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Tanger-Tétouan-Al Hoceïma
Al Hoceïma
Turquoise coves and limestone cliffs, the Mediterranean's quiet Rif gem.
Best time
May–September for the beaches; spring is lovely too
Ideal length
2–3 days
Airport
Cherif Al Idrissi (AHU); or by road from Tangier / Fès
Languages
Amazigh (Rifian) & Arabic; Spanish widely spoken
Currency
Moroccan dirham (MAD)
Safety
Relaxed and safe; a low-key, local-feeling resort town
On the Mediterranean coast of the Rif, Al Hoceïma is Morocco's under-the-radar seaside escape: a compact, Spanish-flavoured town wrapped around a sweep of beaches and hidden coves, backed by dramatic white cliffs. The water is clear, warm and startlingly blue.
Beyond the town lies Al Hoceïma National Park, a stretch of wild coast and limestone mountains where ospreys nest and empty calas can only be reached by boat. For travellers who want the Mediterranean without the crowds, it is a revelation.
A Mediterranean gem
Founded in the 1920s and long shaped by Spanish and Rifian influences, Al Hoceïma feels different from Morocco's imperial cities, more Mediterranean village than medina. Its main draw is simple and superb: some of the country's prettiest beaches and coves, in a compact, walkable setting.
The national park
Al Hoceïma National Park protects a rugged coastline of white limestone cliffs, secret calas and Mediterranean forest, together with important birdlife including one of North Africa's osprey populations. Boat trips from town reveal hidden beaches, sea caves and clear water ideal for swimming and snorkelling.
When to go
Summer (May–September) is beach season, when the town comes alive and the sea is at its warmest. Spring is quieter and beautiful for the coast and hills. Winters are mild but cooler, better suited to walking than swimming.
Neighborhoods
Where to base yourself.
Each quarter is a different Al Hoceïma, we help you pick the right one.
The town beach
Quemado Beach
The golden crescent below the town centre, framed by cliffs.
Spanish-flavoured
The town centre
A relaxed grid of cafés and squares with a Mediterranean feel.
Hidden coves
The calas
Secluded turquoise coves along the coast, some reached only by boat.
Wild coast
Al Hoceïma National Park
Cliffs, forest and calas west of town, rich in birdlife.
Things to do
The experiences worth the journey.
Iconic
Cove-hop by boat
Cruise the coast to hidden calas and sea caves for swimming and snorkelling.
The essential
Relax on Quemado Beach
The town's golden beach, easy and beautiful beneath the cliffs.
Nature
Explore the national park
Cliff-top drives and walks with ospreys overhead and empty beaches below.
Food
Fresh seafood by the port
The day's catch grilled simply, one of the coast's great pleasures.
Views
Peñón viewpoint
Gaze across to the little Spanish islet in the bay from the corniche.
Budget
What a day in the city costs.
Indicative per-person, per-day guidance to shape your trip, your final itinerary is quoted precisely.
Comfort
€60–120 pp/day
A seafront guesthouse, cove-hopping and fresh grilled fish by the port.
Premium
€150–280 pp/day
A boutique or beach hotel, a boat day into the national park and coastal drives.
Luxury
€350+ pp/day
The finest available coastal stay with private guiding and boat excursions.
Where to stay
Sleep somewhere that becomes part of the story.
From courtyard riads inside the walls to palm-grove retreats, we match the address to you.
A seafront guesthouse
A relaxed base steps from Quemado Beach and the town cafés.
Illustrative, matched to a vetted partner property when you book.
A boutique coastal hotel
A few well-done rooms with sea views and easy cove access.
Illustrative, matched to a vetted partner property when you book.
A cliffside retreat
Pools and panoramas above the Mediterranean, away from the centre.
Illustrative, matched to a vetted partner property when you book.
Food & drink
What to eat, and where.
The must
Grilled Mediterranean fish
Superb fresh fish and shellfish landed along this rich stretch of coast.
Crossroads
Spanish-Rifian flavours
Tapas-style plates reflecting the town's Spanish heritage.
The ritual
Seafront café culture
Mint tea or coffee with a sea view, the pace of the Mediterranean north.
Good to know
Frequently asked questions.
Yes, if you want an uncrowded Mediterranean escape: clear turquoise coves, a relaxed Spanish-flavoured town and a wild national park. It pairs well with Chefchaouen and the north for travellers seeking beaches away from the tourist trail.
Ready to see Al Hoceïma properly?
Tell us what you have in mind and a Morocco specialist will design a private itinerary for you within 48 hours, no obligation.