Beaches near Oualidia: the lagoon, the ocean, Cap Beddouza and Lalla Fatna

In Oualidia you can choose between two seas: the lagoon, as calm as a lake, and the Atlantic, just behind the sandbar. Take the coast road towards Safi and the shoreline changes again: cliffs, coves and long wild beaches. Here are the beaches to know, from the quietest to the most dramatic.

The lagoon beach

This is the village beach and the family one. The water is calm, shallow in places, and warms up faster than the ocean. Come at high tide: the lagoon is full and swimming is pleasant. At low tide the water recedes, leaving wide sandbanks to walk on barefoot.

The ocean beach in Oualidia

Past the sandbar, the Atlantic rolls onto a long open beach. It is the place for long walks, waves and beginner surfers when the swell is moderate. The currents are stronger than in the lagoon: swim where other people are, and never alone.

Cap Beddouza

Halfway between Oualidia and Safi, Cap Beddouza juts into the ocean with its lighthouse. The coast is rocky here, cut into small coves and ledges where people fish with a line. A good stop on the road to Safi, especially late in the day.

Lalla Fatna

About fifteen kilometres before Safi, Lalla Fatna beach stretches below high ochre cliffs. You get down by road or by a path, and the view from the top is worth the trip on its own. It is also a surf spot, with bigger waves than in Oualidia: take care when swimming.

Planning the day

Cap Beddouza and Lalla Fatna are easy to combine in one day by car: leave Oualidia in the morning and come back for the sunset. Bring water and a picnic, as the wild beaches have few services. If you carry on to Safi, see our guide to day trips.