Big, brash, and bold, Agadir sprawls along Morocco’s Atlantic Coast, pounded by swells that draw surfers from across the globe. Besides the beach, the city’s star attractions are Souk el Had market and the Kasbah Ruins (Agadir Oufella) cable car—but you won’t run short of things to do in Agadir. It’s the gateway to historic Essaouira and culture-rich Marrakech and is a popular jumping-off point for day trips to Paradise Valley, the Atlas Mountains, and Souss Massa National Park, home to the rare northern bald ibis. Popular activities in this outdoor playground include sandboarding, fishing, camel safaris, ATV adventures, and hot-air balloon rides. But if you’d rather take it slower, head to the open-air Medina d’Agadir to sip mint tea and shop for Moroccan treasures.
Local and international beach lovers flock to Agadir Morocco for summer sun from June through August, when a coastal breeze keeps the temperature mellow compared to Morocco’s baking interior. The 4-day Timitar Festival in July sees hundreds of artists perform both world music and traditional Berber (Amazigh) tunes. If you’re a keen surfer, pack your wetsuit and hit the coast during winter (October through March) when the winds are perfect for powerful swells.
The city of Agadir’s bus services are generally more useful to locals than travelers. Le Petit Train, a battery-operated tourist train, connects the southern resorts to the center during the day. Modern, wide roads make self-driving in Agadir less traumatic than in other Moroccan cities—scooter hire is also a possibility if you’re licensed and insured.
Metered taxis, tours, or private drivers are good options: try Morocco’s Roby app for hailing official taxis. Shared grand taxis can be a handy way to reach places such as Taghazout. International and domestic flights service Agadir Airport.
Argan oil has many reputed benefits, from moisturizing skin to helping reduce cholesterol, but oils sold as argan are often cut with cheaper ingredients. You can find good quality oil and help rural Berber women gain financial independence by shopping at a recognized women’s cooperative. Sadly, many businesses that claim to be cooperatives are run by men exploiting women for profit: Cooperative Toudarte and UCFA Tissaliwine are legitimate women’s cooperatives with outlets in Agadir city.
