Essaouira is situated along Morocco’s Atlantic coast. This laid-back town has become a hidden gem for digital nomad surfers seeking for a perfect place to work, surf, and enjoy the cultural experiences. With its bohemian vibe, reliable waves, and burgeoning community of remote workers, Essaouira is quickly becoming a top destination for those who want to combine a love for the ocean with a productive work-life balance.
Why Essaouira?
Essaouira, once known as Mogador, is a UNESCO World Heritage site famous for its whitewashed medina, vibrant arts scene, and rich history. But beyond its cultural allure, it’s the town’s unique mix of surf culture and modern amenities that’s drawing digital nomads from around the world.
1. Perfect Surf Conditions
Essaouira’s consistent Atlantic swells make it a prime spot for surfers of all levels. The beach’s wide expanse and relatively uncrowded waves offer ideal conditions for both beginners and seasoned surfers. With reliable wind and waves, the town has also become a haven for kitesurfers and windsurfers.
2. A Growing Digital Nomad Community
As more people embrace the remote work lifestyle, Essaouira’s digital nomad community has been steadily growing. The town offers a slower pace of life compared to more crowded destinations like Bali or Lisbon, making it an appealing choice for those who want to balance productivity with relaxation.
3. Affordable Cost of Living
Compared to European and North American cities, the cost of living in Essaouira is relatively low. Accommodation, food, and activities are affordable, making it possible for digital nomads to live comfortably while focusing on their work and surfing.
4. High-Speed Internet and Coworking Spaces
Essaouira may be a small town, but it’s catching up quickly with the needs of remote workers. Several cafes and coworking spaces offer reliable high-speed internet, comfortable workspaces, and a welcoming community. More and more spaces for digital nomads are available in the city and the growing international community offers an ideal environment for those looking to work, connect, and collaborate.
The Digital Nomad Surfer Lifestyle
For digital nomad surfers, Essaouira offers the perfect rhythm of life.
Here’s a glimpse into a typical day:
Morning Surf Sessions
The day often begins with an early morning surf session at Essaouira Beach or the nearby spot of Sidi Kaouki, about 25 kilometers south of town. The waves are usually gentle and consistent in the morning, making it a great time to catch some waves before the wind picks up in the afternoon.
Work in the Medina or Beachside Cafes
After a surf session, digital nomads start their work day. It’s really up to you and your preferences where do you want to work. High speed internet is available in most of the apartments but you can also head to one of the many charming cafes in the medina, like Pâtisserie Driss, where you will be able to combine working and tasting Moroccan mint tea and freshly baked pastries. If you need a dedicated workspace, the town’s co-working spaces like Noqtaspace offer a more focused environment and a possibility to interact with other digital nomads.
Exploring the Cultural Side
If you don’t work full time and you have a free late afternoon, you can stroll through the narrow streets of the medina, explore art galleries, boutique shops, and artisan workshops. Essaouira has a rich artistic heritage, and its medina is a treasure trove of handicrafts, from woodwork to textiles. If you are an artist, I can guarantee that you will fall in love in this environment and maybe you will decide to open your own studio in this incredible inspiring city.
Evening Surf or Sunset Yoga
As the afternoon wind calms down, it is very common to head back to the beach for an evening surf session or a relaxing sunset yoga class. The calming sound of the waves and the stunning sunset over the Atlantic create a serene end to the day and there is not a better place for yoga and meditation.
Dining and Socializing
Essaouira’s culinary scene is rich and it offers everything from traditional Moroccan tajines and fresh seafood to international cuisine (many places opened by the foreigner fellows). Popular spots like La Table by Madada provide a cozy atmosphere for dinner, while Beach and Friends bar is perfect for enjoying a drink and mingling with other nomad surfers and locals.
Tips for Digital Nomad Surfers in Essaouira
- Choose Your Surf Spot Wisely
Essaouira Beach is great for beginners, while more experienced surfers may prefer the waves at Sidi Kaouki. There are also a few hidden spots around the area, so it’s worth connecting with local surf schools or fellow surfers to discover the best breaks. As everywhere, there are spots reserved for locals only, respect that. - Secure a Reliable Internet Connection
While many cafes and apartments offer good Wi-Fi, having a backup like a local SIM card with data is a good idea, especially if your work requires video calls or large file uploads. - Respect the Local Culture
Essaouira is more relaxed compared to other parts of Morocco, but it’s still important to be respectful of local customs. Dress modestly, especially in the medina, and be mindful when taking photographs – not all locals like it so it’s worth asking before taking a picture. The international community is booming and not all locals are happy with it so being respectful is really important. Some places don’t sell alcohol, some other does – respect that and don’t argue with the owners. - Take Time to Explore Beyond Surfing
Essaouira has much more to offer beyond its waves. Visit the bustling fish market, explore the Skala de la Ville ramparts, or take a day trip to the argan forests or the souks of Marrakech, just a few hours away. - Connect with the Community
It is really easy to meet people here. You don’t need social media groups, although they exist of course, it’s simply enough to surf couple of times or to attend one of the bars along the beach. The co-working spaces are great to meet other digital nomads and they organize a variety of networking events. Building a network can lead to new friendships, collaborations, and even shared surf sessions. It’s really easy to live in the expats bubble in Essaouira but making an effort to connect with locals and discover the real life, will enrich your experience. Try to learn some basic Arabic and start conversations with locals, they will tell you plenty of stories from the old days of this little town.
The Future of Digital Nomad Surfing in Essaouira
As remote work continues to grow in popularity, Essaouira is likely to see an increasing number of digital nomad surfers flocking to its shores. The town’s unique combination of surf, culture, and a supportive community makes it an ideal destination for those looking to embrace a balanced lifestyle that prioritizes both work and play. Don’t wait any longer and check it out yourself! If you can picture yourself riding the waves of the Atlantic, tapping away on your laptop in a cozy cafe, or soaking in the vibrant arts scene of the medina, Essaouira is the place for you!
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