Essaouira Weather in December

Mild days, cool evenings

December feels mild rather than wintry in Essaouira. Days reach 19°C, while evenings fall to 15°C. You'll get plenty of sun, but occasional rain can interrupt a walk. The beach is lovely for a stroll, though the Atlantic may feel too cold for a swim. The medina's lanes, galleries and cafés make good rainy-day stops.

If you enjoy walking, follow the ramparts at the Skala de la Ville, then warm up with mint tea nearby. The sea breeze can make the exposed walls feel cooler than the medina streets.

A quieter winter visit

December has no major, widely celebrated local festival. Christmas and New Year may bring special meals at some hotels and restaurants, but they aren't Moroccan public holidays. Ask your accommodation about arrangements if you're visiting over those dates.

If you hate crowds, December is calmer than the busy summer months. You'll usually find a more relaxed feel in the medina, and accommodation can cost less than in peak season. Some places may still be popular around New Year, so check directly before you arrive.

Make the most of the coast

Rain falls on a handful of days, so keep your plans flexible. A wet afternoon suits the Sidi Mohammed ben Abdallah Museum or a long lunch of grilled sardines in the port area. Save a coastal walk for a clearer spell, and don't count on a beach day built around swimming.

For an easy outing, walk from the medina to the port, then continue along the seafront towards the beach. The route gives you shelter options close by if the weather turns. December's short days also mean it's worth heading back before dusk.