Summer is knocking on our doors here in Morocco, and Tangier is preparing for another season of welcoming visitors from around the world. As someone who has explored every corner of this magnificent city, I'm excited to share with you the most beautiful beaches for summer in Tangier that will make your coastal adventure unforgettable.
Living in Tangier for years, I've watched the sunrise over the Mediterranean and sunset over the Atlantic from the same city—a privilege few places on earth can offer. Today, I want to take you on a journey along Tangier's Mediterranean coastline, sharing the beaches that locals like me treasure and visitors fall in love with.
Why Tangier's Beaches Are Special
Tangier sits at the crossroads of two worlds—literally. This unique city faces both the Mediterranean Sea and the Atlantic Ocean, giving it a diverse collection of beaches that each tell their own story. The beaches I'll share with you today are all located on the Mediterranean side, stretching from the city center to the charming town of Ksar Sghir.
What makes these Tangier beaches perfect for summer 2025 is not just their natural beauty, but the authentic Moroccan coastal experience they offer. Unlike heavily commercialized beach destinations, these spots still maintain their local character while providing the amenities modern travelers need.
Getting to Tangier's Coastal Gems
Before we dive into each beach, let me share some practical advice. If you're not bringing your own car, public transportation is your friend. From the main bus station near the roundabout, you can catch:
- Bus lines 3, 12, or 8 for 8 dirhams—these buses stop at all the beaches I'll mention
- Shared taxis for 20 dirhams per person
I always recommend the bus for budget travelers, but if you're in a group, shared taxis offer more comfort and flexibility.
Playa Blanca (Shat Al-Amerat): The Crown Jewel
My first stop is always Playa Blanca, also known locally as Shat Al-Amerat (Princesses Beach). Located just 7 kilometers from Tangier city center, this beach holds a special place in my heart—and in the hearts of locals who consider it their favorite escape.
The Journey Down
I'll be honest with you: reaching Playa Blanca requires a bit of adventure. There's a steep path of about 800-900 meters that winds down to the beach. It's frustrating that in 2025, we still don't have better access, but trust me—the descent is worth every step.
When you arrive, you'll find two parking areas. I always recommend staying at the upper parking area, especially if you're driving. There's a lovely café there with stunning views over the beach, and the lower parking fills up quickly since this is such a popular spot among locals.
What Makes It Special
The moment you see Playa Blanca, you'll understand why it's beloved. The sand is golden and fine, the water crystal clear, and the beach, while small, is absolutely beautiful. Local authorities do an excellent job maintaining cleanliness, making it perfect for families and couples alike.
A word of caution: The water gets deep quite quickly—after just 3 meters, you'll be swimming rather than wading. Parents with young children should keep this in mind.
For accommodation, there are a few rental houses available, though options are limited. Ask the parking attendant for current prices and availability. You'll also find small restaurants and a convenience store, though dining options are somewhat basic.
Sidi Kankouch: The Local Favorite
Just three minutes drive from Playa Blanca, you'll discover Sidi Kankouch, another gem that locals and visitors cherish equally. The 3-kilometer distance between these beaches makes it easy to visit both in the same day.
Fresh Local Flavors
What I love about Sidi Kankouch is the entrance experience. Local vendors sell fresh fruits from the region right at the beach entrance—and the prices are very reasonable. There's something magical about enjoying fresh, local produce while sand between your toes and salt air filling your lungs.
The Beach Experience
The parking area is conveniently close to the beach—just a one or two-minute walk. Like Playa Blanca, this beautiful beach recently experienced some changes. Local authorities conducted a campaign to reclaim public domain space, temporarily removing chairs and umbrellas from commercial operators.
If you're planning to visit, I suggest bringing your own umbrella and beach essentials. The beach itself is pristine and perfect for swimming, but come prepared for a more authentic, less commercialized experience.
Oued Alian: Space and Serenity
About 16 kilometers from Tangier (approximately 25 minutes of normal driving), Oued Alian offers a different kind of beach experience. The access road winds down about 300 meters to reach the parking area, but the journey through Morocco's coastal landscape is half the adventure.
Facilities and Features
This larger beach comes equipped with more facilities than the previous two. You'll find:
- Public toilets
- Lifeguards during peak season
- Free umbrellas (when available)
- Several restaurants and shops
The water here is clean and perfect for swimming. During summer, this beach becomes quite busy, but its size means you'll always find your own space to relax and enjoy the Mediterranean sun.
Currently, due to the public domain reclamation campaign I mentioned, chairs and umbrellas might not be available from vendors, so pack accordingly.
Ksar Sghir: The Complete Coastal Experience
The crown jewel of this coastal journey is Ksar Sghir, about 30 kilometers from Tangier (40 minutes of scenic driving). This isn't just a beach destination—it's a charming small town that offers the complete Moroccan coastal experience.
Why Ksar Sghir Stands Out
Unlike the other beaches, Ksar Sghir provides all the facilities that summer visitors need:
- Multiple accommodation options at reasonable prices
- Numerous restaurants with affordable, delicious local cuisine
- Full safety services including lifeguards and civil protection
- Clean, well-maintained facilities
- Multiple beach entrances
The Journey There
The drive to Ksar Sghir along National Road 13 is absolutely stunning. You'll travel along a beautiful coastal route where mountains meet the Mediterranean Sea. The scenery is so breathtaking that the drive becomes part of the experience—you'll see panoramic views that perfectly capture Morocco's natural beauty.
Beach and Town Experience
Ksar Sghir's beach is large, beautiful, and equipped with everything you need. The water is warm and inviting, perfect for extended swimming sessions. The town itself is charming—small but complete, with friendly locals who embody the famous Moroccan hospitality.
You can easily spend several days here, enjoying the relaxed pace of coastal life while having access to all modern amenities. The proximity to Tangier Med Port adds to the area's accessibility and development.
Practical Tips for Your Beach Adventure
Based on my years of exploring these beaches, here are essential tips for your Tangier beaches summer 2025 adventure:
Transportation
- Early morning visits offer the best parking and fewer crowds
- Bring cash for parking fees and local vendors
- Public transport is reliable and economical for budget travelers
What to Pack
- Your own umbrella and beach chairs (especially important this season)
- Sunscreen (the Mediterranean sun can be intense)
- Plenty of water and snacks
- Waterproof bag for valuables
Best Times to Visit
- Early morning (before 10 AM) for peaceful beach time
- Late afternoon (after 4 PM) for beautiful light and smaller crowds
- Weekdays if possible, to avoid weekend rush
Cultural Respect and Environmental Awareness
As you enjoy these beautiful beaches, remember that you're experiencing local treasures. Respect the environment by cleaning up after yourself, and embrace the opportunity to interact with local vendors and restaurant owners. A simple "Salam" (hello) and a smile go a long way in Morocco.
These beaches represent the authentic side of Moroccan coastal life—places where families gather, friends reconnect, and visitors become temporary locals. The recent public domain campaigns show how seriously Morocco takes preserving these natural spaces for future generations.
Planning Your Perfect Beach Day
Each of these beaches offers something unique:
- Choose Playa Blanca for intimate beauty and local atmosphere
- Pick Sidi Kankouch for fresh local flavors and quick access
- Select Oued Alian for space and better facilities
- Opt for Ksar Sghir for a complete coastal town experience
You could easily create a beach-hopping itinerary, visiting 2-3 beaches in a single day, or choose one and make it your base for deeper exploration.
Your Tangier Beach Adventure Awaits
Summer 2025 in Tangier promises to be magnificent, and these beaches will be at the heart of the coastal magic. Whether you're seeking adventure, relaxation, cultural immersion, or simply the perfect Instagram shot, Tangier's Mediterranean coastline delivers.
I'd love to hear about your own beach discoveries in Tangier! Have you visited any of these spots? Do you have a favorite beach that I should explore next? Share your experiences in the comments below—your insights help fellow travelers and locals alike discover new perspectives on our beautiful coastline.
What beach will you visit first this summer? Let me know, and maybe I'll see you there, sharing mint tea and stories under the Moroccan sun!