Looking for the best beaches near Tangier? The city sits where the Atlantic meets the Mediterranean, so within half an hour by car you can choose between a long city bay, wild Atlantic sands and quiet coves. Public transport reaches only some of them, which is why a rental car is the easiest way to enjoy the coast on your own schedule.
In this guide
Best beaches near Tangier at a glance
| Beach | From the centre | Character |
|---|---|---|
| City beach (Corniche) | In town | Long bay, cafés, evening walks |
| Sidi Kacem beach | About 13 km | Wide open beach, local families |
| Achakar beach | About 15 km | Atlantic scenery, beach café, surf spirit |
| Cap Spartel coast | About 14 km | Cliffs, lighthouse, sea caves |
| Asilah beaches | About 45 km | Calm bays near a white medina |
Distances are approximate. Always check the weather and the sea conditions before you go, because the Atlantic side can be rough even on sunny days.
1. Tangier city beach on the Corniche
The urban beach follows the seafront below the medina and is the easiest option when you have only an afternoon. The sand is gentle, the bay is protected, and there are cafés and restaurants right on the promenade. Visit in the evening for the light, and park along the seafront roads outside peak hours.
2. Sidi Kacem beach: a wide beach near Tangier
Sidi Kacem beach lies about 13 kilometres from the centre and stretches for several kilometres. It is popular with local families in summer and feels open and relaxed. Arrive in the morning to find parking, bring water and sun protection, and use the informal parking attendants only where they wear a vest.
3. Achakar beach, the Atlantic classic
Achakar beach sits halfway between Cap Spartel and the Hercules Caves and is one of the most photogenic beaches near Tangier. Dunes, rocks and a beach café make it a perfect lunch stop. The Atlantic currents can be strong, so swim only where others do, follow any flags and keep children close. Combine it with the lighthouse and the caves in our Cap Spartel by car guide.
4. The Cap Spartel coast: cliffs and caves
This stretch is better for views than for swimming. Walk the cliff paths, visit the sea caves and stay for sunset. Pack a light jacket: the wind off the ocean is cooler than the city.
5. Asilah beaches: calm water, a white medina
About 45 minutes north of Tangier, Asilah offers sheltered bays right beside its medina. Spend the morning on the beach and the afternoon walking the ramparts. Our guide to Tangier to Asilah by car explains the route.
Practical tips for visiting the beaches near Tangier by car
- Go early in July and August. Parking fills up by late morning.
- Bring cash for parking attendants, cafés and sun umbrellas.
- Leave nothing visible in the car and lock it, as you would anywhere.
- Respect local customs. Public beaches are family places; dress and behave modestly.
- Check the sea. Atlantic beaches have swell and currents; the Mediterranean side is usually calmer.
A relaxed beach-day plan from Tangier
- Morning: drive to Sidi Kacem while the beach is quiet and the water is calm.
- Lunch: continue to Achakar for a late lunch at the beach café.
- Late afternoon: stop at the Cap Spartel lighthouse, built in 1864 and described on Wikipedia, and watch the sunset where the two seas meet.
- Evening: return to the city for dinner on the Corniche.
The right car for a beach day
Any compact car handles the coast road. If you carry family, parasols and a cool box, choose a larger boot such as the Hyundai Creta. Check how much a rental car costs and plan more outings with our day trips from Tangier by car and the one-day Tangier itinerary.
Need a car in Tangier?
Tell us your dates and we confirm availability and your final price quickly. Free delivery at the airport, the port or your hotel.
Beaches near Tangier: frequently asked questions
What is the best beach near Tangier?
Achakar is the most scenic, Sidi Kacem is the widest and the city beach is the most convenient.
Can I reach the beaches near Tangier without a car?
Some, yes, but a car is far easier for Achakar, Sidi Kacem and the Cap Spartel coast, and it lets you visit several in one day.
Is swimming safe at Achakar beach?
The Atlantic can have strong currents. Swim carefully, follow the flags and local advice, and keep children within reach.
When is the best time to visit the beaches near Tangier?
From June to September for swimming. Go in the morning for space and parking, or in late afternoon for cooler light.
