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Rabat Beach, Morocco - Things to Do in Rabat Beach

Things to Do in Rabat Beach

Rabat Beach, Morocco - Complete Travel Guide

Rabat Beach draws far fewer crowds than Agadir or Casablanca's coastlines. This wide Atlantic stretch offers genuine space to breathe, with local families claiming weekend picnic spots while surfers work decent waves year-round. The nearby Kasbah of the Udayas delivers dramatic clifftop views over the ocean. The beach stays clean and well-maintained. The Atlantic runs brisk throughout the year—that's just Morocco's western coast for you.

Top Things to Do in Rabat Beach

Hassan Tower and Mausoleum Complex

This 12th-century tower rises from what was planned as the world's largest mosque. The adjacent mausoleum houses three Moroccan kings, giving visitors genuine insight into the country's architectural ambitions through centuries of red sandstone construction. Late afternoon light makes the stone glow. Time your visit accordingly.

Booking Tip: Entry is free and the site is open daily from 9am to 6pm. Consider hiring a local guide for around 100-150 MAD to get the historical context, or download an audio guide app beforehand.

Kasbah of the Udayas

This clifftop fortress overlooks both ocean and Bou Regreg River. Narrow blue-and-white streets wind through the neighborhood with an almost Greek feel, while the internal Andalusian Gardens offer peaceful orange groves and fountains away from the rampart views. These alleyways deserve extra time. You'll likely wander longer than planned.

Booking Tip: The kasbah is free to enter and explore on your own. The small museum inside costs around 20 MAD. Early morning or late afternoon visits avoid the heat and crowds.

Chellah Necropolis

Storks nest atop ancient minarets here. These Roman and medieval Islamic ruins create an atmospheric site where wild gardens grow through crumbling walls and history layers upon itself—Roman foundations supporting Islamic tombs with nature reclaiming everything. The evening light filtering through ruins feels mystical.

Booking Tip: Entry costs around 70 MAD for foreigners. The site closes at sunset, so plan accordingly. Bring water and wear comfortable shoes as you'll be walking on uneven ancient stones.

Royal Palace and Government Quarter

The working palace stays closed to visitors. The surrounding area showcases impressive modern Moroccan architecture that demonstrates Rabat's role as political capital, with wide boulevards and official buildings creating atmosphere completely different from the medina's narrow passages. It's worth understanding the city's dual character. Both ancient settlement and modern capital coexist here.

Booking Tip: This is a free walking area, though photography near government buildings should be done discretely. Combine with nearby attractions like the Archaeological Museum (around 30 MAD entry) for a half-day exploration.

Bouregreg Marina and Riverfront

This river development contrasts sharply with historical sites. Waterfront restaurants, boat trips, and evening walks offer contemporary alternatives to old city exploration, with small boats crossing to Salé on the opposite bank. The area thrives evenings. Locals emerge for riverside walks and dinner with old city backdrops.

Booking Tip: River boat trips to Salé cost around 5-10 MAD per person and run frequently during daylight hours. Restaurant prices here are higher than in the medina, but the setting justifies it for a special meal.

Getting There

Rabat-Salé Airport sits 8 kilometers from downtown. Regular flights connect European cities plus domestic routes from Casablanca and Marrakech, while the Casablanca train takes roughly an hour for 40 MAD with frequent daily service. Bus networks from other Moroccan cities work reliably through CTM and Supratours. Both train station and main bus terminal sit centrally, making onward connections easy.

Getting Around

Rabat works well on foot. The central tourist zone and beach area connect easily through walkable streets, though the tram system links major neighborhoods efficiently when needed. Petit taxis use meters during daylight hours. Expect 15-30 MAD for most city trips, while grand taxis and ride-sharing apps handle longer distances—just confirm prices upfront.

Where to Stay

Medina (Old City)
Hassan District
Agdal
Souissi
Hay Riad
Oceanfront Area

Food & Dining

Rabat's dining reflects its capital status. Traditional Moroccan spots in the medina serve authentic tagines and couscous for under 80 MAD, while Hassan district restaurants offer refined Moroccan and French cuisine at higher prices. Street vendors around the train station provide excellent value. Riverfront seafood restaurants along the Bouregreg deliver water views—though you'll pay tourist rates for the setting.

Top-Rated Restaurants in Rabat

Highly-rated dining options based on Google reviews (4.5+ stars, 100+ reviews)

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Dar Al Fawakih Medina

4.8 /5
(6153 reviews)

Boho Café

4.7 /5
(3037 reviews) 2
cafe store

Restaurant Dar Larsa

4.5 /5
(1787 reviews)

Dar Rbatia

4.5 /5
(1389 reviews) 2

Restaurant Marea

4.7 /5
(1035 reviews)

Kasr al Assil

4.8 /5
(797 reviews)
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When to Visit

Spring and fall offer ideal weather. March through May and September through November bring warm days with mild evenings perfect for sightseeing and beach time, while summer heat gets offset by Atlantic breezes that make beach visits most appealing. Winter stays mild by European standards. Ramadan affects restaurant hours and city pace, so check dates when planning visits.

Insider Tips

Late afternoon works best for beach visits. Harsh midday sun softens while local families emerge
Most restaurants close 3-7pm between lunch and dinner. Plan accordingly.
Sunday market near Bab el-Had beats medina tourist shop prices. Crafts cost less.

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Itineraries

Sample trip routes and plans for Rabat Beach

Getting Around

Transport options and tips for Rabat Beach

Where to Stay

Accommodation guide for Rabat Beach

Budget Guide

Trip costs and money tips for Rabat Beach

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