Al HoceimaMorocco · Ferry Destinations

All About Al Hoceima

The Moroccan city of Al Hoceima lies amid a region of dramatic clifftop vistas and beautiful beaches between the snowy peaks of the Rif Mountains and the turquoise blues of the Mediterranean Sea.

Widely regarded as the safest and cleanest city anywhere in Morocco, Al Hoceima is a stronghold for the country’s Berber ethnic group, who for much of the early twentieth century found themselves under Spanish rule. This combination of cultures can be seen in Al Hoceima’s traditional white and blue buildings, as well as in the rich ambiance that envelops you as soon as you step out onto its well-tended streets. What’s more, Al Hoceima is perfectly located on Morocco’s northern coastline, roughly midway between Tangier to the west and Nador to the east. It has gone from humble beginnings to operating the second-largest port in this part of Morocco. As a result, it has seen a rapid improvement in its transport infrastructure in recent years.
 

Routes and Ferries to Al Hoceima

The long connection that Al Hoceima has with Spain continues to this day, with ferry tickets to Al Hoceima available for sailings from Motril in the Spanish province of Granada. Operated by Naviera Armas, vehicle ferries also welcome foot passengers to cross the Mediterranean Sea in approximately five hours. There are up to three sailings in each direction per week, with departures usually taking place in the afternoon. Ferry tickets to Al Hoceima can be easily compared on Ferryscanner to find the best prices and dates.

Al Hoceima is also served by an international airport which goes by the name of Cherif Al Idrissi Airport. Its single runway receives both domestic flights from elsewhere in Morocco as well as international flights from Belgium and the Netherlands. By road, Al Hoceima is approximately 300 kilometers from Tangier via the N16 highway.
 

Port of Al Hoceima

The port of Al Hoceima is centrally located within the city, making it just a short taxi ride away from the hotels, beaches, and entertainment that anyone with ferry tickets to Al Hoceima will be keen to take advantage of. Known locally as the ‘gare maritime’, the dedicated passenger terminal has a parking area open 24 hours a day for those arriving with their own vehicle, although it is unattended and without security.
 

Best Beaches

Al Hoceima has a mild year-round climate that is typical of the Mediterranean region, making it a great holiday option. Between May and October temperatures rarely drop below 15°C (80°F), even at night. The longest periods of sunshine can be had in July, although ironically this is also the month that sees by far the highest proportion of rain. That said, rain tends to fall as heavy showers that disappear as quickly as they arrive, and therefore have no real impact on any plans you might have.

Plage Quemado

Quemado Beach is probably the most popular in Al Hoceima. Right at the heart of the city, it lies immediately south of the port. Its 200 meters of soft golden sand is broad enough to ensure there’s space to set down a towel on even the busiest of days. The cluster of cafes and bars provide refreshments, while pedalos can be hired during the summer months too.

Asfiha Beach

Less crowded than Plage Quemado, Asfiha Beach is nonetheless an excellent choice for those looking to stay close to the center of Al Hoceima. Its sands are much darker than those at Plage Quemado, while its horseshoe shape and idyllic setting among a series of offshore islands (belonging to Spain) make it all the more special.

Cala Iris

Slightly further afield, Cala Iris Beach is roughly 60 kilometers from the port of Al Hoceima, but its picture-perfect scene is well worth the journey. Surrounded by gently undulated hills, Cala Iris Beach faces out towards a small island that helps ensure the Mediterranean waters here have a sheltered feel.

Plage de Torres

Also near to Cala Iris is Plage de Torres, which occupies an area of coast on the western side of Al Hoceima National Park, an hour’s drive time from the port of Al Hoceima. Sometimes known by the alternative name Torres de Alcala, there is a timeless essence of both the beach and the small town a couple of minutes inland.
 

Things to Do

In addition to its beaches, this Berber city has a good range of attractions, making it all the more worthwhile buying those ferry tickets to Al Hoceima before they sell out.

Hike Through Al Hoceima National Park

Stretching along Morocco’s Mediterranean coast to the west of Al Hoceima is this national park sharing the city’s name. A haven for nature lovers and hiking aficionados, the park is crisscrossed with walking trails. Among the attractive untouched native flora is also the chance to explore an 800-year-old mosque in the village of Adouz.

Go Scuba Diving

Al Hoceima National Park has as many treasures beneath the waves as it does above them. Sightseeing trips can be easily arranged with local boat captains in and around the best beaches of Al Hoceima. The best way to discover all the region’s underwater secrets has to be by snorkeling or scuba diving, with visits from endangered sea turtles among a whole host of other species not uncommon.

Eat at Espace Miramar

Espace Miramr is a blend of clifftop viewing point and open-air street-food style restaurants. Its tangle of different terraces offers a number of alternative vistas and food options, with the paella particularly well-regarded. There’s also a small children’s playground and occasional live music from local bands.
 

Transportation Around Al Hoceima

Without luggage, it would be easy to undertake the journey from the passenger terminal at the port of Al Hoceima to the city center hotels on foot. With luggage though, you’ll want to take advantage of the many taxis found at the ferry arrivals. To ensure you end up at the right destination, be sure to have your hotel address written down clearly to show the driver. You’ll also want to agree on a fixed price before setting off on any taxi journey.

Shared taxis are one of the main ways of getting around Al Hoceima, and can be useful when heading to the beaches outside of the city. However, not knowing the tips and tricks for hailing such a vehicle can make them difficult for foreign visitors to use.

Al Hoceima is yet to be connected to Morocco’s growing rail system. Instead, long-distance buses operated by CTM link Al Hoceima with almost every town and city of any size in Morocco. They depart throughout the day from the main bus depot on Place du Rif.