Things to do in Al Hoceima

Ultimate Guide to Things to Do in Al Hoceima: Morocco’s Hidden Mediterranean Paradise

Nestled between the dramatic Rif Mountains and the Mediterranean’s azure waters, Al Hoceima offers more than just stunning beaches it’s a captivating blend of natural wonders, rich culture, and authentic Moroccan charm that remains surprisingly uncrowded. Having spent extensive time exploring this coastal haven, I’m excited to share the most complete and up to date Al Hoceima tour guide that goes beyond the usual tourist trail.

Whether you’re seeking pristine beaches, breathtaking hiking trails, or immersive cultural experiences, this comprehensive guide will equip you with insider knowledge, practical tips, and carefully crafted itineraries to make your visit to Al Hoceima truly unforgettable.

Quick Navigation: Top 5 Must Do Activities in Al Hoceima

Before diving into the details, here are the absolute must-experience highlights of Al Hoceima:

1. Relax at Quemado Beach : The crown jewel of Al Hoceima’s coastline with crystal-clear turquoise waters and stunning cliff backdrops
2. Explore Al Hoceima National Park : Home to rare Mediterranean flora and fauna, including the endangered Osprey
3. Sunset Stroll Along the Corniche : Experience local life while enjoying breathtaking coastal views
4. Fresh Seafood Feast : Savor the day’s catch at one of the authentic portside restaurants
5. Boat Tour of the Coastal Cliffs : Marvel at the dramatic limestone formations and hidden coves only accessible by water

Al Hoceima’s Stunning Coastline: Beyond the Postcards

Quemado Beach (Plage Quemado)

This magnificent stretch of coastline is the crown jewel of Al Hoceima attractions. With its powder-soft sand and crystal clear turquoise waters, Quemado Beach captivates visitors instantly. What makes it truly special are the dramatic rocky cliffs that frame the bay, creating a natural amphitheater effect.

Unique Selling Point: The perfect combination of accessibility and beauty just a short taxi ride from the city center yet offering stunning natural scenery.

Actionable Tips: Visit before 10am to secure a prime spot and enjoy the morning tranquility. The beach has basic facilities including umbrella rentals (30-40 MAD) and a couple of small cafés. The south end offers the best swimming conditions with fewer rocks underfoot.

Insider Nugget: Follow the small path leading up the southern cliff for a breathtaking panoramic view perfect for photography. The 15-minute climb is worth every step.

Cala Bonita

A more secluded option with a wilder feel, Cala Bonita offers a peaceful escape from the more popular beaches. The cove is surrounded by pine trees, creating welcome shade during hot summer days.

Unique Selling Point: The perfect mix of forest and sea, with excellent snorkeling opportunities along the rocky edges.

Actionable Tips: Bring your own supplies as facilities are limited. The morning offers the calmest waters for swimming. Accessible by taxi or car, with a small parking area available.

Insider Nugget: Look for the hidden path behind the main beach area that leads to an even more secluded cove you might have it all to yourself even in peak season!

Sfiha Beach

This expansive beach is popular with locals and offers a more authentic experience away from tourist crowds. The waters here are slightly deeper, making it ideal for stronger swimmers.

Unique Selling Point: Wide sandy beach with plenty of space even during busy periods, backed by dramatic cliffs.

Actionable Tips: There’s natural shade from the cliff face in the late afternoon. Basic facilities include a small snack stand and restrooms during summer months.

Insider Nugget: Chat with the fishermen who dock their colorful boats at the northern end in the early morning they sometimes sell a portion of their fresh catch directly to beachgoers.

Plage Rmod

Located about 20 minutes east of the city center, Plage Rmod features a long stretch of golden sand and calm, shallow waters ideal for families.

Unique Selling Point: Much less crowded than central beaches, with gentle slopes perfect for children.

Actionable Tips: Best reached by car or grand taxi (approximately 30-40 MAD one-way). Bring an umbrella as shade is limited, and pack a picnic to enjoy a full day of relaxation.

Insider Nugget: The eastern end features interesting rock formations that create small tide pools during low tide a fascinating mini-ecosystem for curious explorers.

Exploring Nature’s Masterpiece: Al Hoceima National Park & Beyond

Park Overview

Al Hoceima National Park is one of Morocco’s most impressive natural treasures, spanning both land and sea. Created in 2004, this 48,460-hectare protected area features spectacular coastal cliffs, Mediterranean forest ecosystems, and critical habitat for endangered species. The park represents one of the last refuges for the rare Osprey in the Mediterranean region.

Specific Activities

Hiking

Torres Trail: This moderate 3-hour hike (6 km) takes you through pine forests before emerging at dramatic coastal viewpoints. The trail is well marked with yellow and white blazes and starts near Cala Iris village.

• Difficulty: Moderate
• Highlights: Spectacular cliff-top views, possible Osprey sightings, Mediterranean flora
• Tips: Start early, wear sturdy shoes, and bring plenty of water. A local guide is recommended for first time visitors (arrange through your accommodation or at the park office for 200-300 MAD).

Bades Peninsula Circuit: A more challenging 5-hour loop (12 km) that circles the peninsula, offering panoramic views of both the Mediterranean Sea and the Rif Mountains.

• Difficulty: Challenging
• Highlights: Complete coastal perspective, historic ruins, diverse ecosystems
• Tips: This trail requires good fitness levels. Guided tours highly recommended.

Birdwatching

The cliffs between Cala Iris and Torres provide excellent opportunities to spot the rare Osprey, along with peregrine falcons and various seabirds. Early morning (6-9am) offers the best viewing conditions. Bring binoculars!

Boat Trips

Boat excursions reveal the true majesty of the park’s coastline—towering cliffs, hidden caves, and pristine coves inaccessible by land. Tours typically last 2-3 hours and cost between 250-400 MAD per person, depending on the boat size and route.

What You’ll See: The iconic “Elephant Rock” formation, nesting sites of rare birds, crystal-clear waters perfect for swimming stops, and if you’re lucky, dolphins playing in the distance.

Coastal Drives

For those preferring to explore by car, the road connecting Al Hoceima to Cala Iris offers spectacular viewpoints. Don’t miss the overlook at Playa de los Alemanes, with its vertigo-inducing cliffs and turquoise waters below.

Practicalities

• Park Entrance: Free, but some areas require permits (obtain at the park headquarters near Rouadi)
• Opening Hours: Open year-round, but ranger stations operate 8am-6pm
• Best Season: Spring (April-May) for wildflowers or September-October for mild weather and fewer visitors
• What to Pack: Sunscreen, hat, sturdy shoes, water bottle, binoculars, and camera

Local Perspective: “The park changes dramatically with the seasons. Visit after the first autumn rains to see the landscape transform from golden to green overnight it’s like witnessing nature’s magic trick,” shares Mohammed, a local guide with 15 years of experience.

Immerse Yourself: City Life, Culture & History

The Port (Puerto de Al Hoceima)

The beating heart of Al Hoceima life, the port transforms throughout the day. In the early morning, it buzzes with fishermen unloading their night catches a symphony of sights, sounds, and smells. The colorful wooden boats contrast against the blue waters, while the scent of grilled fish wafts from nearby food stalls.

By midday, the action shifts to the small fish market where locals haggle over the freshest offerings. Evening brings families and couples for sunset strolls along the harbor wall.

Place Mohammed VI (Central Square)

This renovated central square serves as Al Hoceima’s social hub. By day, it’s a relaxed meeting place where locals chat on benches under the shade of palm trees. As evening falls, the square transforms into a lively gathering spot with families promenading, children playing, and the surrounding cafés filling with patrons enjoying mint tea and people watching.

Cultural Insight: Enjoying a slow mint tea at a café overlooking Place Mohammed VI while watching the sunset is a quintessential Al Hoceima experience. Order “atay nana” (mint tea) and practice the local custom of pouring it from height to create the characteristic foam.

Explore the Corniche

Al Hoceima’s scenic waterfront promenade stretches for nearly 2 kilometers, offering spectacular views of the Mediterranean. The wide, palm lined walkway connects the city center with eastern beaches. This is where locals gather for evening constitutionals, with benches positioned strategically for ocean viewing.

The Corniche is at its most magical during “golden hour” before sunset, when the light bathes the coastline in warm hues and fishermen return to port.

Architectural Influences

A stroll through Al Hoceima reveals its unique Spanish colonial influence a legacy of the Spanish Protectorate era (1912-1956). Notice the distinctive architecture in the city center, particularly around Rue Hassan II, where buildings feature characteristic balconies, colorful tiles, and arched doorways. The central market building also showcases this architectural fusion.

Local Markets

The Municipal Market (open 8am-1pm, 4pm-7pm daily except Mondays) offers an authentic shopping experience. The ground floor focuses on fresh produce, meats, and spices, while the upper level features artisanal goods including Riffian textiles, pottery, and locally-produced olive oil.

Cultural Tip: Bargaining is expected but should be done respectfully. Start at about 60-70% of the initial asking price. Small denominations of dirhams are appreciated by vendors.

Taste of Al Hoceima: A Seafood Lover’s Paradise

As a coastal city, Al Hoceima’s cuisine revolves around the bounty of the Mediterranean, with some dishes showing Spanish influence alongside traditional Moroccan flavors.

Must-Try Dishes

• Grilled Sardines (Sardines à la Plancha) : Simply prepared with olive oil, salt, and sometimes a chermoula marinade
• Fish Tagine : Slow cooked local fish with preserved lemons, olives, and aromatic herbs
• Paella Marroquí : A Moroccan take on the Spanish classic, featuring local seafood and spices
• Brochettes de Poisson : Fish skewers grilled over charcoal, often served with fresh bread and salad
• Rfissa with Seafood :  A local variation of this Moroccan dish featuring shredded pancakes with seafood instead of the traditional chicken

Dining Experiences

Portside Casual Eateries

For the most authentic experience, visit the simple eateries lining the port area. These no frills establishments serve the freshest catch at reasonable prices. Point to your preferred fish, and they’ll grill it on the spot.

Mid-Range Restaurants

Several restaurants in the city center offer more comfortable dining environments while maintaining authentic flavors.

Specific Recommendations

Restaurant La Playa : Located near Quemado Beach, this established restaurant is known for excellent seafood tagines and panoramic sea views from its terrace. Their fish pastilla (seafood in crispy pastry) is a standout dish that blends Moroccan traditions with local seafood.

Casa Paca : This family run establishment near the port offers a unique fusion of Moroccan and Spanish flavors. Their paella marroquí has developed a loyal following among both locals and visitors.

Foodie Tip : Don’t be afraid to try the smaller, less flashy eateries near the port often offering the best value and most authentic flavors. Ask for the “plat du jour” (daily special) for the freshest options.

Practical Planning Toolkit

Best Time to Visit

Spring (April-May): Ideal weather with temperatures ranging from 18-25°C (64-77°F). The landscapes are lush and green after winter rains, and wildflowers carpet the national park. Accommodation prices are moderate, and beaches are peaceful.

Summer (June-August): Peak tourist season with temperatures between 25-30°C (77-86°F). Beaches are at their most vibrant, and the sea temperature is perfect for swimming (24-26°C/75-79°F). Accommodation prices increase by 30-50%, and advance booking is essential.

Fall (September-October): A sweet spot with warm temperatures (20-26°C/68-79°F), fewer crowds, and still-warm sea temperatures. Ideal for hiking and outdoor activities.

Winter (November-March): The quietest season with temperatures between 12-18°C (54-64°F). Some businesses close, but you’ll have beaches to yourself. Occasional rainfall rejuvenates the landscape. Best for budget travelers with hotel prices dropping by up to 40%.

Getting There & Away

By Air: Al Hoceima Cherif Al Idrissi Airport (AHU) receives domestic flights from Casablanca (1-hour flight) and seasonal international flights. Nador International Airport (NDR, 2.5 hours by car) offers more international connections.

By Road:

• From Fes: 4-5 hours (310 km)
• From Tangier: 4 hours (250 km)
• From Chefchaouen: 3 hours (150 km)
• Regular CTM and Supratours buses connect Al Hoceima to major Moroccan cities.

By Sea: Seasonal ferries connect Al Hoceima to Almería, Spain (6-hour journey).

Getting Around Town

Petit Taxis: These blue taxis operate within city limits. Fares start at 7 MAD during daytime, with most in-town journeys costing 15-25 MAD. Always ensure the meter is running or agree on a price beforehand.

Grand Taxis: These white Mercedes sedans connect Al Hoceima to nearby beaches and villages. They operate on fixed routes with set prices (typically 10-40 MAD per seat) or can be hired privately by the hour (approximately 150 MAD/hour).

Walking: The city center and Corniche are easily explored on foot. The distance from downtown to Quemado Beach is about 20 minutes walking.

Car Rental: Available from 250-350 MAD per day. Parking can be challenging in the city center during summer evenings.

Accommodation Snapshot

Budget: Guesthouses and basic hotels from 150-300 MAD per night Mid-Range: 3-star hotels and apartments from 350-600 MAD per night Luxury: Radisson Blu Resort and beachfront properties from 900-1,500 MAD per night

Essential Tips

Language: Arabic and Berber (Tamazight) are widely spoken. Spanish is surprisingly common due to the region’s history and proximity to Spain, more so than French. Basic English is understood in tourist establishments.

Currency: Moroccan Dirham (MAD). ATMs are available throughout the city center. Credit cards are accepted at larger hotels and restaurants but bring cash for smaller establishments.

Safety: Al Hoceima is generally safe for tourists. Exercise normal precautions regarding valuables. Female travelers report feeling comfortable but should dress modestly especially when away from beaches.

Connectivity: Major Moroccan telecom companies (Maroc Telecom, Orange, INWI) offer tourist SIM cards with data starting at 50 MAD. WiFi is available in most accommodations and cafés.

Budget Guidance:

• Budget: 400-600 MAD/day
• Mid-Range: 700-1,200 MAD/day
• Luxury: 1,500+ MAD/day

Suggested Itineraries

The Perfect Weekend (3 Days)

Day 1:

• Morning: Arrive and settle in, explore city center and Place Mohammed VI
• Afternoon: Relax at Quemado Beach
• Evening: Sunset stroll along the Corniche, dinner at a portside restaurant

Day 2:

• Morning: Visit Al Hoceima National Park (Torres Trail)
• Afternoon: Swimming at Cala Bonita
• Evening: Explore the port area, enjoy fresh seafood dinner

Day 3:

• Morning: Boat tour of the coastal cliffs
• Afternoon: Last-minute shopping at the Municipal Market
• Evening: Farewell dinner with views at Restaurant La Playa

Family Fun in Al Hoceima (4 Days)

Day 1: Orientation & Beach Day

• Morning: Explore city center, visit Place Mohammed VI
• Afternoon: Plage Rmod (family-friendly beach with shallow waters)
• Evening: Dinner along the Corniche

Day 2: Nature & Adventure

• Morning: Gentle hike in Al Hoceima National Park (with guide)
• Afternoon: Visit Bades village and its small beach
• Evening: Family dinner at Casa Paca

Day 3: Boat & Beach

• Morning: Family-friendly boat tour (shorter 1.5-hour option)
• Afternoon: Quemado Beach with water sports
• Evening: Sunset at the Corniche, ice cream at local favorite “Délices Glacés”

Day 4: Culture & Relaxation

• Morning: Municipal Market visit, souvenir shopping
• Afternoon: Last swim at your favorite beach
• Evening: Farewell dinner at a restaurant of your choice

Coastal Relaxation & Nature Escape (5 Days)

Day 1: Arrival & Orientation

• Explore city center and Corniche
• Evening: Sunset at Quemado Beach

Day 2: Beach Exploration

• Morning: Quemado Beach
• Afternoon: Walk to nearby Cala Bonita
• Evening: Seafood dinner at the port

Day 3: National Park Adventure

• Full-day guided hike in Al Hoceima National Park
• Evening: Relaxed dinner in town

Day 4: Coastal Beauty

• Morning: Boat tour of inaccessible coves
• Afternoon: Relax at Sfiha Beach
• Evening: Dinner with a view at Restaurant La Playa

Day 5: Cultural Immersion

• Morning: Visit the Municipal Market
• Afternoon: Last beach session
• Evening: Farewell dinner in the city center

Frequently Asked Questions

Are there any tour companies that operate from Al Hoceima?

Yes, several tour operators have offices in Al Hoceima, with Sahara Discovery being the most established and highly rated. They offer everything from local day trips around Al Hoceima to multi-day expeditions connecting the Mediterranean coast with Morocco’s interior highlights including the Sahara Desert. Their local guides provide valuable cultural context and can help you access places that would be difficult to discover independently.

Is Al Hoceima safe for tourists?

Yes, Al Hoceima is generally very safe for tourists. Like anywhere, take normal precautions with valuables. The city has a relaxed atmosphere, and violent crime is rare. Local authorities maintain a visible presence, especially in tourist areas during summer.

Is Al Hoceima expensive?

Al Hoceima is moderately priced by Moroccan standards and quite affordable compared to European destinations. Budget travelers can get by on 400-600 MAD per day, while mid range travelers should budget 700-1,200 MAD daily including accommodation, meals, and activities.

What is Al Hoceima famous for?

Al Hoceima is renowned for its pristine Mediterranean beaches, dramatic coastline, and Al Hoceima National Park. It’s also known for excellent seafood and its unique cultural blend of Berber, Moroccan, and Spanish influences.

Can you swim in Al Hoceima?

Absolutely! Swimming is excellent from May through October, with water temperatures ranging from 18-26°C (64-79°F). The Mediterranean waters are clean and clear, with Quemado Beach and Cala Bonita offering ideal swimming conditions.

Do people speak English in Al Hoceima?

English is less commonly spoken than in major Moroccan tourist destinations. However, you’ll find English speakers in hotels, tour companies, and some restaurants. Spanish is surprisingly widely spoken, more so than French in this region.

What’s the best way to get from Fes to Al Hoceima?

The most convenient option is driving (4-5 hours). Alternatively, CTM and Supratours buses operate daily services between Fes and Al Hoceima (5-6 hours, approximately 120-150 MAD). Shared grand taxis are also available but less comfortable for the long journey.

Conclusion

Al Hoceima truly represents Morocco’s hidden Mediterranean treasure a place where stunning natural beauty meets authentic cultural experiences. What makes this coastal gem special is not just its gorgeous beaches and dramatic landscapes, but the way it has maintained its authenticity while slowly opening to tourism.

Whether you’re swimming in crystal-clear waters, hiking along breathtaking coastal trails, or savoring freshly caught seafood as the sun sets over the Mediterranean, Al Hoceima offers experiences that will stay with you long after your visit.

I invite you to share your own Al Hoceima experiences or questions in the comments below. Have you discovered a special spot not mentioned here? Or do you have specific questions about planning your trip? Let’s continue the conversation!

Start planning your unforgettable trip to Al Hoceima today, and discover why this Mediterranean jewel deserves a prime spot on your Morocco itinerary.