A port day is short, and the best photos usually come from knowing where to be rather than from spending hours searching. Agadir is a generous city for photographers: a wide bay, a hill with a view over the port, colourful markets and, just outside town, argan trees with goats in their branches.
This guide, written by our local team in Agadir, lists the best photo spots for a cruise call, a few etiquette tips and ideas for the sail-away.
The best photo spots in and around Agadir
1. The Kasbah viewpoint (Agadir Oufella)
The classic shot: the whole bay, the marina, the long beach and the port where your ship is docked, from the hill above the harbour. The Arabic inscription "God, Country, King" on the hillside makes another strong image. Go up by road or with the Teleferic panoramic cable car ride, which adds aerial views during the ride.
2. The marina
Boats, palm trees and white waterfront buildings close to the port. It is a relaxed place for photos with a coffee break built in.
3. The beach promenade
Several kilometres of sand with a flat seafront walkway: wide shots of the bay, everyday beach life and, on clear days, the Kasbah hill in the background.
4. Souk El Had
Pyramids of spices, piles of fruit, leather and crafts: colour everywhere. Ask before photographing people or their stalls; some prefer not to be photographed, and a smile and a small purchase go a long way. The souk is usually closed on Mondays; see our Souk El Had guide for cruise passengers.
5. The Medina Polizzi
A modern recreation of a traditional medina, with zellige tilework, carved cedarwood and artisan workshops. Ideal for details and textures; see the Medina Polizzi heritage walk.
6. The argan goats
Goats standing in the branches of argan trees are one of the most photographed sights in southern Morocco. At some roadside spots the scene is arranged for visitors, and herders may expect a small tip for photos. Our argan tree climbing goats tour includes an argan oil cooperative.
7. On a longer call: Paradise Valley and the dunes
Palm-lined gorges and rock pools in the Atlas foothills, or golden dunes south of the city. These need more time, so keep them for long calls; our Paradise Valley guide for cruise passengers explains what to expect.
A photo-friendly plan for a short call
- Meet your driver at the Port of Agadir cruise terminal; your driver waits holding a sign with your name.
- Start at the Kasbah viewpoint while the light is fresh and the hill is less busy.
- Continue to the marina and the promenade for waterfront shots and a break.
- If time allows, add Souk El Had or the argan goats.
- Head back with a comfortable margin before all-aboard.
The half-day Agadir city tour covers several of these spots in one outing. Our tours are planned around your ship's published schedule, and they are paid online in advance by card or PayPal.
The sail-away
Do not put the camera away when you get back on board. The sail-away gives you a last view of the city:
- The Kasbah hill from the sea: watch for the walls and the inscription on the hillside as the ship leaves the port. The inscription is lit up after dark.
- Sunset over the Atlantic: the bay opens to the west, so an evening departure can coincide with the sun setting over the ocean.
- The bay and the beach: the long curve of sand and the city lights as you move away.
Find a spot on an upper open deck, ideally on the side facing the city, a little before departure time.
Photo etiquette and practical tips
- Ask before photographing people, especially in markets, and respect a "no".
- Avoid photographing security checkpoints, police or port installations in the working port.
- Leave drones on board. Drones are strictly regulated in Morocco and generally cannot be flown without prior authorisation; bringing one ashore can also cause problems at checks.
- Protect your gear: sand and sea spray on the beach, wind on the Kasbah hill.
- Bring a spare battery and keep phones and cameras in a bag that closes in crowded places.
- Watch the clock: it is easy to lose track of time behind a camera. Being back on board on time is the passenger's responsibility.
For distances and transport, see our Agadir cruise port guide, and for a full-day plan, Agadir in one day from a cruise ship.
Want the best views in the time you have? Book the Teleferic panoramic cable car ride or the half-day city tour, browse all Agadir shore excursions, or send us your ship name and date.
Frequently asked questions
Where is the best viewpoint in Agadir?
The Kasbah of Agadir Oufella, on the hill above the port. From there you see the bay, the marina, the beach and the port where your ship is docked.
Can I photograph people in the souk?
Always ask first. Many people are happy to be photographed, others are not; respect their answer.
Can I fly a drone in Agadir?
We advise against it. Drones are strictly regulated in Morocco and generally cannot be flown without authorisation, so leave yours on board.
Where should I stand for the sail-away?
On an upper open deck, on the side facing the city, a little before departure. Look out for the Kasbah hill and, on an evening departure, the sunset over the Atlantic.
