When you think of Morocco, what comes to mind? For many people, images of exotic markets, golden sand dunes and stunning mosques come to mind. Of all the places in Morocco, the city of Al Hoceima is a hidden gem that offers tourists a unique experience.
Al Hoceima is Morocco’s beach capital and is located on the Mediterranean Sea. The city has a laid-back atmosphere and is known for its clean, turquoise beaches.
Al Hoceima is also known for its fishing industry, so visitors can enjoy plenty of activities such as swimming, sunbathing, accompanied with the freshest seafood.
So, if you are planning on visiting Al Hoceima soon, here is our list of the best things to do.
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The best time to visit Al Hoceima city is certainly outside the peak summertime from (May to September). The high season in Al Hoceima gets super crowded with locals looking for a beach escape. This makes it hard to find a good spot on the beach and enjoy some peace and quiet.
So, if you want to enjoy what Al Hoceima has to offer without having to worry about the crowds, we recommend visiting during the low season from (October to April). The weather is still pleasant and you’ll have the city pretty much to yourself.
Best Things To Do In Al Hoceima
The best part of Al Hoceima has to be its beaches. The water is clean and clear, the sand is soft and white and there are plenty of beaches that leave us spoilt for choice.
Quemado beach is one of the best beaches in Al Hoceima. This beautiful beach was voted among the top 100 beaches in the world for its clear water and lovely sand. The beach is also great for swimming, sunbathing and surfing.
Quemado is perfectly placed in the center of Al Hoceima so it is easily accessible. The second good thing about this beach is the accommodation options nearby. The Hôtel Mercure Quemado Resort is just a few steps away from the beach.
Sfia beach is a beautiful and secluded beach located east Al Hoceima. This beach is perfect for those who want to escape the crowds and enjoy some secluded time. The beach is clean and the water is crystal clear. And just 250 meters away from the beach, there is a lovely little island called El peñón d’Al Hoceima which is a military stronghold.
If you are into pebbly beaches then this is the beach for you. This secluded beach is located about 20 minute’s drive from the center of Al Hoceima, which means it is much less crowded than the previously mentioned beaches.
The beach is beautiful with white pebbles and clear waters and you can even enjoy barbecued sardines for lunch at the nearby cafes and restaurants.
If you are staying in Al Hoceima for a few days, then you will need a good place to stay. There are plenty of accommodation options in Al Hoceima ranging from budget hotels to luxury resorts.
By staying at Quemado Al Hoceima resort, you will be just a few steps away from the lovely Quemado beach and literally a 10 minute walk from the center of the Al Hoceima.
The resort has every amenity you could possibly need for a comfortable stay including a swimming pool, spa and fitness center. Plus, Quemado is located a few kilometers from the nearest airport in the region, Cherif Al Idrissi Airport.
Souani Hotel is another perfectly located hotel in the city. This hotel is located in Al Hoceima bay, just a few meters from the Sfiha beach this time.
The hotel is a bit far from the center of the city but if you have a rental car it would not be a problem taking the short drive. And if you are lucky you will get a room with an excellent view overlooking the beach and Al Hoceima Islands.
Unlike other cities in Morocco, Al Hoceima is famous for its stunning beaches and that’s why it’s really difficult to find things to do that are not related to the beach.
Al Hoceima National Park is located outside the city and you will need to either hire a car or rent a taxi to get there. And honestly, you should because from this location you can witness some of the most beautiful landscapes in Morocco.
There isn’t much activity you can do in the park. There are no defined hiking trails or developed picnic areas but the scenery is so beautiful that it makes up for it.
Al Hoceima Port is one of my favorite places in the city when I’m feeling for seafood. It’s a lovely walk from the center of Al Hoceima. The place comes alive at night but you can also visit at lunchtime.
The port is lined with fish sellers and you can find anything from sardines to squid to lobster. And the best part is that you can buy the fish and have it grilled at one of the nearby grillers with an outdoor seating area.
They will serve your fish accompanied with salads, bread and drinks and this will be the best budget dinner or lunch you will have.
If you want to try Scuba diving in Morocco, there is no better place than Al Hoceima. This is one of the few places in Morocco where you can experience a wide variety of marine life. Al Hoceima has plenty of certified dive centers that offer diving trips for all levels.
Taking a boat trip is a splendid way to see Al Hoceima’s coast from a different perspective. There are plenty of tour companies that offer private and group packages.
Depending on the tour company, the ride could last up to a few hours and it usually includes stops for swimming and snorkeling. And some of the boat tours offer stops at nearby beaches and islands for swimming and picnics.
Al Hoceima is absolutely stunning and there is so much to do in this lovely city. You will never be bored in Al Hoceima. I hope this guide has given you some ideas about how to enjoy your stay in Al Hoceima.
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