Road trip Agadir to Essaouira:…
Road Trip
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Road trip Agadir to Essaouira: Morocco's most beautiful coastal road
GadiWaze March 3, 2026 8 min
Why this road trip is unmissable
175 km on the N1 national road, 3 hours direct — but plan 1 to 2 days to fully enjoy it. Between Agadir and Essaouira, the Atlantic coast reveals its most beautiful scenery: golden cliffs, wild beaches, surf villages and argan cooperatives.
This is one of the most spectacular coastal road trips in North Africa.
Stop 1: Taghazout
Just 23 km north of Agadir, Taghazout is the first essential stop. A fishing village turned global surf mecca, it offers colourful alleys, ocean-view terraced cafés and a unique bohemian atmosphere. Iconic spots: Anchor Point, Hash Point, Panoramas. Allow at least 1 to 2 hours.
Stop 2: Cap Ghir and Timlalin
The Cap Ghir lighthouse stands 40 metres high on spectacular cliffs. Breathtaking panoramic views over the Atlantic. Just below, Timlalin beach with its sand dunes and turquoise waters. A mandatory photo stop.
Stop 3: Imsouane — Magic Bay
An authentic fishing village, Imsouane is famous for hosting the longest wave in Africa — an 800-metre tube perfect for longboard surfers. Outside peak season, the bay is peaceful and restaurants serve the freshest fish tagine on the coast. Budget 90 MAD per person.
Stop 4: Tafedna and the wild coast
Between Imsouane and Sidi Kaouki, a succession of near-deserted beaches accessible via tracks. Tafedna is the most beautiful: crystal-clear water, a handful of surfers, and rare tranquillity. Ideal for bivouacking if you have the gear.
Stop 5: Sidi Kaouki
The ultimate kite-surfing and windsurfing beach, facing the dunes. The village offers camel rides at sunset and restaurants with a direct view of the beach. Last stop before Essaouira.
Arrival: Essaouira
Essaouira — a UNESCO World Heritage medina, historic fishing port, 18th-century ramparts. Stroll through the kasbah, visit the port at sunset, and listen to Gnaoua musicians in the alleys. Plan at least one night.
Which vehicle to choose?
The N1 is fully tarmacked: a Dacia Logan or Sandero is perfectly sufficient. If you want to take tracks to reach Tafedna or isolated beaches, opt for an SUV (Duster). The price difference is minimal.
Practical tips
- Fill up in Agadir — petrol stations are rare between Cap Ghir and Essaouira.
- Bring cash for villages (restaurants and parking are cash-only).
- Leave early in the morning to enjoy Taghazout before the crowds.
- The road is winding after Cap Ghir — drive at a moderate pace.
GadiWaze
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