9 Nicest Beaches in Morocco

Oualidia Lagoon is a hidden gem along Morocco’s Atlantic coast. It makes for a great day trip from Casablanca or Marrakesh. The saltwater lagoon is a peaceful escape surrounded by nature. Calm, shallow waters are perfect for lazy afternoons of sunbathing and swimming. Gentle waves make great conditions for paddleboarding, kayaking, or those just learning to surf.

Nature lovers will enjoy spotting migrating birds like flamingos, particularly in spring and fall months. This quaint fishing village is known as Morocco’s oyster capital, so be sure to dine on some of the freshest oysters you will ever eat.

Essaouira is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, so it’s a popular destination year-round. Often called the “wind city of Africa,” Essaouira Beach is the place to go for windsurfing and kiteboarding. July and August are the busiest months, so plan for crowds if traveling in summer.

Essaouira Beach has wide sandy beaches, and a laid-back, chill vibe. The main beach has a play area, and there’s a long promenade to stroll at sunset while enjoying the sea breeze. Essaouira oozes culture, so you can visit some art galleries or the ancient medina in the morning and then head to the beach in the afternoon.

Legzira Beach is easily one of the nicest beaches in Morocco. Majestic red rock arches along seaside cliffs to give the beach a magical feel. Legzira Beach, often called “the jewel of northwest Africa,” is close to Sidi Ifni and is popular among locals and tourists alike.

The winds that helped carve out the arches are what make this beach a haven for wind sport enthusiasts. Paragliding and surfing are popular here. Stroll the quiet, golden sand beaches at sunset and make sure to bring a camera to capture the beauty.

Saidia Beach is a family-friendly resort area on the Mediterranean coast with palm trees, a vibrant promenade, and plenty of hotels and restaurants for your holiday getaway. Playgrounds dot the beach if you’re traveling with little ones. Couples will enjoy the thriving club scene at night. 

Locals call Saidia Beach the “blue pearl,” for the beach’s crystal-clear waters. The winds are tame, and the waters are warm, so plan to swim and sunbathe. Popular water sports include paddleboarding and jet skiing. The long, white sandy beaches fill up quickly, so be sure to get there early to stake out your sunny spot. 

Belyounech Beach is the place to go if you are looking for quiet and solitude. The sleepy fishing village along the Strait of Gibraltar is a hidden gem with gorgeous turquoise waters framed by rolling hills. You’ll enjoy walking along the sand and pebble beaches or simply watching the fishing boats bobbing offshore.

The water is a bit chillier here due to its location, but its clarity makes for excellent scuba diving and snorkeling along vibrant coastal reefs. Book your place to stay ahead of time in this small village. Belyounech Beach also makes for a great day trip from Tangier.

Bades Beach is a unique destination for adventurous outdoor enthusiasts. Tucked away near Morocco’s northern border with the Spanish enclave of Peñón de Vélez de la Gomera, the beach is uncrowded and picturesque. It’s ideal for those looking for an off-the-beaten-path beach trip.

The white sand beach is within the boundaries of the El Hoceima National Park. Limestone cliffs line the rugged coastline with the Bokkoyas Mountains as the backdrop. Hiking is one way to explore the forests in the park, but bicycling is the best way to see it all. Those looking for underwater exploration can charter a boat to some of Morocco’s best dive spots. Enjoy a picnic lunch on the beach surrounded by natural beauty.

Dakhla Beach is the crown jewel on Morocco’s southern coast, with Pointe de L’Or its golden point. This area is where the desert meets the sea, a truly Moroccan beach experience. Nature lovers will enjoy spotting dolphins or migrating flamingos along the coast with the Sahara Desert in the background.

For wind-sport lovers, Dakhla is a world-class destination. The constant winds provide amazing kitesurfing, windsurfing, and paragliding conditions along the turquoise coast. If you aren’t into wind sports, grab a cup of mint tea and enjoy the views as you watch the sunset over the Atlantic.

Dalia (Daliyya) Beach is a short drive from Tangier on Morocco’s northern coast. This beach is beloved by locals and is rarely crowded. There are few hotels and restaurants, so pack a picnic to enjoy on the unspoiled golden beach. Make sure you bring all the essentials, too, like sunscreen and shade.

Located along the Strait of Gibraltar, the ocean waters are cooler here. There’s not much wind, which means that swimming is usually safe. Dalia Beach is great for a quick getaway to escape the crowds and enjoy nature’s tranquility.

Achakkar Beach is the last beach on Morocco’s Atlantic coastline before the Strait of Gibraltar. The beach is about 20 minutes from Tangier, and the scenery alone is worth the trip, even if just for an afternoon.

A popular spot near Achakkar Beach is the Cave of Hercules (Grottes d’Hercule). The myth is that Hercules rested in this system of caves after he separated Europe and Africa. The most photo-worthy spot is a hole that mimics the shape of Africa, perfect for sunset pics and selfies. Bring a sweater or light jacket, because the caves can get chilly.