Morocco Beach Guide

Start in Tangier where the Atlantic meets the Mediterranean at Cap Spartel. Visit the Caves of Hercules, then drive the scenic coast road south to Asilah. Spend the afternoon exploring the painted medina and enjoy a seafood dinner overlooking the ramparts.

A longer driving day south along the Atlantic coast. Consider a lunch stop in Rabat at the stunning Kasbah des Oudaias, or push through to El Jadida to see the UNESCO-listed Portuguese cistern. Arrive in Oualidia for oysters at sunset by the lagoon.

A rest day to enjoy the tranquil lagoon. Swim in the calm turquoise waters, visit an oyster farm and taste freshly shucked oysters with lemon and Tabasco. Take a boat tour of the lagoon and watch the birds. La Sultana has an excellent spa if you want to treat yourself.

Drive south through Safi, Morocco's pottery capital, where you can watch artisans at work. Continue along the scenic coast to Essaouira. Check into a riad in the medina and walk the ramparts at golden hour. Dinner at a fish grill on the port.

Explore the UNESCO-listed medina, browse the thuya wood workshops, and try a wind sport on the beach. If conditions are calm, swim at the northern end of the beach. For a quieter experience, hire a taxi to Sidi Kaouki for the afternoon.

A short and beautiful drive south along the coast, passing through argan forests. Stop at a women's cooperative to learn about argan oil production. Arrive in tiny Imsouane and rent a board to ride the legendary long wave. Fresh sardines for dinner at the port.

One more morning session at Imsouane, then continue south to Taghazout, Morocco's surf capital. Check into a surf camp or guesthouse. Afternoon options include surfing Panoramas, a yoga class, or simply soaking up the village atmosphere. Watch sunset from the rocks.

Start with a dawn surf session, then drive inland to Paradise Valley for a swim in the natural freshwater pools surrounded by palm trees. Afternoon at Agadir's resort beach to relax, and visit the massive Souk el Had for souvenirs and spices.

Drive south through Tiznit (stop to see the silversmiths) and on to Mirleft, where dramatic cove beaches sit below colorful cliffs. Continue to Legzira to see the legendary red rock arches, timing your visit for low tide. Stay in a clifftop guesthouse with Atlantic views.

A morning walk on Legzira's red sand before driving to nearby Sidi Ifni to see the faded Spanish colonial architecture. Return to Agadir via the inland route through the Anti-Atlas foothills. Final evening watching the sunset from Agadir's promenade before your departure.