14 amazing things to do in sunny Agadir, Morocco

Looking for the best things to do in Agadir? Here’s how to prepare for an amazing Moroccan adventure!

I’ve wanted to visit Morocco for years so you can imagine my reaction when I finally got the chance (I’ll give you a hint, it was a little something like this: 💃🏻).

I was super excited to visit Morocco and one of those traditional souks for the first time.

I flew to Agadir, which is a seaside city with a population of some 421,000 and an average of 300 sunshine days a year.

Needless to say, Agadir has earned its popularity because of the year round mild climate. I went in mid-November (around 20 degrees C) and although the ocean wasn’t warm enough for a swim, I could still wear t-shirts and I even got a tan.

Stick around, and I’ll share what do in Agadir, Morocco!

About Agadir

A local guide showed us around Agadir and told us about the city and its history.

He vividly explained how the entire city was destroyed by an earthquake in 1960 that killed 12.000 people (about 1/3 of the city’s population at the time) and injured 12.000 with at least 35,000 people left homeless. The earthquake was the worst to ever hit Morocco.

Agadir was left in ruins and had to be rebuilt. So everything is new there, including multistorey beachfront hotels and a brand new beach and harbour promenade. In that way, Agadir is unlike the Morocco you’ll find anywhere else in the country. 

The architecture is more modern, there is no old town medina, and hotel resorts lie side by side, which makes the city seem less authentic compared to traditional cities like Marrakech, Chefchaouen or Fez.

But what Agadir lacks in that department, it makes up for with its beaches and busy nightlife. Agadir is nicknamed “the Miami of Morocco” and is a hotspot for surfers, beach-lovers and water enthusiasts. The city has an evocative identity, which is very much its own.

How to get around Agadir

Agadir is compact and easily navigated on foot although taxis are really cheap (if you don’t feel like walking).

You can also hire a guide to take you by car. It’s very affordable so it’s a great option if you prefer to have sightseeing and transport taken care of.

The best things to do in Agadir

1. Visit the Agadir Kasbah for historic ruins and views

The best view of the city is from the Kasbah hill in the north end of the bay.

The Kasbah was built in the 16th century and it’s the only historic monument left in town.

Today it’s mostly a wall with some ruins inside, but I liked going there for the view and the history. It’s free to enter.

Outside the Kasbah there are souvenir stalls, eager salesmen and camels to ride. Just be aware that the camel owners will charge you for photos, and that there’s a flock of undecorated camels walking around nearby. That setting is much more natural and won’t cost you a thing.

2. Explore the Souk El Had, the city’s largest market

Agadir is the capital of the indigenous Berber people, and one place to meet them is at the local souk.

The souk is a bazaar market where you can buy everything from a camel to a commode. Agadir’s Souk El Had is where many of the city’s residents do their shopping.

Even if you’re not one for souvenir buying, the atmosphere there alone makes the trip worthwhile. It’s divided into several sections such as vegetables, spices, leather and ceramics, and the whole place felt so authentic!

I visited Morocco in the mandarin and orange season, so I had fresh mandarins several times a day. Another local treat I was introduced to was the famous Moroccan mint tea. It was SO delicious and so sweet. I love tea and drink loads of it at home, but only Oolong and Green teas so I was a bit sceptical to begin with.

The mint tea…. well, it was everything this tea snob expected and more!

3. Go surfing or relax at Agadir Beach

Agadir‘s 10 kilometres of golden coastline makes it perfect for beach and water activities, including sailing, jet-skiing, surfing and paragliding.

As we walked along the promenade, I couldn’t help notice the joggers, families with picnic baskets and local games at the beach.

People were out and about, enjoying the ocean views and being with family.

4. Stroll along the Marina

One of the city highlights is the Marina d’Agadir, which is lined with apartments, restaurants and rows of yachts glinting in the sunlight.

Agadir is a proud, Islamic city, and at the end of the marina is a hillside engraved with the words: “Allah, King, Country” in Arabic. If you look closely, you might glimpse it to the left on the image above.

5. Enjoy Moroccan cuisine at a local restaurant

We had lunch at one of the seafood restaurants there called Pure Passion and they sure did pick a fitting name.

Sitting by the sea, feeling the light breeze while having delicious Moroccan food was the perfect way to spend a few hours.

6. Mohammed V Mosque

Although it doesn’t look like it from the outside, Mohammed V Mosque can host 5,000 worshippers, and it has 8 shops and 2 prayer rooms, just to name a few.

The mosque was recently renovated for some 70 million dirhams funded by the Ministry of Endowments and Islamic Affairs.

The mosque was, unfortunately, closed when we got there, and I would have loved to see it from the inside. Next time, maybe.

7. Visit the Agadir Crocopark

At the Agadir Crocopark, you can see over 300 Nile crocodiles up close.

It’s located just outside Agadir, and you can get there by car or taxi. It’s a great way to spend a few hours, especially if you’re interested in wildlife.

8. Explore the Valley of the Birds

The Valley of the Birds is right in the heart of Agadir, so it’s an easy walk from Agadir town centre.

This park has both exotic and local species, and you’ll also find small mammals and a play area for kids.

9. Take a day trip to Paradise Valley

Paradise Valley is a beautiful spot about an hour away from Agadir.

It’s great for a swim in natural pools and has some nice trails for walking.

You can get there by car or join a tour where you’ll also visit a traditional Berber village and enjoy the beautiful Atlas Mountains. Don’t forget to wear comfy shoes and pack your swim gear.

Book here – Paradise Valley & Atlas Mountains Swimming Trip

10. Go sandboarding

Did you know that you can go sandboarding near Agadir?

You can!

On a tour, you’ll enjoy a traditional Berber meal at a local family’s home and head to the sand dunes for some stunning views and the main event: sandboarding.

Book here – Sandboarding guided experience from Agadir

11. Enjoy a sunset camel ride along the beach

Taking a sunset camel ride along the beach near Agadir is a fun way to see the sights.

You’ll get to ride a camel right on the sand, which is a unique experience. Plus, watching the sunset from the back of a camel adds a Moroccan twist to the usual beach sunset.

Book here – Sunset camel ride in Agadir

12. Stay at a majestic hotel

If there’s one thing the Moroccans know well, it’s style and decor. I absolutely loved the Arabic architectural style, the colours and extravagant decorations that made my hotel look like Aladdin’s palace.

Morocco has some of the most distinctive architecture in the world, and many of the traditional buildings have a unique and majestic atmosphere.

They feature large archways and beautiful domes that complete them; enchanting courtyards and sprawling gardens.

13. Visit a traditional hammam

Visiting a traditional hammam in Agadir means going to a local bathhouse for a steam bath and scrub.

You typically sit in a steam room first, then get a scrub with a special glove to remove dead skin. It’s both a way to unwind and try local customs.

Book here – Agadir Traditional Moroccan Spa

14. Join a Moroccan food tour

Joining a food tour in Agadir is the best way to explore different local foods, guided by someone who knows where to find the best eats.

You’ll taste a variety of Moroccan specialties, like tagines and couscous, and learn about the ingredients and traditions behind them.

Book here – Eat as a local – Food Tour in Agadir

Where to next?

Agadir, Morocco is a modern city so if you’re looking for the traditional Moroccan experience, you can take a day trip to one of these nearby cities / places:

Marrakech (2 hours). Probably the most popular destination in Morocco, Marrakech is packed with culture, souks, snake charmers and traditional riads.

Essaouria (1,45 hours) is a seaside town, much more relaxed compared to Marrakech. The walled 17th-century Portuguese village is famous for its fisheries.

Taroudant (1,5 hours), also called “Little Marrakech”, is over 1000 years old. Here you’ll find impressive city walls, myriad streets, a souk and the busy square of Place Assarag in the heart of the city.

A thousand thanks to Moroccan National Tourist Office and Marokko Eksperten for hosting me. I was a guest on this press trip, but all opinions are my own as always.

Best places to visit in Agadir

FAQ – Best things to do in Agadir

Is Agadir Morocco worth visiting?

Definitely, Agadir in Morocco is a solid choice for a trip. It’s got nice beaches, cool markets, and lots of cultural stuff to check out.

Plus, the weather’s pretty good all year round. So, whether you’re into chilling by the beach, trying new food, or seeing historical sites, Agadir’s got you covered.

How many days in Agadir is enough?

3 days in Agadir is enough to cover the main attractions, like hitting the beach, exploring the souk, and visiting some nearby spots.

This gives you a good balance of relaxation and adventure without feeling rushed.

Is Agadir better than Marrakech?

Agadir and Marrakech offer different experiences. Agadir is great for beaches and a more relaxed vibe, ideal if you’re looking to unwind by the sea.

Marrakech, on the other hand, is perfect for a cultural deep-dive with its historic sites, bustling markets, and vibrant atmosphere. Your choice depends on what kind of trip you’re after: relaxation or cultural exploration.

How do I spend a day in Agadir?

Start your day in Agadir with a visit to the Kasbah for panoramic city views. Then, head to the Souk El Had to explore the local markets.

Enjoy lunch at a beachfront café, followed by some relaxation on Agadir Beach. In the evening, take a stroll along the Marina, and finish with dinner at a restaurant serving traditional Moroccan cuisine.

Is agadir worth visiting

Yes, Agadir is worth visiting for its beautiful beaches, vibrant markets, and rich cultural experiences. It’s a great spot for both relaxation and adventure.

More posts from Morocco you might like

• Day trip to High Atlas Mountains – finding an oasis in Morocco
• Moroccan food: 10 amazing dishes you must try in Morocco
• Taroudant, Morocco: So how many camels are you worth?
• 17 best souvenirs from Morocco

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