Things to Do in Essaouira

Essaouira is about 2.5 hours from Marrakech on the Atlantic coast, its fortified medina and port far calmer than Marrakech's — and noticeably windier, which is exactly why kitesurfers and windsurfers head here. The ramparts and blue fishing port cost nothing to walk; the appeal is wandering rather than ticking off sights. South at Sidi Kaouki, the beach is wide, wild and better for a swim than the town beach, which gets crowded with football games and horse rides.