A modern beach resort bathed in sunshine

Agadir is Morocco’s premier beach resort located on the Atlantic Coast. The city was almost totally destroyed in 1960 by a devastating earthquake. It was rebuilt two kilometres south of the earthquake’s epicentre on a neat grid system with wide boulevards and an attractive sandy beach. The style of the city is far removed from other municipalities in Morocco and has European influenced cafes, modern buildings and large hotels. What drives tourism to the city is the sprawling coastline. While other seaside resorts along this part of the coast are beaten by ocean winds, Agadir is sheltered. The beach is clean and relatively hassle-free, thanks to the low-key police patrols that see off any hawkers. Swimming in the sea at Agadir isn’t advised as the undercurrents are strong, but many of the hotels offer great pools where you can cool off from the heat of the Moroccan sun.

Why Go?
Go for the long sandy beach and the chance to relax and unwind in a clean, sun-drenched resort. Travel to Agadir for delicious Moroccan tagine, sweet mint tea and friendly locals. If you have youngsters, they’ll be spoiled, as the Moroccans are extremely child-friendly.

When to Go?
Agadir has a lovely year-round sunny climate. The warmest and driest time is from June to September making this perhaps the nicest time to visit. Temperatures are high but comfortable around 24°C . Winters are pleasantly warm too with average temperatures of 21°C but it gets chilly in the evenings. Flights tend to be most expensive during school holiday times.

How to get there?
There are direct flights from Liverpool, London Stansted, London Gatwick and Manchester to Agadir’s Al Massira Airport (AGA). The airport is 25km east of the city. Taxis are available from outside the arrivals hall and the fare into the city centre is fixed: 150 dirham (around £12) during the day and 200 dirham after 7pm. The journey takes about 20 minutes.

Must see
Not far from Agadir, the Oued Massa Nature Reserve boasts the best bird watching in the country and you may even get a glimpse of the world’s rarest bird, the Bald Ibis. A trip to one of the city’s markets – the Souk or the Marche Municipal - is an interesting experience, but hone up on your haggling skills beforehand. Dine at Bab Marrakesh, close to Souq al-Had and enjoy authentic local dishes. This charming restaurant is off the beaten path and is usually busy with local residents, which is always a good sign.