7 Top-Rated Resorts in Essaouira, Marrakech-Safi

May 10, 2023 Esmeralda Fenner

Portuguese, French and Berber architecture frame the maze-like streets of Essaouira, a charming and vibrant port and resort town on the Atlantic Ocean. Nearby, couples and families stroll the beaches of Cape Sim and Sidi Kaouki, which also attract surfers of all types. Relaxation is easy to find here, as is a bus to Marrakech, for those looking for a daytrip.
Restaurants in Essaouira

1. Villa Maroc

10 Rue Abdellah Ben Yassine, Essaouira 44000 Morocco
Excellent
71%
Good
20%
Satisfactory
6%
Poor
1%
Terrible
2%
Overall Ratings

4.5 based on 977 reviews

Villa Maroc

The leading Riad Hotel in Essaouira. Villa Maroc has everything you could dream of for an unforgettable holiday. Great location tucked inside the ramparts of the historical medina, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Villa Maroc offers you breathtaking views of the sea and port, 21 rooms with simplicity, spirituality, elegance and refinement, as well as an Oriental Spa. Just a few minutes from the sea and port. Close to both shops and beaches. Villa Maroc is famous for its regional cuisine and romantic candlelit dinners round an open fire. Villa Maroc is the meeting place for artists, actors and musicians." Good Wifi connection throughout the hotel.

A genuine boutique Riad in the Essaouira Medina. Beautiful.

Reviewed By Muzza668

From the first direct contact with this boutique Riad, they could not have been more helpful. We had the family suite which worked really well for us and our 2 children, 8 and 9. The staff were brilliant and had clearly had a tough time during the pandemic but were now back in their happy element. I don't know everyone's names but to name 2, Fatima is a wealth of helpful knowledge and knows all there is to know about Essaouira and about the history of the Riad. The owner is a Swiss, Cornelia, with her husband Ibrahim and they have really made this a special place. Their olive oil is worth the trip alone... And a day by the pool at the Jardin fu Maroc their inland sister property is time very well spent. Thank you!

2. Villa Quieta

Rue Moulay Ali Chrif Bord de Plage, Essaouira 44000 Morocco
Excellent
91%
Good
8%
Satisfactory
1%
Poor
0%
Terrible
0%
Overall Ratings

5 based on 763 reviews

Villa Quieta

a private mansion renovated into a luxurious family run Inn. On the beach, a 20-minute walk from the hustle-bustle and humidity of the medina, the Villa Quieta warmly welcomes you. You are totally secure here. Villa Quieta is spacious, sunlit, tasteful and refined. A successful blend of traditional and modern design, you will find the same comfort as in the most luxurious palaces. We have 13 double rooms, a quadruple, a two-person suite, and a penthouse — each room different and personalized with original art, fresh flowers, handcrafted furniture, and modern, luxurious bathrooms. Breakfast is served on the terrace (overlooking the bay of Essaouira, the beach, the town and the port) or in the unforgettable grand salon (approx. 4,000 sq.ft. decorated with elaborately hand-chiseled plaster ceilings, mosaic tile and Moroccan traditional furniture.) For more intimate moments, you may choose one of the smaller, cozy salons with fireplaces. A unique green expanse in the town, the Villa Quieta is the only Charm Hotel situated in a scented garden. ACTIVITIES: Miles of natural beach await you for windsurfing, fishing, long walks, water sports, camel rides, horseback riding …all a few steps away. Art galleries, fitness club, cybercafes, artisanal shopping, massage, beauty treatments, hammam, available close by. SERVICES AVAILABLE: Car rentals, bicycle rentals and airport transfers can be arranged for you; assistance in choosing and reserving activities, restaurants, guides and excursions in Essaouira and the rest of Morocco; laundry and dry cleaning; babysitter; doctor on call. AMENITIES: Welcome tea and cookies; chauffeur service in Essaouira; free parking; concierge; fresh flowers and hair dryer in room. Please tell us if you have a special need or request. With our discreet, friendly staff we are here to serve you.

The coziest place ever ♥️

Reviewed By Addashian

This is our first time at such a beautiful concept Villa and we’re so glad we picked it !!! It’s really conveniently located in a quiet neighborhood as its name indicates it. Walkin in will give u goosebumps ( in a positive way) and u ll feel the good energy. What we liked mostly is that this place carries a story and is a preserved family legacy. The current owners are young and smart peeps who truly value their heritage. I haven’t slept until 11am for a very long time but this place will make you relax so much you forget about time. This is my new fav place ♥️

3. Villa Maroc

10 Rue Abdellah Ben Yassine, Essaouira 44000 Morocco
Excellent
71%
Good
20%
Satisfactory
6%
Poor
1%
Terrible
2%
Overall Ratings

4.5 based on 977 reviews

Villa Maroc

The leading Riad Hotel in Essaouira. Villa Maroc has everything you could dream of for an unforgettable holiday. Great location tucked inside the ramparts of the historical medina, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Villa Maroc offers you breathtaking views of the sea and port, 21 rooms with simplicity, spirituality, elegance and refinement, as well as an Oriental Spa. Just a few minutes from the sea and port. Close to both shops and beaches. Villa Maroc is famous for its regional cuisine and romantic candlelit dinners round an open fire. Villa Maroc is the meeting place for artists, actors and musicians." Good Wifi connection throughout the hotel.

A genuine boutique Riad in the Essaouira Medina. Beautiful.

Reviewed By Muzza668

From the first direct contact with this boutique Riad, they could not have been more helpful. We had the family suite which worked really well for us and our 2 children, 8 and 9. The staff were brilliant and had clearly had a tough time during the pandemic but were now back in their happy element. I don't know everyone's names but to name 2, Fatima is a wealth of helpful knowledge and knows all there is to know about Essaouira and about the history of the Riad. The owner is a Swiss, Cornelia, with her husband Ibrahim and they have really made this a special place. Their olive oil is worth the trip alone... And a day by the pool at the Jardin fu Maroc their inland sister property is time very well spent. Thank you!

4. La Maison Des Artistes (LMDA)

19 Rue Laalouj ancienne Medina, Essaouira 44000 Morocco
Excellent
73%
Good
17%
Satisfactory
3%
Poor
5%
Terrible
3%
Overall Ratings

4.5 based on 226 reviews

La Maison Des Artistes (LMDA)

Facing the ocean, near the ramparts and cannons of the Moroccan city, stands a unique Guest House "LA MAISON DES ARTISTES" where art, inspiration, creation, well-being, coexist. Slightly concealed, overlooking the hustle of the city, this Ryad of over 250 years is a home from home where travellers looking can unwind and rest. LA MAISON DES ARTISTES offers 7 characterful rooms which Isabelle, its owner, has carefully designed adding a personal touch to each of them through autentic artwork.Some rooms offer a direct ocean view whilst others are located on the terrace. All of them enjoy a loarge terrace with fantastic panoramic views of the AtlanticOcean, where 100% organic and homemade breakfast is served every morning. A jewel, the LOFT, 35sqm open space with private terrace, practically 360° view of the ocean.This extraordinary space designed as a lighthouse cabin creates a beautiful and luxurius atmosphere. From the terrace, you can contemplate the infinite horizon, the hypnotic ebb and flow on the waves, the blue fishing boats, the gulls ballet and the vibrant colours of the beautiful sunset. Each guest is filled with renewed energy and inspiration cherished by great artists : writers, painters, sculptors, composers, musicians, dancers.. Come upstairs the patio, let yourself be surprised by magic. Welcome to LA MAISON DES ARTISTES.

What a beautiful special place <3

Reviewed By G7146UOalinaa

We had an incredible stay at Isabelle’s magical blue space over the sea. We spent a few days at her’s, left for a trip through Marokko and had to come back, because we fell in love with her and the blue nest with wild ocean view. The energy is just very special at LMDA and Isabelle and her stuff are so heartwarming and took so good care of us. We will come back, for sure!

5. Riad Mimouna

62 Rue d'Oujda Sandillon, Essaouira 44000 Morocco
Excellent
50%
Good
31%
Satisfactory
10%
Poor
5%
Terrible
4%
Overall Ratings

4 based on 618 reviews

Riad Mimouna

Finding an ideal romantic small hotel in Essaouira does not have to be difficult. Welcome to Riad Mimouna, a nice option for travelers like you. Rooms at Riad Mimouna offer a flat screen TV and a minibar providing exceptional comfort and convenience, and guests can go online with free wifi. A 24 hour front desk, room service, and a concierge are some of the conveniences offered at this small hotel. Breakfast will also help to make your stay even more special. For those interested in checking out popular landmarks while visiting Essaouira, Riad Mimouna is located a short distance from Chaim Pinto Synagogue (0.2 mi) and Mogador Christian Cemetery (0.2 mi). Essaouira has plenty of Asian restaurants. So when you’re here, be sure to check out popular spots like Tokyo Bangkok, Les Delices de Zahra, and Ruly's, which are serving up some great dishes. If you’re looking for something to do, Essaouira Ramparts (0.4 mi) is a nice way to spend some time, and it is within walking distance of Riad Mimouna. Riad Mimouna puts the best of Essaouira at your fingertips, making your stay both relaxing and enjoyable.

Atlantic Ocean views

Reviewed By Storyteller730359

Very surprised at the other disparaging reviews. They must have done remodeling since those reviews were submitted. The Riad has a beautiful front desk and nearby common area that looks like it may have been recently done, but its almost like a small Romanesque church. We found the staff extremely helpful and kind. Our room had no big issues. The shower needed to be used as a handheld but we don't care as long as the water is hot and it was. The room had a fantastic ocean view from the third floor. The fourth floor terrace has some wind protection and looks out to the west--loved it! The location is in a quiet area of the Medina and its a short walk to the souk and other areas. Breakfast was serviceable, but not memorable. We really liked this place.

6. Palais des Remparts

18 Rue Ibn Rochd, Essaouira 44000 Morocco
Excellent
45%
Good
30%
Satisfactory
14%
Poor
5%
Terrible
6%
Overall Ratings

4 based on 417 reviews

Palais des Remparts

Finding an ideal family-friendly hotel in Essaouira does not have to be difficult. Welcome to Palais des Remparts, a nice option for travelers like you. Nearby landmarks such as Chaim Pinto Synagogue (0.3 mi) and Mogador Christian Cemetery (0.4 mi) make Palais des Remparts a great place to stay when visiting Essaouira. Guest rooms offer a flat screen TV, and Palais des Remparts makes getting online easy as free wifi is available. You can also take advantage of some of the amenities offered by the hotel, including room service, a concierge, and a rooftop terrace. In addition, guests can enjoy an on-site restaurant during their visit. While you’re here, be sure to check out Tokyo Bangkok, one of the sushi restaurants that can be found in Essaouira, which is a short distance from Palais des Remparts. During your visit, be sure to check out Essaouira Ramparts (0.3 mi), which is a popular attraction within walking distance of the hotel. Palais des Remparts looks forward to welcoming you on your visit to Essaouira.

Charming staff and magical views at Palais des Remparts Essaouira

Reviewed By Harveys48

Internally it is a beautiful and stately Riad, with a fountain and stone columns rising to 4 storeys, but it is the view from the 2 top terraces that makes everyone gasp (& reach for their phones/cameras); the Atlantic rolling in and the 360 degree sight of Essaouira medina and the surrounding landscape. What else can you want? Comfortable beds? ✅ Clean bathrooms with plenty of hot water? ✅ A generous buffet breakfast? ✅ Free WiFi? ✅ But what makes the stay 5 star are the friendly charming staff who couldn’t be more helpful. It’s hard to single out individuals but we especially thank Sana Gania & Yassine Bebylghache . We were touched that staff remembered us from 3 years ago; but then Palais des Remparts is that kind of place.

7. Dar Al Bahar

1 Rue de Touahen, Essaouira 44000 Morocco
Excellent
45%
Good
39%
Satisfactory
10%
Poor
2%
Terrible
3%
Overall Ratings

4 based on 218 reviews

Dar Al Bahar

Dar Al Bahar is certainly the name it deserves: the house by the sea.Built on the ramparts of the city of Essaouira in the "San Dion" area, she faces the ocean and its trade winds. From the terrace the view is one of constant movement, winds breaking against the rocks of the coast, offering an amazing spectacle. From there, you can also enjoy the panoramic view over the medina with its northern fort of the ancient Scala and the Mellah (the former Jewish quarter). In the distance, you can see the sand dunes, which actually touch the northern outskirts of the city. Jean-Claude and Lise, a french-dutch couple, have completely renovated this house which was built at the turn of the last century. At that time, this part of Essaouira was much more animated thanks to the presence of an authentic windmill which formerly provided flour for the city and the back country. At this place, a new hotel has been built but the street name remained: Touahen, which means ‘mill’ in Arabic.Today, the peacefulness of this place is only disturbed by breaking waves and shrieking seagulls.During October 13-17, 2012, the town of Essaouira witnessed the filming of parts of the third season of "Game of Thrones", the popular medieval fantasy series. On October 15, some of the scenes were filmed on our street and near Dar Al Bahar, both almost magically transformed in a medieval set by the crafty crew, some of them also being our guests in the hotel. For the current and future fans of the series, we share some of our photos of the stars, extras and set, and, for those wishing to experience the "Game of Thrones" atmosphere, we look forward to having them of our guests.You will certainly have a pleasant stay in Dar Al Bahar !

Stunning views and wonderful location

Reviewed By j7768

Great Ryad in Essaouira. Staff was helpful and cheery. Great breakfast. The rooms with views are very much worth the extra cost. The internet was a little slow and unreliable but that’s not that big a deal. The interior has remarkable artistic elements. The hist recommended super restaurants.

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