Morocco’s coastal and beach destinations
Best coastal towns like Essaouira, Agadir, and Asilah for beach lovers.
The first time I walked along Essaouira’s windswept shore, the Atlantic crashing against the ramparts and the scent of grilled sardines in the air, I knew Morocco’s coast was special. That moment, years ago, hooked me on its beaches—from the bohemian surf vibes of Taghazout, Morocco’s bohemian surf town, to the serene sands of hidden coastal villages in Morocco like Mirleft. As a Marrakech native who’s explored every stretch of this coastline, I’m here to guide you through the best beaches in Morocco and the coastal towns that make them unforgettable. Whether you’re chasing Moroccan beach sunsets, planning a Moroccan coastal road trip itinerary, or seeking romantic beach destinations in Morocco, this guide will inspire your seaside adventure.
There are beaches for every type of traveler along Morocco’s 1,800-mile Atlantic and Mediterranean coastline. Morocco’s top beaches are Essaouira’s Plage de Safi, where kitesurfers dance with the wind, and Agadir’s broad, golden shore, which is ideal for families. I’ve relaxed on Paradise Beach in Asilah, which has serene waters perfect for a peaceful swim. Unspoiled sands can be found in Morocco’s hidden coastal villages, such as Sidi Kaouki, for seclusion. Beach safety tips for Morocco: Avoid strong currents in the spring and swim at lifeguarded beaches, such as Agadir’s. Because of the pleasant temperatures (20–30°C), May through September are the ideal months to visit Morocco’s beaches.
Essaouira’s top attractions combine beach life and history. Discover the UNESCO-listed medina, characterized by its whitewashed walls and blue shutters. I once walked around the Skala de la Ville, which is surrounded by cannons from the 18th century that frame the ocean. Try water sports like kitesurfing, which costs between $50 and $100 per lesson, on the Moroccan coast. To find out what to eat in Moroccan beach towns, visit the fish market; grilled sardines ($5–$10) are a must. Where can I find the best Moroccan beach sunsets? There are expansive views from the Spanish Mosque Hill. For charm, stay at Riad Dar Maya ($80–$150/night).
A Guide to Agadir’s Beachfront showcases Morocco’s resort hub. Its 10-kilometer beach is perfect for the top family-friendly beaches in Morocco, with shallow waters and playgrounds. I took my kids to Crocoparc, a hit nearby. Try watersports you can do on the Moroccan coast, like jet skiing ($30–$60). Dine at Morocco’s best beach cafés & lounges, like Pure Passion for seafood tagine ($15-$25). The best beachfront riads & hotels in Morocco include Sofitel Agadir ($150–$300/night). Beach day packing list for Morocco: sunscreen, hat, and reusable water bottle.
“The Beaches of Asilah: Art Meets Ocean” captures the charm of this town. The greatest places for tourists to sunbathe on the beach are at Paradise Beach, which is just a short stroll from the medina. While attending Asilah’s yearly arts festival, I drew the waves inspired by the murals illuminating the area. Explore the galleries in the medina or attend events and festivals in coastal towns, such as the Asilah Moussem Culturel, which costs between $10 and $20 to enter. Which foods are worth trying in coastal Moroccan cities? Try Casa Garcia’s fish chermoula ($10–$20). Spend between $60 and $120 per night at Dar Manara.
Surfers will love Morocco’s lively surf town, Taghazout. Attracted by Anchor Point’s excellent waves, I tried surfing in Morocco; my first session was exhilarating and cost $20 to $40 per lesson. There are vegan cafés and yoga retreats all over the streets. Photographic tip: At sunset, Morocco’s breathtaking coastline comes to life, showcasing surfers silhouetted against the sky. At Surf Berbere’s Amouage, spend $50 to $100 per night. Surf camps that support the local community are an excellent option for environmentally conscious Moroccan beach vacationers.
Morocco’s hidden coastal villages are peaceful. Morocco’s wild beaches on Sidi Kaouki, close to Essaouira, are ideal for beach camping ($10–$20/night). I once camped there and woke up to the sound of breaking waves. Tourists rarely frequent Imsouane’s long waves or Mirleft’s coves. Dolphins off Mirleft are part of Morocco’s coastal wildlife and marine life; reserve a boat tour for $30 to $50.
How to navigate Morocco’s coastline without a vehicle: Use shared taxis ($5–$15) or CTM buses.
Visiting Legzira Beach and its rock arches is a must. Near Sidi Ifni, its red sandstone arches frame the Atlantic. I hiked there at low tide, the arches glowing at sunset. Moroccan beach sunsets: where to see the best. It doesn’t get better than this.
Coastal hiking trails with ocean views lead to the arches ($5 guide). Stay at Auberge Beach House ($40-$80/night).
Beach safety tips for Morocco: Check tide schedules to avoid being stranded.
An itinerary for a 7 to 10-day trip along the Moroccan coast is incredible. Days 1–2 begin in Asilah, where art meets the ocean on the beaches. Visit Essaouira for the best things to do there on days three and four.
Explore a guide to Taghazout, Morocco’s bohemian surf town, and the beachfront in Agadir during days five and seven. Detour to Legzira Beach on days 8–10. The views of the ocean were endless as I drove this route. Budget travel on Morocco’s coast: Stay in guesthouses ($20–$50/night) and rent a car ($30/day). The total cost ranged from $400 to $700.
Romantic beach destinations in Morocco are dreamy. Essaouira’s ramparts are perfect for sunset strolls—I held hands with my husband there, waves crashing below. Oualidia’s lagoon offers oyster dinners ($15-$30). The best beachfront riads & hotels in Morocco, like Heure Bleue Palais in Essaouira ($100–$200/night), add luxury.
The best places to see Moroccan beach sunsets include Oualidia’s beach at twilight.
Tip: Book a private dinner for two.
For thrill-seekers, the Moroccan coast offers various water sports. Morocco is known for its world-class surfing locations, such as Anchor Point in Taghazout. Popular activities include jet-skiing in Agadir ($20–$100), windsurfing in Dakhla, and kitesurfing in Essaouira. In Essaouira, I gave kitesurfing a try; the wind was difficult but enjoyable.
Beach safety tips for Morocco: wear life jackets and work with certified instructors. Make reservations with companies such as Explora Watersports.
Top family-friendly beaches in Morocco cater to kids. Agadir’s beach has shallow waters and ice cream vendors—my kids loved it. Tamaris Beach near Casablanca offers playgrounds. Beach camping in Morocco at Plage Blanche is fun for families ($15-$30/night).
What dishes should you try at Moroccan beach towns? Try fish tagine at kid-friendly spots like Le P’tit Dome in Agadir ($10-$20)—beach.
Day packing list for Morocco: Pack snacks, toys, and SPF 50.
The greatest beach cafés and lounges in Morocco brighten your day. Essaouira’s Ocean Vagabond ($5–$10) offers cocktails while overlooking the sea. In Agadir, I sipped coffee at Le Flore while the waves lapped around me.
Which dishes in Moroccan beach towns should I try? In Asilah, try the calamari at Café Plage ($8–$15).
Eco-friendly beach vacation in Morocco: Pick eateries like Dar Naji in Essaouira that use regional ingredients.
Coastal towns come alive with festivals and festivities. The Gnaoua World Music Festival in Essaouira (June) mixes music and beach atmosphere. I danced there under the stars. There are art shows and concerts ($10–$20) in Asilah’s Moussem Culturel in August.
Al Hoceima and other top fishing communities have seafood festivals that are fun to go to. For planning, go to Morocco’s tourism board for dates in 2025.
Coastal hiking trails with ocean views are breathtaking. The trail from Essaouira to Sidi Kaouki (2-3 hours) offers cliffside vistas—I hiked it, spotting goats along the way. Legzira’s arch trail is shorter but stunning.
Coastal wildlife & marine life in Morocco: Look for seabirds and dolphins.
Beach safety tips for Morocco: Wear sturdy shoes and carry water (the $5 guide is recommended).
The best places for tourists to sunbathe on the beach are Plage Blanche for privacy and Agadir’s main beach for facilities. I relaxed in Asilah, where the sand was smooth and empty. Packing list for a Moroccan beach day: Bring a book, sunglasses, and a sarong.
Eco-friendly beach travel tips for Morocco include avoiding plastic and using reusable towels. Renting an umbrella should cost between $1 and $5.
Budget travel in coastal Morocco is doable. Stay in guesthouses like Dar Al Bahar in Essaouira ($20-$40/night). Eat at top fishing villages worth visiting, like Moulay Bousselham, for cheap seafood ($3-$8).
How to get around Morocco’s coast without a car: CTM buses and grand taxis cost $5–$15. I traveled this way as a student, saving money.
Total: $200-$400/week.
Photography guide: Morocco’s coastal beauty is a lens-lover’s dream. Capture Legzira’s arches at sunset or Taghazout’s surfers at dawn. I shot Essaouira’s ramparts, the blue hues vibrant. Use a polarizing filter for ocean sparkle.
Moroccan beach sunsets: where to see the best, including Asilah’s Paradise Beach. Join a photo tour in Essaouira ($50-$100).
Camping on the beach in Morocco is a wonderful experience. Plage Blanche, near Tan-Tan, offers wild camping for $10 to $20 per night. I pitched my tent at Sidi Kaouki and awoke to the sound of breaking waves.
Co-register the marine and coastal fauna of Morocco: Observe birds that migrate.
Tips for beach safety in Morocco: Camp in designated areas and pitch tents against the wind. Make reservations for equipment through Morocco Campers ($15–$30).
Top fishing villages worth visiting include Moulay Bousselham, where I watched fishermen haul in sardines, and Al Hoceima, with its Mediterranean charm. What to eat at Moroccan beach towns? Try grilled fish for $5—$10. Coastal wildlife & marine life in Morocco: Look for flamingos in Moulay Bousselham’s lagoon. Stay at local guesthouses ($20-$50/night).
Morocco’s Atlantic and Mediterranean beaches have different atmospheres. Morocco’s windy Atlantic beaches, such as Agadir and Essaouira, are perfect for surfing. The calmer Mediterranean beaches, such as Al Hoceima, are ideal for tourists looking for the best places to sunbathe. I adore the turquoise waters of Al Hoceima, but I prefer the wild energy of the Atlantic. Although the Mediterranean remains warmer for longer, summer is the ideal season to visit Morocco’s beaches.
Eco-friendly beach travel in Morocco preserves the coast. Stay at eco-lodges like Dar Surf in Taghazout ($40-$80/night). Avoid littering and support Morocco’s best beach cafés & lounges using local produce. I joined a beach cleanup in Essaouira, a small act with a big impact. Coastal Wildlife and Marine Life in Morocco: Respect Turtle Nesting Sites in Tamraght.
It’s simple to navigate Morocco’s coastline without a car. CTM buses ($5–$15) connect Essaouira, Agadir, and Asilah. Grand taxis offer reasonable prices for shorter trips, ranging from $10 to $20. I took the bus from Agadir to Taghazout, which proved to be an affordable and scenic journey. Coastal routes are also served by Supratours buses.
Purchase your tickets online for convenience.
FAQs About Coastal & Beach Destinations
Four questions to ask
Question 1
What are the best beaches for families?
Top family-friendly beaches in Morocco include Agadir and Tamaris for shallow waters and amenities. Beach day packing list for Morocco: Pack snacks and toys.
question2
When is the best time to visit?
For warmth, the best time to visit Morocco’s beaches is from May to September. Spring and fall offer fewer crowds but cooler water.
QUESTION3
Are Morocco’s beaches safe?
Yes, with beach safety tips for Morocco: Swim at lifeguarded beaches, avoid strong currents, and check tides at Legzira.
QUESTION4
Where can I surf?
Surfing spots in Morocco shine in Taghazout, Morocco’s bohemian surf town, and Essaouira—book lessons for $20—$40.
A Coastal Adventure to Cherish
Morocco’s coast is a love letter to the sea, from the vibrant markets of top things to do in Essaouira to the laid-back surf culture of Taghazout: Morocco’s bohemian surf town. As a Marrakech native, I’ve felt the ocean’s pull in every wave and sunset. These coastlines will win your heart whether you’re hiking along oceanfront trails, chasing Moroccan beach sunsets, or enjoying seafood in renowned fishing villages. Bring sunscreen and an open mind, then enjoy the wonders of Morocco’s coastline.
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