When I first heard about Oued Elian Beach from a local friend in Tangier, I wasn't sure what to expect. "It's one of the most beautiful beaches near our city," he told me with that sparkle in his eyes that Moroccans get when they're about to share a secret. After my first visit to this stunning coastal village, I understood exactly what he meant. Oued Elian Beach near Tangier has become one of my favorite escapes – a place where golden sand meets crystal-clear water, and where you can experience authentic Moroccan beach culture away from the tourist crowds.
Located just 35 kilometers from Tangier, this hidden gem offers everything you could want from a Mediterranean beach day: pristine waters, family-friendly atmosphere, and that special Moroccan hospitality that makes every visit memorable.
Getting to Know Oued Elian Village
Oued Elian is more than just a beach – it's a charming coastal village that belongs to the rural commune of Ksar Sghir in the Fahs-Anjra province. What makes this location special is its position: just 35 kilometers from Tangier and 77 kilometers from Tetouan, making it easily accessible for day trips or longer stays.
The village sits beautifully along the coast, where the Oued Elian river meets the Mediterranean Sea. This natural setting creates a unique landscape that's both dramatic and peaceful – exactly what you need when you want to escape the hustle and bustle of city life.
How to Get to Oued Elian Beach Tangier
From Tangier
Getting to Oued Elian Beach from Tangier is straightforward and affordable. You have several transportation options:
By Bus: The most economical choice is taking bus line 3 or 12, which costs only 8 dirhams. You can catch these buses right in front of Tangier's train station. The journey takes about 45 minutes, and the buses run regularly throughout the day.
By Shared Taxi: If you prefer a faster option, shared taxis are available from the same location near the train station. The fare is 20 dirhams per person, and the journey is quicker than the bus. Just remember – shared taxis in Morocco only leave when they're full, so you might wait a few minutes for other passengers.
From Ksar Sghir
If you're staying in Ksar Sghir, you also have two bus lines available, plus shared taxis for 20 dirhams.
By Private Car
Driving to Oued Elian Beach is convenient, with decent parking available near the beach. The coastal road from Tangier offers beautiful views, making the journey part of the experience.
Pro Tip: When you arrive, always tell your driver "Put me at the sea entrance" (in Arabic: "Hattni fi dukhla dial bahr"). This ensures you'll be dropped at the right spot.
Beach Entrances and Parking at Oued Elian
The beach has two main entrances, and knowing about both will help you choose the best option for your visit:
Main Walking Entrance
The primary entrance is perfect if you're arriving by public transport or prefer a short walk. This entrance leads directly to the main beach area and is close to the village center. There's a small parking area here, shaded by trees – a blessing during hot summer days.
Second Entrance (Car-Friendly)
The second entrance is longer but more suitable for those arriving by car. It leads to a larger parking area further from the beach. This entrance is ideal if you're bringing lots of beach equipment or planning to stay the whole day.
Both entrances are free, and the walk from parking to the beach is short and easy.
What Makes Oued Elian Beach Special
Crystal Clear Waters and Golden Sand
The water at Oued Elian Beach Tangier is remarkably clean and perfect for swimming. The sea depth is manageable – you'll find about 4 meters depth close to shore, and around 7-8 meters when the tide is high. This makes it safe for families while still offering good swimming for adults.
The sand is that beautiful golden color that Morocco's Mediterranean coast is famous for. It's clean and well-maintained, perfect for building sandcastles with kids or simply relaxing with a good book.
Family-Friendly Atmosphere
What I love most about Oued Elian is its authentic family atmosphere. This isn't a resort beach with loud music and crowded bars. Instead, it's where Moroccan families come to enjoy quality time together. You'll see children playing in the sand while their parents prepare traditional tagines nearby, and friends gathering around small fires in the evening.
Safety and Facilities
The beach is supervised by civil protection, lifeguards, and auxiliary forces, making it safe for swimming and family activities. However, facilities are basic – there are toilets available, but they're limited in number. The authorities could definitely add more to serve the growing number of visitors better.
Natural Beauty Beyond the Beach
The coastline at Oued Elian offers more than just beach lounging. There's a rocky area extending into the sea where fishing enthusiasts can try their luck. The river mouth creates interesting tidal pools and provides a different landscape to explore.
For those who love quiet corners, the beach extends for about 800 meters until it reaches Dalia Beach, offering plenty of space to find your perfect spot.
Food and Dining at Oued Elian Beach
Beach Food Vendors
Right on the beach, you'll find several food stalls offering fresh grilled sardines for 30 dirhams. There are also tagine vendors selling meat or chicken tagines ranging from 80 to 100 dirhams. While these prices might seem high for beach food, remember you're paying for the convenience and the experience of eating fresh seafood with your feet in the sand.
Village Restaurants
For more affordable dining, head to the village center where you'll find local restaurants and snack bars serving fast food at better prices. I particularly enjoyed eating at a local restaurant in the village center, where I had grilled sardines for 25 dirhams and a delicious fish tagine for just 10 dirhams.
Drinks and Refreshments
You can find tea, coffee, and all kinds of soft drinks both on the beach and from mobile vendors. If you want coffee or want to buy supplies, there are several grocery stores in the village with reasonable prices.
Personal Experience: I stopped at a local café before heading to the beach and enjoyed mint tea with a bottle of water for 10 dirhams. The owner was incredibly friendly, and we chatted about the best times to visit the beach.
Accommodation Near Oued Elian Beach Tangier
Hotel Options
There's a charming hotel called "Hotel Tarifa" located on the route before you reach the beach. Prices are reasonable: 500 dirhams for one person per night, 700 dirhams for two people, and 850 dirhams for three people. The hotel includes a swimming pool, which is a nice bonus.
Vacation Rentals
Many visitors prefer renting houses or apartments, especially for longer stays. Prices range from 800 to 1000 dirhams depending on the type of house, furnishings, and sea view. However, most rentals are arranged through Facebook groups, particularly those for Tangier residents.
Important Tip: When booking accommodation, always ask if it's close to the main road and near the beach. Some cheaper options (250-300 dirhams) are located up in the hills, far from both the beach and village center.
Luxury Options
For those wanting more upscale accommodation, there are several complexes starting from 1000 dirhams per night, offering more amenities and better locations.
Best Time to Visit Oued Elian Beach
Swimming Season
The beach is perfect for swimming from late spring through early fall. During summer months (June, July, August), the water is warmest and the atmosphere most lively.
Crowd Levels
Unlike some of Morocco's more famous beaches, Oued Elian never feels overcrowded. Even during peak summer months, you can find quiet spots to relax and enjoy the natural beauty.
Sunset Viewing
The beach faces north, making it perfect for enjoying stunning Mediterranean sunsets. I recommend staying until sunset at least once – the view is absolutely magical.
What to Bring to Oued Elian Beach
Essential Items
Since parasol rental isn't readily available, bring your own sun protection. The Moroccan sun can be intense, especially during midday hours.
Pack plenty of water, sunscreen, and snacks if you want to save money on beach food.
Beach Activities
The beach is perfect for:
- Swimming and water activities
- Beach football or volleyball
- Fishing from the rocky areas
- Picnicking (many families bring tagines and cook on the beach)
- Photography – the scenery is stunning
Exploring Beyond the Beach
The Village Center
Take time to walk through Oued Elian village. You'll find grocery stores, pharmacies, cafés, and local restaurants. The village has that authentic Moroccan coastal town feel that's increasingly rare.
Nearby Mosque
There's a mosque near the second entrance if you need to pray during your visit.
Day Trip Combinations
Oued Elian works perfectly as part of a larger coastal exploration. You could combine it with visits to Ksar Sghir or continue along the coast to discover other hidden beaches.
Practical Tips for Visiting Oued Elian Beach Tangier
Money Matters
Bring cash – most vendors and restaurants don't accept cards. ATMs are available in the village if needed.
Language
While Arabic and Berber are the local languages, many people speak French. English is less common, but don't let that stop you – Moroccans are incredibly welcoming and patient with visitors trying to communicate.
Cultural Sensitivity
This is a family beach frequented by local Moroccan families. Dress modestly, especially when walking through the village. Swimwear is fine on the beach, but cover up when heading to restaurants or shops.
Environmental Respect
Help keep this beautiful beach clean by taking your trash with you. The local community works hard to maintain the natural beauty of their coastline.
Why Oued Elian Beach Should Be Your Next Moroccan Adventure
After visiting many beaches along Morocco's Mediterranean coast, Oued Elian Beach near Tangier stands out for its authenticity and natural beauty. It's not the most developed beach resort, and that's exactly what makes it special. Here, you experience Morocco as locals do – family-oriented, welcoming, and deeply connected to the natural environment.
Whether you're looking for a peaceful day trip from Tangier, a family-friendly beach experience, or simply want to discover a side of Morocco that many tourists never see, Oued Elian delivers an unforgettable experience.
The combination of clean waters, golden sand, affordable food, and genuine Moroccan hospitality makes this beach a true hidden gem. It's the kind of place that reminds you why you fell in love with Morocco in the first place.
Your Turn to Explore
Have you visited Oued Elian Beach, or are you planning a trip? I'd love to hear about your experiences or help answer any questions about visiting this beautiful corner of Morocco. What's your favorite hidden beach near Tangier? Share your stories in the comments below – I always enjoy connecting with fellow Morocco enthusiasts and learning about new places to explore.
And if you do make it to Oued Elian, don't forget to try the grilled sardines and take time to chat with the locals. Some of my best Moroccan memories come from these simple, authentic moments by the sea.
Planning more Moroccan beach adventures? Check out our guides to other stunning coastal destinations around Tangier and the northern regions.