Why go there?
For its climate; its 10 km long fine sandy beach; its pleasant temperatures all year round; its modern tourist infrastructure; its marina; its natural and cultural diversity; its hinterland, which extends to the Anti-Atlas mountains; its flower gardens and its elegant contemporary architecture.
Agadir Skyview© Wikimedia Commons
A climate with heat tempered by the Atlantic
The climate is not necessarily what you would expect due to its geographical location by the sea. One might fear intense heat, like in Marrakech, located 150 km inland. And yet, the average temperature in summer in Agadir is about 8°C lower than in Marrakech, due to the temperate influence of the Atlantic Ocean.
Agadir is characterized by a warm Mediterranean climate with dry summers. The maritime influence does not increase rainfall, which is around 290 mm per year, but is characterized by frequent sea mists that frequently gray the sky of Agadir, even in the middle of summer, especially in the morning. One could almost compare the atmosphere of Agadir to that of Biarritz, but drier. The climate is very sunny and offers more than 340 days of sunshine per year.
These rather temperate temperatures range from 14°C to 16°C in January and from 20°C to 25°C in July. However, the region sometimes experiences intense but brief heat peaks: when the wind comes from the east, that is, from the desert, the thermometer can soar to over 40°C: this hot wind, called Harmattan, which lasts from 1 to 5 days, caused the temperature to rise to 49°C in July 2009. Heat peaks of 40°C can even be observed in autumn.
The other notable characteristic of Agadir’s climate is the low rainfall, however it can become formidable during autumn storms, especially in November. We will also note the relative freshness of the sea, a bit like Portugal: cool currents run along the Moroccan coast, and the Upwelling phenomenon brings up cold water when the east wind blows, a bit like the Mistral in France, which causes the sea water to cool. It generally displays 22° to 23°C.
Week of July 1st to 7th: some clouds and pleasant atmosphere
The weather conditions are expected to be pleasant for a stay in the Bay of Agadir during the week of July 1st to 7th. Thanks to the anticyclonic conditions, the sun will prevail mostly with a few clouds and a moderate south-easterly wind of 25 to 35 km/h during the day. Temperatures will generally be between 17 and 19°C in the morning, perfect for not being too hot at night. In the afternoon, they will reach 22 to 28°C with a very pleasant feeling in the sun and sheltered from the wind. If you like swimming, it will be rather refreshing with a water temperature close to 19°C.
The beaches
The beaches of Agadir, which stretch over 10 km, are considered the most beautiful in the country. Ideal for swimming and water sports, these stretches of sand lined with restaurants and hotels attract many tourists each year who mingle with the local population.
Agadir, at night© visitmorocco.com
To do
Climb to the top of the Citadel, which offers a magnificent panorama of the ocean and the city from its 236 meters; get lost in the alleys of the Medina; stroll through the alleys of the El Had souk and take part in the game of haggling; walk along the quays of the fishing port and admire the boats; discover the fortified granaries; visit the Museum of Memory, which retraces the earthquake that devastated the city in 1960.
Nice getaway
If you are staying in Agadir for several days, Figaronautisme.com recommends that you take an excursion to the Wim-Timdouine cave. Located a stone’s throw from Agadir in the High Atlas, this natural wonder is home to the largest underground water reserve in the region.
Pebble beach near Agadir© Pixabay
Or sleep ?
Atlantic Palace Agadir Golf Thalasso & Casino Resort. Located 10 minutes from the city center, this luxurious traditional Moroccan palace features a mini golf course, a private beach, a spa and a casino.
Where to eat ?
Chez Gad. Renowned for its original cuisine, the establishment is ideal for tasting local cuisine. The plus? A pretty terrace.
La Scala. Popular with locals and tourists alike, this restaurant, which has a large terrace, showcases seafood and regional produce. A must in Agadir.
View of the fishing port of Agadir© Pixabay
Before leaving, remember to check the forecast on The Weather Travel Channel and to download the free Bloc Marine mobile application.
© Google Maps
