Hostel La Smala

An 18th-century riad on Rue Skala inside Essaouira's walled Kasbah, Hostel La Smala occupies one of the medina's oldest residential lanes, steps from the sea ramparts that divide the old city from the Atlantic shore.

The terrace catches the coastal wind that makes Essaouira a windsurfing hub, and the restaurant serves a breakfast guests consistently single out. A bar rounds out the ground-floor offer without pulling the property away from its neighbourhood character.

Family rooms make it a workable base for groups, while the beachfront position — the main surf strand begins where the Skala walls end — suits travellers who want sand within walking distance of a proper medina address. Check-in opens at 16:00; checkout is 11:00.