Marrakech is famous for desserts, oases and rich architecture. Yet Morocco has around 2500 km of coastline so you’ve got to add beach days to your visit!
Today I’m giving you a list of the best beaches in Marrakech surrounding areas, although none are actually in Marrakech.
Top 9 Beaches In Marrakech
1. Essaouira Beach
⭐Rating: 4.4 out of 5
Only 2.5-3 hours away, Essaouira is the closest beach to Marrakech. Soft sands and clear azure waters—Essaouira beach is idyllic, to say the least. The famous beach city is very laid back, but there are plenty of activities.
I love to ride the waves here, and there are several surf schools if you’re inexperienced. You’ll find many people kitesurfing here as well.
The beach is quite busy, even during the winter. You can play football with the locals. Better yet, enjoy a camel ride along the beach for a phenomenal experience you won’t forget.
The culinary scene at this beach is also unbelievable, focusing on fresh ingredients and Moroccan flavors. You must sample fresh seafood from restaurants like La Table and The Loft. Overall, this is a great beach for tourists and locals alike.
2. Safi Beach
⭐Rating: 4.3 out of 5
If you want to escape the crowd but still visit the beach, Safi Beach is your best bet. Only 155 km from Marrakech, Safi is renowned for its expansive sandy shores and the stunning views of the Atlantic Ocean. I also really love the surrounding cliffs which make for great landscapes in your photos.
There are various water sport activities you can enjoy here, especially surfing and windsurfing. The Atlantic waves are great for both beginners and experienced surfers. I also love playing volleyball on the beach. Don’t hesitate to mingle with the locals here, we’re very welcoming.
Safi is also known for pottery and ceramics, so don’t skip a visit to the medina where you can grab a few unique souvenirs.
3. Oualidia Beach
⭐Rating: 4.5 out of 5
No matter how I describe this charming fish village and the gorgeous beach, I don’t think I could do it justice. The breathtaking views and soft sands of the lagoon at Oualidia are the finest in North Africa. Red cliffs frame the beach, so it’s pretty secluded.
I love to go kayaking and paddleboarding here, but there’s much more. Oualidia beach is a popular spot for birdwatching, and the shallow waters are great for novice surfers.
Next, the food. So many people have told me that Oualidia is the oyster capital of Morocco, and they weren’t wrong. My friends and I devoured the fresh seafood grilled right on the beach. It’s so fresh that we saw the fishermen catching the fish before our dinner.
4. Sidi Kaouki Beach
⭐Rating: 4.5 out of 5
For the more serious surfers, I suggest Sidi Kaouki beach. It’s a stone’s throw from Essaouira, but with much stronger winds. But besides windsurfing, surfing, enjoying the stunning views, there’s plenty to do here.
You can visit the shrine of Sidi Kaouki (a 19th century Muslim Saint), or go horseback riding along the pristine coastline. For more touristy activities, go on a came ride or take a hike along the endless stretch of beach.
If you’re in more of a relaxing mood, rent an umbrella and deckchair and put your feet up. Soak in the sun and enjoy the ocean view.
5. Agadir Beach
⭐Rating: 4.4 out of 5
A list of beaches near Marrakech wouldn’t be complete without mentioning this 10km crescent-shaped bay. It’s Morocco’s premier coastal resort, covered in soft golden sand and sheltered from strong Atlantic winds.
This is a well-maintained beach, and there are plenty of seafront cafes and restaurants lining the beach.
I love going here for the variety of water sports. There’s everything from water-skiing, surfing and even boating. If you do visit Agadir beach, be sure to check out the nearby beaches of Taghazout and Tamraght for more surfing (and lessons if you need them.
During the peak times in summer, there are many lifeguards on duty on Agadir beach. It’s a very popular destination for tourists and locals alike.
Enjoy a laid-back beach day on rented sunloungers, pack your day with adventure by participating in the various watersports. I think this stunning beach is a great location for families, couples, and even solo travelers.
6. Lalla Fatna Beach
⭐Rating: 4.7 out of 5
About 10 km North of Safi, you can find the gorgeous Lalla Fatna beach. Although there are fewer facilities on this beach than others on this list, it’s a prime surfing location in my opinion.
The rugged coastline and dramatic formations give this beach a stunning backdrop of cliffs and crashing waves. I feel mesmerized by the view everytime I see it.
While the high cliffs shelter the beach from strong winds, the waves are pretty consistent. That makes for a great surfing location. The rocky beach is also a popular spot for photography and exploration.
Fair warning: you’ll have to walk down a path to reach this beach. I believe that adds to its charm. Make sure to head down South to Cape Beddouza. It’s an area with more beautiful landscapes. You can also go fishing there, and explore the natural caves and rock formations.
7. El Jadida Beach
⭐Rating: 4.0 out of 5
This is a beach renowned for its natural beauty, rich history and vibrant atmosphere. You’ll experience a blend of cultural heritage, relaxing beach, and plenty of recreational activities. I’m not surprised that El Jadida is a popular destination for tourists and locals, but I find it slightly too crowded.
Still, there are many things to do on El Jadida Beach. It features a long stretch of soft, golden sand that meets the clear, azure waters of the Atlantic Ocean.
The waves are gentle, so the clear waters are great for swimming regardless of skill-level. The surrounding landscape includes scenic cliffs and lush greenery, providing a picturesque backdrop.
I also enjoy playing beach sports like volleyball and soccer on the sandy shores. The beachfront area is also lined with many restaurants and cafes offering delicious traditional Moroccan food.
Don’t forget to explore the Portuguese Cistern (UNESCO World Heritage site). It’s a remnant of the Portuguese Mazagan, an architectural structure with a rich history.
8. Legzira Beach
⭐Rating: 4.6 out of 5
Centuries of waves pounding against red sandstone cliffs created stunning rock arches that makes Legzira one of the most beautiful Marrakech beaches. It’s an 8 km stretch of sandy coastline that I guarantee will take your breath away.
I remember when there were three rock arches, but sadly two have collapsed in recent years (2016 and 2020). Still, the remaining arch is an impressive sight. I like to go at sunset, when the rock seems to glow red. Towering cliffs frame the beach and the golden sand stretches out forever.
Despite its alluring natural beauty, Legzira isn’t a very crowded beach. The atmosphere here is very tranquil and it makes this beach the ideal place to relax or go for a leisurely swim.
You can also go windsurfing or surfing, of course. You can find surfing equipment for rent right on the beach. Another thing I like to do here is go hiking because the coastline is full of beautiful views and terrain begging to be explored.
9. Mirleft Beach
⭐Rating: 4.8 out of 5
Lastly, this lovely beach is on Morocco’s Southern Atlantic coastline. The quaint fishing town is more low-key, so you’d come here for serenity and a tranquil beach experience among locals.
The waters are calm and clear, and the landscape is picturesque. I just love the rolling hills and rugged cliffs surrounding the town.
Consistent waves and laid-back atmosphere makes Mirleft Beach popular for surfing, swimming, and fishing. You can also visit nearby attractions such as Sidi Ifni; a Spanish colonial town.
Final Thoughts
Morocco’s coastline offers a range of beach experiences, each more charming than the next. I love them all, from the bustling shores of Essaouira to the serene landscapes of Merlift beach.
So grab your beach towel and head on to our stunning coastal destinations for an unforgettable escape.