If you are renting a car, here are some places not to be missed!
1h45 min from Essaouira is, Marrakech, a romantic destinations to stay for a few days, with its spectacular setting against the snow-capped High Atlas Mountains, and the famous Djemaa el Fna square which provides one of the greatest open air spectacles in the world. It is also home to the perfect Islamic monument, the Koutoubia Mosque.
2h30 min from Essaouira are The High Atlas, a good place for a couple of days trekking in Asni and around, meanwhile you can visit the Ourika valley and it waterfalls.