written by
Rough Guides Editors
updated 20.05.2024
Discover the charm of Morocco's coastline with our round-up of the best beaches in Morocco. With their pristine sands, azure waters and scenic surroundings, they are a paradise for both sun seekers and nature lovers.
The information in this article is inspired by The Rough Guide to Morocco, your essential guide for visiting Morocco.
Created by local experts
Wide and handsome, Legzira Beach is flanked by natural sea-worn rock archways and overlooked by an old Spanish fort from the hills above, whose thermal currents attract hang-gliding and paragliding enthusiasts.
A rather horrible vacation village has unfortunately now been built directly above the beach, but that doesn’t detract from the beauty of the place – something best experienced on the long walk along the coast from Sidi Ifni.
Given the fact that the bus stop is both some way uphill from the beach and unsheltered, it makes the most sense to bus here from Sidi Ifni (when departures are on the hour) and walk back to town, so long as the tides agree.
Legzira dramatic natural stone arches reaching over the sea, Atlantic Ocean, Morocco © Shutterstock
Agadir’s beach is one of the best beaches in Morocco: a wide expanse of fine sand, which extends an impressive distance to the south of the town, is swept each morning and patrolled by mounted police. Along its course are a number of cafés, some of which rent out sunbeds and umbrellas.
The ocean – it should be stressed – has a very strong Atlantic undertow and is definitely not suitable for children unless closely supervised. Even adults are advised not to go out swimming alone. The northern end of the beach has lifeguards on duty in summer, and a system of flags to tell you how dangerous it is to swim.
The big beach hotels also have guarded sections for their residents, and you can rent a sunbed with a parasol at neighbouring restaurants. Lastly, the beach is also a good place for watersports.
Find more accommodation options to stay near Agadir Beach.
Aerial view of Agadir in Morocco © Shutterstock
Agadir’s beaches can often be packed, but those to its north are less developed, including the one at Taghazout, Morocco’s number-one surfing resort. There are absolutely loads of surf spots along the coast both north and south of Taghazout. For right-footed surfers, the points just north are an absolute paradise, with a cluster of excellent right-hand breaks.
Killers, 6km north of the village and named after the killer whales which are often seen here, has one of the most consistent breaks, a powerful, perfectly peeling charger which breaks over a cliff shelf. Source, just south of Killers, is so-called for the freshwater bubbling up underneath it.
Anchor Point, just north of Taghazout, has long waves and big breaks, while at the north end of the village beach itself, Hash Point is supposedly used by those too stoned to make it to the others.
Find more accommodation options to stay near Taghazout Beach.
Looking for vacation ideas in Morocco? You might be interested in 5 days in Morocco.
Surfers in Taghazout, Morocco © Shutterstock
One of the best beaches in Marocco, Essaouira Beach, south of the Medina, extends for miles, often backed by dunes, out towards Cap Sim. In its early reaches, the main activity, as ever in Morocco, is football. There’s virtually always a game in progress and at weekends a full-scale local league takes place here, with a dozen matches side-by-side and kick-offs timed by the tides.
If you wish to join them (it’s all barefoot), just ask alongside each “pitch” and you’ll be welcomed into a game. The weekend games are especially fun just to watch, and on occasions, half the town seems to turn out.
Find more accommodation options to stay near Essaouira Beach.
Essaouira, Morocco © Shutterstock
The beach at Sidi Kaouki, 20km south of Essaouira, attracts wind- and kitesurfers virtually year-round, and wind generators have been installed to supply up to 95 per cent of the village’s electricity. For a village of only 120 or so inhabitants, it has an astonishing amount of accommodation, though very little else (no banks, for example).
Near the beach is the original Marabout of Sidi Kaouki, which is reputed to cure female sterility, and beyond that is Cap Sim, backed by long expanses of dunes.
Find more accommodation options to stay near Sidi Kaouki Beach.
Surfer in Sidi Kaouki, Morocco © Shutterstock
There are four main beaches around Mirhleft, each with its own particular vibe and appeal. Furthest north is Imin Tourga Beach, also known as the “main” beach; 1km from central Mirhleft, this wide curl of sand is the most popular in the area and can get packed out on weekends.
This beach is not only one of the best beaches in Morocco but also one of the most beautiful. You can experience the beauty of the beach by walking along its shoreline, which slopes right down to the beach and offers spectacular views of the city and the coastline.
Going to Morocco? Start preparing for your trip with our useful travel tips for travelling to Morocco and check out our 10-day Morocco itineraries for inspiration.
Imin Turga beach in Morocco © Shutterstock
The best beaches in Morocco are in the immediate vicinity of Tangier and are to be found at Cap Malabata, where much wealthy villa development has been taking place, but long open swathes of sandy beach can still be found. One of them is near the village of Dalia, which bears the same name as the village.
Find even more ideas for your Moroccan adventure with our 7-day itineraries in Morocco.
Dalia Beach is a beautiful beach destination with soft golden sand and is perfect for spending time with friends and family. Here you can enjoy the sun, have a picnic and admire the water's surface in the rays of the setting sun.
Panoramic view from the Daliyya (Dalia) Beach on the Strait of Gibraltar, Tangier, Morocco © Shutterstock
The coast is rockier if approached from Tamanar than Smimou, a larger town with a few restaurants. Fifteen kilometres south, a surfaced road leads to Imsouane, which used to be a picturesque little harbour with a few fishermen’s cottages but is now gradually being built up.
No matter what swell, tide or wind condition prevails, its two bays should offer something for all surfers and windsurfers. There’s a surf school, Planet Surf Morocco, down near the market, with a handful of shops nearby that rent out and repair surf gear.
Find more accommodation options to stay near Imsouane Bay.
Waves on Imsouan beach, Morocco © Shutterstock
Located in the north of Morocco, Cabo Negro Beach is a famous coastal resort and one of the best beaches in Morocco. Cabo Negro Beach is widely recognised as one of the most picturesque places and attracts locals and tourists alike.
Cabo Negro offers a wide range of accommodation, but it should be noted that during the summer season, there is a significant influx of tourists, so accommodation should be arranged well in advance.
Cabo Negro Beach stands out among the other resorts in the region for its exclusivity, the stunning scenery and the opportunity to visit nearby Chefchaouen adds to its charm.
Find more accommodation options to stay in Cabo Negro.
Beautiful view of Mediterranean Cabo Negro City, Morocco © Shutterstock
Devil's Rock Beach has earned its status as one of the best beaches in Morocco thanks to its diverse surf culture and charming seaside atmosphere. This place has gained popularity not only among local surfers but also surfers from all over the world who come here to enjoy the challenging waves and relaxed atmosphere.
Among other things, despite its menacing name, Devil's Rock Beach is perfect for beginner surfers. So if you've always wanted to learn how to surf the sea, this is the place to be.
Surfing the waves at surf spot called Devils Rock near Tamraght, Morocco © Shutterstock
Ready for a trip to the best beaches in Morocco? Check out the snapshot of The Rough Guide to Morocco.
If you prefer to plan and book your trip to Morocco without any effort and hassle, use the expertise of our local travel experts to make sure your trip will be just like you dream it to be.
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written by
Rough Guides Editors
updated 20.05.2024
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