Things To Do
in Ezzhiliga

Ezzhiliga is a small Atlantic coast town in Morocco where fishing boats sway in a calm harbor and citrus scents drift from courtyard gardens. Its whitewashed houses with blue shutters climb modest hills toward a traditional medina and a bustling waterfront. Life centers on the promenade, markets, and hospitable cafes that serve mint tea and fresh seafood.

The town blends a relaxed coastal vibe with rich Moroccan culture, offering authentic experiences away from busier metropoles.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Exploring the Medina
morning
:

Start your day with a leisurely stroll through the winding alleys of Ezzhiliga’s Medina, where the vibrant colors and intricate designs of local handicrafts will capture your imagination. Stop by a local bakery for a traditional Moroccan pastry and a refreshing mint tea. Explore the history of the town with visits to ancient mosques and historic homes adorned with beautiful tiles.

afternoon
:

Spend your afternoon visiting the local souks, where merchants proudly display their crafts, from woven carpets to handmade pottery. Engage with friendly locals and perhaps find a few unique souvenirs to take home. Take a break and enjoy a traditional Moroccan lunch at a nearby café, savoring dishes like tagine and couscous.

evening
:

As the sun sets, immerse yourself in the sounds of local music and the aroma of spices coming from street vendors. Seek out a rooftop terrace to enjoy panoramic views of the Medina as the sky transforms into hues of orange and pink. Conclude your evening by dining at a traditional restaurant, where you can experience the warmth of Moroccan hospitality.

day 2
Day Trip to Chefchaouen
morning
:

Leave early for a scenic drive to Chefchaouen, the famous blue city nestled in the Rif Mountains. As you arrive, marvel at the stunning blue-washed buildings that create a picturesque backdrop for your photographs. Take time to explore the local shops and enjoy the vibrant art that fills the streets.

afternoon
:

After exploring the town’s charm, have lunch at a local eatery that specializes in delicious, authentic Moroccan cuisine. Spend your afternoon hiking to the Spanish Mosque for breathtaking views of Chefchaouen and its surrounding landscape. Capture the stunning scenery before descending back into the town to continue your exploration.

evening
:

As evening falls, enjoy the tranquility of the mountains while dining al fresco at a local restaurant. Sample more Moroccan dishes, and allow the peaceful atmosphere to wash over you. Reflect on the day’s adventures and settle down in a cozy cafe for a final cup of mint tea.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant$8-12
Coffee or tea$1-3
🚖Local taxi ride$2-6
🧭Museum or activity admission$3-8
🧆Bakery bread or pastry$0.5-1

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Stunning Atlantic scenery and fresh seafood
  • Relaxed pace and friendly locals
  • Authentic Moroccan culture away from crowds
  • Limited nightlife compared to bigger cities
  • Smaller selection of high-end luxury services
  • Seasonal tourist fluctuations
  • "Salam alaykum" - Hello
  • "Shukran" - Thank you
  • "Kam thaman hadha?" - How much is this?
  • "Fin al-hammam?" - Where is the bathroom?
  • "Min fadlik?" - Please

Places to Visit in Ezzhiliga

Visit one of these nice places.

Harbor at sunset

Golden light on fishing boats and calm water creates reflective, moody scenes.

Old medina alleys

Narrow blue-and-ochre lanes, wooden doors, and daily life for candid shots.

Rooftop views over the town

Terrace vantage points for sweeping coastal and hillside panoramas.

Cliffs overlooking the Atlantic

Dramatic coastal scenery with waves, seabirds, and expansive horizons.

Culinary Guide

Food in Ezzhiliga

Ezzhiliga’s cuisine emphasizes Atlantic seafood, simple tagines, bright citrus, and aromatic spices. The town blends coastal Berber influences with Moroccan flavors, making seafood heavy and comfort foods readily available.

Ezzhiliga Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Tagine with preserved lemons and olives

A fragrant slow-cooked stew with citrusy tang, olives, and seasonal vegetables.

Must-Try!

Seafood tagine

Fresh fish, shrimp, or calamari simmered with peppers, tomatoes, and herbs.

Couscous with seven vegetables

Steamed semolina crowned with a colorful medley of vegetables and chickpeas.

Harira

Hearty tomato-lentil soup often enjoyed as a comforting meal or starter.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Marché Central d'Ezzhiliga

A bustling market with fish stalls, produce, breads, and spices to explore.

Harbor quay stalls

Grilled skewers, fried seafood, and small plates served along the water.

Climate Guide

Weather

Ezzhiliga has a Mediterranean climate with Atlantic influence: hot, dry summers and mild, wetter winters. The coast brings refreshing sea breezes, but humidity can be higher near the water.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Greetings and modest dress

Greet with a polite hello or salam; dress modestly in public spaces, especially in religious sites and rural areas.

Safety Guide

Safety

Overall safety is good, but stay aware of petty theft in crowded markets and beaches. Swim only in designated areas with lifeguards, watch for strong currents along exposed shores, and use licensed taxis or reputable transport options.

Tipping in Ezzhiliga

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Etiquette

Leave 5–10% for good service in cafes and restaurants; small change for street vendors and taxi rides.

Payment Methods

Cash in Moroccan dirhams is widely used; many shops accept cards in towns, and ATMs are common in towns close to major cities.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring

Mild days with blooming citrus trees; ideal for walking and outdoor photography.

Summer

Warm to hot days; sea breezes help. Evenings are lively with markets and music, but bring sun protection.

Autumn

Cooling temperatures; harvest markets return with fresh produce and fewer crowds.

Winter

Mild and occasionally rainy; cozy cafes thrive and coastal fog can add atmosphere to photos.

Nightlife Guide

Ezzhiliga at Night

The nightlife in Ezzhiliga is low-key and social, centered on seaside cafes, rooftop bars, and intimate live-music venues where locals gather for tea, light meals, and conversation rather than dancing clubs.

Hiking in Ezzhiliga

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Cliffside Trail to Cap Blanche

Coastal hike with dramatic sea views, rocky ledges, and sea spray.

Forest foothills near the inland village

Gentle trails through pine and olive groves, a cool respite from the coast.

Airports

How to reach Ezzhiliga by plane.

Mohammed V International Airport (Casablanca)

Major international gateway about 60-90 minutes by car from Ezzhiliga, with frequent connections.

Rabat-Salé Airport (Raiss)

Smaller airport serving regional flights; accessible by rail and road.

Essaouira Mogador Airport

Coastal airport serving regional and seasonal international flights; useful for connections.

Getting Around

Walkability

Ezzhiliga is compact and highly walkable, with a charming old town core, a scenic waterfront, and easy access to markets and cafes. Narrow lanes and small squares encourage wandering on foot.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Families

Many local families call Ezzhiliga home and participate in community events and markets.

Local workers and fishermen

Small-scale fishing and trades form the town’s economic backbone.

Visitors and retirees

People seeking a relaxed coastal retreat contribute to a friendly, multilingual community.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Football (soccer)

The region’s most popular sport, played in parks, clubs, and on the beaches.

Surfing

Atlantic coast beaches offer waves for all levels, with local surf schools available.

Beach volleyball

Casual courts and organized leagues appear along the waterfront in season.

Transportation

Traffic

Roads in and around Ezzhiliga are generally calm, with taxis and buses serving residents. Traffic surges around market hours and sunset. Parking is limited in the old town, so plan accordingly.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Ezzhiliga.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian

Vegetarian options are widely available; look for vegetable tagines, couscous with vegetables, and salads. Ask for no meat stock or broth if needed.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare is available through local clinics and pharmacies; for specialized care or emergencies, residents typically use hospitals in Casablanca or Rabat, with road or air transport options.

Discover Morocco

Read more in our Morocco 2025 Travel Guide.

Morocco Travel Guide