Best Beaches in Morocco for Every Traveller: Surf, Sun & Sand Guide
Best Beaches in Morocco for Every Traveller: Surf, Sun & Sand Guide
Morocco’s coastline offers incredible beach experiences, from windswept Atlantic surf towns to tranquil Mediterranean coves. Whether you’re a surfer chasing the perfect wave, a family seeking safe sands, a couple looking for romance, or an adventurer yearning for something off the beaten path, Morocco has a beach for you. Below, we explore the best beaches in Morocco organised by the type of experience they offer, along with practical tips on getting there, when to visit, and what makes each spot special.
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What are the Best Beaches in Morocco?
Below is a curated list of the 7 best beaches in Morocco, known for their beauty, vibe, and versatility, perfect for couples, families, adventurers, and laid-back travellers alike.
Paradise Beach, Asilah (Las Cuevas Beach)
Legzira Beach, Sidi Ifni
Essaouira Beach
Oualidia Lagoon
Martil Beach
Tamri Beach
Saidia Beach
Paradise Beach, Asilah (Las Cuevas Beach)
Just 6 km south of the charming town of Asilah, Paradise Beach, also known as Las Cuevas Beach, is a serene hideaway known for its golden sands, turquoise waves, and laid-back vibe. Framed by low cliffs and dotted with straw umbrellas, this wide Atlantic beach is ideal for swimming, surfing, or relaxing with a picnic. There’s little commercial development here – just a few rustic beach shacks serving grilled fish and renting sunbeds. It’s a popular day trip for couples, artists, and backpackers who want a quieter, more natural beach experience away from the crowds.
Know Before You Go: The final stretch to the beach is a steep, dusty track. Many opt for a horse-drawn cart ride down from the main road, a quirky and memorable experience. Basic amenities are seasonal, so bring snacks and water, especially in the off-season. There are no lifeguards, and waves can be strong, so swim carefully. It’s busiest in July and August when local families visit, but otherwise, it remains quiet and peaceful.
Location: Paradise Beach is about a 10–15-minute drive south of Asilah and roughly 45 km south of Tangier. You can reach it by taxi from Asilah; just arrange the return transport in advance.
Opening Hours: The beach is open all day, but it’s best enjoyed during daylight hours. Some shacks stay open until sunset in summer, but after dark, the area is quiet and has little lighting.
Nearby places to explore: Asilah Medina, Cap Spartel, Caves of Hercules, Lixus Ruins (near Larache)
Activities to enjoy: Surfing, beach walks, photography, picnicking
Legzira Beach, Sidi Ifni
Famous for its dramatic red sandstone arches carved by wind and waves, Legzira Beach is one of Morocco’s most iconic coastal spots. Located near Sidi Ifni in the south, it draws photographers, nature lovers, and surfers alike. While one of the natural arches collapsed in 2016, the remaining structure and surrounding cliffs mesmerise visitors.
Know Before You Go: Legzira is quite remote with minimal infrastructure. Bring your own food, water, and sun protection. Strong waves mean it’s best suited for experienced swimmers or those just there to admire the view.
Location: About 10 km north of Sidi Ifni; accessible by car or taxi.
Opening Hours: Open all day. Sunset here is spectacular.
Nearby places to explore: Sidi Ifni, Mirleft, Guelmim
Activities to enjoy: Surfing, beach walks, photography, picnicking
Essaouira Beach
Essaouira Beach combines golden sands with reliable Atlantic breezes, making it a favourite for kitesurfers and windsurfers. Just a few steps from the medina, this beach is perfect for casual strolls, camel rides, or watching kites dance across the sky. The nearby town is artsy, historic, and incredibly photogenic.
Know Before You Go: It gets windy! This is great for water sports but not ideal for lounging. Bring a windbreaker.
Location: Right next to Essaouira’s medina; walkable from most accommodations.
Opening Hours: All-day access; most lively in the afternoon.
Nearby places to explore: Essaouira Medina, Skala de la Ville, Moulay Hassan Square
Activities to enjoy: Kitesurfing, camel rides, medina walks, photography
Oualidia Lagoon
Oualidia is present along Morocco’s Atlantic coast. It is a peaceful retreat famed for its calm, shallow waters and crescent-shaped shoreline. Protected by natural sandbars, the lagoon offers safe swimming for families and a tranquil environment for couples and solo travellers looking to unwind. The area is also a hotspot for oyster farming, with local restaurants serving some of the freshest seafood. Beyond its culinary delights, Oualidia is home to migratory birds, making it a great spot for birdwatching. Its quiet atmosphere contrasts with the busier beaches further north, creating a serene haven ideal for nature lovers and slow-paced explorers.
Know Before You Go: Tides affect swimming and kayaking conditions, so check the tide chart before heading out. Bring beach essentials, as facilities are basic.
Location: Halfway between El Jadida and Safi; about a 2.5-hour drive from Casablanca.
Opening Hours: Open all day
Nearby places to explore: Oualidia town, oyster farms, El Jadida, Safi
Activities to enjoy: Swimming, kayaking, birdwatching, oyster tasting
Martil Beach
Martil Beach, just outside Tetouan, is a Mediterranean favourite with scenic views, calm waters, and a laid-back seaside town vibe. Backed by the Rif Mountains and lined with palm trees and cafés, this beach is a popular summer getaway for locals and tourists alike. The long, sandy stretch is ideal for families with children, while paddleboarders and casual swimmers enjoy the gentle waves. The promenade comes alive in the evening with people out for sunset walks and open-air dining.
Know Before You Go: Martil gets crowded during peak summer months (July–August), so arrive early for the best beach spots. The promenade is perfect for dining and evening strolls.
Location: About 10 km from Tetouan; easily accessible by car or taxi.
Opening Hours: Accessible all day
Nearby places to explore: Tetouan Medina, Cabo Negro, Rif Mountains
Activities to enjoy: Swimming, paddleboarding, beach games, dining
Tamri Beach
Tucked between rugged cliffs and rolling dunes, Tamri Beach is a hidden gem north of Taghazout that offers surfers a break from the crowds. Its wild and untamed shoreline makes it a top pick for those who want to escape the more tourist-heavy beach towns. The nearby village of Tamri is known for its banana plantations, and you'll often find roadside stands selling fresh produce. This is one of the quieter surf spots in Morocco, perfect for nature lovers, photographers, and beginner surfers.
Know Before You Go: Facilities are minimal, so pack your own snacks and surf gear. Great for a half-day escape if you're based in Taghazout or Agadir.
Location: About 30 km north of Taghazout; reachable by taxi or rented car.
Opening Hours: Open all day
Nearby places to explore: Taghazout, Banana Village, Agadir
Activities to enjoy: Surfing, dune walking, photography
Saidia Beach
Saidia Beach, often called the "Blue Pearl" of Morocco’s Mediterranean coast, offers nearly 14 km of golden sands and calm, warm waters. This resort town is built for leisure, featuring beachfront hotels, well-maintained promenades, and water sports facilities. Popular with Moroccan families and European tourists alike, Saidia is perfect for those looking for a traditional beach holiday complete with creature comforts and seaside entertainment.
Know Before You Go: It’s one of Morocco’s more developed beaches, ideal for families or travellers who want easy access to modern amenities.
Location: In northeast Morocco, near the Algerian border; accessible via Oujda airport.
Opening Hours: All-day access
Nearby places to explore: Saidia Marina, Moulouya National Park
Activities to enjoy: Swimming, sailing, family activities, resort lounging
Practical Tips for Beach-Hopping in Morocco
Best Time to Visit: May to September is peak beach season with warm weather and plenty of sunshine. If you prefer fewer crowds and cooler temperatures, try late April or early October, which are still pleasant, especially on the Mediterranean coast.
Getting Around: Public transport to remote beaches can be limited. Hiring a car allows you to explore hidden gems like Tamri or Legzira. Petit taxis are convenient in towns, while grands taxis are better for intercity beach hopping.
Beach Safety & Essentials: Lifeguards are not always present, especially on secluded beaches; swim cautiously. Pack sunscreen, hats, snacks, and water, particularly for remote or underdeveloped spots.
What to Wear: Morocco is relatively liberal in beach towns, but modesty is still appreciated outside resort areas. A cover-up or sarong goes a long way when off the sand.
Local Etiquette: Many beaches are family-friendly zones. Loud parties or revealing swimwear may not be welcome in quieter areas. Avoid photographing locals, especially women, without permission.
Cultural Add-ons: Combine beach days with historic medina visits, coastal seafood feasts, or art strolls (like in Essaouira or Asilah). In places like Oualidia or Saidia, birdwatching and nature walks add extra layers to your beach retreat.
Surf the Shores, Soak the Sun
From the untamed surf of Legzira and Tamri to the calm, family-friendly shores of Martil and Saidia, Morocco’s beaches offer something for every traveller. Whether you dream of riding Atlantic waves, wandering through charming seaside towns, or watching a fiery sunset with sand between your toes, the Moroccan coast won’t disappoint.
So grab your sunscreen, book that flight, and let Morocco’s sun-kissed shores work magic. The beach is calling, will you answer?
Are there any quiet, romantic beaches in Morocco?
Yes, Paradise Beach near Asilah and the serene Oualidia Lagoon are perfect for couples seeking privacy and natural beauty.
Can I swim at Legzira Beach?
Swimming is possible but caution is advised due to strong waves and the lack of lifeguards. It’s better suited for surfers and photographers.