Dar Bouazza Beach

Dar Bouazza Beach sits on the Atlantic coast south-west of Casablanca in Morocco, about 25 km from downtown, in the seaside town of Dar Bouazza within the Casablanca-Settat region. The coastline here is exposed to the open ocean, with a mix of sand and rocky reefs, and the swell makes it one of the better-known spots near Casablanca for surfing and bodyboarding. Water is cool and blue-green, and clarity depends on swell and wind. The open shape of the shore means waves can be sizeable, so conditions suit surfers and strong swimmers more than toddlers, although calmer summer days allow relaxed paddling. Surf schools operate along the coast and offer lessons and board hire, which gives the beach a younger, active character compared with the club-dominated Corniche at Ain Diab. Beach restaurants serve grilled fish, seafood and Moroccan dishes and are the main source of food and shade, with terraces overlooking the sea that fill up at lunch and sunset. Parking is available near the shore, though it becomes tight on summer weekends. The mood mixes families from Casablanca, surfers and weekend visitors, and it is busiest from June to September. Visitors should not assume lifeguard hours or hired loungers everywhere and can ask at the restaurants or surf schools about conditions, currents and any services. Getting there is easiest by car or grand taxi, a trip of around 40 minutes depending on coastal traffic, and buses from Casablanca also serve the town, though schedules should be checked locally. The beach combines easily with nearby Tamaris in a half-day trip. Rocky patches and reef areas call for care when entering the water, and footwear is useful for walking the shoreline.