Things to Do in Saidia: The Ultimate Guide to Morocco’s Blue Pearl
Introduction
Welcome to Saidia, Morocco’s stunning “Blue Pearl” and the country’s answer to the Caribbean! With its pristine 14km stretch of golden sand meeting the crystal-clear Mediterranean waters, Saidia has earned its reputation as one of North Africa’s most captivating beach destinations.
Located in Morocco’s northeastern corner near the Algerian border, this charming coastal town offers the perfect blend of relaxation, adventure, culture, and natural beauty. Whether you’re seeking a tranquil beach escape, family-friendly activities, water sports thrills, or a taste of authentic Moroccan culture, Saidia delivers an unforgettable experience for every type of traveler.
Based on extensive research and local insights, this comprehensive guide covers everything you need to know about visiting Saidia – from its famous beaches and water activities to cultural explorations, day trips, dining experiences, and practical travel tips. Let’s dive into discovering all the wonderful things to do in Saidia!
Saidia’s Famous Beaches & Corniche
Saidia’s coastline is its crown jewel, featuring some of Morocco’s most beautiful Mediterranean beaches. Each area along the 14km stretch offers something slightly different for beach lovers.
Plage Centre (Central Beach)
What it is: The main public beach in the heart of Saidia, featuring fine golden sand and shallow, warm waters perfect for swimming.
Why Do It: Experience the lively atmosphere where locals and tourists mingle. The water is incredibly calm and clear, making it ideal for families.
Location: Along Boulevard Mohammed V in central Saidia
Practical Info:
- Cost: Free access
- Best time to go: Early morning for tranquility or late afternoon for people-watching
- Estimated duration: Half-day to full-day visit
Insider Tip: The beach gets crowded during July and August. Visit in June or September for a more peaceful experience with equally perfect weather.
Marina Beach
What it is: A well-maintained beach section adjacent to Saidia’s modern marina development with excellent facilities.
Why Do It: Enjoy a more upscale beach experience with nearby restaurants, shops, and a picturesque backdrop of boats and yachts.
Location: Saidia Marina, northeastern section of the coastline
Practical Info:
- Cost: Free access (beach clubs charge for loungers/umbrellas: 50-100 MAD)
- Best time to go: Midday to sunset for marina views
- Duration: Full day, combined with marina exploration
Insider Tip: The best sunset views are from the western edge of Marina Beach where you can see the sun setting over the water and mountains in the distance.
Blue Pearl Beach
What it is: A quieter stretch of coastline away from the main tourist areas with more natural surroundings.
Why Do It: Experience a more secluded beach vibe with fewer crowds and pristine conditions.
Location: Western section of Saidia’s coastline
Practical Info:
- Cost: Free access
- Best time to go: Any time, as it’s less crowded year-round
- Duration: Half-day to full-day visit
Insider Tip: Bring your own supplies as there are fewer amenities here than at the central beaches.
The Corniche
What it is: Saidia’s beautiful beachfront promenade running parallel to the coast, perfect for strolling, jogging, or cycling.
Why Do It: Enjoy spectacular sea views, stop at cafés along the way, and soak in the lively atmosphere of Saidia.
Location: Runs along the central coastline of Saidia
Practical Info:
- Cost: Free
- Best time to go: Early morning for exercise or evening for the sunset and social scene
- Duration: 1-2 hours
Insider Tip: Bike rentals are available near the corniche entrance for about 20-30 MAD per hour – a fun way to explore the entire stretch.
Water Sports & Adventures
Saidia’s calm Mediterranean waters and consistent breezes make it a paradise for water sports enthusiasts of all levels.
Jet Ski Adventures
What it is: Rent jet skis to race across Saidia’s beautiful blue waters for an adrenaline rush.
Why Do It: Experience the thrill of speeding across the Mediterranean while enjoying panoramic views of Saidia’s coastline.
Location: Several rental stands along Central Beach and Marina Beach
Practical Info:
- Cost: 300-500 MAD for 20-30 minutes
- Best time to go: Morning when the sea is calmest
- Duration: Typically sold in 20-30 minute sessions
Insider Tip: Negotiate the price before riding, especially during off-peak season when operators are more willing to offer discounts.
Kayaking & Paddleboarding
What it is: Rent kayaks or stand-up paddleboards to explore the coastline at your own pace.
Why Do It: Perfect for families and those seeking a more peaceful water activity with wonderful views of the shoreline.
Location: Rental shops near Central Beach and the Marina
Practical Info:
- Cost: Kayaks: 100-150 MAD/hour; Paddleboards: 100-150 MAD/hour
- Best time to go: Early morning when the water is calmest
- Duration: 1-2 hours recommended
Insider Tip: Ask for a waterproof bag for your belongings, and paddle east toward the Moulouya River mouth for the most scenic route.
Parasailing
What it is: Soar high above Saidia’s coastline while being pulled by a speedboat.
Why Do It: Experience breathtaking aerial views of Saidia’s entire coastline, marina, and surrounding landscapes.
Location: Operators based near the Marina
Practical Info:
- Cost: 300-400 MAD per person
- Best time to go: Late morning to early afternoon when winds are favorable
- Duration: 15-20 minutes in the air, about 45 minutes total experience
Insider Tip: Book in advance during high season and ask if they offer a photo/video package to capture your experience (usually for an additional 100 MAD).
Sailing Excursions
What it is: Join a sailing trip on a catamaran or traditional boat along Saidia’s coast.
Why Do It: Relax on deck while experiencing the Mediterranean from a different perspective, often including swimming stops and refreshments.
Location: Departures from Saidia Marina
Practical Info:
- Cost: 250-500 MAD per person depending on duration and inclusions
- Best time to go: Afternoon trips often include spectacular sunsets
- Duration: Options from 2-hour trips to full-day excursions
Insider Tip: The full-day trips that include a freshly prepared seafood lunch on board offer the best value and experience.
Exploring Saidia Medina & Culture
Beyond the beaches, Saidia offers rich cultural experiences centered around its traditional Medina (old town).
Saidia Medina Walking Tour
What it is: A self-guided or organized walk through Saidia’s historic Medina quarter with its narrow streets, traditional architecture, and local life.
Why Do It: Experience authentic Moroccan culture away from the tourist beaches and resorts.
Location: Saidia Medina, approximately 3km inland from the beach
Practical Info:
- Cost: Free (self-guided) or 100-200 MAD (guided tour)
- Best time to go: Early morning or late afternoon to avoid midday heat
- Duration: 2-3 hours
Insider Tip: Visit on Wednesday when the weekly souk (market) brings extra vibrancy to the Medina streets.
Hassan II Mosque
What it is: The main mosque in Saidia featuring beautiful Islamic architecture.
Why Do It: Admire the distinctive minaret and peaceful courtyard (non-Muslims cannot enter the prayer hall).
Location: Center of Saidia Medina
Practical Info:
- Cost: Free to view exterior
- Best time to go: Outside prayer times
- Duration: 15-30 minutes
Insider Tip: Visit around sunset when the evening call to prayer creates a particularly atmospheric experience.
Traditional Craft Workshops
What it is: Small workshops where local artisans practice traditional crafts like carpet weaving, pottery, and leather work.
Why Do It: Watch skilled craftspeople at work and learn about Moroccan artistic traditions.
Location: Scattered throughout the Medina
Practical Info:
- Cost: Free to watch; purchases optional
- Best time to go: Weekday mornings when workshops are active
- Duration: 30-60 minutes per workshop
Insider Tip: The small pottery workshop on Rue Mohammed V offers hands-on mini-lessons for about 50 MAD per person.
Beyond the Beach: Nature & Day Trips
Saidia’s strategic location makes it perfect for exploring Morocco’s diverse northeastern region. For those who want to venture beyond self-guided exploration, Sahara Discovery offers expertly guided excursions that showcase the best of the region.
Sahara Discovery Tours & Excursions
What it is: A reputable local tour operator specializing in customized excursions from Saidia, ranging from day trips to multi-day adventures across Morocco.
Why Do It: Experience professional guidance, local expertise, and hassle-free transportation to destinations you might miss on your own.
Location: Office in Saidia Marina complex with hotel pickup available
Practical Info:
- Cost: Day trips: 400-800 MAD per person; Multi-day tours: 1,500+ MAD
- Best time to book: At least 2 days in advance during high season
- Duration: Options from half-day excursions to 7-day adventures
Insider Tip: Sahara Discovery’s signature “Eastern Morocco Explorer” 3-day tour combines highlights of the nearby regions with authentic experiences rarely found in guidebooks, including dinner with a local family in Figuig.
Moulouya River National Park
What it is: A protected wetland area where the Moulouya River meets the Mediterranean, home to diverse bird species and lush ecosystems.
Why Do It: Perfect for nature lovers and bird watchers, offering a stark contrast to Saidia’s beaches.
Location: East of Saidia, approximately 7km from the town center
Practical Info:
- Cost: Free entry; Sahara Discovery offers guided nature tours for 300 MAD including transportation and expert naturalist guide
- Best time to go: Early morning for best bird watching
- Duration: 2-4 hours
Insider Tip: Bring binoculars and follow the east trail for the best chance to spot flamingos and other migratory birds.
Day Trip to Oujda
What it is: Visit to the nearby major city with its vibrant Medina, souks, and historic sites.
Why Do It: Experience a more authentic, less touristy Moroccan city with excellent shopping and cultural attractions.
Location: 60km southeast of Saidia (about 1-hour drive)
Practical Info:
- Cost: 20-30 MAD one-way by grand taxi; 150-200 MAD for a private taxi; Sahara Discovery’s guided Oujda tour: 450 MAD including transportation and local guide
- Best time to go: Weekdays to avoid local weekend crowds
- Duration: Full day
Insider Tip: Visit Parc Lalla Meriem for a relaxing green space and Souk El Had for the best shopping experience.
Cap de l’Eau (Ras El Ma)
What it is: A charming fishing village with stunning coastal scenery and fresh seafood restaurants.
Why Do It: Experience traditional Moroccan coastal life and enjoy some of the freshest seafood in the region.
Location: 25km northeast of Saidia
Practical Info:
- Cost: 100-150 MAD by taxi each way; included in Sahara Discovery’s “Coastal Villages” half-day tour (350 MAD)
- Best time to go: Lunch or dinner time for the best food experience
- Duration: Half-day trip
Insider Tip: Ask your driver to stop at the panoramic viewpoint between Saidia and Cap de l’Eau for spectacular photos of the Mediterranean coastline.
Berkane Orange Orchards
What it is: Tours of the famous orange groves that produce Morocco’s sweetest citrus.
Why Do It: Learn about local agriculture, sample incredibly fresh oranges, and purchase orange-based products directly from producers.
Location: Berkane region, about 30km south of Saidia
Practical Info:
- Cost: 100-150 MAD for transport; Sahara Discovery’s “Taste of Berkane” tour: 400 MAD including orchard visit, tastings, and lunch
- Best time to go: November to February during harvest season
- Duration: Half-day trip
Insider Tip: The cooperative shops sell amazing orange blossom water and orange honey that make perfect souvenirs.
Desert Edge Experience
What it is: A day trip to the northeastern edge of Morocco’s desert landscapes with Sahara Discovery.
Why Do It: Get a taste of Morocco’s famous desert scenery without committing to a long journey to the Sahara proper.
Location: Departs from Saidia to areas south of Oujda
Practical Info:
- Cost: 650 MAD per person (includes transport, guide, lunch, and activities)
- Best time to go: Spring and fall for moderate temperatures
- Duration: Full day (8-10 hours)
Insider Tip: This tour includes a short camel trek and traditional tea ceremony that gives you an authentic desert experience while being back in Saidia for dinner.
Taste of Saidia: Food & Drink Experiences
Saidia offers a delicious blend of traditional Moroccan cuisine and Mediterranean influences, with an emphasis on fresh seafood.
Seafood at Marina Restaurants
What it is: Upscale dining options along Saidia Marina featuring fresh catch of the day.
Why Do It: Enjoy Mediterranean-inspired cuisine with harbor views in a stylish setting.
Location: Saidia Marina
Practical Info:
- Cost: 150-300 MAD per person
- Best time to go: Sunset for dinner with a view
- Duration: 1.5-2 hours
Insider Tip: Restaurant L’Embarcadère offers the best value fixed-price seafood menu that includes their famous sea bass tajine.
Traditional Tajines in the Medina
What it is: Authentic Moroccan slow-cooked stews served in the distinctive conical clay pots.
Why Do It: Experience Morocco’s national dish in its most authentic form.
Location: Small family-run restaurants in Saidia Medina
Practical Info:
- Cost: 60-120 MAD per person
- Best time to go: Lunch (when tajines are freshly prepared)
- Duration: 1-1.5 hours
Insider Tip: Restaurant Oumnia on the main Medina square makes an exceptional lamb and prune tajine not found in the tourist areas.
Café Culture & Mint Tea
What it is: Traditional Moroccan cafés serving sweet mint tea and pastries.
Why Do It: Participate in Morocco’s beloved social ritual while people-watching and relaxing.
Location: Throughout Saidia, with the most authentic cafés in the Medina
Practical Info:
- Cost: 10-15 MAD for mint tea; 15-30 MAD for pastries
- Best time to go: Late afternoon
- Duration: 30-60 minutes
Insider Tip: Café Maroc near the central marketplace serves their mint tea with fresh herbs and pine nuts – a local variation worth trying.
Beachfront Grilled Fish Stands
What it is: Simple food stands serving freshly caught fish grilled over charcoal.
Why Do It: Taste incredibly fresh seafood prepared the local way at extremely reasonable prices.
Location: Near Central Beach and the Corniche
Practical Info:
- Cost: 50-100 MAD per person
- Best time to go: Early evening when the day’s catch is being prepared
- Duration: 30-45 minutes
Insider Tip: Look for stands where locals are eating, and ask for “dorade” (sea bream) – typically the freshest option.
Sahara Discovery Food Tour
What it is: A guided culinary exploration of Saidia’s best local food spots with Sahara Discovery tours.
Why Do It: Discover hidden culinary gems and learn about Moroccan cuisine from knowledgeable guides.
Location: Meets at Saidia Marina
Practical Info:
- Cost: 350 MAD per person (includes all food tastings)
- Best time to go: Early evening
- Duration: 3-4 hours
Insider Tip: Request the extended version that includes a visit to a local home where you can learn to prepare authentic mint tea and Moroccan pastries.
Family Fun in Saidia
Saidia is exceptionally family-friendly, with numerous activities designed with children in mind.
Aqua Parc Saidia
What it is: Water park with slides, pools, and splash areas for all ages.
Why Do It: Perfect entertainment for children and a refreshing break from the beach.
Location: Near Saidia Marina
Practical Info:
- Cost: Adults: 150-200 MAD, Children: 100-150 MAD
- Best time to go: Morning to avoid peak afternoon crowds
- Duration: Half-day to full-day
Insider Tip: Tuesdays typically have reduced prices and smaller crowds, making it the best day to visit.
Mini Golf Marina
What it is: Family-friendly 18-hole mini-golf course with Moroccan-themed obstacles.
Why Do It: Fun activity for all ages with both shade and sea breeze to keep cool.
Location: Saidia Marina complex
Practical Info:
- Cost: Adults: 50 MAD, Children: 30 MAD
- Best time to go: Late afternoon as the day cools down
- Duration: 1-1.5 hours
Insider Tip: Ask about their family package which includes drinks and saves about 20% on regular pricing.
Camel Rides on the Beach
What it is: Short guided camel rides along the beaches of Saidia.
Why Do It: Classic Moroccan experience that children especially love.
Location: Various points along Central Beach
Practical Info:
- Cost: 50-100 MAD for 15-20 minutes
- Best time to go: Early morning or late afternoon (cooler temperatures)
- Duration: 15-30 minutes
Insider Tip: The camel handlers near the eastern end of Central Beach are known for taking better care of their animals and offering slightly longer rides.
Saidia Luna Park
What it is: Seasonal fairground with rides, games, and entertainment.
Why Do It: Evening entertainment that’s perfect for families with children of various ages.
Location: Near the Corniche (summer season only)
Practical Info:
- Cost: Entry free; rides cost 10-30 MAD each
- Best time to go: After 6pm when temperatures cool
- Duration: 1-3 hours
Insider Tip: Buy the ride coupon book instead of individual tickets to save about 25% on multiple rides.
Saidia Nightlife & Entertainment
While more subdued than other Moroccan tourist destinations, Saidia offers plenty of evening entertainment options.
Marina Bars & Lounges
What it is: Upscale drinking establishments with cocktails, wines, and appetizers.
Why Do It: Enjoy sophisticated nightlife with Mediterranean views.
Location: Saidia Marina
Practical Info:
- Cost: 50-100 MAD per drink
- Best time to go: 9pm onwards
- Duration: 2-3 hours
Insider Tip: Bar Blue at the marina offers 2-for-1 cocktails during their 7-9pm happy hour.
Evening Beach Parties
What it is: Seasonal beach clubs hosting DJ nights and special events.
Why Do It: Dance under the stars with your feet in the sand at Saidia’s most vibrant nightlife option.
Location: Various beach clubs, primarily during summer months
Practical Info:
- Cost: Free-150 MAD entry depending on the event
- Best time to go: Events typically start around 10pm
- Duration: Late night
Insider Tip: Follow “Saidia Summer” social media accounts for up-to-date information on the best parties each week.
Casino Saidia
What it is: Gaming venue with slot machines and table games.
Why Do It: Try your luck in Morocco’s northeastern gaming destination.
Location: Within Be Live Collection Saidia hotel complex
Practical Info:
- Cost: Free entry; gaming minimums vary
- Best time to go: After dinner until late
- Duration: Variable
Insider Tip: The casino offers free welcome drinks for first-time visitors – just ask at the reception desk.
Corniche Night Walking
What it is: Evening strolls along the illuminated beachfront promenade.
Why Do It: Experience Moroccan evening social culture with families and couples enjoying the cooler night air.
Location: Saidia Corniche
Practical Info:
- Cost: Free
- Best time to go: 8-11pm
- Duration: 1-2 hours
Insider Tip: Stop at one of the ice cream stands along the way – the pistachio flavor is a local favorite.
Shopping & Souvenirs
From traditional crafts to modern shopping, Saidia offers diverse retail experiences.
Medina Handicraft Shops
What it is: Small stores selling traditional Moroccan crafts, textiles, and souvenirs.
Why Do It: Find authentic handmade items while supporting local artisans.
Location: Throughout Saidia Medina
Practical Info:
- Cost: Variable
- Best time to go: Mornings when shop owners are eager for first sales
- Duration: 1-2 hours of browsing
Insider Tip: The shops on the eastern side of the Medina typically have better prices than those closer to tourist areas.
Marina Shopping Gallery
What it is: Modern retail center with fashion, accessories, and gift shops.
Why Do It: Enjoy air-conditioned shopping with both international and Moroccan brands.
Location: Saidia Marina
Practical Info:
- Cost: High-end pricing
- Best time to go: Afternoon or evening
- Duration: 1-3 hours
Insider Tip: The second floor has a small but excellent shop selling high-quality Moroccan oils, spices, and beauty products at fair prices.
Wednesday Souk
What it is: Weekly open-air market selling everything from fresh produce to clothing and household goods.
Why Do It: Experience a traditional Moroccan shopping method with vibrant colors, sounds, and scents.
Location: Near Saidia Medina
Practical Info:
- Cost: Variable, generally good value
- Best time to go: Early morning for the freshest selection
- Duration: 1-2 hours
Insider Tip: The food section at the back of the market has excellent olives and preserved lemons that travel well as souvenirs.
Marjane Hypermarket
What it is: Large modern supermarket with everything from groceries to clothing and electronics.
Why Do It: Practical shopping for self-catering accommodations or forgotten travel essentials.
Location: On the main road into Saidia
Practical Info:
- Cost: Similar to European supermarket prices
- Best time to go: Weekday mornings to avoid crowds
- Duration: 30-60 minutes
Insider Tip: The bakery section makes excellent fresh Moroccan pastries at much better prices than cafés.
Golfing in Saidia
Saidia has become a golfing destination with world-class facilities in scenic settings.
Royal Golf Saidia
What it is: 18-hole championship course designed by Francisco Segalés.
Why Do It: Play on one of Morocco’s most beautiful courses with Mediterranean views.
Location: Eastern side of Saidia resort area
Practical Info:
- Cost: 18 holes: 600-800 MAD depending on season
- Best time to go: Early morning tee times for best conditions
- Duration: 4-5 hours for a full round
Insider Tip: Book at least 2-3 days in advance during high season, and ask about twilight rates after 3pm for significant discounts.
Saidia Golf Academy
What it is: Professional teaching facility offering lessons for all skill levels.
Why Do It: Improve your game or try golf for the first time with expert instruction.
Location: Adjacent to Royal Golf Saidia
Practical Info:
- Cost: Individual lessons: 300-500 MAD; Group lessons: 150-250 MAD
- Best time to go: Morning sessions
- Duration: 1-2 hours
Insider Tip: The academy offers special 30-minute “introduction to golf” sessions for beginners at reduced rates.
Practical Information
Getting Around Saidia
Saidia is relatively compact, making it easy to navigate:
- Walking: Most attractions within the beach and marina areas are within walking distance.
- Petit Taxis: Small blue taxis serving routes within Saidia (starting at 20 MAD).
- Grand Taxis: Shared taxis for trips to neighboring towns (30-50 MAD per person to Oujda).
- Bicycle Rental: Several shops rent bikes (50-80 MAD per day).
- Car Rental: Available from 250-350 MAD per day, recommended for day trips.
- Organized Tours: Sahara Discovery offers hotel pickups for their tours, eliminating transportation concerns.
Best Time to Visit
Saidia enjoys a Mediterranean climate with distinct seasons:
- Peak Season (July-August): Perfect beach weather with temperatures 28-32°C. Busiest and most expensive time.
- Shoulder Season (May-June, September-October): Ideal weather (22-28°C) with fewer crowds and better rates.
- Low Season (November-April): Quieter with occasional rain and cooler temperatures (12-20°C). Many businesses close.
Accommodation Overview
Saidia offers diverse lodging options:
- Resort Hotels: Several 4-5 star properties along the beach with all-inclusive options (800-2000 MAD/night).
- Boutique Hotels: Smaller properties in the Medina and town (400-800 MAD/night).
- Apartment Rentals: Popular for families and longer stays (350-1200 MAD/night).
- Budget Guesthouses: Simple accommodations in the Medina (200-350 MAD/night).
Essential Local Tips
- Currency: Moroccan Dirham (MAD). ATMs available at the Marina and in the Medina.
- Language: Arabic and French are widely spoken. Basic English in tourist areas.
- Safety: Saidia is generally very safe. Standard precautions apply.
- Dress Code: Conservative in the Medina (shoulders/knees covered); beach attire acceptable in resort areas.
- Tipping: 10% in restaurants; 20 MAD for hotel services; 10% of fare for taxis.
- Water: Drink bottled water only (5-10 MAD per bottle).
- Tour Bookings: Book Sahara Discovery tours at least 2 days in advance during high season. Their office at the Marina is open daily 9am-7pm.
Sample Itineraries
Perfect Relaxing Weekend (3 Days)
Day 1:
- Morning: Arrival and beach time at Central Beach
- Afternoon: Stroll along the Marina and lunch at a seafood restaurant
- Evening: Sunset walk on the Corniche and dinner at a beachfront café
Day 2:
- Morning: Beach relaxation or optional water sport activity
- Afternoon: Shopping in the Medina followed by mint tea at a traditional café
- Evening: Dinner at a Marina restaurant and nightcap at a lounge bar
Day 3:
- Morning: Final beach time or optional golf lesson
- Afternoon: Last-minute souvenir shopping and late lunch
- Evening: Departure
Action-Packed 3 Days
Day 1:
- Morning: Jet ski adventure at Marina Beach
- Afternoon: Kayaking expedition along the coast
- Evening: Dinner and entertainment at the Marina
Day 2:
- Morning: Sahara Discovery’s half-day tour to Moulouya Nature Reserve
- Afternoon: Parasailing experience
- Evening: Beach party or casino visit
Day 3:
- Morning: Golf round or lesson
- Afternoon: Last water activity of choice
- Evening: Farewell dinner at a Medina restaurant
Family Week in Saidia (7 Days)
Day 1-2: Beach days with swimming and sandcastle building Day 3: Aqua Parc day Day 4: Sahara Discovery’s family-friendly day trip to Cap de l’Eau Day 5: Medina exploration and camel rides Day 6: Mini golf and Luna Park evening Day 7: Final beach day and souvenir shopping
Sahara Discovery’s “Northeastern Explorer” (5 Days from Saidia)
For travelers with more time who want to use Saidia as a base for exploring beyond:
Day 1: Saidia beaches and Marina Day 2: Sahara Discovery day trip to Oujda and surroundings Day 3: Beach day and water activities Day 4: Sahara Discovery’s “Desert Edge Experience” day tour Day 5: Morning food tour with Sahara Discovery, afternoon beach relaxation
FAQ
Is Saidia expensive?
Saidia is moderately priced by European standards. Budget travelers can get by on 500-700 MAD/day, while mid-range travelers should budget 800-1200 MAD/day including accommodation.
Is Saidia safe for tourists?
Yes, Saidia is considered very safe for tourists. Take normal precautions like you would in any destination.
What currency should I bring to Saidia?
The Moroccan Dirham (MAD) is the local currency. Euros are sometimes accepted at tourist establishments, but at poor exchange rates.
Which is the best beach in Saidia?
Central Beach is best for amenities and activities, while Blue Pearl Beach is ideal for those seeking a quieter experience.
Can I drink tap water in Saidia?
No, stick to bottled water, which is inexpensive and widely available.
Do I need a visa to visit Saidia, Morocco?
Visitors from many countries including the EU, UK, US, Canada, and Australia can enter Morocco visa-free for up to 90 days. Check requirements for your specific nationality before traveling.
What should I pack for Saidia?
Beach essentials, sun protection, conservative clothing for visiting the Medina, and a light jacket for evening sea breezes.
Is Saidia good for families with children?
Absolutely! With shallow, calm beaches, dedicated family activities, and a safe environment, Saidia is excellent for family vacations.
Are guided tours worth it in Saidia?
For first-time visitors, Sahara Discovery’s tours offer valuable local insights and convenient access to attractions beyond Saidia. Their day trips are particularly worth considering for exploring the region without rental car hassles.
Conclusion
Saidia truly deserves its nickname as “Morocco’s Blue Pearl” – a destination where Mediterranean beauty meets Moroccan charm. Whether you’re seeking relaxation on golden beaches, thrilling water adventures, cultural immersion, or family fun, Saidia offers a perfect blend of experiences in a setting that remains authentically Moroccan while providing all modern comforts.
From the vibrant Marina to the traditional Medina, from water sports to culinary delights, Saidia rewards visitors with memories that will last long after the tan fades. For those looking to venture beyond the beaches, operators like Sahara Discovery make it easy to explore Morocco’s diverse northeastern region with expertly guided excursions tailored to different interests and timeframes.
The best part? This Mediterranean gem remains less crowded than many similar destinations, allowing for a more personal experience of Morocco’s spectacular northeastern coast.
Have you visited Saidia? We’d love to hear about your experiences in the comments below! And if you’re planning a trip, don’t hesitate to ask any questions not covered in this guide.
Remember to share this post with fellow travelers planning a Moroccan adventure!
