Plan a CruiseAgadir Cruise Port Guide
Agadir, Morocco, is primarily a destination for relaxation and enjoying the sun, particularly along its impressive 8 km (5-mile) crescent-shaped beach. The cruise terminal is conveniently located at the northwest tip of this very clean beach. Keep in mind there are no facilities directly at the dock. While Agadir is known more for leisure than extensive sightseeing, a key historical site is the Kasbah, built in 1540 and largely destroyed by an earthquake and tidal wave in 1960; it now offers imposing panoramic views of the city, beach, and port.
Cruise lines often provide shuttle services into town for approximately 6-8 Euros, which is a recommended option, especially on Agadir's roughly 300 hot days per year. Otherwise, the central part of the beach, and the town and souk located just behind it, can be reached by a short taxi ride or a longer walk.
Getting Around from the Port
The central stretch of Agadir's main beach is about a 10-minute taxi ride or a 30-45 minute walk along the coast road from the cruise terminal. Cruise lines typically offer a shuttle service to town for about 6-8 Euros, which is advised for hot weather. Petit taxis in Agadir are generally metered and legal; expect fares between 10 to 20 Moroccan Dirham (MAD) for rides around the city center. Public buses are available but are often crowded, slow, and infrequent, making walking or taxis preferable for navigating the small tourist areas. The historic Kasbah can be reached by a 20-minute walk uphill from Boulevard Mohammed V, offering rewarding panoramic views.
Attractions and Activities
- Relax on Agadir Beach: Enjoy the 8 km (5-mile) long, clean, crescent-shaped beach. The central stretch is considered the best. You can soak up the sun or take a camel ride along the sands.
- Visit the Agadir Kasbah: A 20-minute walk uphill from Boulevard Mohammed V leads to the remains of the 1540 Kasbah, largely destroyed in the 1960 earthquake. It offers an impressive panoramic view of the city, beach, and port.
- Explore Vallée des Oiseaux: This small bird zoo offers a pleasant, low-cost attraction within the city.
- Day Trip to Taroudannt: Located about 80 km (50 miles) east of Agadir, this walled city is a great option if you're not planning to visit Marrakech or other major historical cities in Morocco.
- Atlas Mountains Excursion: Agadir's position between the High Atlas and Anti-Atlas Mountains makes it an excellent base for exploring the countryside. Discover snow-capped peaks, waterfalls, small hamlets, expansive palm groves, and experience the Berber tribes in their natural habitat.
- Marrakech: While further afield, Marrakech is a significant cultural destination, symbolizing Morocco's historical grandeur.
Dining & Shopping
For local atmosphere and a wide selection of handicrafts, head to the souk, a walled market area located on Rue Chair al Hamra Mohammed Ben Brahim. Be sure to remember which of the approximately 21 entrances you use! Agadir is also famous for Argan oil, used in cooking, healing, and beauty products. The Argan tree is unique to Morocco, and with a bit of luck, you might even spot goats climbing in them.
You'll find excellent restaurants right on the waterfront along Rue de la Plage. Just a short distance back from the waterfront, Boulevard du 20 Aout features charming courtyard restaurants with fountains and cane chairs.
Safety
Agadir is generally safe for tourists. Most petit taxis use meters, so you can request the driver use it.
If your visit coincides with the month of Ramadan, be aware that most restaurants (apart from those specifically catering to tourists) will be closed during the day as Muslims fast. Things generally slow down during this period. While restrictions don't apply to non-Muslims, it is considered respectful to refrain from eating, drinking, or smoking in public during fasting hours.
Currency and Language
The local currency is the Moroccan Dirham (MAD), divided into 100 centimes, with banknotes of 10, 50, 100, and 200 DH. It is forbidden to export Moroccan money, so plan to spend all your local currency before departure; there are no restrictions on importing foreign currencies. ATMs are available in cities, with banks generally open from 8 to 11:30 a.m. and 2 to 4:30 p.m., sometimes without a lunch break in summer. Most hotels, restaurants, and antique shops accept credit cards.
The official languages are Arabic and Berber, but French is also widely spoken. Many cafes offer free WiFi to customers and are open late. For emergencies, dial 19 for Police or 15 for Fire Service.