The Souss-Massa region of Morocco is popular for tourism due to its beaches and surf vibes. But there are lots more things to do in Agadir, Taghazout and Tamraght that make the region well worth adding to your Morocco itinerary.
Here is a detailed overview of each town including highlights, where to eat, where to stay and the 5 best things to do in each of Agadir, Taghazout and Tamraght.
- About Agadir, Taghazout and Tamraght
- How long do you need?
- Best time to visit?
- Transport
- Things to do in Agadir
- Things to do in Taghazout
- Things to do in Tamraght
- Day trips from Agadir
- Getting there
- Where to eat
- Where to stay
- Motorhome parking
About Agadir, Taghazout and Tamraght
Agadir is the main city in the Souss-Massa region of Morocco. It is one of the major airports for the country connecting with low-cost airlines to Europe. It has become a popular tourist destination with year-round sunshine, beaches, golf courses, shopping, nightlife and a great range of accommodation.
Taghazout and Tamraght are both coastal surf towns around 20km from Agadir.
The Taghazout region including Tamraght is a popular haven for surfers of all levels.
Though while both Taghazout and Tamraght are surf villages, the key difference is that Tamraght is considered a quieter, more laid-back option with a local feel.
Taghazout is a busier, more developed surf hub with a wider range of restaurants, activities, and a more touristy atmosphere.
Getting around
Getting around in Agadir is easy by car or taxi. The city centre is walkable. Though getting around in Agadir and between Taghazout and Tamraght you will need to go by car, bus or taxi.
As with other large Moroccan cities, there are two types of taxis: Petit Taxis (small taxis) and Grand Taxis (large taxis). Petit taxis are for trips within the city and can carry up to three people. Grand Taxis can take you between Agadir and other cities in the region.
Local buses are affordable and can take you to nearby beaches or suburbs.
Or there are regular ‘Souk to Surf’ shuttles that operate daily at intervalled times from Agadir to Taghazout via Tamraght.
How long do you need?
Agadir is ideally situated for exploring Southern Morocco. Three days in Agadir leaves enough time to see the city sights, enjoy the beaches of Taghazout and Tamraght, and venture farther afield on a day trip inland or to Paradise Valley.
The region is worth taking the time to discover, so you will want to stay for at least two or three nights. Though the reality is that many of the things to do in Agadir are actually in neighbouring Taghazout and Tamraght.
The ideal answer would be to spend at least 3 days in the Agadir, Taghazout and Tamraght region.
Best time to visit?
Agadir is an all-year-round destination with warm temperatures and surrounded by incredible surfing conditions that make it an ideal winter sun escape.
But the main surf season for Taghazout and Tamraght runs from October to April, when the winter swell brings consistent waves. In the summer months from May to September the waves are smaller but perfect for beginners.
July is the hottest month of the year in Morocco, especially in the desert regions. However, the coastal areas like Agadir tend to have slightly cooler temperatures due to the influence of the Atlantic Ocean.
The winter months of December to February are popular with European overland travellers in motorhomes.
Due to the 90-day entry visa many retired Europeans come for the winter sunshine and to exit the Schengen for three months.
Is it safe to visit Agadir?
Agadir is considered safe for travellers and normal travel precautions can be taken. It is a tourist-friendly city, and most visitors experience no safety concerns during their stay.
Like any major city, there is the typical risk of petty crime and scams (watch out for pick pockets) but for every time we’ve visited we have felt very safe.
- Read our detailed travel guide to Morocco.
Things to do in Agadir
Here are 5 things to do in Agadir perfect for a first visit.
1. Agadir Beach
Agadir Beach is a busy destination year-round.
It gets particularly crowded in the summer months with domestic tourism when locals come to the coast to cool off from the harsh Saharan temperatures. Then in the winter it becomes a sought-after destination for Europeans escaping the winter.
At any time of the year though, for travellers the beach is one of the main attractions and things to do in Agadir.
The beach comes alive at sunset. Albeit it doesn’t have the famous surf waves of Taghazout or Tamraght. But it fills up fast with locals kicking a ball in the sand and children playing in the ocean.
There is a long promenade stretching for 10km along the shorefront. Or you can rent lounge chairs and umbrellas on the beach and enjoy water activities like paddleboarding, surfing, jet skiing, and kayaking.
2. Souk Al Had – Things to do in Agadir
There are multiple souks and bazars in Agadir. But the most known is SouK Al Had. This is the largest souk in the city and supposedly one of the biggest in North Africa.
There are 12 entry gates to the souk and something like 6000 stalls.
The souk is mostly under cover and packed to the rafters (literally) with everything from mobile phones to fresh produce, Moroccan spices, clothes and tasty street food stalls.
- Open: Daily except Monday
- Location: Boulevard Abderrahim Bouabid
3. New Agadir Medina
Agadir’s Medina is the place to go for a stroll, to browse in the shops or taste delicious Moroccan pastries and mint tea.
Much of Agadir’s historic old city was destroyed by an earthquake in 1960. But parts of the old city have since been lovingly restored.
The new Agadir Medina is a restored 20th-century citadel with a medieval look.
It isn’t the same as the old city medinas of Marrakech or Essaouira. Instead, it is more of a boutique style of outdoor shopping mall. But it is full of charming architectural spots and workshops, shops and handicrafts for sale.
You can even watch the owners at work and see exhibitions of artistic pieces and galleries showcasing Moroccan arts.
4. Traditional Morocco Hammam – Things to do in Agadir
There are multiple touristic spas come Moroccan hammams in the city.
But at risk of sounding repetitive, we reckon a traditional, local Moroccan hammam is one of the best things to do in Agadir to get a glimpse of and experience traditional Morocco.
A hammam is a public bath (similar in ways to Turkish Bath). It is a historic and long reigning tradition in Morocco. Most Moroccans go once a week to the hammam. (And I admit that over the last eight months of travel in Morocco, we made hammam part of our weekly routine!).
There are various tourist options or if you want the full experience, try a public and local Hammam in Agadir.
- Read more about (and all your questions answered) on the Moroccan hammam experience.
5. Anza Souk
The markets in Morocco are always a great way to experience local culture and to get a feel for the diversity of each region. Anza Souk is a large weekly market with farmers and vendors coming from Agadir as well as the surrounding valleys of Tamraght, Aourir and Taghazout and beyond.
Souq Anza is the main weekly market in Anza not far from Agadir.
The weekly market is located just off the main highway from Agadir to Aourir (and much further north – all the way to Tamraght, Taghazout and Essaouira).
It’s easy to spot the market. It is surrounded by a large wall and on the opposite side of the road to the ocean. The market sprawls up the hillside with views down to the sea.
As soon as you enter you will smell fresh popcorn and other snack foods from the small trolleys moving through the market. And you can quite literally get yourself lost in the alleyways of trinkets, treasures and brick-a-brack on your way up to the view from beneath the iconic sea of souk umbrellas.
It is our favourite thing to do in Agadir.
- Read details for how to visit Anza Souk from Agadir.
Things to do in Taghazout – Agadir, Taghazout and Tamraght
We really liked Taghazout. It’s tiny! But there is a great laid back surf vibe and it is a colourful and bustling albeit small village.
1. Taghazout Beach
Taghazout has a range of golden sandy stretches to choose from. But the main Taghazout Beach is the best for a lively beach holiday atmosphere. The main stretch of beach is the beating heart of town.
Albeit it is seriously beating and busy though. The beach is as popular for the winter surf waves for Europeans and equally with the allure of a hopefully cooler Atlantic breeze for locals escaping the heat of the desert towns.
There are rows of loungers and parasols to rent. Camels are wandering with over-enthusiastic handlers keen to sell you a ride. While horses and horse rides at various speeds and abilities all descend on the sand from the length of the shoreline.
This is the main draw to Taghazout and boastfully worthy of your time to soak it all in.
2. Surfing – Things to do in Taghazout (from Agadir)
Most people visit Taghazout in Morocco, because of the incredible waves. The winter is the best season for surfing and the waves bring droves of surfers searching for that elusive perfect wave.
It is also a popular destination to learn to surf. Travellers can easily find private surf lessons, rent boards, fix their broken ones, meet other surfers from all over the globe or simply get all that combined and stay at a surf camp.
For our second winter in Morocco, we already had wetsuits and hired boards each day to hit the beach.
3. Taghazout Village
A wander around the village of Taghazout itself is one of the cool things to do from Agadir. It is cute, full of colourful, whitewashed buildings and winding streets that all seem to end up at the beach.
There are lots of surf and hire shops. (Some of them sell old boards or wetsuits if you get the right time). Or the narrower back lanes have smaller convenience stores with fresh produce and colourful Moroccan rugs and Djeleba (hooded cloaks).
No matter which direction you set out for a wander you will either end on a café terrace overlooking the ocean or back at the beach!
4. Taghazout Skate Park
Taghazout is home to a thriving skate park with an incredible ocean view. The park is literally positioned on the hilltop above Taghazout.
It is worth a stop even for those who do not skate. Every late afternoon around sunset the skate park fills up with locals and surfer dudes to show off their moves with the most panoramic of views over Taghazout and the ocean.
5. Yoga
You’ll find a lot of backpackers, yoga lovers, and surf dudes in Taghazout. There are a lot of options for yoga classes and lessons.
Yoga is included in the packages of all surf camps, and most of the classes are also open to all other guests too.
Lessons usually take place after sunrise and before sunset.
Things to do in Tamraght – Agadir, Taghazout and Tamraght
Tucked in between the better-known the tourist town of Taghazout and the bustling Aourir (Banana Village) is the vibrant village of Tamraght, Morocco.
Here are 5 top things to do in Tamraght (from Agadir).
1. Devil’s Rock
Devil’s Rock is a famous surfing spot near Tamraght only a short drive from Agadir.
But even you aren’t here to surf it is a great lookout point. A set of colourful steps leads to the top of a rocky outcrop. This part of the beach is known as Devil’s Rock.
2. Banana Beach / Banana Point
Banana Point is a surf spot nestled between the mouth of the (usually dry) Oued Tamraght and a rocky point protecting from the north wind. It is a popular spot for locals in Tamraght. It’s a bit more relaxed and informal than the larger surf school hub of Taghazout.
There is a variety of wave conditions, so the beach caters to both beginners and experienced surfers alike. Otherwise, it is a great place for a wander. Or a camel ride if you’re keen!
3. Surfing in Tamraght
Lots of the time, people think they are booked to go to Taghazout only to find the surf camp or school is actually based in the village of Tamraght. As Taghazout has boomed over the last decade, Tamraght has become somewhat of an overflow.
But it is a great option for beginners or learner surfers. The beach has a quieter and more local vibe than its touristy neighbour. Tamraght is more about beginner-friendly beach breaks.
4. Tamraght Weekly Souk
If you are staying the Taghazout and Tamraght area to surf and your accommodation is self-catering, then the weekly market in Tamraght is a great place to stock up on fresh produce.
Or if you are visiting Agadir region and wondering what things to do in Tamrahgt, for sure a wander up from the beach to the weekly souk is a great way to get a glimpse into local life in Morocco.
- Read how to visit the weekly souk in Tamraght.
5. Hammam Auorir – Things to do in Tamraght (from Agadir)
Albeit there are plenty of touristic spas and tourist-oriented things to do in Agadir. But we always find any excuse to check out the local hammam wherever we are in Morocco for a more traditional experience.
Hammam Aourir is just up the valley from Tamraght. It also services the neighbouring villages of Taghazout as there is no public hammam in Taghazout.
But if you are fortunate to be traveling in Agadir and contemplating a hammam in Taghazout or Tamraght you are in luck. Hammam Aourir is a great experience.
- Read all about our experience trying a local Moroccan hammam in Agadir at Aourir.
Other things to do in Agadir, Taghazout and Tamraght
The things to do in Agadir, Taghazout and Tamraght listed above are the main highlights. These you could do all or most of with just two to three days in Agadir.
But obviously, there are literally LOADS more things to do in Agadir. It is a big Moroccan city and there is more to do nearby in Taghazozut and Tamraght too.
- Marina d’Agadir
- Agadir Musee d’Art
- Jardin Olhao Agadir
- Agadir Cable Car
- Agadir Oufella
- Kasbat Souss
- Argan Palace
- Souk Trik Al Khir
- Dsheira Market
- Marche Charaf
If you have more time, there is more to see in Agadir.
Other things to do in Agadir, Taghazout and Tamraght with kids
Sand and water are enough to keep most children happy. But there are lots of other cool things to do in Agadir, Taghazout and Tamraght with kids.
- Taghazout Skate Park: Watch the sun go down over the Atlantic from up high on the hill whil the kids admire the incredible tricks of local skaters.
- Crocoparc: I always feel debatably nervous recommending animal parks (and we haven’t been ourselves). But the crocodile park is one of the most popular things to do in Agadir with kids.
- La Medina d’Agadir: The medina is more like an outdoor boutique museum and shopping mall combined. But there La Medina d’Agadir is a beautiful restaurant with a big children’s playground.
- Surfing: Want to learn to surf? Book a lesson at Taghazout or Imsouane for a great start to surfing for the kids.
- Le Petit Train d’Agadir: Fancy a 40-minute ride on a miniature train to see Agadir from a different perspective?
- Accrobranche Souss Park: Try ziplining on the tree top course at Souss Park.
- Aqua Parc Imi Ouadar (Parc Aquatique): A water park with seven different types and sizes of water slides and a kid’s splash pool.
- Jardin Ibn Zaiton: A good size (free) public playground.
Day trips and things to do near Agadir, Taghazout and Tamraght
If you would like to explore some of the beautiful places inland, more beaches and markets around Agadir, foresee at least a few more days in the region.
- Paradise Valley: The picturesque river gorge of Paradise Valley lies around an hour north of Agadir in the High Atlas Mountains.
- Taroudant: Often described as the mini version of Marrakesh, Taroudant is known for its ancient walls, souks, and crafts. It is just 1hr 20mins from Agadir.
- Tamri: A small town and rural commune about 45-minutes north of Agadir. Tamri is a good stopping point en route to Imsouane. It is famous for bananas and has THE most delicious tagine on the main street at Restaurant Ex Laze. (Look for the pink tables!).
- Imsouane: A famous beach village with a claim to fame as the longest surf wave on the African continent. Imsouane is a great place for learning to surf.
- Tioute Palmeraie: The lush Tioute Oasis is just 37km south of Taroudant with an impressive albeit old Kasbah.
- Legzira Beach: One of Morocco’s most iconic beaches famous for the two majestic red stone arches carved by sea water and wind.
- Souss Massa National Park: One of the country’s most notable parks and bird reserves, Souss Massa National Park is known for its natural beauty.
We recommend if you have time to take a day trip or two from Agadir to experience the local weekly markets or take a trip inland to Taroudant.
- Read more about places to visit in Morocco.
Getting there
Flights to Agadir arrive at Agadir Al-Massira International Airport (AGA). There are daily flights connecting Marrakech with Europe, Middle East and North America.
By road the city is well connected to other major city destinations in Morocco.
There are frequent daily buses with SupraTours and CTM to Marrakech or south to Sidi Ifni, Guelmim and Dakhla.
- Tip: Once you arrive in Agadir there is a daily shuttle service that runs regularly between Agadir and Taghazout called the ‘Souk to Surf Shuttle’.
Getting there by car
Renting a car is a great option for travel in Morocco. It is the best choice for a flexible itinerary.
- Essaouira to Agadir: 3 hr 14 min (184.7 km)
- Marrakech to Agadir: 3 hr 7 min (249.5 km)
- Taroudant to Agadir: 1 hr 18 min (88.8 km)
Most rental car companies offer one-way rates for an itinerary starting or ending in Tangier, Marrakech or Agadir.
- Read about driving in Morocco.
Cafes, restaurants and where to eat in Agadir, Taghazout and Tamraght
Agadir is a big Moroccan city with an abundant range of cafes and restaurants. Taghazout is known for ocean view terraced cafes and Tamraght for its hipster and vegan options amongst other traditional Moroccan eateries.
- Oliveri Café Marina (Agadir): Located directly at the harbour front with a range of Moroccan and international dishes.
- Café Maria (Agadir): A cute coffee shop in Agadir that does decent coffee and tasty crepes.
- Restaurant Daffy (Agadir): A great restaurant a little away from the centre. No fuss or frills but the best fish tagines we’ve found to date in Morocco!
- Dar Chouaya (Agadir): A popular Moroccan BBQ-style restaurant near Souk Al Had with a tajine house next door.
- World of Waves (Taghazout): With a great view of the sea, you can eat delicious breakfasts and a good lunch here.
- Café Surf Berbere (Taghazout): The menu features Moroccan and international cuisines. But more so there is a breathtaking panoramic view of the Taghazout coastline during sunset from the terrace.
- Le Petit Kawa (Tamraght): This was the only place we ate at in Tamraght but we’ve been at least four times over our travel in Morocco! Delicious breakfasts, couscous dishes, coffees and juices.
Where to stay in Agadir, Taghazout and Tamraght
Agadir is the main city and has the largest range of accommodation to suit all budgets. Taghazhout is a popular area for surf schools, hostels and lower cost accommodation.
Agadir – Places to stay
- The Rina Hostel (Budget)
- Dinosaur Anza Surf House (Budget)
- Villa Merry (Mid-Range)
- Le Riad Villa Blanche (Mid-Range-Luxury)
- Sidi Yussef Agadir (Mid-Range)
Taghazout – Places to stay
- Munga Guesthouse (Budget)
- World of Waves (Mid-Range)
- Surf Berbere (Mid-Range)
- Hilton Taghazout Bay Beach Resort & Spa (Luxury)
- Hyatt Regency Taghazout (Luxury)
Tamraght – Places to stay
- He E Nalu Surf Camp (Budget)
- Moonlight Surf House (Budget)
- Yogi Surfer Villa (Mid-Range)
- Villa Azur (Mid-Range)
Overnight motorhome parking and campsites near Agadir, Taghazout and Tamraght
There are several large campsites for with motorhome services in Agadir region. Though they are actually located on the coast near Taghazout and Tamraght.
We tried the campsite once and it was full. So we’ve returned each time to Agadir to stay at the guarded parking options in Taghazout and Tamraght.
TAGAZHOUT: Camping Terre d’Ocean
- Location: N1, Tagazhout
- Type: Campsite
- Park4Night: #12996
- Cost: CC 110Dh + 30Dh per child + 30Dh electricity
- Facilities: Motorhome services, showers and toilets, swimming pool.
About: Washing machine (50Dh), convenience store plus restaurant (serves wine/beer) onsite.
Note there is not much space left to park during the winter months as many (retirees) motorhomes spend months parked here. (Don’t even think about asking just to fill and pay for water without staying!).
TAMRAGHT: CAMPING ATLANTICA IMOURANE
- Location:
- Type: Campsite
- Park4Night: #13795
- Cost: CC 110Dh + 30Dh per child + 30Dh electricity
- Facilities: Motorhome services, showers and toilets, swimming pool.
About: A medium sized campsite on the Tamraght main stretch of road. However this place get booked out literally weeks in advance!
Where to next on your Morocco itinerary?
Agadir is located south of Marrakech in Morocco. But by road it is within a few hours’ drive to other key destinations.
- Read more about the things to do in Chefcahouen, Casablanca, Tangier, Tetouan, Fes and Rabat.
- Read about crossing the Morocco Mauritania border from Dakhla.
More about planning for travel in Morocco and beyond
These are the companies we use and can recommend for planning and booking travel.
- Booking.com – The best all-around accommodation booking site that constantly provides the cheapest and lowest rates. They have the widest selection of budget accommodation. It is easy to filter and sort into price and availability with all the extras you are looking for personally.
- 12GoAsia – Book trains anywhere online.
- Skyscanner– This is by far our favourite flight search engine. They are able to search small websites and budget airlines that larger search sites often miss. We book all our flights through Skyscanner.
- GetYourGuide– Get Your Guide is a huge online marketplace for tours and excursions offered all around the world. Everything from walking tours, to street-food tours, cooking classes, desert safari’s and more!
- SafetyWing – A global travel insurance that covers people from all over the world while outside their home country. You can buy it short or longterm; and even if you are out of the country.
- World Nomads – Travel insurance tailored for longterm travel and nomads (including those who have already left home). Make sure you have insurance before embarking on all the great things to see in Agadir, Morocco!
