Kite spots around Essaouira

What it is

• A long sandy bay that starts just south of the medina and the port.
• The Mogador islands (Îles Purpuraires) lie off the south of the bay. They are a protected nature reserve and landing is not allowed.
• The Oued Ksob river mouth and the village of Diabat mark the south end of the bay.
• Essaouira Watersports lists Essaouira beach as the location of its lessons.

Safety notes

• Respect swimming zones in summer.
• Keep at least 50 m of clear space downwind of people and obstacles.
• Do not plan to land on the islands: they are a reserve.

Wind data. July: 14.0 kn mean daytime wind, 75% of days ≥ 12 kn, 86% of windy hours from the north.

What it is

• A village and a long beach, used for both surfing and kitesurfing.
• The white marabout (shrine) of Sidi Kaouki stands on the beach.
• It sits in its own ERA5 grid cell, so its numbers differ slightly from Essaouira's.

Safety notes

• Share the water with surfers and give them room.
• Check wind direction, tide and gusts before rigging, and never kite in offshore wind alone.

Wind data. July: 13.7 kn mean daytime wind, 71% of days ≥ 12 kn, 94% of windy hours from the north.

What it is

• A coastal village and a wave spot known for strong wind.
• Waves, rocks and currents make it a spot for experienced riders only. It is not a place to learn.
• It falls in the same ERA5 grid cell as Essaouira, so the data cannot tell the two apart.

Safety notes

• Do not ride here until you are fully independent in waves, including self-rescue.
• Never ride alone, and know where the rocks are before you launch.

Wind data. Same ERA5 grid cell as Essaouira, so identical numbers. The grid cannot show local differences between the two.