Visiting Agadir in January: Weather + Festivals + Things to Do
- Malika
- Dec 18, 2024
- 6 min read
Updated: Aug 7
Is January a good time to visit Agadir? If you love mild temperatures and sunny days in a laid-back coastal setting, then the answer is “yes”! Winter in Agadir is a great opportunity to explore beyond the beach and discover what else this city has to offer.
And with the off-season crowds, you won’t have to compete for space on the sand and you might even score some great deals at Agadir’s hotels and resorts.
That being said, I acknowledge that winter in Agadir may not be for everyone, particularly if you prefer classically hot summer weather for your beach vacations. The city also doesn’t have quite the same “buzz” as it does in the warmer months, with some beach clubs and restaurants operating reduced hours.
On the flip side, the lack of people can be a big “plus” if you’re seeking a quiet holiday while escaping the winter cold back home.
In this article, discover everything you need to know about visiting Agadir in January, from the weather to crowds and special events. I’ll also share with you some of the best things to do in Agadir in January to help you plan a seasonally suitable itinerary.
Planning a longer Moroccan winter escape? Discover everything you need to know about travelling to Morocco in January here.
For more information about visiting Agadir, including things to do and incredible places to stay, check out my Essential Travel Guide to Agadir.
Disclosure: This article contains affiliate links, meaning I earn a small commission when you make a purchase. Affiliate links cost you nothing and ensure my content stays free!
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Agadir weather in January
In January, Agadir's weather is pleasantly mild, offering a welcome respite from the chill of winter in destinations further north. Daytime temperatures hover around 15°C (59°F) on average, with the mercury sometimes climbing as high as a 22°C (72°F) - warm enough to get around in just a T-shirt.
However, the evening temperatures drop considerably, with lows of around 8°C (46°F) - don’t forget to pack layers to rug up at night.
While passing showers are possible, sunshine is the norm - Agadir in January really does feel a world away from the winter as many of us know it! The 18°C (64°F) ocean temperatures may be a bit brisk for a lengthy swim, but a quick, invigorating dip is certainly on the cards.
For me, Agadir's weather in January strikes the perfect balance between the warmth of summer and the chill of winter (not too hot, not too cold), making it an ideal off-season destination in Morocco.
Visiting Agadir in January
Is January a busy time in Agadir?
January is generally a quieter time of year in Agadir, compared to the peak summer and early autumn months. As a popular beach destination in Morocco, Agadir sees the bulk of its tourists from June through August when both local and international visitors flock to enjoy the sandy beaches, water sports and resort amenities.
While January in Agadir may not offer a quintessential beach vacation, it’s still much warmer than destinations further north.
At the same time, Agadir isn’t completely “dead”, with many visitors (particularly those from northern Europe) coming to enjoy some much-needed warmth and sunshine. Some of the outdoor restaurants and beach clubs close for the season or operate with reduced hours, but there are still plenty of places where you can eat and drink throughout the day.
Compared to the summer months, you’ll find Plage d’Agadir far less busy and some of the hotels and resorts offer discounted low-season rates. The nightlife in January is also a bit more subdued compared to the buzzing summer scene - that may be a positive or a negative, depending on what you're looking for.
Visiting Agadir in winter
What’s on in Agadir in January
New Year - December 31/January 1
Agadir celebrates the arrival of the New Year with fireworks on the beach, so this is the place to head in the lead-up to midnight. Depending on where you are staying, your hotel or resort may also organise a New Year’s Eve extravaganza, including a multi-course dinner/buffet and live entertainment.
If not, there are many restaurants in Agadir that host special evenings, such as Le Tapis Rouge by Little Norway and El Toro, with the latter boasting a convenient beachfront setting for the fireworks display.
Proclamation of Independence - January 11
On January 11, 1944, the Istiqlal Party presented a document demanding Morocco's independence from French rule. This moment marked a pivotal shift in the country's history, sparking a prolonged struggle that eventually led to Morocco's freedom.
Each year, Moroccans come together to commemorate their hard-won independence, proudly waving flags as a symbol of their national pride.
Yennayer: Amazigh New Year - January 12 and 13
Yennayer signifies the start of the agricultural year and is celebrated by Amazigh communities throughout Morocco. As Agadir is home to such a large Amazigh population, the festivities here are particularly impressive.
In addition to musical and dance performances, you can expect art exhibitions, short film screenings and children’s workshops - all designed to highlight and celebrate Amazigh culture.
Visiting Agadir in winter
Best things to do in Agadir in January
While Agadir is synonymous with sun, surf and sand, it’s not quite warm enough in January (for most) to be at the beach from dawn to dusk. The mornings can be quite cool and it might not be until the sun has climbed high in the sky that it will be warm enough for sunbathing.
While you can definitely swim in the Atlantic Ocean in January, it can be quite an invigorating experience!
In addition to enjoying some beach time, there are plenty of other things to see and do in Agadir in January. You can stroll along the seaside promenade and relax in the cafes and restaurants or head to Souk El Had to shop for artisan goods and handicrafts.
If you’re interested in the earthquake that levelled Agadir in 1960, pay a visit to the Musée de la Reconstruction d'Agadir to hear testimonies of those who lived through it. Alternatively, you can see what the city looked like beforehand at La Medina d’Agadir. You'll find more Agadir museum inspiration here.
January is also an ideal time to take a day trip to Paradise Valley, with the mild temperatures perfect for hiking between its natural swimming holes. Golfing is another popular activity in the winter months - Agadir has a lot of golf courses and golf resorts - and the powerful winter swells bring great waves to nearby Taghazout.
If you’re visiting Agadir in winter, you can also embark on a half-day trip to Souss-Massa National Park, which is considered one of the best birdwatching destinations in Morocco. Throughout the winter months, its coastal wetlands are alive with the activity of migratory species.
Is January a good time to visit Agadir?
While January isn’t ideal for a classic beach vacation that will see you on the sand from dawn to dusk, it offers some wonderful alternatives for an off-season getaway. The winter sun still shines brightly most days, making it possible to enjoy the outdoors or lounge by the pool - whether the water’s too cold to swim or not is highly individual!
Visiting Agadir in January is ideal for explorations away from the sand, with some great museums to discover and exceptional birdwatching. The golf courses are far more appealing outside of the summer heat and the surf beaches of Taghazout are at their best.
While some tourist facilities are closed for the season, this gives you more opportunity to connect with locals and enjoy authentic experiences, like shopping at Souk El Had.
As an added bonus, visiting during the low season means fewer crowds, so you can often have stretches of sand nearly to yourself, and you might find great off-peak deals at normally pricey all-inclusive beach resorts.
In summary, winter in Agadir is all about vacationing at a slower pace and more accessible price point than during the hectic high season.
