10 Breathtaking Year-Round Things to Do in Al Hoceima Morocco

Key Takeaways

• Al Hoceima is a coastal city offering a perfect blend of beach serenity, mountain adventures, and authentic Amazigh culture.

• Its secluded coves, national parks, and seasonal festivals make it ideal for travelers seeking lesser-known Moroccan destinations.

• Whether hiking cliffs, dining on fresh seafood, or lounging on turquoise shores, Al Hoceima delivers beauty and calm all year round.

Tucked into Morocco’s northern Mediterranean coast, Al Hoceima is a quiet treasure with dramatic landscapes and deep cultural roots. Founded by the Spanish in the early 20th century, the city today is shaped by a mix of Amazigh heritage, fishing traditions, and eco-tourism. While less busy than Marrakech or Casablanca, it offers something just as special — untouched beaches, forested cliffs, and local warmth.

What people love about Al Hoceima is how peaceful and raw it feels. Whether you’re sipping mint tea above a bay or hiking along sea-view ridges, the city draws you in with its simplicity and natural beauty. It’s a destination for those who want Morocco’s magic, minus the crowds. And with its year-round sunshine and Mediterranean breeze, it’s ideal any season of the year.

Table of Contents

1. Swim and Sunbathe at Quemado Beach

2. Hike the Cliffs of Al Hoceima National Park

3. Stroll the Corniche and Sip Mint Tea at Sunset

4. Take a Boat Tour of the Coastline and Hidden Coves

5. Visit the Port and Watch the Fishing Boats Arrive

6. Explore the Hidden Coves of Tala Youssef and Bades

7. Attend the Al Hoceima Summer Festival

8. Try Riffian Cuisine at a Local Eatery

9. Visit the Al Hoceima Cultural Center

10. Enjoy Sunset Views from Sfiha Beach

1. Swim and Sunbathe at Quemado Beach

Quemado Beach is Al Hoceima’s signature shoreline, stretching out beneath the cliffs of the city with golden sand and gentle turquoise waves. Its central location makes it the most accessible and lively beach, perfect for swimming, sunbathing, or people-watching. In summer, families gather under umbrellas, while vendors stroll with cold drinks and fried fish snacks. Even in the off-season, locals stroll the shore or sit along the seawall with coffee in hand.

Framed by rugged rocks and surrounded by small cafés and hotels, Quemado is more than a beach — it’s the city’s social heart. Sunrise and sunset are particularly beautiful here, when the water shimmers and the sky turns soft pastels. Whether you’re diving in or just enjoying the sound of the waves, this beach is a must-visit year-round.

2. Hike the Cliffs of Al Hoceima National Park

Al Hoceima National Park is an outdoor lover’s dream — a wild, sprawling preserve of forests, cliffs, and dramatic sea views. Covering over 300 square kilometers, it offers a chance to hike through Mediterranean oak groves, spot native birds, and stand atop cliffs that drop straight into the sea. It’s not unusual to catch a glimpse of a falcon or hear wild boars rustling in the underbrush.

The park is also home to remote beaches and secret coves, reachable only by foot or boat. There are marked trails of varying difficulty, and guided eco-tours are available for deeper insights into the park’s biodiversity. Whether you’re in hiking boots or just looking for a scenic picnic spot, the national park delivers beauty, quiet, and adventure in equal measure.

3. Stroll the Corniche and Sip Mint Tea at Sunset

The Corniche is a cliffside promenade that curves above the Mediterranean, offering sweeping views and an easy way to experience the rhythm of the city. It’s where locals gather for evening walks, where couples sit watching the sea, and where friends meet over fresh mint tea. Palm-lined and well-lit, it’s beautiful both during golden hour and under the stars.

Along the walkway, you’ll find cafés and tea stalls with small terraces that look out over the water. It’s the perfect spot to pause, reflect, and enjoy one of Morocco’s favorite rituals — slow, sweet tea in good company. From here, you’ll see the full stretch of Quemado Beach, passing boats, and distant mountains. For a low-effort, high-reward activity, this walk is essential.

4. Take a Boat Tour of the Coastline and Hidden Coves

Al Hoceima’s coastline is best seen from the water, where rugged cliffs and deep inlets reveal their full drama. Boat tours depart daily from the port, offering journeys past caves, cliffside villages, and secluded coves that aren’t visible from land. Many tours include snorkeling gear and time to swim in tranquil, emerald-green waters.

These excursions are a fantastic way to experience the region’s natural beauty at your own pace. Guides often share local legends and point out wildlife like seabirds or dolphins. Whether you’re in a group or booking a private boat, the trip is peaceful, photogenic, and uniquely Al Hoceima.

5. Visit the Port and Watch the Fishing Boats Arrive

The port of Al Hoceima isn’t just for transport — it’s the heartbeat of the local economy and a cultural scene of its own. In the early morning and just before dusk, small boats pull in loaded with the day’s catch: octopus, sardines, and red snapper fresh from the sea. The activity is mesmerizing, with fishermen hauling nets, auctioning fish, and chatting loudly over crates of ice.

Stroll along the waterfront and grab a grilled fish sandwich from one of the casual eateries nearby. You’ll taste the freshness and simplicity that defines Moroccan coastal cuisine. This area also offers stunning views of the bay and is a great place for candid photos. If you want a true slice of local life, the port is where it happens.

6. Explore the Hidden Coves of Tala Youssef and Bades

Far from the crowds, the small beaches of Tala Youssef and Bades are secluded hideaways embraced by cliffs and nature. These spots are often only reachable by boat or hiking paths, and their remoteness keeps them clean and quiet. Crystal-clear water laps against white sand, and you’ll often have entire stretches of beach to yourself.

Tala Youssef is ideal for swimming and snorkeling, while Bades offers postcard-perfect views with dramatic rock outcrops. Be sure to bring supplies — there are no shops, and cell service may be limited. If you’re looking for peace, privacy, and connection to nature, these coves offer it all.

7. Attend the Al Hoceima Summer Festival

Every August, the Al Hoceima Summer Festival lights up the city with music, food, and cultural pride. Featuring Amazigh bands, Moroccan pop stars, and traditional dance troupes, the festival showcases the diversity and warmth of the Rif region. Events are held at various venues, including beaches, parks, and public squares.

In addition to music, the festival includes art installations, food trucks, and workshops that teach everything from local crafts to dance steps. It’s a family-friendly atmosphere with plenty of chances to mingle with locals. If you want to see the city at its most joyful and expressive, this is the perfect time to visit.

8. Try Riffian Cuisine at a Local Eatery

The Rif region has its own flavor, and you’ll find it in Al Hoceima’s home-style restaurants and seafood stalls. Local Amazigh dishes often combine mountain herbs with coastal ingredients, creating stews, tagines, and grilled specialties that are full of flavor. One standout is tajine samak, a fish tagine simmered with tomatoes, olives, and cumin.

Look for restaurants near the port or in residential neighborhoods — often the most authentic places are hidden behind humble doors. Don’t skip the traditional breads or sweet mint tea to finish. Eating here isn’t just about nourishment; it’s about experiencing the deep culinary culture of the Moroccan north.

9. Visit the Al Hoceima Cultural Center

This modern venue brings together the artistic and intellectual pulse of the region. The Al Hoceima Cultural Center hosts rotating exhibits on Rif history, art workshops, concerts, and even cinema nights. It’s a hub for local expression, education, and creative conversation.

The architecture itself is sleek and contemporary, and admission is often free or low-cost. Events are held throughout the year, including during Ramadan and national holidays. Whether you’re an art lover or just curious about the region’s modern identity, the center offers thoughtful and often surprising insight.

10. Enjoy Sunset Views from Sfiha Beach

Just a short drive from the city center, Sfiha Beach is a wide, calm bay with a totally different vibe from Quemado. It’s flatter, quieter, and framed by rugged mountains that turn orange and gold during sunset. The water here is shallow, making it great for families or evening walks along the tide line.

Sfiha is a favorite among locals for picnics, soccer games, and peaceful moments to end the day. There are fewer vendors and more space to spread out, making it feel like your own slice of the coast. If you’re looking for a slower sunset without the crowds, Sfiha is the perfect place to reflect and relax.

What to do if you have kids?

Al Hoceima is surprisingly family-friendly, especially for active, nature-loving kids. Quemado Beach has calm waters ideal for swimming, and Al Hoceima National Park offers safe, marked trails for family hikes. Many cafés along the Corniche are stroller-accessible and have space for kids to run nearby. For a quieter afternoon, Sfiha Beach is a great open area with room to play. Just pack snacks, water, and some beach toys, and you’ve got an easygoing day the whole family will enjoy.

Where can I find free events in Al Hoceima Morocco taking place this weekend?

To discover the best free events in Al Hoceima this weekend, use PlanMyWeekend.ai. From local music nights and food markets to cultural talks and community festivals, it’s the easiest way to stay in the loop with what’s happening. The platform updates regularly, helping you find activities for all ages and interests — whether you’re here for a short visit or a long stay. No sign-up required and always free to browse.

Final thoughts

Al Hoceima is a rare kind of destination — naturally stunning, culturally rich, and still under-the-radar for most travelers. Whether you’re climbing mountain trails, diving into the Mediterranean, or sharing mint tea with locals, the experiences here feel personal and meaningful. It’s a place to slow down, explore deeply, and reconnect with nature and culture at once. If you’re planning a Moroccan adventure that’s a little different from the usual path, Al Hoceima is ready to surprise you.