Shared Bathroom Twin Room
- 2 Single beds,1 Double bed,1 King-size bed
Hotel · Essaouira · Marrakesh–Safi
Hostel La Smala - Essaouira
A sociable hostel in the heart of Essaouira's medina, known for its rooftop terrace, private capsule-style beds, and ocean views.
- Rooftop terrace with sea views
- Central medina location
- Private capsule beds in dorms
8.5
Great
1178 reviews
Booking.com 8.5 · 1178 reviews
About
Hostel La Smala - Essaouira
Hostel La Smala sits on Rue Skala in Essaouira's medina, roughly a 20-minute walk from both Palma Quad and Taghart beach. The hostel runs a sundeck and shared lounge, with luggage storage for guests arriving early or leaving late.
The property mixes dormitory beds with private double rooms, and several reviews highlight the privacy of the capsule-style bunks. The rooftop bar and terrace draw consistent praise for sunset views over the ocean, and the staff are repeatedly described as friendly and helpful.
- No smoking on site
- Wi-Fi
- Express check-in/ -out
- No pets allowed
- 24-hour security
- Luggage storage
In brief
What works, what to weigh
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Strengths
5 reasons to book- Rooftop terrace with sea views — Guests consistently praise the rooftop bar and terrace for its ocean views, especially at sunset, and as a great spot for breakfast.
- Central medina location — The hostel is within easy walking distance of the Kasbah, beach, and many restaurants, making it easy to explore Essaouira on foot.
- Friendly and helpful staff — Many guests highlight the staff's warmth, helpful recommendations, and willingness to arrange activities like quad biking.
- Private capsule-style beds — Dormitory guests appreciate the individual capsules that provide a sense of privacy, with personal plug, light switch, and lockable drawer.
- Value for money — At a starting price of £30 per night, guests feel the quality of the rooms and location offer strong value.
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Worth weighing
4 to weigh- No air conditioning in dorms — One guest noted there is no A/C, though they added it wasn't too hot during their stay.
- Limited check-in window — Check-in is only open from 16:00 to 20:00, which may be inconvenient for travelers arriving later in the evening.
- Dorm noise depends on roommates — While the capsules offer privacy, one guest noted that quietness in the dorm depends on who you're sharing with.
- No on-site parking — The hostel does not list parking, and with a central medina location, guests arriving by car may need to find public parking nearby.
01 — Rooms
Rooms & rates
High season: summer dates usually book out a few weeks ahead.
Shared Bathroom Single Room
- 1 Single bed
Shared Bathroom Dormitory Room Male only
- 1 Bed in shared room
6 Bed Dormitory Room Dormitory Room Female only
- 1 Bed in shared room
Dormitory Room Mixed
- 1 Bed in shared room
Deluxe Double Room
- 1 King-size bed,1 Double bed
02 — Amenities
Services & amenities
Everything included at this stay — the facilities and essentials, at a glance.
General
- Wi-Fi
- No smoking on site
- 24-hour security
- Express check-in/ -out
Services
- Luggage storage
- Locker room
- Housekeeping
- Tours/Ticket assistance
Food & Drink
- Restaurant
- Bar/ Lounge area
- Coffee shop
Outdoors & Activities
- Beach access
- Sun terrace
- Terrace
- Patio
- Canoeing
- Horseback riding
- Cycling
Business & Events
- Meeting/ Banquet facilities
- Fax/Photocopying
Photos
Gallery
03 — Reviews
What guests say
Recent verified reviews from guests who stayed here.
Guest-rated 8.5/10 from 1,178 reviews
Booking.com · 8.5 · 1178 reviews
8.5Verified guest“The rooftop terrace view was incredible, especially at sunset. The location was super convenient, close to lots of restaurants and a short walk to the main sights. The staff were really friendly and helpful, always smiling and giving great recommendations.”
8.5Verified guest“Rooms were clean and really comfortable, with an amazing view from the rooftop bar. The staff went out of their way to make our stay great. The poodle bar had fantastic food and drinks. Perfect spot for exploring, and the capsules felt private. Free wi-fi, on-site restaurant, 24-hour security, and easy check-in/out. Lots of activities on offer, from cycling to horse riding. Beach access and luggage storage included.”
8.5Verified guest“The location is ideal for exploring the city, with most attractions within walking distance. The rooftop bar has a beautiful view and is a great spot for breakfast. The staff were friendly and helpful, which made the stay more enjoyable.”
8.5Verified guest“The staff were incredibly helpful and kind, giving good recommendations and always willing to assist. The interior was stylish with art throughout. The rooftop terrace was a highlight, offering a beautiful ocean view and a relaxing spot. The beds were comfortable and felt like private rooms with lockers. The central location made it easy to get around.”
8.5Verified guest“I had an amazing stay. The double room had a private bathroom and a stunning ocean view. It was modern, spacious, clean, and comfortable. The rooftop terrace was the best part – great ocean view and good music. The staff were friendly and welcoming, making me feel at home. The location was perfect. I highly recommend La Smala for a stay in Essaouira.”
8.5Verified guest“Great location, flexible staff, clean rooms, and beautiful rooftop views.”
04 — Location
Getting around Essaouira
The property sits in Essaouira.
Getting around: The hostel is about a 20-minute walk from both Palma Quad and Taghart beach, and most of the city's attractions, including the Kasbah, are within walking distance.
Dining: Guests mention that some of the best restaurants in the medina are close by, making it easy to find good food without going far.
Activities: The hostel can arrange activities like quad biking along the beach, and on-site you can try canoeing, horseback riding, or cycling through the area.
26 Bis, Rue Skala, Essaouira, Marrakesh–Safi, 44000, Morocco
05 — Good to know
Policies & conditions
Hotel details are shown for reference. Final rate terms are confirmed on the partner’s site at booking.
- Check-in
- From 16:00-20:00
- Check-out
- By 08:00-11:00
- Cancellation
- Free cancellation on many rates — terms on booking page
- Payment
- Pay-at-hotel available on many rates; final terms at booking
- Pets
- Not allowed
- Property
- 30 rooms
06 — Questions
Frequently asked
What time is check-in and check-out?
Check-in is from 16:00 to 20:00, and check-out is from 08:00 to 11:00.
Is breakfast available?
Yes, guests have mentioned that breakfast is served at the rooftop bar, with delicious options and great views.
Does the hostel have air conditioning?
One guest noted that there is no A/C in the dorms, but added that it wasn't too hot during their stay. It's best to check with the hostel for current details.
Are pets allowed?
No, pets are not allowed at Hostel La Smala.
Is there parking available?
The hostel does not list on-site parking. Given its central medina location, guests arriving by car may need to find public parking nearby.
Does the hostel offer luggage storage?
Yes, luggage storage is available, which is handy for early arrivals or late departures.
The bottom line
Hostel La Smala earns its strong 8.5 rating with a prime medina location, a rooftop terrace that guests rave about, and staff who go out of their way to help. The capsule dorms add privacy, and the price is fair for what you get. Just plan around the limited check-in hours and the lack of A/C in dorms.
8.5Based on 1,178 guest reviews and a rating of 8.5
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