Agadir

Agadir represents a different face of Morocco - modern, resort-oriented, and purpose-built for beach tourism. Following a devastating earthquake in 1960 that destroyed the historic city, Agadir was reconstructed as a contemporary destination with wide boulevards, modern architecture, and an extensive beachfront promenade.

The city boasts Morocco's finest beach, a sweeping crescent of golden sand stretching 10 kilometers along the Atlantic coast. With over 300 days of sunshine annually and average temperatures rarely dropping below 20C, Agadir has become a year-round destination for European sun-seekers and water sports enthusiasts.

The reconstructed marina and promenade, known as the Corniche, hosts upscale hotels, restaurants, and cafes. The new medina, Medina d'Agadir, was built by Italian architect Coco Polizzi using traditional techniques, offering visitors a taste of Moroccan architecture that the earthquake destroyed.

Beyond the beach, Agadir serves as a gateway to the Souss-Massa region's attractions. The Souss-Massa National Park protects endangered Northern bald ibis and offers wildlife viewing. Paradise Valley provides a lush mountain oasis just an hour away, while the surrounding Berber villages preserve authentic rural traditions.

The city's fishing port remains one of Morocco's most important, and the adjacent fish market offers extraordinary seafood at rock-bottom prices. Golf courses, spas, and modern shopping facilities cater to luxury travelers seeking relaxation without the intensity of Morocco's imperial cities.