If the thought of navigating the chaotic medinas of Marrakech with a toddler fills you with dread, Agadir is the antidote. Rebuilt after the 1960 earthquake with wide, flat avenues and a massive tourist infrastructure, it is arguably the easiest city in Morocco for a family holiday.
The weather is mild year-round, the locals are incredibly welcoming to children, and the entire seafront is designed for pedestrians. Whether you are traveling with a baby in a stroller or energetic teenagers, Agadir works.
Is Agadir good for families?
Yes, and for a few very specific reasons. First, the beach is sheltered and shelves gently into the Atlantic, making it much safer for paddling than the aggressive surf breaks further north. Second, the promenade is entirely car-free and stretches for over 5 kilometers, making it a dream for strollers.
There is also very little hassle. Unlike other Moroccan cities where shopkeepers can be intensely persuasive, the tourist zone in Agadir is strictly regulated. You can walk as a family in the evening without being constantly bothered.
Arriving at the airport: The luggage problem
The biggest mistake families make when visiting Agadir happens the moment they step out of the airport.
If you are a family of four or five, traveling with multiple suitcases, a stroller, and carry-on bags, you will not fit into a standard Moroccan taxi. The local "grands taxis" are old Dacia Lodgys or similar vehicles, and trunk space is virtually non-existent when all the seats are occupied. Furthermore, local taxis do not provide child seats.
After a stressful flight with tired children, the last thing you want is to be standing at the taxi rank negotiating for two separate cars to carry your family and your luggage. The absolute best investment you can make is to pre-book a private minivan transfer.
For around €30-€40, a driver will wait in arrivals with a name sign, help with your bags, provide pre-requested child seats, and fit your entire family into one spacious, air-conditioned vehicle directly to your hotel.
Where to base yourselves
If you have young children, you want to stay in the Founty district or along the main Promenade.
This is where the large resort hotels are located (like the Iberostar Founty Beach, Riu Palace, or Allegro Agadir). These hotels are built specifically for families. They feature enormous pools, dedicated kids' clubs, evening entertainment, and most importantly, direct access to the beach so you don't have to cross any roads.
If you have older teenagers who want to try surfing, consider basing yourself just north of the city in Taghazout or Tamraght, where surf camps cater to all levels.
Best things to do with kids
While the hotel pool will likely consume most of your time, there are plenty of easy half-day excursions:
- The Agadir Cable Car (Telepherique): A massive hit with kids. The modern cable car sweeps you from the base of the mountain up to the ruins of the Kasbah Oufella, offering spectacular views of the bay.
- Crocoparc: Located just outside the city, this beautifully landscaped botanical garden is home to over 300 Nile crocodiles, plus giant tortoises and iguanas. It’s well-shaded and easily takes a half-day.
- Souk El Had: While massive markets can be overwhelming, Souk El Had is enclosed, well-organized, and safe. Kids love the spice stalls, the fresh juice stands, and the colorful displays of Moroccan crafts.
- Camel Rides: A classic Moroccan experience. Most hotels can organize a short camel ride along the beach or in the nearby eucalyptus forests, which is always memorable for younger children.