On Morocco’s northeastern coast, where the Mediterranean stretches wide and blue, lies Saidia — a summer destination that truly comes alive when the sun is high and the days are long. Known as La Perle Bleue, Saidia offers something rare in Morocco: endless sandy beaches, calm turquoise water, and a relaxed seaside rhythm that feels both festive and comforting.
But Saidia is only the beginning. Just beyond the city, places like Ras El Ma and Cap de l’Eau reveal a quieter, more natural side of the region — one that balances perfectly with Saidia’s lively summer energy.
Saidia: Where Summer Never Sleeps
In summer, Saidia transforms. Families arrive from across Morocco and from abroad, beach umbrellas line the coast, and the city buzzes with laughter, music, and movement. The beach here is one of the longest in the country — wide, sandy, and perfect for swimming thanks to the gentle Mediterranean waves.
During the day, life revolves around the sea:
• Long beach days under the sun
• Swimming in clear, calm water
• Water sports like jet skiing, paddleboarding, and boat rides
• Beach cafés offering cold drinks and snacks
As evening falls, Saidia takes on a different charm. The promenade fills with families and couples, ice cream shops stay busy, and restaurants glow with warm lights. It’s the kind of place where nights stretch late and no one is in a hurry to go home.
Beach Bars and Summer Vibes by the Sea
During the summer months, Saidia’s coastline turns into a lively social scene, thanks to its many beach bars spread along the shore. These spots are perfect for taking a break from the sun, enjoying a cold drink, or simply relaxing with your feet in the sand.
Some beach bars focus on calm daytime vibes — shaded loungers, soft music, and sea views — while others become more energetic in the late afternoon and evening, with music, crowds, and a festive atmosphere. Whether you’re looking for a quiet place to cool down or a lively spot to end the day, Saidia’s beach bars add an unmistakable summer feeling to the city.
They’re also great places to watch the sunset, as the sky slowly changes color over the Mediterranean.
The Marina: Saidia’s Modern Side
Saidia also has a more modern face in its marina area. Here, you’ll find:
• Stylish hotels and resorts
• Restaurants overlooking the yachts
• Wide walkways perfect for evening strolls
Even if you’re not staying in the marina, it’s worth visiting for a sunset walk or a relaxed dinner by the water. It adds a Mediterranean-European feel to the Moroccan coast.
Boat Trips and Sea Adventures
Another highlight in Saidia is the opportunity to explore the coast by boat. Boat trips along the Mediterranean offer a different perspective of the city and its shoreline.
Depending on availability, you can:
• Take short coastal cruises
• Enjoy sunset boat rides
• Experience the sea beyond the beach
Being out on the water, with Saidia visible from the sea, adds an unforgettable layer to the summer experience.
Where Two Countries Meet: The Morocco–Algeria Border Viewpoint
Just outside Saidia, near the eastern edge of town, there is a quiet and symbolic spot that many visitors find surprisingly powerful. Close to the closed border with Algeria, you can stand at a viewpoint where Morocco and Algeria face each other directly.
It’s a simple place — no grand monument, no crowds — yet it carries deep meaning. From here, you can literally look across and see Algeria in front of you, separated only by distance and history. Many visitors stop to take photos, reflect, or simply take in the moment.
It’s not just about geography; it’s about perspective. Standing there reminds you how close countries, cultures, and people truly are, even when borders remain closed.
Saidia Lagoon: Moulouya River National Park.
Beyond beaches and summer energy, Saidia also has a surprisingly peaceful side. Just outside the city lies the Moulouya River National Park. a natural wetland area where nature quietly takes over.
This lagoon is a haven for birds and wildlife, especially during certain seasons. Flamingos are the most famous visitors, but you can also spot herons, ducks, and other migratory bird species. The contrast with Saidia’s lively beach life couldn’t be greater.
Here, the atmosphere changes completely:
• No loud music
• No busy boulevards
• Just water, reeds, birds, and sky
It’s a perfect place for a calm walk, photography, or simply slowing down after a busy beach day. Early mornings and late afternoons are especially beautiful, when the light is soft and the birds are most active.
The Summer Fair: Lights, Music, and Nostalgia
One of Saidia’s most beloved summer traditions is its large seasonal fair. During peak summer, especially in July and August, a colorful amusement area pops up near the city, filling the evenings with lights, music, and excitement.
The fair offers:
• Rides for children and adults
• Game stalls and snacks
• Loud music, laughter, and flashing lights
For many families, visiting the fair is a summer ritual. It’s lively, chaotic, and full of joy — a place where generations come together. Even if you don’t ride anything, just walking through the fair is an experience in itself and shows the playful side of Saidia’s summer nights.
Resorts, Golf, and Comfort by the Coast
For travelers who prefer comfort and facilities all in one place, Saidia is also home to several resorts offering a more luxurious stay. One of the most well-known is Radisson Blu Resort Saïdia.
Located near the marina and beach, the resort offers:
• Direct beach access
• Swimming pools and spa facilities
• Restaurants and bars
• A golf course nearby for those who enjoy the sport
Golfing by the Mediterranean, with palm trees and sea air, adds a completely different dimension to a summer holiday in Saidia. Even if you’re not a golfer, the resort area is pleasant to walk around and enjoy for its calm, well-designed surroundings.
These resorts attract both Moroccan families and international visitors, creating a relaxed, international atmosphere without losing the coastal charm.
Ras El Ma (Ras el Mar): Simple, Local, and Authentic
A short drive away lies Ras El Ma, also known locally as Ras el Mar. Compared to Saidia, this small coastal town feels slower and more intimate. Life here is centered around fishing, family, and the sea.
The beach in Ras El Ma is less crowded, making it ideal for travelers who want space and calm. You’ll see local families, fishermen preparing their boats, and small cafés where time seems to pause. It’s not polished — and that’s exactly its beauty.
Ras El Ma is the kind of place you visit for an afternoon and end up staying longer than planned.
Cap de l’Eau (Cap d’Adol): The Highlight of the Coast
For many, the true highlight of the region is Cap de l’Eau, also known as Cap d’Adol. This dramatic cape rises above the Mediterranean with rugged cliffs, open horizons, and powerful sea views.
Cap de l’Eau is not about swimming or crowds — it’s about nature in its raw form. Standing here, with the wind in your face and the sea stretching endlessly below, you feel how vast and alive this coastline really is.
It’s the perfect place for:
• Scenic walks
• Photography
• Quiet reflection
• Watching the sunset over the Mediterranean
The contrast between the calm beaches of Saidia and the wild beauty of Cap de l’Eau is unforgettable.
Seafood by the Sea: A Taste of the Coast
One of the simplest pleasures of this region is its food — especially seafood. Along the coast between Saidia and Ras El Ma, you’ll find small, local fish restaurants where the menu depends on the day’s catch.
Expect:
• Freshly grilled sardines
• Sea bream or sea bass
• Calamari and shrimp
• Simple salads, warm bread, and lemon
There’s no luxury or presentation here — just honest, fresh flavors enjoyed with the sound of waves in the background. These meals often become the most memorable part of the trip.
