The last one
by JLBG
All boats have finally arrived and moor side by side. There is not enough space along the quays for each one. Some are moored in third row. Fishermen are jumping from on boat to the other and there is much traffic but we do not see much fish !
Not so traditional local craft
by matcrazy1 about Street stalls
Unfortunately Essaouira becomes more and more a tourist trap referring to local handicraft. There are a lot of not so traditional local products on sale there. Look at my picture, please. I saw a number of lamps, in metal (which was very, very rusty) or in thin leather. Just a few examples of not so local craft but... if you like it, why not to buy one? Bargain, bargain, bargain. Good luck :-).
Don't miss the fresh seafood!
by JLBG about Le Coquillage
The front entrance into "le Coquillage" is easy to recognize. It is a few meters away from the fishing boats. The seafood won't wait ! We had only one meal in Essaouira and could not taste more than one restaurant ! Too bad !
Walk along the beach with a great view
by sachara
South of Essaouria is a huge beach. In march it was not really the right season to sit on the beach because of the cool winds, always blowing in Essaouira.
We had a hotel south of the town. We liked to walk to the town. The first time we walked along the beach in the direction of the town it was a great experience to approach the white buildings of the walled medina (picture 1, 2 & 3), emerging from the sands. We had also a good view at the fortified harbour just south of the medina (picture 2).
Bab Doukkala
by suvanki
This is one of 3 gateways into the Medina, and is the start of the main thoroughfare which leads down to near the harbour.
This straight road changes name along the way. Ave Zerktouni becomes Ave de l'Istiqlal, then Ave Oqba ben Nafil.
Along this thoroughfare You will see locals going about their daily lives- markets and shops are either side, with some stalls set up in the street.
Outside the gate is the bus station, about 400metres away.
Apparently in the afternoons locals gather to listen to musicians and storytellers that perform outside the gate. I'm afraid that I've not seen this spectacle, but on my next visit I'll have a wander along.
We warned by our guide not to wander near this gate at night time, as there have been some drug related incidents!
Inside the gate to the right is the start of the Mellah, the Jewish Quarter (please see my Mellah tip for more info)