Agadir Weather Guide: Year-Round Atlantic Climate Secrets

Agadir is defined by a rare climatic intersection: it is where the cooling influence of the Atlantic Ocean meets the arid reach of the Sahara Desert. This results in a subtropical semi-desert environment known for its remarkable stability, boasting over 300 days of sunshine per year. Unlike the intense interior of Morocco, Agadir remains temperate due to the Canary Current, which keeps the coastline significantly cooler than inland cities like Marrakech.

The Daily Rhythm: Marine Layer & Morning Mist

A typical day in Agadir follows a distinct cycle. In the early morning, the city is often draped in a marine layer—a dense, low-hanging mist or fog formed by warm air passing over the cold Atlantic waters. This can make the air feel damp and cool until mid-morning.

As the sun rises, the mist burns off, usually by 11:00 AM, giving way to clear blue skies. By mid-afternoon, a refreshing breeze known locally as l’azur often kicks in, preventing the temperature from peaking uncomfortably. After sunset, the lack of cloud cover and the proximity to the desert cause temperatures to drop rapidly, often requiring a layer of warmth even in the transition seasons.

Seasonal Trends

• Summer (June – September): Summers are warm but rarely oppressive on the coast. Most days hover around 26°C to 30°C (79°F–86°F). This is the peak season for the marine layer; foggy mornings are more common now than in winter, providing a natural air-conditioning.
• Autumn (October – November): Many locals consider this the "golden season." The Atlantic water remains at its warmest (around 21°C/70°F), the morning fogs dissipate, and the air is crystal clear and pleasantly warm.
• Winter (December – February): Winters are incredibly mild, with daytime highs often reaching 20°C (68°F). Rain is scarce but occurs in short, intense bursts during these months. Nights can feel surprisingly chilly, sometimes dipping to 8°C (46°F), as the desert air cools quickly.
• Spring (March – May): A period of transition where wildflowers bloom in the surrounding Anti-Atlas foothills. The weather remains stable, though this is the time when Saharan winds are most likely to shift.

Local Phenomena: The Chergui

The most dramatic weather event in Agadir is the Chergui (or Sharqi). This is a hot, dry wind that blows from the Sahara Desert to the southeast. When the Chergui arrives, it overrides the Atlantic’s cooling effect, and temperatures can skyrocket from 25°C to over 40°C (104°F) in a single day. The sky may turn a hazy orange as fine Saharan dust is suspended in the air. These episodes usually last only two to three days before the sea breeze reclaims the coast.

Regional Microclimates

Agadir’s climate is highly sensitive to distance from the sea.

• The Beachfront: Constant breeze and frequent morning mist.
• The City Center: Roughly 2–3°C warmer than the shore, with less wind.
• Al Massira (Inland): Just 20km inland at the airport, the moderating maritime influence fades. It is common for the airport to record temperatures 5–10°C higher than the Agadir promenade during the summer.

Historical Context & Local Reality

Historically, Agadir has faced long periods of drought, sometimes lasting several years without significant rainfall. Consequently, the local population views rain as a blessing; it is common to see a sense of celebration (and a quietening of the streets) during the rare winter downpours. Locals are highly adapted to the "layered" nature of their climate, often carrying a jacket during the day to prepare for the sharp temperature drop that follows the brilliant Atlantic sunset.