Guide · · 2 min read
A weekend in Oualidia from Casablanca: the drive and the plan
Two hours from Casablanca, Oualidia is the ideal weekend escape: the drive, a two-day plan between the lagoon, oysters and the beach, and our tips to make the most of it.
Two hours’ drive, and Casablanca feels far away. Oualidia is one of Casablanca’s favourite escapes: close enough to leave on Friday evening or Saturday morning, different enough to feel on holiday the moment you arrive. Here is how to plan a good weekend.
The drive
Allow about 2 hours: the motorway to El Jadida, then the coast road south. Leave early on Saturday or late on Friday to avoid the traffic out of Casablanca. Details from the airport or from Marrakech are in our guide on getting to Oualidia.
Saturday: the lagoon and the oysters
Arrive late morning and have oysters and fish for lunch by the lagoon. In the afternoon, swim at high tide, or take a boat trip with a fisherman to see the oyster farms and the far shore. In the evening, watch the sun set over the Atlantic from the beach or the heights.
Sunday: the ocean, then the road home
In the morning, a long walk on the ocean beach, or a kayak on the lagoon if the tide allows. Before leaving, a stop at the kasbah and its views over the lagoon. On the way back, break the drive in El Jadida for the Portuguese cistern and a walk around the ramparts: about an hour’s visit.
Our tips
Check the tide times before you go: the lagoon is at its best at high tide. Book early for summer weekends and public holidays, when Oualidia is in high demand. And bring a sweater: even in summer, evenings by the ocean are cool.
To stay, our five apartments sleep up to four guests each, a few streets from the main road, with a kitchen to prepare your own oysters.
FAQ
How long is the drive from Casablanca to Oualidia?
About 2 hours, by the motorway to El Jadida and then the coast road.
Is a weekend enough for Oualidia?
Yes, for the lagoon, the oysters and the beach. Add a night if you also want to visit Safi or the beaches along the coast.
When should you book?
As early as possible for summer and public holidays. Out of season, a few days ahead is often enough.
