Tetouan Beach | Tetouan

Tétouan Beach refers generally to the coastal area associated with the city of Tétouan, located in northern Morocco near the Mediterranean Sea. While Tétouan itself is an inland city, just about 10–15 kilometers away lies a beautiful stretch of Mediterranean coastline with several beach towns and resorts that locals and visitors alike refer to collectively as “Tétouan Beach.”

Here’s a detailed breakdown of the beaches associated with Tétouan:

1. Martil Beach (Plage de Martil) – The Most Famous

Martil is the main coastal town connected with Tétouan, and its beach is by far the most well-known and visited. It’s essentially considered Tétouan’s beach resort, just a 15-minute drive from the city.

Key features of Martil Beach:

Long sandy shoreline, great for swimming, sunbathing, and evening walks.

Calm and clear Mediterranean waters, ideal for families and casual swimmers.

A lively promenade with cafés, restaurants, and summer activity.

Very popular in the summer months, especially July and August, when Moroccans from inland cities like Fès, Meknès, and even Casablanca flock to it for vacation.

Some limited options for water sports, such as paddleboarding and jet-skiing.

During off-season months, it’s quiet and relaxed, offering a peaceful retreat from the city.

2. Cabo Negro (Kabila and Restinga Smir nearby) – Upscale and Scenic

Cabo Negro, located just east of Martil, is a more upmarket and quieter beach resort area. It is known for:

Fine sandy beaches and clear waters.

Golf courses and luxury villas.

Resorts, vacation apartments, and private clubs.

Popular with wealthier visitors, often Moroccan elites and foreign tourists.

Nearby beaches include:

Kabila Beach, known for its marina and upscale feel.

Restinga Smir, a family-friendly beach area with resorts and gated communities.

These beaches are clean, well-maintained, and typically less crowded than Martil.

3. Tamuda Bay – The Broader Coastal Region

All of these coastal areas — Martil, Cabo Negro, M’diq, Smir — are part of the greater Tamuda Bay region. Tamuda Bay is a tourism development zone that stretches along the Mediterranean from M’diq to Fnideq near the Spanish enclave of Ceuta.

What distinguishes Tamuda Bay:

Modern infrastructure and planned tourism development.

Hotels, resorts, marinas, and gated beach communities.

A long-term goal to attract international tourism, especially from Europe and the Middle East.

Blend of traditional Moroccan and Mediterranean beach atmosphere.

4. M’diq and Fnideq Beaches – Local Life and Proximity to Ceuta

M’diq is another lively fishing town turned summer destination:

Great local seafood.

Bustling in summer, more low-key in winter.

Marina, boat rentals, and relaxed beach culture.

Fnideq, further northeast, is right next to the Spanish enclave of Ceuta. It offers:

Beaches with views of Spanish territory across the bay.

Cultural mix of Moroccan and Spanish influence.

Less developed for tourism but authentic and peaceful.

Activities and Tourism

Beachfront cafés and seafood restaurants are common along the entire coastal stretch.

Evening walks (promenades) are a tradition in summer.

Light water sports and beach activities.

Close access from Tétouan makes these beaches very accessible even for day trips.

Many beaches are family-oriented, with shallow waters and lifeguards during peak season.

Cultural Note

While beachwear is generally accepted on these Mediterranean beaches, it is still advised to dress modestly when not on the sand. In towns like Martil and M’diq, people dress casually but conservatively in public areas. Resorts and private beaches may be more liberal.

Summary

Tétouan Beach isn't one single beach but rather a collection of Mediterranean coastal towns and beach resorts just minutes away from Tétouan, including Martil, Cabo Negro, Kabila, Restinga Smir, M’diq, and Fnideq, all part of the Tamuda Bay coastal strip. They combine natural beauty, cultural charm, and Mediterranean leisure — perfect for relaxing, swimming, and enjoying the sun, whether you're a tourist or a local.