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Rabat Beach, Maroc ⵍⵎⵖⵔⵉⴱ المغرب - Things to Do in Rabat Beach

Things to Do in Rabat Beach

Rabat Beach, Maroc ⵍⵎⵖⵔⵉⴱ المغرب - Complete Travel Guide

Rabat, Morocco's elegant capital city, offers a perfect blend of historical grandeur and modern sophistication along its beautiful Atlantic coastline. As both a political center and UNESCO World Heritage site, Rabat showcases stunning examples of Almohad and colonial architecture, from the iconic Hassan Tower to the picturesque Kasbah of the Udayas overlooking the ocean. The city's beaches, particularly Rabat Beach and nearby Temara Beach, provide excellent opportunities for surfing, swimming, and seaside relaxation just minutes from the bustling medina and government districts. Unlike the more touristy imperial cities of Marrakech and Fez, Rabat maintains an authentic Moroccan atmosphere while offering excellent infrastructure and amenities. The city seamlessly combines ancient medinas with wide French-colonial boulevards, traditional souks with contemporary art galleries, and historic monuments with vibrant beach culture, making it an ideal destination for travelers seeking both cultural immersion and coastal recreation.

Top Things to Do in Rabat Beach

Explore the Kasbah of the Udayas

Wander through this 12th-century fortress perched dramatically on cliffs overlooking the Atlantic Ocean and Bou Regreg River. The kasbah features narrow cobblestone streets, traditional blue and white painted houses, beautiful Andalusian gardens, and stunning ocean views from its ramparts.

Booking Tip: Entry is free and best visited in late afternoon for golden hour photography. Guided tours cost around 150-200 MAD and provide valuable historical context about the Almohad dynasty.

Visit Hassan Tower and Mohammed V Mausoleum

Marvel at the incomplete 12th-century minaret of Hassan Tower, originally intended to be the world's largest mosque, alongside the ornate mausoleum of Morocco's beloved King Mohammed V. The complex showcases exquisite Moroccan craftsmanship with intricate marble work, colorful mosaics, and traditional geometric patterns.

Booking Tip: Free to visit daily 9am-5pm. Early morning visits avoid crowds and harsh lighting. Audio guides available for 50 MAD provide excellent historical background.

Stroll Through Rabat's Medina and Souks

Experience authentic Moroccan market life in Rabat's less touristy but equally charming medina. Browse traditional crafts, textiles, spices, and leather goods while enjoying the relaxed atmosphere compared to other imperial cities' more aggressive vendor culture.

Booking Tip: Best explored mid-morning when shops are open but not crowded. Budget 200-500 MAD for quality souvenirs. Haggling is expected - start at 30% of asking price.

Relax at Rabat Beach and Coastal Areas

Enjoy Morocco's Atlantic coastline at Rabat Beach, popular with locals for swimming, surfing, and beach football. The wide sandy beach offers good waves for beginners and stunning sunsets, with nearby cafes serving fresh seafood and mint tea.

Booking Tip: Beach access is free year-round. Surfboard rentals cost 100-150 MAD per day. Best surf conditions October-April, swimming comfortable May-September.

Discover Chellah Necropolis

Explore the romantic ruins of this ancient Roman and medieval Islamic site, now a peaceful archaeological park filled with storks' nests, blooming flowers, and crumbling minarets. The site offers a unique glimpse into Morocco's layered history spanning over 2,000 years.

Booking Tip: Entry fee 70 MAD, open 8:30am-6pm. Late afternoon visits offer the best lighting and bird activity. Bring water as shade is limited.

Getting There

Rabat is easily accessible via Rabat-Salé Airport, located 8km from the city center with regular flights from European cities and domestic connections. The airport shuttle costs 20 MAD to downtown. From other Moroccan cities, comfortable trains connect Rabat to Casablanca (1 hour), Marrakech (4 hours), and Fez (3 hours) with frequent departures. CTM and Supratours buses offer budget alternatives, while grand taxis provide shared transport from nearby cities. The city is also well-connected by highway for those renting cars.

Getting Around

Rabat's compact size makes it highly walkable, especially between the medina, Hassan Tower, and Kasbah areas. The modern tram system efficiently connects major neighborhoods and costs just 6 MAD per ride. Petit taxis (small blue taxis) are abundant and metered for longer distances, typically costing 15-40 MAD for cross-city trips. Bus networks cover outer areas for 4 MAD per ride. For coastal areas and day trips, rental cars are available from 300 MAD per day, though parking in the medina can be challenging.

Where to Stay

Agdal (modern hotels and restaurants)
Hassan (near major monuments)
Medina (traditional riads and authentic atmosphere)
Kasbah of the Udayas (historic charm with ocean views)
Souissi (upscale residential with beach access)
Hay Riad (business district with luxury accommodations)

Food & Dining

Rabat's dining scene blends traditional Moroccan cuisine with international influences, reflecting its cosmopolitan capital status. The medina offers authentic tagines, couscous, and pastilla at family-run restaurants for 50-100 MAD per meal. Avenue Mohammed V and Agdal neighborhood feature upscale Moroccan and French restaurants with prices ranging 150-400 MAD. Coastal areas specialize in fresh seafood, particularly grilled sardines, sea bream, and lobster. Don't miss trying rfissa (chicken and lentil stew) and chebakia pastries, local Rabat specialties. The city also offers excellent international cuisine including Italian, Asian, and Lebanese options.

Top-Rated Restaurants in Rabat

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

View all food guides →

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

The ideal time to visit Rabat is during spring (March-May) and fall (September-November) when temperatures range from 18-25°C with minimal rainfall and comfortable ocean breezes. Summer months (June-August) can be hot and humid but offer the warmest ocean temperatures for swimming. Winter (December-February) remains mild compared to European standards, with temperatures around 15-20°C, though occasional rain and stronger Atlantic winds make it less ideal for beach activities. Ramadan periods may affect restaurant hours and cultural site accessibility, so check dates when planning.

Insider Tips

Visit the Kasbah's Café Maure for traditional mint tea with spectacular ocean views - arrive before sunset for the best experience
Take advantage of Rabat's excellent train connections to visit nearby Casablanca as a day trip, just 45 minutes away
The Thursday morning flea market near Bab el-Had offers unique vintage finds and antiques at much better prices than tourist-focused medina shops

Explore Activities in Rabat Beach