Things to do · Rabat
Rabat is an Atlantic capital, and its relationship with the ocean runs from the surf break beneath the kasbah to the long Corniche south of the centre. The water is brisk and the swell can be strong, but the seafront is where the city unwinds — surfers, families, joggers and café-goers sharing the same salt air. Here is what to do along Rabat's coast.
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The sandy beach where the Bou Regreg meets the Atlantic, tucked beneath the Kasbah des Oudayas ramparts. Sheltered by the river mouth, it fills with local families on warm afternoons and is the easiest beach to reach from the medina.
The reef and beach break by the river mouth is Rabat's best-known surf spot, working on Atlantic swells through the cooler months. Local surf clubs offer board hire and lessons for beginners and improvers.
The seafront boulevard running south from the centre, lined with cafés, walkers and joggers above the rocks and sand. A favourite spot for an early-evening stroll with the Atlantic wind and sunset over the water.
A broad, open Atlantic beach about 15 km north of the city near Sidi Bouknadel, popular for its space and waves. The surf is stronger here, so it suits confident swimmers and surfers more than small children.
Across the river mouth, Salé's long stretch of sand draws big local crowds in summer and offers a wide, breezy walk with views back toward the kasbah and Rabat's ramparts.
Cafés and fish restaurants line the Corniche and the beachfront below the medina, serving mint tea, grilled sardines and fresh-caught seafood with the ocean a few steps away.
The terrace and ramparts of the Kasbah des Oudayas look straight out over the river mouth and ocean, making them one of the finest free sunset spots in the capital.
Paths and promenades link the city beach, the river marina and the Corniche, giving an easy few kilometres of flat, breezy walking between the medina and the open Atlantic.
Yes, in summer, but the Atlantic here is cool with a real swell and rip currents, so swim where it is supervised, take care at Plage des Nations, and keep children close. The sheltered city beach by the kasbah is the calmest.
Rabat has a reliable beach and reef break at the Bou Regreg river mouth by the Oudayas, working best on autumn-to-spring Atlantic swells. Local surf clubs rent boards and run lessons.
The Corniche is the seafront boulevard running south from the city centre along the Atlantic, lined with cafés and walking paths. It is a short taxi ride from the medina and a popular evening promenade.
The sheltered city beach below the kasbah is easiest and calmest; Plage des Nations to the north is broader and better for surf; Salé beach across the river is the busiest in summer. Mehdia, near Kenitra, is another option further north.
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