services might operate, though they can be less frequent and direct. It's advisable to check local schedules upon arrival in Essaouira.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Sidi Kaouki Beach is a public beach, so there is no entrance fee to access it. You can enjoy the sand and sea freely.
As a natural beach, Sidi Kaouki is accessible at all hours. However, facilities like restaurants and watersport centers will have their own operating times.
No advance booking is required for general beach access. If you plan to take surf lessons, camel rides, or dine at specific restaurants, it's wise to inquire or book ahead, especially during busy seasons.
Generally, there are no specific restrictions for visiting the beach itself. However, be mindful of local customs and regulations regarding animal activities and waste disposal.
While the beach is technically accessible, it's not recommended to visit at night due to lack of lighting and potential safety concerns. Sunset visits are popular and safe.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Sidi Kaouki is famous for surfing, windsurfing, and kitesurfing due to its consistent winds and waves. You can also enjoy horseback riding, camel rides, beachcombing, and simply relaxing by the ocean.
The water can be quite cold, even in warmer months, and the waves can be strong, making it more suitable for experienced swimmers or watersports enthusiasts. Jellyfish have also been reported.
Yes, there are several restaurants and cafes along the beach offering local dishes and drinks with ocean views. Some offer a 'cool' vibe with a mix of locals and tourists.
It's described as having a laid-back, local, and mellow vibe, popular with surfers looking for bigger waves and a less crowded experience than Essaouira.
While it can attract visitors, it's generally less crowded than Essaouira's main beach, offering a more spacious feel. Crowds tend to be lower outside of peak surf seasons.
📸 📸 Photography
Capture the vastness of the sandy shores, dramatic waves, colorful surfboards, and the iconic Moroccan coastline. Sunsets here are particularly stunning.
The open space and scenic coastline make it a great spot for drone photography, but always be aware of local regulations and any potential restrictions.
The 'golden hours' around sunrise and sunset offer the most dramatic lighting. Midday can be harsh, but the expansive beach still provides good opportunities.
Yes, you can photograph the camels and horses, but be prepared for operators to approach you for paid rides.
Some of the beachfront restaurants and accommodations have unique architectural styles, like the one with a panoramic view mentioned in a reel.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
For a more controlled experience, look into accommodations with pools if available, or plan your visit around activities like gentle walks along the shore. The sheer size of the beach means you can often find space away from the main activity hubs.
🏄♀️ Surfers and Watersports Enthusiasts
+1 You'll find numerous schools offering lessons and rentals, catering to all levels. Remember to pack a good wetsuit as the water is notably cold. Even if you're not participating, watching the surfers and kitesurfers dance on the waves is a spectacle in itself. The beach's reputation for reliable conditions makes it a consistent choice for those chasing the perfect ride.
🧘♀️ Relaxation Seekers
+1 While the wind can be a factor for sunbathing, the sheer size of the beach allows for finding quieter spots. +1Be prepared for the possibility of trash and animal presence, which might detract from the pristine experience some seek. However, the natural beauty and the sound of the waves offer a tranquil escape.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Surfing and Watersports Paradise
+1When planning your surf trip, remember that the water can be quite cold, so a good wetsuit is essential. The wind, while perfect for sports, can also make the beach feel breezy, which is something to consider if you're primarily looking for a calm sunbathing experience.
Beyond surfing, the beach is also popular for quad biking and horseback riding, offering different ways to explore the coastline. These activities are readily available from local operators, adding to the diverse range of experiences on offer.
Navigating the Beach Environment
Another aspect to be aware of is the presence of horses and camels offering rides. While a traditional part of the experience for some, their waste can contribute to the beach's cleanliness issues and odor. Visitors are often approached by operators offering rides, and it's important to negotiate prices clearly beforehand.
Despite these challenges, the beach retains a 'cool' and spacious feeling, attracting a mix of locals and international visitors. The sheer size of the beach means you can often find quieter spots, especially if you walk further along.
Culinary Delights with a View
The sunset views from these eateries are particularly highlighted as a must-experience. Imagine savoring a meal as the sun dips below the horizon, painting the sky with vibrant colors – it's a truly memorable experience.
+1While specific restaurant recommendations are varied, the general consensus is that enjoying a meal or a coffee with the sound of the waves and the ocean breeze is a significant part of the Sidi Kaouki charm.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit