Oued Laou Rif Coast

Oued Laou is a small coastal village on the Mediterranean east of Tetouan in northern Morocco, about 45 km from the city and roughly an hour by road. Shared grand taxis leave the Tetouan taxi rank for Oued Laou for about 20 to 30 MAD ($2.15-3.25) per seat, and a private charter round trip costs about 400 to 600 MAD ($43-65), agreed in advance. A rental car is the most flexible option along the winding coastal road. The village lies where the Laou river meets the sea, with a long pebble and sand beach backed by Rif hills and a small fishing harbour. Houses are simple, cafes line the front, and the atmosphere is far more local than the resorts at M'diq and Martil. Visitors can swim, walk along the river mouth, watch fishermen unload catches and eat grilled sardines or other fish at seafront restaurants for about 60 to 130 MAD ($6.50-14). In spring the Rif foothills behind the village offer short hikes through green hills and small farming hamlets, with views over the valley. A sensible day starts with a morning taxi from Tetouan, a coastal stop for photographs, and arrival by late morning for a walk on the beach and a river mouth stroll. Lunch is taken in the village, followed by an afternoon swim or hike, and a return before late afternoon. The best season is June to September for swimming and spring for hiking. The key risk is the return journey, as shared taxis back to Tetouan thin out by late afternoon, so visitors should confirm the return ride or leave early. The village has few services, so cash, water and sun protection should be carried. Currents and waves can be strong, so swimming should stay close to shore. Weekends in July and August bring more local families.