The stunning Rif mountains, the vibrant hills, and the spectacular clear blue Mediterranean beaches are what make El Hoceima one of the most beautiful and alluring cities in Morocco.
For more than four decades, the city was colonized by the Spanish, and today you can still get a hint of the European architectural influence throughout the town’s landscape.
In fact, many residents speak varying degrees of Spanish in addition to their one or two primary languages.
El Hoceima has gained massive popularity as a tourist destination over the past few years since it offers a variety of amazing attractions and unmatched natural scenery.
The best time of the year to visit Al Hoceima is from Mid September-April when the city’s streets and beaches are less busy with few tourists
Read our Hoceima travel guide to discover the top things to do in this city, where to eat, and where to stay.
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Top things to do in Hoceima
Clear Blue Mediterranean Beaches
The Riffian city of El Hoceima has some of the most beautiful and breathtaking beaches in all of Morocco.
The serene atmosphere and the pristine waters make this city a location that shouldn’t be missed. Soak up the sun and unwind in the tranquil Plage Thara Youssef, an amazing beach just outside El Hoceima.
Or take a relaxing stroll along the golden sandy shores of Cala Bonita and breathe in the fresh air.
Revel in the spectacular scenery draping Quemado Beach with its marvelous mountains, carved gorges, and burgeoning wilderness full of olive groves.
Enjoy a refreshing dip in the shimmering Morocco Mediterranean beaches, or go for scenic hiking and trekking across the vibrant Riffian hills.
Hoceima Port
In the early morning hours, you will be able to catch a glimpse of fishermen approaching the shores in their colorful boats, their brimming fishnets an indisputable sign of triumph.
Hoceima port is the ideal place to get a view of the catch being unloaded. Although it’s a 20-minute walk away from the city, the exquisite seafood delicacies and the scrumptious fish are absolutely worth the winding road to get there.
You can even rent a boat and get a first-hand experience of the modest yet fulfilling life of a fisherman.
The waters at Hoceima Bay are so mesmerizingly clear and luminous that you can see the various species of fish swimming around.
If you’re lucky enough you can even get the occasional sighting of a pod of dolphins frolicking alongside the tourist ships.
Hoceima National Park
El Hoceima’s national park lies in the outskirts of the city, extending over an area of 470 square kilometers, including 190 square kilometers of sea.
Since the park is quite isolated, it helped preserve the dense Thuja forestation, it also allowed other endangered species like fish eagles to thrive.
Take a walk through El Hoceima’s national park and enjoy spectacular views of the verdant slopes and vibrant flora.
The park also offers several hiking trails, so you can explore the park on foot, or you could go trekking or mountain-biking across the numerous dirt roads.
It’s the perfect opportunity to clear your mind, escape the hustle and bustle of daily life, and enjoy pure nature.
You can also find a road that leads straight to the coast for a quick but invigorating swim under the sunset, the ideal way to end the day after a long hike.
Moroccan Diving Center
If you ever get the chance to visit El Hoceima, you cannot skip the Moroccan diving center. This scuba diving center is located near the national reserve of the city.
It’s very affordable and you’re guaranteed to have the best underwater experience of your life.
The view under the sea is truly magnificent, and the staff is professional and friendly.
Even if you don’t know how to swim, the team of instructors will guide you every step of the way. You can expect them to make you feel at ease and ensure that you’re comfortable at all times.
If you’re interested in discovering the enthralling beauty and wonder that lies under the deep blue seas of the Mediterranean, you will absolutely adore
Historic Landmarks
If you’re a history buff and you enjoy ancient monuments and landmarks, the city of El Hoceima won’t disappoint.
Dotted along the lush and verdurous slopes of the Riffian mountains are small Berber towns that existed for centuries.
You can explore these towns and contemplate the scenic tableau that frames the plain, slow-paced, and serene lifestyle of the villagers.
Share a refreshing cup of mint tea with the residents and catch a glimpse of the Peñón de Alhucemas, a Spanish fortress island that dates back to 1559 when the Saadi dynasty ‘gifted’ it to the Spaniards in exchange for military assistance.
Where to stay in Hoceima
There are several hotels and resorts in the city of El Hoceima, so you’re bound to find accommodations that are suitable for your needs and budget.
The four-star Hotel Mercure Quemado Resort is a tourist favorite and comes at the top of the list with the best value out of all places to stay in the city.
With a swimming pool, free breakfast, free high-speed wifi, a gym, as well as conference facilities, this modern hotel is flawlessly equipped featuring inspiring architecture along with a peaceful atmosphere.
For a slightly more high-end stay, the luxurious Suites Hotel Mohammed V is the ideal place to stay, it offers a wide range of amenities designed to make your traveler life more comfortable.
It also gets bonus points since it’s both family-friendly (children’s activities included) and pet-friendly.
Al Hoceima is a great place to relax and rejuvenate yourself. Top accommodation optioms include
Suite Hotel Mohammed V
Situated in Al Hoceima, at the heart of the city and close to the Quemado Beach. Also, Mimounthe El Arssi stadium is just 1.2km away.
The hotel features fully furnished rooms, a restaurant, mini-bars, coffee shop, free valet parking as well as a business centre and soundproof conference room. Free Wi-Fi access is available in any location in the hotel too.
Mercure Quemado Resort
Located in Al Hoceima and close to the Quemado beach and 1.3km away from the Mimoun El Arssi Stadium. The hotel is an amazing place to relax. Some of the recreational activities include gym and spa centre.
All rooms are fully furnished with balconies and very spacious. Free WI-FI access is also available.
Hotel Souani (ex Atlas Al Hoceima Bay)
Located within 10km of the Mimoun Arssi stadium and the Quemado Beach in Al Hoceima, Hotel Souani is a great place to stay.
The hotel features a Gym, bar and a club, a lounge, free self parking free Wi-Fi access and much more. Each room is fully furnished and soundproofed
Where to eat in Hoceima
If you’re looking for places to eat in El Hoceima, there are numerous cafes and restaurants that serve all kinds of cuisines, whether it’s fast food, traditional Moroccan dishes, or gourmet European meals.
For nice and fresh fish and seafood, head out to Club Nautique, which is located near the fishing port.
For a romantic dinner with a phenomenal view of the sea, make reservations at the Hotel Chafarinas.For scrumptious burgers, tacos, and sandwiches.
Food is the way to go, and if you have a sweet tooth, you should definitely try their ice cream. For an authentic Moroccan eating experience, try restaurant Sidi Bousaid, their tagines are simply to die for.
Who goes
Al Hoceima attracts visitors from different parts of the world including French and German sun seekers considered the biggest contingent when it comes to tourists, but a large number of visitors are Moroccan.
If you want a relatively calm and easy going holiday in Al Hoceima, the best time to visit is during spring and autumn seasons, when it is relatively quiet. At the peak of summer, Al Hoceima beaches can become quite crowded
Getting to El Hoceima
Al Hoceima has an international airport, though there are no direct flights from Britain presently.
Nevertheless, you can fly into Tangier and hire a taxi into the city center. You can also fly into the Spanish city of Melilla or alternatively take a cruise boat from the Almeria.