Essaouira in December: Mild Sun and a Quiet Medina
In December, Essaouira loses the strong summer wind and gains a golden light on its ramparts. It is one of the best times to enjoy the white-and-blue town without the crowds.
Essaouira in December means around 19 °C by day and 10 °C at night, with light to moderate wind: the trade wind that blows hard in summer eases in winter. You can walk the ramparts in a T-shirt in the afternoon, but a jacket is essential in the evening and for breakfast on the terrace. The sea is cool, so swimming stays short, while surfing works well in a wetsuit. The Christmas holidays and New Year are the busiest part of the winter: boutique riads in the medina fill up early. The first half of December stays quiet and affordable. Essaouira is 2.5-3 hours from Marrakech, which makes it a very popular day trip (from €7-12) or a 2-3 night stop.
Plan your stay
The guides and experiences our readers book most for this destination.
Things to Do in Essaouira in December
The most-booked trips leave from Marrakech; if you stay in town, a surf lesson is the standout winter activity.
| Experience | Rating | Reviews | From |
|---|---|---|---|
| Essaouira from Marrakech: coast, medina and lunch in a small group | 4.9 | 9,880 | €12 |
| Essaouira from Marrakech: beach, medina and ramparts with lunch | 4.7 | 9,931 | €12 |
| Essaouira from Marrakech: small group and argan cooperative | 4.8 | 3,082 | €7 |
| Essaouira: group surf lesson | 4.9 | 515 | €22 |
Ratings, reviews and prices taken from GetYourGuide; they may change.
See things to do in Essaouira in December· GetYourGuideFree cancellation up to 24h before on most activities · the best time slots sell out first in high seasonReserve now, pay later on many activities
Compare activities on ViatorYou will be redirected to our partner Viator.- Medina and ramparts: the Skala at sunset, the fishing port and its blue boats in the morning.
- Surf and beach: the bay is calmer than in summer and ideal for beginners. See surf lessons in Essaouira.
- Horse riding or quad biking on the beach and dunes: see horse riding in Essaouira and quad biking in Essaouira.
- Full plan: see things to do in Essaouira and Essaouira in 2 days.
Where to Stay in December
In the medina for atmosphere (riads with terraces, sometimes chilly at night), or on the seafront for hotels with heating and a pool. In December, the criterion that matters most is heating in the room. See where to stay in Essaouira and the best riads in Essaouira.
See heated riads in Essaouira· Booking.comFree cancellation on many properties · the best-rated places fill up firstNo prepayment needed on many offers: lock in your room now
Compare flights and hotels on Trip.com· Trip.com
Book your arrival transferYou will be redirected to our partner GetTransfer.Want warmer beach weather? See Agadir in December, when to visit Essaouira and Essaouira in January.
FAQ — Essaouira in December
What is the weather like in Essaouira in December?
Can you swim in Essaouira in December?
Is Essaouira windy in winter?
Should I book early for the holidays in Essaouira?
How long is the trip from Marrakech to Essaouira?
In Short
- 19 °C by day, little wind, a calm medina.
- Surf in a wetsuit, short swims.
- Heated riad and early booking for the holidays.
