Where to Enjoy a Beach in Morocco: Top 10 Beaches

The first things that come to mind when we hear the word Morocco may be history and culture. However, you can hardly ignore the charm of its beaches, as Morocco is home to a coastline that is more than 1,800 km (1,100 mi) long.

From Tangier to Essaouira, more than 200 beaches lie along the coast of the Atlantic Ocean. From Tangier to Saidia, there are more than 120 beaches along the Mediterranean Sea. Our summaries of the top 10 beaches to visit in Morocco should help you find one (or more) that you'd like to spend some time at.

Morocco's Atlantic and Mediterranean Beaches

Atlantic Beaches

Keywords: tranquility, history, culture, water sports

The beaches close to the towns along the Atlantic coastline are very popular as people can enjoy the tranquil waters while admiring the local history and culture of the place. There are around 200 beaches along this coast that are relatively quiet and are excellent for relaxation, swimming, and water sports.

The long stretch of coastline is mostly covered with fine sand. The beautiful weather (not too hot in summer and warm enough in winter) and steady waves (generally in winter months) in beaches like Agadir, Mehdia, and Taghazout make them the ideal vacation destination for tan-seeking sunbathers and surfers.

Beach resorts like Lixus, Mazagan, Taghazout, and Playa Blanca are good options to check out.

Mediterranean Beaches

Keywords: idyllic scenery 

The waters at the Mediterranean beaches are usually steady and calm. There are many traditional fishing villages with idyllic scenery along this coast. These beaches also feature many private beach resorts, like the Hotel Tamuda Beach, near Tetouan and Saidia.

The Top 10 Beaches in Morocco

1. Legzira Beach

Location: Located between Mirleft and Sidi Ifni on the Atlantic Coast, Legzira Beach is about 2½ hours' drive from Agadir Al-Massira International Airport.

This 8-km-long (5-mile-long) beach is an iconic sight for its rock arches. Legzira was ranked among the top 20 cliff-side beaches in the world by CNN for the two majestic sandstone rock arches on the beach.

Though one of the arches (the larger one) collapsed due to continuous erosion in 2016, the other one still offers extraordinary views, especially at sunset. Besides the scenic beauty, the cold, windy weather attracts surfers from all over the world.

2. Plage Tagharte Beach

Location: Plage Tagharte Beach is the main beach in Essaouira, and is located on the central Atlantic Coast.

Essaouira is one of the most popular destinations for vacationers in Morocco. It is famous for the Plage Tagharte Beach, which boasts a 10-km-long (6-mile-long) stretch of golden sand, clean surroundings, and excellent water conditions.

It's one of the best places for various water sport activities, such as windsurfing, surfing, and kite-surfing, but the water might be a bit cold for swimmers. You could take a lesson in surfing or join a beachside football game. If you are not keen on participating in beach activities, you can try taking a horse or camel ride.

3. Oualidia Lagoon

Location: Oualidia Lagoon is located between El Jadida and Safi, on the central Atlantic Coast.

Oualidia is known as the "oyster capital" of Morocco because of the picturesque lagoon nearby, which is well protected by the current king, who has banned waterfront constructions there. Though the beach is not frequented by many tourists, it is well loved by the locals.

Oualidia Lagoon is located at a 3-hour drive from Marrakesh, offering a beautiful escape from the crowded but glamorous cultural experience of the city. This is a quiet and gentle beach that features colorful fishing boats, soft fine sand, and a pleasant sea.

4. Saidia Beach

Location: Saidia Beach lies in northern Morocco on the Mediterranean Coast, very close to the Algerian border.

Saidia is home to a 14 km (9 mi) stretch of golden sand along the coast. It is one of the longest Moroccan beaches and a top summer holiday destination, as it is dotted with private beach resorts, shopping malls, golf courses, and sports centers.

The beach merges into Moulouya National Park, a national bird reserve made of marshes and woodland. This charming place also hosts a folk music festival in August. Don't forget to take a walk around the local neighborhood that is just behind the beach.

5. Agadir Beach

Location: Agadir Beach is located along the Atlantic Coast in the foothills of the Anti-Atlas Mountains.

The beach is lively and attracts thousands of visitors every year from all over the world. It's suitable for swimming all year round, and also perfect for kayaking, surfing, windsurfing, and other water sports.

Agadir is popular with people of all age groups, with soft sands and a warm climate.

6. Sidi Kaouki Beach

Location: Sidi Kaouki Beach is on the Atlantic Coast, south of Essaouira (about 30 minutes' drive).

During the peak season, when more prominent beaches are crowded, Sidi Kaouki can be an excellent alternative for its natural, wild, and untouched beachfront. The beach is close to Berber village, which is home to horses, camels, and traditional ways of living. You can rent one of the animals for a ride on the beach.

The beach features small dunes of white sands as well as brisk Atlantic winds that create perfect conditions for surfers. Sit back and relax on a lounger for a delightful evening.

There are many cafes and restaurants in the town, with budget and mid-range hotels.  

7. Taghazout Beach

Location: The beach is located to the north of Agadir, a 1-hour drive from Agadir Al-Massira International Airport.

Due to its convenient location, the number of tourists who visit this small and traditional fishing village every year is steadily increasing. In the long run, the government plans to turn it into another resort town, but for now, it's still a paradise for surfers.

Don't worry if you don't know anything about surfing, as there are many training schools in the town along with surf shops that will help you learn the ropes. All you need to do is unwind and enjoy the golden sands.

8. Quemado Beach

Location: Hidden in a bay on the Mediterranean Coast, the beach is next to Al-Hoceima National Park in Al-Hoceima city.

Built close to the city center, Quemado Beach is one of the most popular beaches on the Mediterranean Coast, especially for those looking to combine the fun of a beach along with the thrill of mountain hiking.

It's about 5 hours' drive from Tangier and about 4 hours from Chefchaouen, so don't miss the sunset on a relatively quiet and peaceful beach. You could hike up to the highland above the beach the next morning and take in the breathtaking views of the bay.

9. Las Cuevas Beach

Location: The beach is located about 7 km (4 miles) south of Asilah, in the north of the Atlantic coastline.

Offering a stark contrast to other beaches in Asilah, Las Cuevas Beach (also known as the Paradise Beach) is less crowded and is known for its tranquil atmosphere. Located in a bay at the end of a dusty road, the beach is not easily accessible. However, once you reach there, you will be stunned by its beauty.

You can either hire a taxi or a horse cart to reach there. A horse cart might be slower, but it will be a unique experience.

10. Dragon Beach

Location: The beach is located in the Dakhla Peninsula, in the disputed Western Sahara region.

This remote slice of island lies in the middle of a blue lagoon and is known for its sparkling, crystal-clear blue waters and dazzling white dunes that lend it a magical look, especially during sunsets. Enjoy the tranquility of this stunning location.

The lagoon is also a legendary spot for water sports like kite-surfing, sailing, kayaking, and stand-up paddling. It was the destination that hosted the World Kiteboarding Championships in 2018. The best way to get there is by taking a 2-hour boat ride from Dakhla.

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