Essaouira · With kids

A long flat bay with donkeys, camels and football games; the afternoon wind is strong, so swim in the morning. Ages 3+.

Blue boats unloading, gulls, nets and a chaotic morning auction — twenty minutes of pure spectacle, then grilled fish at the stalls. All ages.

Stables south of town run gentle beach rides towards the ruined pavilion at Diabat, about an hour each way. Ages 6+.

Cannon, sea spray and a short walk along the top of the walls; the drop is guarded, but hold on to small children. Ages 4+.

The Atlantic wind hides the sun and burning happens fast. Port stalls and medina cafés serve from noon, earlier than most of Morocco.