Morocco has some fabulous sandy beaches to enjoy and its main resort – Agadir- is popular with those seeking total relaxation in the sun. For those who prefer a slice of the action, Morocco offers great surfing too. All year round, you can enjoy leisurely strolls along its pristine beaches or a swim in the sea. Morocco has 1,200 miles of beautiful coastline, fringed by the Mediterranean on its northern coast and washed by the Atlantic Ocean on its west coast where the ocean is fringed by the Western Sahara.

As well as wonderful leisurely moments on the beach, Morocco has so much to offer. The colourful ancient cities of Marrakech and Fez are fascinating to explore with their amazing architecture and culture plus numerous souks (markets) that reveal the country’s rich heritage of handicrafts as well as colourful local produce and spices. There are scenic towns to visit including Oualidia, Essaouira, Agadir and the Souss Massa National Park and a huge bonus is that many of the town’s are situated not far from the coast. So you can combine sightseeing with lazing on a gorgeous beach! There is the spicy Moroccan cuisine to sample which is delicious with countless recipes that have been handed down through the generations. The best news of all is that Morocco is an affordable destination and an increasingly popular country to visit for both weekend breakaways and longer holidays.  

Here are the top 10 beaches in Morocco to tempt you!   

1. Oued Laou 

This relaxed Mediterranean beach town stands 30 miles south-east of Tetouan. It has a lovely beach although it is shingle rather than sand so is better for those who enjoy swimming in crystal clear waters, rather than those who enjoy stretching out on a towel. It is a fun place with colourful fishing boats and the chance to take a boat trip. As sun set approaches it is worth the effort to climb the cliffs for an amazing view of the sinking sun.

2. M'Diq and Cabo Negro 

Situated on Morocco’s north coast and fringed by the Mediterranean, these neighbouring resort towns stand 20 miles north-east of Tetouan which stands on Morocco’s northern peninsula. The towns are separated by a pine-clad headland. M’Diq is a mixture of sand and shingle and is back by green hills and has cafés and restaurants on the edge of the sand. Cabo Negro is the bigger and posher of the two, boasting a fine two-kilometre long beach and its own golf course. If you are travelling with young children, this is one of the best beaches for them.  

3. Saidia

Nestling right next to Morocco’s border with Algeria is Salida, a gorgeous eight-mile stretch of sand washed by the waters of the Mediterranean. The western end of the beach is known as Saidia Med and is backed by numerous holiday villas and five star hotels, yacht marina and golf course that attract plenty of visitors in the summer months. The beach has good facilities including sun loungers and parasols to hire, plus water sports including jet skis and kayaks. If you seek tranquillity, visit outside June – September when the area is amazingly tranquil!

4. Achakar Beach

Situated just 25 miles west of the bustling city of Tangier, this gorgeous beach could be a million miles away. The beach is overlooked by the cliff of Cap Spartel which is topped by a lighthouse and is the meeting point of the Mediterranean Sea and Atlantic Ocean. The area is backed by gently sloping hills. There are plenty of free sun shades and a beach café for long cool drinks and light snacks. At the southern end of the beach you will find the Caves of Hercules, where the mythological Greek god of strength is supposed to have lived. 

5. Asilah

Situated 60 miles from Tangier, Asilah is a fun place to explore. The old stone walls of this historic town overlook the sweeping curve of the beach. The town is like a picture postcard with narrow winding alleys and blue and white buildings. The town’s main beach lacks charisma, but there are several sandy bays close by that are idyllic. Paradise Beach lies 4.5 miles south of the town and is perfect for swimming. There are plenty of free sunshades for relaxing with a good book – but pack your own refreshments.  

6. Essaouira

This is a fantastic beach to visit because the old walled town is a UNESCO World Heritage site is great for exploring too. There is over eight miles of sand just outside the old walls and true you can laze on the golden sands, but because of the strong onshore breezes many visitors are keen to try the windsurfing or kitesurfing instead. There are plenty of opportunities here to book some lessons for both.

7. Agadir

Situated on Morocco’s south western coast and over looking the Atlantic, Agadir is the country’s most popular resort town and has been for many years. The golden sandy beach stretches for miles and is overlooked in many places by restaurants and cafés. There are two main private sections on the beach – Palm Beach and Sunset Beach- which you can pay to use and several of the beach front hotels also have their own private stretch. 

8. Oualida 

This gorgeous beach is far more sheltered than many on the country’s Atlantic coast as it is situated in a sheltered lagoon. The beach is a crescent of soft golden sand and the calm waters are perfect for leisurely swims. There is good surfing just along from the lagoon’s breakwater and also stand-up paddleboards and kayaking.  

9. Mirleft

Lying 250 miles south of Agadir, stands the little southern Atlantic coast town of Mirleft that has several lovely beaches backed by craggy cliffs- Tourga Beach is the central one and very popular. As well as beautiful sand to stretch out on, Mirleft is is the perfect place for those who would love to learn how to surf. Local surf schools offer 5-day surfing packages for beginners and all the equipment can be cheaply rented. Other popular sports in the area include paragliding and sea fishing. 

10. Legzira Beach 

Lying 23 km south of Mirleft is one of the prettiest beaches in Morocco – Legzira, which so far has escaped the attention of most people. The wave eroded rock formations are awesome and include a beautiful sea arch, the sunset is impressive to watch too too. If you enjoy fresh shellfish, there are a few seafood restaurants. Ten kilometres from the beach is Sidi Ifni, the old Spanish Sahara port which is also worth a visit