Les plus belles plages du Maroc

Morocco’s Dual Coastline: Atlantic Power vs. Mediterranean Calm

Morocco is uniquely positioned with two distinct coastlines, each offering a completely different seaside experience. To the west, the vast Atlantic Ocean shapes a rugged, dramatic shore, while to the north, the gentle Mediterranean Sea laps against sheltered bays. Understanding this duality is the key to finding your perfect Moroccan beach escape.

The Wild Atlantic Coast

Stretching for thousands of kilometers, Morocco’s Atlantic coast is a spectacle of raw, untamed nature. It’s a place of immense scale, where endless ribbons of golden sand are pounded by the ocean’s rhythmic pulse and framed by wind-sculpted cliffs. This is a coastline defined by energy and movement, a magnet for those who seek adventure and wide-open spaces.

• It is characterized by powerful waves, vast sandy stretches, and awe-inspiring cliffs that create a dramatic backdrop.
• Its consistent winds and world-class breaks make it a renowned global destination for surfing and wind sports.
• Visitors can expect cooler water temperatures and often brisk, refreshing winds, offering a pleasant escape from the inland heat.

The Tranquil Mediterranean Coast

In stark contrast, Morocco’s northern shore, kissed by the Mediterranean, presents a picture of serenity. Here, the pace slows down, and the landscape becomes more intimate. The coastline is a mosaic of secluded coves, golden crescents of sand, and water that shifts from brilliant turquoise to deep sapphire. It’s the classic vision of a sun-drenched holiday.

• This coast features calmer, warmer turquoise waters and sheltered bays that are perfect for leisurely dips.
• It is ideal for swimming, snorkeling, and family-friendly relaxation, free from the strong currents of the Atlantic.
• The shoreline is dotted with a charming mix of traditional fishing villages and modern resorts, offering diverse atmospheres for every type of traveler.

Iconic Beaches of the Atlantic Coast

Legzira Beach, near Sidi Ifni

The Legendary Red Stone Arches

Legzira is a place of geological wonder, where the raw power of the Atlantic has carved monumental arches into the red sandstone cliffs. The landscape feels otherworldly, especially as the setting sun ignites the cliffs in fiery hues. While one of its two famous arches collapsed in 2016, the remaining arch and the sheer scale of the coastline retain an immense, dramatic beauty. A walk along this beach is a walk through geological time, with the constant roar of the ocean as your soundtrack.

Activités clés

• Sunset Photography: The interplay of red rock, golden sand, and the setting sun creates a photographer’s paradise.
• Scenic Walks: At low tide, you can walk for miles along the base of the cliffs, discovering hidden coves and appreciating the dramatic scenery.
• Paragliding: For a breathtaking perspective, take to the skies and soar above the magnificent coastline.

The Vibe

Rugged, raw, and incredibly photogenic. Legzira is less about swimming and more about witnessing the sublime power of nature.

Taghazout & Anchor Point, near Agadir

Morocco’s Surfing Capital

Once a quiet fishing village, Taghazout is now the undisputed heart of Morocco’s surf scene, attracting a global community of wave riders. The coastline here is blessed with a variety of breaks catering to every skill level. Beginners can find their footing on gentle beach breaks, while seasoned surfers come to challenge themselves on world-renowned point breaks like Anchor Point, Killer Point, and Boilers.

Activités clés

• Surfing: From surf schools and board rentals to advanced surf guiding, the entire village revolves around the sport.
• Yoga Retreats: The laid-back atmosphere has made Taghazout a popular destination for yoga and wellness retreats.
• Seafood Dinners: Enjoy fresh, grilled fish at one of the many relaxed restaurants overlooking the ocean.

The Vibe

Bohemian, energetic, and a vibrant hub for international travelers. The air is filled with a youthful spirit and a shared passion for the ocean.

Essaouira Beach

The “Windy City of Africa”

Essaouira offers a unique coastal experience where a vast, crescent-shaped beach lies directly beside the walls of a historic, fortified medina—a UNESCO World Heritage site. The city’s defining feature is the near-constant trade wind, the alizee, which keeps summer temperatures pleasant and creates a world-class playground for wind sports. The view from the beach, looking back at the blue and white medina and the imposing Skala de la Ville ramparts, is unforgettable.

Activités clés

• Kitesurfing & Windsurfing: The consistent, strong winds make this one of the best spots in the world for these sports.
• Camel & Horse Rides: A classic Essaouira experience is a leisurely ride along the expansive stretch of sand.
• Exploring the Medina: Step off the sand and into the bustling souks, art galleries, and historic fortifications of the old city.

The Vibe

Artsy, historic, and bustling with activity. It’s a captivating blend of beach culture, ancient history, and creative energy.

Oualidia Lagoon

A Serene Coastal Oasis

Protected from the Atlantic’s powerful swells by a natural barrier, the Oualidia Lagoon is an arc of tranquil, turquoise water. This calm, shallow environment makes it an ideal destination for families with young children and anyone seeking a peaceful escape. The lagoon is also a rich ecosystem, attracting a variety of birdlife and supporting a thriving local industry: oyster farming.

Activités clés

• Kayaking & Paddleboarding: The placid waters are perfect for exploring the lagoon at a gentle pace.
• Bird Watching: Keep an eye out for resident and migratory birds, including the elegant flamingos that often wade in the shallows.
• Oyster Tasting: Indulge in incredibly fresh oysters, often served at simple waterfront cafes or sold directly from the farms.

The Vibe

Peaceful, family-friendly, and a delight for foodies. Oualidia is the Atlantic coast at its most gentle and refined.

Dakhla’s White Dune (Dune Blanche)

Where the Sahara Meets the Sea

In the remote south of Morocco lies one of its most spectacular natural wonders: the Dune Blanche. This massive, immaculate white sand dune rises dramatically from the center of a vast, turquoise lagoon. It’s a surreal and stunning landscape where the golden Sahara desert spills directly into the deep blue of the Atlantic. Reaching it is an adventure in itself, but the sight is one of North Africa’s most memorable.

Activités clés

• Kitesurfing & Windsurfing: The Dakhla lagoon offers hundreds of square kilometers of flat, shallow water and consistent wind, creating perfect conditions.
• 4×4 Desert Excursions: Explore the surrounding desert landscape, visit thermal springs, and spot local wildlife.
• Climbing the Dune: Ascend the Dune Blanche for an unparalleled panoramic view of the lagoon and the desert.

The Vibe

Adventurous, remote, and truly unforgettable. Dakhla offers a profound sense of escape and a connection to a wild, elemental landscape.

Gems of the Mediterranean Coast

While the Atlantic roars with untamed energy, Morocco’s Mediterranean coast whispers a different tune. Here, the sea is a gentler soul, offering calm, turquoise waters, sheltered bays, and a distinctly relaxed, sun-drenched atmosphere perfect for swimming and unwinding.

Plage Quemado, Al Hoceima

A Golden Crescent in a National Park

Nestled in the heart of the city, Plage Quemado is a stunning sweep of golden sand set within a picturesque bay. Its beauty is dramatically enhanced by the rugged cliffs of Al Hoceima National Park that frame it, creating a sense of a protected, natural amphitheater. The clear, placid water makes it one of the most inviting swimming spots in the country.

Activités clés

• Swimming in the exceptionally clear and calm Mediterranean waters.
• Sunbathing and enjoying the vibrant, family-friendly atmosphere.
• Taking a small boat trip to explore the hidden coves and grottoes along the park’s coastline.

The Vibe

This is a classic Mediterranean resort beach, beloved by Moroccan families on holiday. It’s scenic, lively, and offers a perfect blend of natural beauty and city convenience.

Saidia Beach (The “Blue Pearl”)

Morocco’s Longest Stretch of Sand

Known as the “Blue Pearl,” Saidia Beach is remarkable for its sheer scale. It boasts an impressive 14-kilometer stretch of fine, golden sand, making it one of the longest beaches in Morocco. This vastness has allowed for its development into a premier, modern tourist destination, complete with expansive resorts, a marina, and a wealth of amenities designed for a comfortable holiday.

Activités clés

• Engaging in a wide array of organized water sports, from jet skiing to sailing.
• Playing a round of golf at one of the nearby world-class courses.
• Relaxing at sophisticated beach clubs or strolling along the bustling marina.

The Vibe

Saidia is modern, well-equipped, and resort-focused. It’s the ideal choice for travelers seeking a hassle-free, all-inclusive beach vacation with every convenience at their fingertips.

Cala Iris Beach

A Secluded Fisherman’s Cove

For those looking to step away from the polished resorts and discover a more rustic corner of the coast, Cala Iris is a perfect escape. This small, charming beach is situated in a cove that still feels like an active fishing village. It’s an off-the-beaten-path destination that rewards visitors with a sense of authentic coastal life, far from the tourist crowds.

Activités clés

• Snorkeling in the clear waters around the small islets (îlots) just offshore.
• Hiking the trails in the surrounding green hills for panoramic views of the coastline.
• Savoring incredibly fresh, grilled seafood at one of the simple, unpretentious local eateries.

The Vibe

Authentic, tranquil, and largely untouched by mass tourism. Cala Iris offers a peaceful retreat for travelers who appreciate simplicity and natural charm over structured amenities.

Practical Guide to Morocco’s Beaches

A little preparation goes a long way in making your Moroccan beach holiday seamless and enjoyable. Understanding the best times to visit and local customs will help you relax and make the most of the stunning coastline.

Meilleure Période de l'Année pour Visiter

Morocco’s extensive coastline offers excellent beach weather for much of the year, but the ideal time for your visit depends on your preferences for heat, activities, and crowds.

• Spring (April-May) & Autumn (September-October): These shoulder seasons are widely considered the optimal time for a coastal trip. The climate is pleasantly warm with ample sunshine, perfect for both relaxing on the sand and exploring nearby towns without the intensity of mid-summer heat. The ocean is inviting, and the beaches are generally less crowded than in the peak months.
• Summer (June-August): This is the high season, attracting sun-seekers from Morocco and Europe. Expect consistently hot and sunny days, ideal for swimming and water sports. The Mediterranean coast becomes a bustling holiday destination with very warm sea temperatures. Along the Atlantic, the heat is often tempered by a refreshing coastal breeze, offering a welcome escape from the country’s interior.

Beach Etiquette & What to Wear

While Morocco is a welcoming and tolerant country, particularly in tourist areas, it’s helpful to be mindful of local customs. Comfort, safety, and respect can easily go hand-in-hand.

• Swimwear: On the main tourist beaches and within hotel resorts, such as those in Agadir, Saidia, or Essaouira, standard swimwear like bikinis, one-pieces, and swim trunks are completely normal and accepted. You will feel perfectly comfortable.
• Cover-Ups: It is a sign of respect, and simply practical, to cover up when you leave the immediate beach area. When walking into a town for lunch, browsing shops, or exploring a medina, slipping on a sarong, kaftan, t-shirt, or dress over your swimwear is the appropriate custom.
• Sun Protection: The Moroccan sun is powerful, even on days that feel breezy or slightly overcast. Packing and diligently using proper sun protection is non-negotiable for a comfortable trip. This includes a high-SPF sunscreen that you reapply regularly, a wide-brimmed hat, and quality sunglasses to protect your eyes from the strong glare.

Which Moroccan Beach is Right for You?

With such a diverse coastline, choosing the right Moroccan beach depends entirely on your travel style. Whether you’re seeking adrenaline-fueled water sports, a safe haven for family fun, or a dramatic landscape to explore, this guide will help you find your perfect stretch of sand.

For Surfers and Kitesurfers

If your holiday is defined by the search for the perfect wave or consistent wind, look no further than Morocco’s Atlantic coast. The bohemian village of Taghazout is the undisputed capital of surfing, offering a variety of breaks for all skill levels. For those who prefer to be powered by the wind, the famously breezy shores of Essaouira are a global hub for kitesurfers and windsurfers. And for a truly unique experience in a spectacular setting, the vast, flat-water lagoons of Dakhla offer some of the most reliable and rewarding kitesurfing conditions on the planet.

For Families and Swimmers

For those traveling with family or simply seeking calm, gentle waters for a relaxing swim, Morocco’s coastline offers several sheltered havens. The protected, shallow waters of the Oualidia Lagoon are exceptionally safe for young children to splash in. On the Mediterranean, Plage Quemado in Al Hoceima provides a classic, scenic bay with clear, tranquil sea perfect for swimming. The extensive, well-appointed shores of Saidia offer a resort-style experience with all the amenities and organized activities a family could need for a comfortable and effortless holiday.

For Photographers and Adventurers

If your goal is to capture breathtaking, otherworldly landscapes and feel a true sense of discovery, certain Moroccan beaches stand apart. The geological wonders of Legzira Beach, with its remaining monumental red stone arch set against the crashing Atlantic, offer a dramatic canvas, especially at sunset. Further south, the surreal vision of Dakhla’s White Dune rising from a turquoise lagoon where the Sahara meets the sea is an unforgettable sight that rewards the adventurous traveler with a truly unique and photogenic destination.

For a Relaxing, Cultural Escape

For many, the perfect beach holiday is one that blends seaside relaxation with authentic local culture. Essaouira is the quintessential example, where you can spend the morning watching camels amble along the windswept beach and the afternoon exploring the art galleries and historic ramparts of its UNESCO-listed medina. For a quieter, more intimate experience, the fishing cove of Cala Iris on the Mediterranean coast offers a glimpse into an untouched way of life, combining tranquil shores with the simple pleasure of incredibly fresh seafood in a local setting.