Most people come to Morocco for the medinas and the Sahara, but the country also has two long coastlines. The Atlantic runs from Tangier to the far south, and the Mediterranean stretches east towards Algeria. The best beaches in Morocco range from surf villages and windy kite spots to quiet lagoons and red rock arches. This guide covers the beaches worth your time, what each one is best for, and how to add the coast to a desert trip.
Atlantic or Mediterranean: choosing beaches in Morocco
The Atlantic coast is wild and powerful. The water is cool, the waves are strong and the wind often blows, which is why surfers and kitesurfers love it. The Mediterranean coast in the north and east is calmer, with warmer water in summer and beaches that are better for swimming. Your choice depends on what you want: waves and wind, or calm water and a long swim.
The best beaches in Morocco for surfing
Taghazout
Taghazout is a small Berber fishing village about 19 km north of Agadir and Morocco’s best-known surf village. Its right-hand point breaks are known for being consistent, and the best waves come from September to April. The famous Anchor Point, about 3 km north of the village, can give a very long ride on a good day.
Imsouane
Between Agadir and Essaouira, the quiet village of Imsouane sits in a sheltered bay. Its best-known wave, La Bay, is a long point break that suits beginners and longboarders. La Cathedrale, a more exposed beach break, is better for confident surfers.
The best beaches in Morocco for wind and kitesurfing
Essaouira and Sidi Kaouki
Essaouira is known as the wind city. Its wide sandy beach stretches south from the old harbour, and Morocco World News calls it one of the best kitesurfing spots in the world thanks to its strong Atlantic winds. The wind makes it less ideal for lying in the sun, but perfect for kites and long walks on the sand. About 30 km south, Sidi Kaouki is a sandy beach recommended for beginner surfers. Back in town, the Essaouira medina became a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2001, so a beach day here comes with history, fresh fish at the port and the blue fishing boats.
Dakhla
Far to the south, Dakhla sits on a narrow peninsula with the calm, sheltered water of Dakhla Bay. It has become a centre for kitesurfing and windsurfing, where the desert meets the ocean. It is a destination of its own, usually reached by plane.
The most beautiful beaches in Morocco for views
Legzira
Near Sidi Ifni, south of Agadir, Legzira beach is famous for its red rock arches carved by the sea over thousands of years. One of the arches collapsed in September 2016, as reported by Dawn, but a second, larger arch still stands along the beach. Come at low tide and stay for the sunset, when the cliffs turn deep red.
Oualidia
Between El Jadida and Safi, Oualidia sits beside a protected natural lagoon. The calm lagoon water is gentle for families, and the village is known as the oyster capital of Morocco. It is a perfect lunch stop on a coastal drive. See our guide to El Jadida nearby.
Beaches in Morocco near Tangier
Asilah
About 31 km south of Tangier, Asilah is a popular seaside town with a whitewashed medina. According to Wikipedia, its walls get new murals every year during the cultural festival held in August, which started in 1978. Spend the morning on the beach and the afternoon among the painted walls. Our day trip from Tangier to Asilah combines both.
Cap Spartel and the Atlantic coast of Tangier
West of Tangier, the coast turns wild at Cap Spartel, where the Mediterranean meets the Atlantic. The lighthouse, the Caves of Hercules and the long beaches below make a great half day out of the city. See our Cap Spartel and Hercules Cave day trip and the guide to things to do in Tangier.
The Mediterranean beaches in Morocco: Saidia
In the far northeast, close to the Algerian border, Saidia is known as the Blue Pearl. Its 14 km coastline is among the longest beaches in Morocco, with golden sand and calm Mediterranean water. Around the town, the Moulouya National Park protects marshes and woods full of birds.
When to visit the beaches in Morocco
For swimming, June to September is the warmest season, especially on the Mediterranean. July and August are also the busiest months, when many Moroccan families head to the coast. For surfing on the Atlantic, the best waves come from September to April. Spring and autumn are lovely for walks, seafood and quieter sand. Read our guides to Morocco in summer and the best time to visit Morocco.
Add the beaches in Morocco to a desert trip
The coast and the Sahara make a perfect pair. After the heat and the dunes, a few days by the ocean feel like a reward. Our 5 day tour from Marrakech to Essaouira and Taghazout is built for exactly that. From Marrakech, the day trip to Essaouira is the easiest taste of the ocean. From the south, try the 8 day Agadir round trip or read how to reach the Sahara desert from Agadir. Still choosing? Compare the Sahara desert and the Atlantic coast.
FAQ: beaches in Morocco
Are the beaches in Morocco good?
Yes. Morocco has long Atlantic and Mediterranean coastlines, with surf villages, kite spots, lagoons and long sandy beaches.
Where are the best beaches in Morocco for swimming?
The Mediterranean coast, such as Saidia, is calmer for swimming. On the Atlantic, the lagoon at Oualidia is gentle too.
Where is the best surfing in Morocco?
Taghazout, north of Agadir, is the most famous surf village. Imsouane is great for beginners and longboarders.
Is Essaouira good for a beach holiday?
It is better for kitesurfing, walks and the medina than for sunbathing, because the wind is often strong.
Can I combine the Sahara and the beach?
Yes. Many travelers end a desert tour on the coast at Essaouira, Taghazout or Agadir. We can plan the route for you.
Want to combine the Sahara with the ocean? Send us your dates and we will plan a private trip from the dunes to the beach.
Message us on WhatsApp