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Agadir
The city of Agadir, south of Marrakech, is totally new and modern, and is fast developing into Morocco's major resort town chiefly because of its magnificent sandy beaches. The city was rebuilt after an earthquake in 1961 that killed 15,000 people and wiped out most of its historic heritage as an important seaport and center for caravans traversing the Sahara. The rebuilt city has been modeled to be a tourist destination and fishing port, favored by package tours particularly as a starting point for excursions into the desert to the south. The city boasts 300 days of sunshine a year, and claims to have 20,000 hotel beds (a quarter of the total in Morocco).

Essaouira
This popular resort town dates from the 18th century and is easily reached by bus from Marrakech. The town is encircled by a fortified wall, and faces the sea, featuring a beautiful stretch of beach, some pretty whitewashed houses, boat-builders workshops and art galleries. What makes Essaouira popular is the laid-back atmosphere and its characteristic wind that makes it an accepted center for wind and kite surfing. It is also famed for its woodcarving tradition, particularly with the local fragrant Thuya wood. The harbor is a hive of activity, with stalls and open air seafood restaurants and is particularly busy during the daily (except Sundays) fish auction that attracts as many seagulls as buyers, sellers and onlookers.

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