The Mediterranean coastline of Morocco holds countless treasures, but few compare to the pristine beauty of Plage Stehat. Tucked away along the northern shores, this expansive beach offers visitors a perfect blend of natural splendor and authentic Moroccan coastal culture. During my recent exploration of this remarkable destination, I was struck by its unspoiled charm and the warmth of the local community.
What makes Plage Stehat truly special isn't just its size—though at three kilometers long, it's officially the largest beach in Chefchaouen province—but its ability to cater to every type of traveler. Whether you're seeking tranquil family time or vibrant summer energy, this coastal gem delivers an unforgettable Mediterranean experience.
Getting to Plage Stehat: Your Journey to Paradise
Located strategically along National Route 16, which connects Tetouan and Al Hoceima, Plage Stehat sits perfectly positioned for easy access from multiple directions. The beach welcomes visitors from various starting points: 70 kilometers from Tetouan, 28 kilometers from Ouazzane, and approximately 74 kilometers from the famous blue city of Chefchaouen.
For those preferring public transportation, shared taxis offer the most practical solution. From Tetouan, expect to pay around 50 dirhams, while travelers from Ouazzane can reach the beach for just 25 dirhams. The taxi drops you right at the main roundabout, conveniently located just one kilometer from the shoreline.
If you're driving your own vehicle, you'll appreciate the abundance of parking options scattered along the entire coastline. Unlike many popular beaches where parking becomes a nightmare during peak season, Stehat offers numerous parking areas at various entry points, making access refreshingly stress-free.
Two Beaches in One: Understanding Plage Stehat's Unique Layout
One of the most fascinating aspects of Plage Stehat is its natural division into two distinct sections, separated by a striking rock formation that serves as both a landmark and a decision point for visitors.
The Lively Eastern Section
The right side of the beach pulses with summer energy and activity. Here, you'll find families enjoying beach games, vendors offering refreshments, and the general buzz of a popular coastal destination. This section features more amenities and services, including kayak rentals at 40 dirhams per session—a fantastic way to explore the coastline from a different perspective.
Water sports enthusiasts gravitate toward this area, where the atmosphere encourages social interaction and shared beach experiences. The kayaking opportunities are particularly rewarding, offering stunning views of the coastline and the chance to venture into deeper waters safely.
The Tranquil Western Section
Cross over the central rock formation, and you'll discover an entirely different world. The left side of Plage Stehat offers a more peaceful, family-oriented environment perfect for those seeking relaxation and quiet contemplation. The contrast is remarkable—what takes a minute to walk between becomes a choice between two completely different beach experiences.
This quieter section appeals particularly to families with young children and visitors who prefer to enjoy the Mediterranean's beauty without the crowds. The same pristine waters lap at both shores, but the atmosphere here encourages reflection and peaceful enjoyment of nature's beauty.
Crystal Clear Waters: The Mediterranean at Its Finest
The water quality at Plage Stehat deserves special mention. The Mediterranean here displays its most inviting character—crystal clear, warm, and safe for swimming. The transparency of the water allows you to see the sandy bottom clearly, while the gentle waves create perfect conditions for both swimming and wading.
What struck me most during my visit was the water's remarkable purity. In an age where coastal pollution concerns many travelers, Stehat's pristine conditions offer reassurance and pure enjoyment. The water temperature remains comfortable throughout the swimming season, making it ideal for extended beach days.
The beach's safety record speaks to both the natural conditions and the presence of civil protection services, ensuring families can enjoy the water with confidence.
Accommodation Options: From Budget to Beachfront
Plage Stehat offers accommodation options to suit various budgets and preferences. The pricing structure follows a logical pattern—the closer to the beach, the higher the cost, while properties further inland offer more budget-friendly alternatives.
Beachfront Properties
Prime beachfront accommodations command premium prices, with apartments directly facing the sea starting around 450 dirhams per night. These properties offer the ultimate convenience—imagine stepping out of your accommodation and being on the sand within a minute.
A typical beachfront apartment includes a comfortable living room, bedroom, kitchen facilities, bathroom, and often a terrace or balcony with direct sea views. The immediate beach access makes these properties particularly appealing for families or groups planning extended stays.
Budget-Friendly Alternatives
For budget-conscious travelers, options starting at 150 dirhams per night are available in the town center. While these require a short walk to reach the beach, they provide excellent value and keep you close to local restaurants, shops, and services.
The town of Stehat itself offers everything needed for a comfortable stay, with numerous signs displaying contact numbers for available rentals throughout the area.
Dining at Plage Stehat: Flavors of the Mediterranean Coast
The culinary scene at Plage Stehat reflects both its coastal location and Moroccan heritage. Dining options range from beachside kiosks to full-service restaurants, ensuring every appetite and budget finds satisfaction.
Beachfront Dining
Several restaurants operate directly on the beach, offering the perfect combination of fresh sea air and delicious food. The pricing remains reasonable, with most dishes falling between 20 and 50 dirhams.
Popular menu items include:
- Breakfast options: 40-45 dirhams
- Fresh salads: 30-40 dirhams (including variety salads at 40 dirhams and fruit salads at 40 dirhams)
- Chicken salad: 70 dirhams
- Spaghetti dishes and brochettes
- Sandwiches and burgers: 30-50 dirhams
- Paninis and snack items
Town Center Restaurants
For a broader culinary experience, especially to sample regional specialties and fresh seafood, venture into Stehat's town center. Here, multiple restaurants and cafes offer traditional Moroccan dishes alongside Mediterranean-influenced coastal cuisine.
The town center also provides shopping opportunities for beachwear, summer clothing, and any items you might have forgotten to pack.
Essential Beach Amenities and Services
Plage Stehat comes well-equipped with essential amenities that enhance the visitor experience. The beach provides public restrooms, civil protection services for safety, and walkways that facilitate easy access to the water's edge.
The presence of civil protection services adds an important safety dimension, particularly valuable for families with children or less confident swimmers. These services operate throughout the peak season, providing both peace of mind and emergency response capabilities when needed.
Multiple entry points along the coastline mean you can choose your preferred location based on desired amenities and atmosphere. Each access point connects to the comprehensive walkway system that makes navigation easy and safe.
Planning Your Visit: Seasonal Considerations
While Plage Stehat welcomes visitors year-round, the summer months offer the full coastal experience with all services operational and optimal weather conditions. During peak season, the beach showcases its dual personality most clearly, with the lively section buzzing with activity while the tranquil side maintains its peaceful character.
The three-kilometer length means even during busy periods, finding your perfect spot remains possible. Early morning visits offer the most serene experience, while afternoon and evening hours bring the social energy that many beach-goers seek.
Beyond the Beach: Exploring the Surrounding Region
Plage Stehat's strategic location makes it an excellent base for exploring northern Morocco's diverse attractions. The proximity to Chefchaouen opens possibilities for day trips to the famous blue city, while the coastal position allows exploration of other Mediterranean beaches and fishing villages.
The connection via National Route 16 facilitates easy travel to Tetouan with its rich Andalusian heritage, or eastward toward Al Hoceima and the broader Rif Mountain region.
Making the Most of Your Plage Stehat Experience
To fully appreciate what Plage Stehat offers, consider spending at least two days here. This allows time to experience both sections of the beach, try different dining options, and perhaps explore some coastal activities like kayaking.
Pack sun protection, as the Mediterranean sun can be intense, especially during midday hours. The clear water and reflective sand amplify sun exposure, making proper preparation essential for comfortable enjoyment.
Don't miss the opportunity to interact with local residents and fellow travelers. The friendly atmosphere at Stehat encourages connections and often leads to discovering hidden gems or local recommendations that guidebooks miss.
Your Stehat Beach Adventure Awaits
Plage Stehat represents Morocco's Mediterranean coast at its most welcoming and authentic. Whether you're drawn by the promise of pristine waters, the convenience of excellent amenities, or the charm of a genuine coastal community, this remarkable beach delivers experiences that linger long after your visit ends.
Have you visited Plage Stehat or other hidden gems along Morocco's Mediterranean coast? I'd love to hear about your experiences and any tips you'd share with fellow travelers. What draws you most to Morocco's coastal destinations—the natural beauty, the cultural richness, or perhaps the perfect blend of both?
Share your thoughts in the comments below, and let's continue exploring Morocco's