The region between Mirleft and Sidi Ifni is characterized by a captivating coastal stretch along the southwestern part of Morocco. This area is known for its rugged cliffs, scenic beaches, and a blend of traditional Berber communities with a touch of colonial history. 

While not as heavily developed as some more touristy areas, the region maintains a certain authenticity, offering travellers a chance to experience the raw beauty of the Moroccan coastline. Exploring the towns, interacting with locals, and enjoying the tranquillity of the beaches contribute to the charm of this coastal stretch between Mirleft and Sidi Ifni.

How to get there?

You can fly into Al Massira Airport (AGA) in Agadir and take a bus or grand taxi from there or from any other city in Morocco. It’s about 140 km and over a 2-hour drive from Agadir to Mirleft and from there another 20 km to Legzira Beach. Sidi Ifni is 10 km further to the south. Check your connections at 12go.com.

For those who prefer to be independent, I recommend using the service of Click’n’Go Car Rental in Agadir— very friendly guys and easy to contact on WhatsApp. I rented a Renault Clio for the whole month and got a nice price.

The best time to visit

The best time to visit the southern Atlantic coast in Morocco is during the spring (March to May) and fall (September to November) when the weather is mild and pleasant. Summer can be quite hot, while winter brings cooler but enjoyable temperatures. Choosing spring or fall ensures a comfortable climate for enjoying nearby beaches and exploring the city and its surroundings.

How long to stay there?

You should have a full day to comfortably enjoy the beaches in this region of the Atlantic Coast and have nice walks around Mirleft and Sidi Ifni.

Mirleft

During the 20th century, like many coastal areas in Morocco, Mirleft attracted attention from European powers. The town was used as a trade and fishing port by the Spanish, similar to the nearby Sidi Ifni. However, it did not undergo such an extensive colonization.

in the post-colonial era, Mirleft experienced development and growth, becoming a popular destination for surfers and travellers seeking a laid-back coastal atmosphere. The city doesn’t offer much but it’s the nearby beaches and scenic roads along the coast that justify the visit.

For the panoramic views, head to Fort de Tidli – the ruins of a French military fort. When it comes to the beaches, take your time to visit them all or at least stop by for some great photo opportunities or to admire the surfers: Imin Turga, Aftass, Sidi Mohammed Ben Abdellah, Tamhrouchte or Sidi El Wafi.

Legzira Beach

Legzira Beach is famous for its huge rock arch. The arch is accessible at low tide, and it is quite a stunning sight to see. It’s a short walk from the parking but optionally you can take a camel or quad ride. I don’t recommend it though as it’s much better to enjoy the place in silence, listening to the sound of Atlantic waves rather than a noisy engine.

There were originally two arches, but one collapsed in late 2016. Hopefully, the second arch won’t suffer the same fate as the ocean continues to erode the red sandstone from which it is formed. The beach is also a popular spot for surfing. It’s also worth checking out the other end, called Yasscobar Beach.

A bit further south there is a turn-off from the main road into the dirt one. Follow the directions to “Lkherba n’Brahim” on Google Maps. Take a path behind the building to the magnificent viewpoint on top of one of the cliffs.

Sidi Ifni

Sidi Ifni’s history is intertwined with both Moroccan and Spanish influences. Originally a modest fishing village, it gained prominence when it fell under Spanish control in 1860. The Spanish established a settlement, transforming the area with colonial architecture that remains a distinctive feature of the town. 

Under Spanish rule, Sidi Ifni developed economically and culturally. However, tensions arose as Morocco sought to regain control of its territories. In 1969, after years of negotiations, Morocco reclaimed Sidi Ifni, marking the end of Spanish presence. The transition wasn’t without challenges, but the town gradually adapted to Moroccan governance. 

The small old Spanish part of town is the main attraction. Hassan II Square is surrounded by colonial architecture, including the town hall, law courts, Hôtel La Belle Vue and the former Spanish consulate. Close to the square, you will find the lighthouse with some nice panoramic views of the beach and the Atlantic Ocean.

The beach is wide and picturesque although it’s not the best for swimming due to the strong waves and stones on the shore. Surfing is a popular activity here so you may test your skills or take a lesson or two.

Near to the beach, it’s worth checking out a bit of odd construction – the clifftop shiphouse, which served as the Spanish Naval Secretariat.

Tiznit, a town in southwestern Morocco, has a rich history dating back to the 17th century. In 1881, Sultan Moulay Al Hassan founded Tiznit as a base from which he could assert his authority over the rebel Berber tribes to the south. To do this, he built the city walls. The town’s strategic location facilitated trade routes and contributed to its growth. 

Tiznit witnessed the emergence of a resistance movement led by Moulay Ahmed Al Hiba Maa Al Ainine (Blue Sultan) in 1912 when the protectorate treaty was signed. With the support of the tribes of the Souss and the Sahara, he led an army towards Marrakech but ended up defeated by the French. He eventually took refuge in the Anti-Atlas, where he continued the resistance until his death from an illness in 1919.

Tiznit is renowned for its unique architecture, characterized by red-earth ramparts built to protect the town. The medina, a maze of narrow streets and alleys, showcases traditional Moroccan craftsmanship, particularly in silver jewellery production, for which the town is famous. The city’s name, Tiznit, is derived from the Berber language, meaning “the lock,” which alludes to its fortified nature. 

How to get there?

You can fly into Al Massira Airport (AGA) in Agadir or take a bus or grand taxi from there or any other city in Morocco. It’s about 100 km and 1.5 hours drive from Agadir. Check your connections at 12go.com.

For those who prefer to be independent, I recommend using the service of Click’n’Go Car Rental. Very friendly guys and easy to contact on WhatsApp. I ended up renting a Renault Clio for the whole month and got a nice price.

The best time to visit

The best time to visit Tiznit is during the spring (March to May) and fall (September to November) when the weather is mild and pleasant. Summer can be quite hot, while winter brings cooler but enjoyable temperatures. Choosing spring or fall ensures a comfortable climate for enjoying nearby beaches and exploring the city and its surroundings.

Where to stay?

My overnight stay in Tiznit was rather spontaneous and as soon as I arrived, I looked for a hotel with decent reviews. Hotel Restaurant Patisserie Amoudou offered nice, spacious, clean and well-furnished rooms for only 200 MAD. Very friendly staff and video-guarded parking space. They also have a restaurant and bakery which is very good.

How long to stay there?

Tiznit is a small town so you won’t need more than a few hours to walk around the town. It’s a convenient stopover place between Souss-Massa National Park and Lagzira Beach or Sidi Ifni.

What to see in town?

Source Bleue

The legend has it that a woman of ill repute named Lalla Zninia stopped to rest here in what was then a plain desert. She spent the next three days repenting her wicked ways, and God was so impressed that he showed forgiveness by having a spring gush beneath her feet. Today the spring is like a shallow pool with some birds and local people chilling around.

Almassjid Alkabir

The Great Mosque of Tiznit with its minaret bristling with wooden poles was built in line with the style of Sahelian mosques. The legend suggests this is where the souls of the dead congregate. This place of worship is closed to non-Muslims.

Kasbat Aghanaj

A massive 19th-century fortress. The door was open so I could go inside for free and see the restored internal courtyard, but there was nothing else to do.

Bab Lakhmis and Bab Tarwga

Historic city gates look particularly nice at sunset. Bab Tawga leads towards farm fields and the oasis.

What to see out of town?

Souss-Massa National Park

The Souss Massa National Park has been a natural reserve since 1991 and it covers an area of 33,800 hectares. It is located between Agadir to the north and Sidi Ifni to the south, including the landscape of the coastline, dunes, marshes and the steppes.

Over 300 plant species and over 30 fauna species can be found there, including the Oryx antelope and the Dorcas gazelle, as well as foxes and wild cats. Moreover, the Souss Massa Natural Park is home to the world’s largest colony of Bald Ibis and the wetlands act as a stopover for many other migratory birds.

Read more in a separate post HERE.

Agadir, located along Morocco’s southern Atlantic coast, has a history marked by diverse influences. In 1505, the Portuguese established a trading post, followed by the Saadians in the 16th century. Agadir thrived as a bustling port city until it faced a devastating event in 1960 – the Agadir earthquake, which resulted in widespread destruction and significant loss of life. 

Following the earthquake, around half of the population perished and Agadir was rebuilt with modern infrastructure and urban planning. Today, it is a popular tourist destination known for its beaches, souks, and vibrant culture, blending the remnants of its historic past with contemporary developments.

How to get there?

You can fly into Al Massira Airport (AGA) or take a bus or grand taxi from other cities in Morocco. Check your connections at 12go.com.

The best time to visit

The best time to visit Agadir is during the spring (March to May) and fall (September to November) when the weather is mild and pleasant. Summer can be quite hot, while winter brings cooler but still enjoyable temperatures. Choosing spring or fall ensures a comfortable climate for enjoying the beach but also exploring the city and its surroundings.

Where to stay?

During my 2 months trip around Morocco, I visited Agadir twice. I didn’t stay in a resort as these kinds of places aren’t my style, so I picked reasonably rated hotels a bit further from the beach, but still within walking distance.

The first time I stayed at Hotel Kamal City Center. The room was old-fashioned and without air conditioning so it was getting really hot during the day and it was already autumn. I can’t imagine staying there in the summer! On the positive side, I asked for a room with fast internet and I got one. The price was reasonable and the location was excellent.

The second time I checked in to Hotel Lynx and it was excellent. Very friendly receptionist, spacious room and bathroom, air-conditioning, fast internet, small balcony and plenty of restaurants around. The location is a bit further from the beach but still, it’s a 25 minutes walk or less than 10 minutes taxi ride, so very acceptable.

How long to stay there?

The typical visit could range from 3 to 7 days, allowing time to explore the city, relax on the beaches, and possibly take a day trip to some nearby attraction. Though it’s really up to personal preferences, I know people who like going for a typical resort-style holiday and staying in Agadir for 2 weeks. If you want to laze around, then it will be a place for you. If you are an adventure seeker, pack your things and get around southern Morocco and the Sahara.

What to see in town?

Kasbah

It was built in 1541 and luckily survived the 1960 earthquake. Unfortunately, today only the outer walls remain and the interior can’t be visited. There are amazing views from the hilltop and it’s highly recommended to visit in the late afternoon and wait for sunset.

You have 3 options to get there: cable car, taxi and walking. The first one is certainly the most fun. A shared car costs 120 MAD for foreigners and the whole construction looks very modern and safe. If you travel in a group, you may consider taking a private car.

Jardin de Olhao

A nice little oasis in the busy centre of Agadir. Great to escape the afternoon heat and read a book on a bench or play with the children. In the southwest corner, there is a small museum, dedicated to the 1960 earthquake. Information boards aren’t in English but you can see the photos of the town before the tragedy.

Museum of Amazigh Culture

I expected more about the Berber and Amazigh cultures but only found a few carpets and jewellery. The rest was contemporary art which I am personally not a big fan of. The entrance ticket for foreigners costs 40 MAD.

Marina

Modern port with plenty of holiday apartments, shops, cafes and restaurants, located at the northern end of the promenade.

Beach and promenade

Clean and well-maintained beach, patrolled by lifeguards and the police so it feels very safe. Deckchairs and umbrellas can be hired and if you need more fun, camel riding, windsurfing, jet skis or surfing can be easily organized.

The promenade is about 4 kilometres long and it’s an excellent place for an evening stroll and a drink in one of the many restaurants and bars along it.

Mohamed V Mosque

The biggest mosque in Agadir. Tourists can`t go inside but it’s still worth a stop to admire the marvellous architecture.

Souk El Had

Huge place where you can expect to find a wide variety of products, including traditional Moroccan handicrafts, leather goods, textiles, spices, fresh produce, and much more. Unfortunately, there are also lots of cheap fakes, so be careful what you are buying and don’t forget to haggle.

Agadir Medina

The recreation of the old Medina which was destroyed by the earthquake in 1960. Quite a few craft shops, artisans and restaurants. Unfortunately, it all feels a bit fake so I wouldn’t waste time coming here if you plan to visit another Moroccan city with real stuff. The entrance ticket costs 40 MAD and it’s a bit out of the way so you need to take a taxi to get there.

What to see out of town?

Taghazout and Tamraght

The fishing villages of Taghazout and Tamraght are located north of Agadir. They are among the most popular beach destinations in the country, well-known for famous surfing spots that are suitable for advanced as well as beginners. 

Read more in a separate post HERE.

Paradise Valley

One of the most popular places to visit from Agadir, also easily accessible from Taghazout or Tamraght. It’s a small oasis with pools scattered all along the river, all in the middle of breathtaking mountains. Instead of swimming, you can do cliff jumping to boost your adrenaline level. Needless to say, be careful as there have been some accidents in the past. For less adventurous, there are a few stands at the beginning of the valley where you can get a table and cool your feet in the water. The easiest to get there is with an organized half-day trip.

Timlalin Dunes

Impressive dunes with stunning views. You can rent equipment and do some sandboarding or simply walk around. The best way to get there is by car and the day trip can be easily connected with a visit to Imsouane which is described below.

Imsouane

Imsouane is a small fishing village located on Morocco’s southwestern coast, about 1 hour 15 minutes drive to the north of Taghazout. Due to its location at the mouth of a large bay, it’s another ideal surfing spot.

Souss-Massa National Park

The Souss Massa National Park has been a natural reserve since 1991 and it covers an area of 33,800 hectares. It is located between Agadir to the north and Sidi Ifni to the south, including the landscape of the coastline, dunes, marshes and the steppes.

Over 300 plant species and over 30 fauna species can be found there, including the Oryx antelope and the Dorcas gazelle, as well as foxes and wild cats. Moreover, the Souss Massa Natural Park is home to the world’s largest colony of Bald Ibis and the wetlands act as a stopover for many other migratory birds.

Read more in a separate post HERE.

Summary

Agadir is a different city than all the others I visited in Morocco. Don’t come here to experience the real vibe and culture of that beautiful northern African country. Tourists are attracted mainly because of the beachfront promenade, great weather and the comfort of staying in the resorts. It’s a typical destination for package-tour holidaymakers, but independent travellers who look after adventure and authentic experience should treat it more like a transit spot rather than a base for a longer stay. Or at least organize some trips out of town 🙂

A brief history of the city

Tetouan, a city in northern Morocco, has a rich history dating back to the 3rd century BCE. Initially settled by the Berbers, it later became a Phoenician and Carthaginian outpost. In the 8th century, it fell under Arab rule and played a significant role during the Islamic period. 

The city’s prominence grew in the 15th century when it became the base for Muslim and Andalusian refugees expelled from Spain. Tetouan became a hub for arts and sciences, blending Islamic, Arab, and Andalusian influences. It served as the capital of the Spanish protectorate in Northern Morocco from 1913 to 1956. 

Today, Tetouan stands as a UNESCO World Heritage site, renowned for its well-preserved historic medina, reflecting its diverse cultural heritage.

How to get there?

Tetouan is one of the most popular and touristy cities in northern Morocco, so it can be reached very easily.

Bus

CTM has a few daily departures from Tangier and Chefchaouen. They have a private bus station so make sure that you inform the taxi driver to take you to CTM Bus Station and not Gare Routiere.

Alternatively, you may use Supratours or any other bus operators which depart from the main bus station (Gare Routiere).

The trip bus takes about 1 hour from Tangier and up to 2 hours from Chefchaouen.

Grand taxi

The grand taxi rank is just next to the bus station in Tangier. The names of the different destinations are written on the walls.

In Chefchaouen, the grand taxi rank is located about a kilometre to the west of Plaza Mohammed V.

The best time to visit

The best time to visit Tetouan is during the spring (April to June) and fall (September to October) when the weather is mild and pleasant. Summer can be quite hot, while winter brings cooler temperatures. Choosing spring or fall ensures a comfortable climate for exploring the city and its surroundings.

Where to stay?

I spent one night at Tetouan House. It’s a private apartment and the family rents affordable rooms to tourists. The room was fine, although a bit cold in December. Don’t expect any luxuries. It’s more about the experience than comfort. The owner is very friendly though and I was welcomed with some cookies and mandarines. The flat is located on the third floor of Dar Tair, a beautiful building with an impressive bronze statue at its top.

If you are looking for more comfort, check what the city has to offer on booking.com

How long to stay there?

One day is enough to see all the sights without rushing and to enjoy some time in the cafe sipping mint tea and observing the local lifestyle.

What to see?

Michouar’s Square and the Royal Palace

This spot offers a good view of the Royal Palace, although you can’t get close to the main gate as it’s fenced off. The tall art-nouveau light towers were designed by Enrique Nieta, a student of Gaudi. Ave Mohammed V connects Michouar’s Square with Moulay El Mehdi Square and is full of beautiful colonial architecture. One can really feel like in Spain! Don’t miss Dar Tair, with an impressive bronze statue at its top, and Cinema Espanol, only a block away.

Dar El Oddi

The family house El Oddi has been restored to its former glory and today the interior looks impressive. Inside are collections of pictures, reproductions, postcards and stamps showing the city of Tetuan.

An entrance ticket costs 25 MAD. Ring the bell and someone from the staff will open it for you.

Madrasa Loukach

One of the highlights of my visit to Tetuan. It’s a building of a former religious school built in 1758 on the order of the Alaouite Sultan Mohammed ben Abdallah with a beautiful garden in the middle. The rooms are themed and well organized, with English translations. Tell me it’s not impressive that students were able to memorize the entire book of the Quran!

Archeology Museum

A small museum with artefacts from the Roman ruins at Lixus (near Larache) which are displayed inside and outside in the gardens. Entry ticket costs only 10 MAD but there are no English translations.

The Regional Nationalist Museum

A small museum in a 19th-century riad with artefacts and photos relating to the struggle for independence. There is also the history of Morocco’s kings. It’s free to visit but there are no English captions.

Bab el-Okla

One of the seven gates that make up the city walls, was built in the 16th century. I would say that it’s the most impressive one. It leads to the maze of shopping streets and eventually, you should end up at the main square with the Royal Palace.

Artisanal School

This is another beautiful example of architecture both outside and inside. The building is located just outside Bab el-Okla. It was closed on the day of my visit but normally you can see students being taught traditional arts (ornamental woodwork, carved plaster, mosaics, costumes).

Ethnographic Museum

A small museum presenting textiles, housewares and other cultural artefacts from Jewish and Muslim residents. You will get nice views of the city and the Rif Mountains from the terrace. The entrance ticket cost 30 MAD and the visit was made very enjoyable by one of the security guys who speaks good English and acts as a guide.

Tannery

Tanneries are traditional places of processing leather. The place is much smaller than the famous one in Fez and there were no craftsmen around on my visit. Lots of leather cuts and garbage can be found lying around. On the plus side is that it’s probably one of few tanneries in Morocco where no one tries to rip you off. It’s free to visit.

Next to it is one of the seven entry gates to the medina: Bab Mkabar, leading to a nearby cemetery.

Moulay El Mehdi Square

A very busy place with the Spanish Consulate on one side and the Church of Our Lady of Victories on the other.

Feddan Park

Another beautiful square in Tetouan and for sure my favourite one! Once you enter it, you will see the view of the white houses in the medina and surrounding hills.

Kasbah

The building itself is closed for restoration and in the future the museum will be opened inside. However, it’s still worth walking around as the views over the medina, cemetery and mountains in the background are simply breathtaking.

Jbel Dersa Park and Tower

For even better panoramic views than from the Kasbah, hike up to the tower located at the top of Jbel Dersa. It’s about 5,5 kilometres if you decide to start in the city centre but you may shorten the distance by taking a taxi to the end of the asphalt road.

Modern Art Museum

The School of Fine Arts is located in the former railway station to Ceuta. The building is beautifully renovated and hosts contemporary Moroccan art plus some temporary exhibitions.

Entrance is free.

Cape Spartel and Hercules Caves are great spots to check out if you’re visiting Tangier for more than one day. Visiting them will take you about half a day, but you can easily make it a full day if the weather is hot enough to let you spend some time enjoying beautiful nearby beaches.

When to go?

The climate on the Moroccan coast is enjoyable for most of the year. The best time to visit Tangier and its surroundings is fall (September to November) or spring (March to May) when the weather is ideal and the holiday crowds aren’t around. I visited in December and it was already a bit too cold for my liking, especially inside accommodations as usually there is no heating.

How to get there?

Cap Spartel is located about 14 kilometres from Tangier and it takes approximately 30 minutes to get there by car.

Grand Taxi

A shared grand taxi is the least expensive option. You will need to wait until the taxi fills up, but usually, it doesn’t take long. I waited for about 20 minutes. Taxis can be found next to Mohammed V Mosque, just before the roundabout if walking from the medina side. Expect to pay 20 MAD per person.

For the way back, grand taxis wait at the roundabout next to Le Mirage and Hercules Caves. If you don’t want to wait for other passengers, expect to pay 80-100 MAD for a private ride back to Mohammed V Mosque in Tangier.

Bus

There is no public bus going to Cap Spartel, however, the Tangier Tourist Hop On Hop Off Bus has a route there. Check the details on their website.

Cap Spartel Lighthouse

Being located at the most north-western point of Africa, it provides beautiful views of the blue sea where the Mediterranean Sea meets the Atlantic Ocean. The lighthouse has been in operation since 1864 and was the first one of its kind along the Moroccan coastline.

One of the most interesting historical events that took place in the area was The Battle of Cape Spartel, on 29 September 1936 during the Spanish Civil War. The engagement took place between two Nationalist cruisers and two Republican destroyers, and broke the Republican blockade of the Strait of Gibraltar, securing the naval supply route to Spanish Morocco for the Nationalists early in the war.

The combined ticket to the lighthouse grounds and the observation deck at the top cost 50 MAD for foreign visitors. There is also a small museum on the ground floor but without any captions in English.

Achakkar Beach

A long sandy beach en route to Hercules Caves, with an option for a camel ride.

Hercules Caves

It’s about 4.5 kilometres from Cap Spartel to Hercules Caves and the path is very scenic so I recommend walking instead of taking a ride. There are some nicely located cafes if you feel like resting and listening to the sound of waves.

When it comes to the caves itself… Well, let’s say it wasn’t the most interesting cave that I have seen in my life. The entrance ticket for foreigners costs 60 MAD and I can honestly call it a rip-off. There is absolutely nothing to see besides opening to the sea with a shape resembling the African continent.

And what does it have to do with Hercules? According to the legend, Hercules spent a night there before stealing the golden apples from the Garden of the Hesperides as part of his 12 labours given to him by King Eurystheus. Ancient Greek writers claimed that the garden was located nearby at Lixus (today it’s an archaeological site near Larache).

The man-made part was used by Berber people to cut stone wheels from the walls. Later on, the Hercules Caves were also used as a brothel and a shelter used by smugglers.

Oualidia is a little fishing town, located between El Jadida and Safi, on the Atlantic Coast. Its location is particularly charming as it’s hidden in the lovely lagoon with calm waters protected from the wind by rocks.

When to go?

The climate on the Moroccan coast is very pleasant for most of the year. The best months for visiting Oualidia are from April to June when the season is still low and there aren’t that many tourists. In the summer holidays, the beach can get very crowded and somehow the charm is partially gone.

How to get there?

Oualidia is located between the cities of Safi and El Jadida. Driving time should take between 1 – 1,5 hours from both locations, depending on the route.

Grand Taxi

A shared grand taxi is the least expensive option however you will need to wait until the taxi fills up. I got one in El Jadida and the waiting time wasn’t longer than 10 minutes. It all depends on the demand and I guess you have better chances for smooth travel if you start early in the morning. You will find the drivers at the crossroads of Av. Attahrir and Av. Echouhada, not far from the Sidi Bouafi Lighthouse.

Bus

CTM has one daily connection from El Jadida which costs 40 MAD and also one from Safi which costs 25 MAD.

What to do in Oualidia?

Don’t plan for an active day as there isn’t that much to do besides relaxing on the beach. And that’s the beauty of it!

Go for a walk

Long, fine sand beaches are ideal for stretching your legs and you can go even as far as Sidi Karam Addaif Beach.

Take a boat trip

Local fishermen will be more than happy to take you on a fishing trip or a simple boat ride to admire salt marshes and hopefully see some interesting birds (best chances in spring and autumn when the migrations happen). You may also rent a kayak and do it yourself although you won’t be able to go that far.

Try some water sports

The lagoon is rather calm but you can find some good spots further afield to practice surfing and windsurfing. Equipment can be rented in the village, or you just may sign up for a lesson with an instructor.

Eat seafood

Many people come to visit just for that. Oualidia is known for its oyster farms but all types of fish and seafood are available. If you want to cook by yourself, you can buy all you need straight from the fishermen. They can be found in the morning hours just next to the corniche where their boats and tents are located.

Extra tip

If you have your own wheel and are planning to continue the trip south towards Safi, there is one more interesting spot to check out – Lalla Fatna Beach. It is known for good waves for surfing enthusiasts and beautiful cliffs.

The fishing villages of Taghazout and Tamraght are located on the southwest coast of Morocco, north of Agadir. They are among the most popular beach destinations in the country, well-known for famous surfing spots that are suitable for advanced as well as beginners. For me, it was a perfect and much-needed escape from the madness of medinas of big cities such as Marrakech of Fes.  

When to go?

If surfing is not the reason for your visit, you will enjoy the place year-round. It’s a semi-arid climate with mild winters and rains are rare.

For surfers, the best period is from October to the end of April, but keep in mind that the waves between December and February can be challenging for beginners.

How to get there?

If travelling from Agadir, your best choice is to buy a seat in a grand taxi. It should cost about 10 MAD to go to Tamraght (20 minutes) and about 15 MAD to Taghazout (30 minutes). You can also get there by local bus (line 32 and line 33), but it will take about 1 hour, and you won’t save much money so it isn’t worth it.

If travelling from Essaouria, you may take a grand taxi heading towards Agadir and ask the driver to drop you off in Taghazout or Tamraght. Alternatively, get a CTM bus. It doesn’t stop in either of those small towns, but you may buy a ticket to Agadir and ask the driver to leave you at the roadside next to the turn-off to Taghazout or Tamraght. From there, it’s an easy 15-minute walk down to the coast. This is what I did, and it worked perfectly well. Just keep in mind that drivers can forget about you, or they change halfway, so besides asking at the beginning of the trip, make a friendly reminder about 10 kilometres ahead of your destination.

How to get around?

You really won’t need much more than your legs. You can easily walk around both villages and take a nice promenade that runs between them (about 6 km). If you get tired, you can always get a taxi or rent a bicycle for a longer trip.

Where to stay?

Both Taghazout and Tamraght have plenty of accommodation options for all budgets. I based myself in Arima Surf House in Tamraght and everything was great. The owners took me on a surfing class and I really enjoyed the experience, even though there is definitely a lot of work ahead of me to become a professional surfer 🙂

What to do in Taghazout and Tamraght?

There aren’t many must-see places and that’s the beauty of both villages. Prime activity is relaxing!

Blue boats line the beach in Taghazout and it’s nice to come here in the early morning to calmly observe the first rays of sun and listen to the waves. You may also stroll on the streets of the village and even though it’s very compact, it’s also very picturesque.

Watch the surfers or be the surfer! Walk to Madraba Beach and chill there, observing surfers at their best at nearby Anchor Point. There are also plenty of surf schools all around Taghazout and Tamraght so if you feel like trying to catch some waves in Morocco, there won’t be a better occasion.

For straightening your legs, I recommend following the seaside promenade all the way to Tamraght. It’s about 6 kilometres. There, you can check out Imourane Beach, Tamraght Beach and the Devil’s Rock. Come back to Taghazout by taxi in case you have had enough of walking 🙂

Each day should be concluded with observing the sunset and those can be really spectacular. And don’t forget to get some seafood for dinner!

Paradise Valley

One of the most popular places to visit from Agadir, also easily accessible from Taghazout or Tamraght. It’s a small oasis with pools scattered all along the river, all in the middle of breathtaking mountains. Instead of swimming, you can also do some cliff jumping to boost your adrenaline level. Needless to say, be careful as there have been some accidents in the past. For less adventurous, there are a few stands at the beginning of the valley where you can get a table and cool your feet in the water. The easiest to get there is with an organized half-day trip.

Timlalin Dunes

Impressive sand dunes with stunning views. You can rent equipment and do some sandboarding or simply walk around. The best way to get there is by car and the day trip can be easily connected with a visit to Imsouane which is described below.

Imsouane

Imsouane is a small fishing village located on Morocco’s southwestern coast, about 1 hour 15 minutes drive to the north of Taghazout. Due to its location at the mouth of a large bay, it’s another ideal surfing spot.