Welcome to the 2025 summer season, and let me introduce you to one of the most beautiful beaches near Tangier - Dalia Beach Tangier! As someone who's explored Morocco's coastline extensively, I can tell you that this hidden gem offers something truly special. Located in the village of Dalia in the Fahs-Anjra province of the Tangier-Tetouan-Al Hoceima region, this stunning beach combines golden sand, crystal-clear waters, and authentic Moroccan coastal charm.
Just 50 kilometers from Tangier city and 22 kilometers from Fnideq, Dalia Beach Tangier provides the perfect escape from bustling city life. Whether you're a solo traveler, family with children, or adventure seeker, this coastal paradise has something for everyone.
Getting to Dalia Beach: Your Transportation Guide
From Tangier City
By Bus (Most Economical)The number 3 bus departs from beside Tangier's train station and costs just 8 dirhams. The journey takes you close to the beach, dropping you at the Mediterranean Port roundabout. From there, it's a pleasant 10-minute walk down to the shore.
By Taxi
- To the upper roundabout: 30 dirhams
- Direct to beach entrance: 35 dirhams
- Shared taxis (grands taxis): 15-25 dirhams depending on your negotiation skills
From Fnideq
Taxis cost 20 dirhams from the station, or you can catch one from the main road for 15 dirhams. They'll drop you at the beach entrance, leaving just a 6-minute walk to the sand.
From Ksar es-Seghir
Budget-friendly taxis and shared transport cost only 10 dirhams and take you directly to the beach.
Pro tip: If you're carrying heavy bags and taking the bus, there's a shorter path that leads directly to the beach - just ask locals for "tariq mukhtasar" (the short road).
Where to Stay Near Dalia Beach Tangier
Accommodation options cater to different budgets and preferences:
Beachfront Properties: Starting from 500 dirhams per night, these offer immediate beach access and stunning sea views.
Hillside Accommodations: From 300 dirhams per night, located about 10 minutes' walk uphill from the beach. The climb back up can be challenging, but the views are worth it!
Local Neighborhood (Al-Houma): The most budget-friendly option at 200 dirhams per night, though you'll need your own transportation as it's slightly inland.
Note: If you're staying in Ksar es-Seghir, it's very convenient with 10-dirham taxi rides to the beach.
Dining and Food Options
Breakfast with a View
I discovered a charming café nestled in the forest overlooking the beach. For 30 dirhams, you get a complete Moroccan breakfast: mint tea, olives, two eggs, cheese, argan oil, water, and fresh bread. The panoramic sea view makes it even more special! (Though I'd personally say 25 dirhams would be more reasonable for the portion size.)
Traditional Fishing Port Café
At the traditional fishing port, there's a lovely café serving breakfast, fresh juices, and mint tea. A normal coffee costs 12 dirhams, and they offer meals during summer season.
Restaurants and Fast Food
- Beachside restaurants and grocery stores are available
- A hilltop restaurant serves fast food and sandwiches, with delivery to the beach during summer
- Tuna sandwich with onion and tomato: 18 dirhams
- Mahalabia (rice pudding): 12 dirhams
My recommendation: Bring your own food or prepare a tagine in the beautiful forest area - it's a local tradition and adds to the authentic experience!
What Makes Dalia Beach Tangier Special
Crystal Clear Waters
The water at Dalia Beach Tangier is remarkably clean and clear - perfect for swimming and snorkeling. Parents with children will appreciate that the beach is relatively shallow near the shore, making it safer for little ones.
Golden Sand Quality
The sand is pure, golden, and perfect for sunbathing or beach games. Its fine texture makes walking barefoot a pleasure.
Stunning Location
This beach overlooks the Strait of Gibraltar, where you can watch boats passing between Morocco and Spain. At just 14 kilometers from the Spanish coast, it's one of the closest points to Europe - making for incredible sunset views!
Free Beach Amenities
- Complimentary umbrellas (arrive early as they're limited!)
- Public showers
- Clean restroom facilities
- Paved walkway to the beach
- Civil protection and lifeguard services
Activities and Attractions
Rocky Beach Section
Adjacent to the main beach, there's a rocky area with pristine waters where locals come to prepare tagines and enjoy cliff jumping. Caution: If you're planning to jump, be very careful and assess the depth first.
Sailing School
At the fishing port entrance, there's a sailing school where you can practice water sports. The location is perfect due to consistent coastal winds.
Diving Club
For underwater enthusiasts, a diving club offers experiences starting at 400 dirhams for a 3-hour session. What impressed me most is their environmental commitment - they collect plastic waste from the sea and recycle it into useful items like portable phone chargers!
Forest Area
The adjacent forest is perfect for picnics and tagine preparation. Many Moroccan families spend entire days here, enjoying traditional meals in nature's embrace.
Important Things to Know
Weather Considerations
- Water temperature can be quite cold, even in summer
- Strong eastern winds are common in this area
- The beach faces north, so it can be breezy
Parking
Multiple parking areas are available, including spaces that fill up during busy summer periods. Parking is generally free, but arrive early during peak season.
Safety and Regulations
Since this area is close to Spain, camping is prohibited. If authorities find you camping, you'll face problems due to the sensitive border location.
Prayer Facilities
The village mosque is conveniently located at the beach entrance for those who need to pray.
Best Time to Visit Dalia Beach Tangier
Summer months offer the warmest weather and full amenities, but the beach is beautiful year-round. Spring and early fall provide comfortable temperatures with fewer crowds - perfect for those seeking a more peaceful experience.
During summer, arrive early morning to secure free umbrellas and enjoy the beach before it gets crowded. The golden hour before sunset is magical, especially with views across the strait.
Cultural Insights and Local Life
Dalia Beach Tangier represents authentic Moroccan coastal life. Unlike heavily touristed beaches, this remains a place where local families gather, fishermen work their traditional boats, and the pace of life follows natural rhythms.
The traditional fishing port showcases Morocco's maritime heritage, and watching the colorful boats come and go provides insight into local livelihoods. The sailing school trains young Moroccans in water sports, showing how traditional fishing communities are adapting to modern recreational activities.
Planning Your Perfect Day
Morning (8:00 AM - 12:00 PM)
- Arrive early for parking and umbrellas
- Enjoy breakfast at the forest café
- Explore the traditional fishing port
Afternoon (12:00 PM - 6:00 PM)
- Beach time, swimming, and sunbathing
- Try diving or sailing if interested
- Explore the rocky beach section
Evening (6:00 PM onwards)
- Watch sunset over the Strait of Gibraltar
- Enjoy dinner at local restaurants
- Take the evening transport back to your accommodation
Your Dalia Beach Adventure Awaits
Dalia Beach Tangier offers everything I love about Morocco's coast - natural beauty, authentic culture, and warm hospitality, all just a short journey from Tangier. Whether you're seeking adventure, relaxation, or cultural immersion, this hidden gem delivers.
The combination of golden sand, clear waters, forest picnic areas, and proximity to the Strait of Gibraltar creates an unforgettable experience. Plus, with budget-friendly transportation and accommodation options, it's accessible for travelers of all types.
Have you visited Dalia Beach Tangier, or are you planning a trip? I'd love to hear about your experiences or help answer any questions about this beautiful coastal destination. Share your thoughts in the comments below!
FAQ
Dalia Beach is located 50 kilometers from Tangier city, approximately a 1-hour journey by bus or taxi.
The most economical option is the number 3 bus (8 dirhams) from beside the train station. Taxis cost 30-35 dirhams depending on your exact destination.
Yes, beachfront properties start from 500 dirhams per night, hillside accommodations from 300 dirhams, and budget options in the local neighborhood from 200 dirhams.
Absolutely! The water is clean and relatively shallow near shore, plus there are free umbrellas, showers, and lifeguard services available.
No, camping is prohibited due to the beach's proximity to the Spanish border. Authorities strictly enforce this regulation.
Swimming, sunbathing, diving (400 dirhams for 3 hours), sailing lessons, cliff jumping at the rocky section, and forest picnicking.
Summer offers the warmest weather and full amenities, but spring and early fall provide comfortable temperatures with fewer crowds.
Yes, there are beachside restaurants, a forest café with sea views, and a hilltop restaurant that delivers to the beach during summer.