Corniche Ain Diab

The Corniche at Ain Diab is Casablanca's seaside promenade, running along Boulevard de la Corniche on the western coast of the city in Morocco. Once a quiet fishing and beach area, it is now lined with beach clubs, swimming pools, cafes, seafood restaurants and nightspots, and with the Atlantic on one side it is the city's main leisure strip. Visitors walk or cycle the pavement, watch surfers and swimmers on the rocky coast, and stop for lunch or a drink at the waterfront venues, many of which open from about noon until late. The Hassan II Mosque is visible to the east and the El Hank lighthouse sits at the eastern end of the promenade, while Morocco Mall marks the western tip. A walk of one to three hours covers the central stretch. The best vantage points are the rocky outcrops near the beach clubs and the area around the lighthouse, where the setting sun lights the waves and sea spray. Sunset is the busiest and most photogenic time, and weekend evenings bring heavy traffic and crowds from across Casablanca. Weekday mornings are quiet, with joggers and fishermen along the rocks. Many beach clubs charge entry fees on weekends, often with a drinks credit, while the promenade itself is free. Swimming conditions can be rough and lifeguards are only present at certain clubs and beaches, so visitors should check conditions before entering the water. The tram line T1 ends nearby at Ain Diab, and petit taxis from downtown cost around MAD 30-50. Late-night venues cluster here, and taxis are easy to find after midnight.