Northern Morocco remains the top choice
Every August, the northern cities of Tangier, Al Hoceima, M’diq, Chefchaouen and Martil welcome thousands of Moroccans spending their annual vacation. These coastal destinations are popular for their beaches, swimming pools and tourist resorts, including Akchour and Ras El Ma in Chefchaouen.
At the beginning of August, many families travel to northern Morocco from cities such as Fez, Casablanca, Marrakech, Beni Mellal and Khouribga. Most rent apartments for stays that can last up to 20 days, with nightly rates ranging from 400 to 1,800 dirhams.
The stretch of coast from Asilah on the Atlantic to Al Hoceima on the Mediterranean continues to attract families, particularly those seeking a quieter holiday. Al Hoceima is prized for its crystal-clear Mediterranean waters, sandy beaches and the forests that surround the city to the north and south.
The most popular August vacation spots for Moroccans
Further east, the beaches of Martil, M’diq and the Chefchaouen coastline extending to Jebha have long been a favorite getaway for thousands of Moroccans. In addition to their scenic landscapes, these destinations offer cultural events, entertainment and evening activities throughout the summer.
The coastal route from Azla and Oued Laou to Stehat and Jebha is another popular choice. Surrounded by mountains, the area is home to some of Morocco’s most picturesque Mediterranean beaches, including Kaa Asras, the well-known Targha Beach and several smaller coves that combine striking natural scenery with the charm of the Mediterranean coast.
Marrakech, Agadir and Dakhla draw August vacationers
Many Moroccans also head to Marrakech, Agadir and Dakhla during August, particularly toward the end of the month.
Despite Marrakech’s high summer temperatures, families continue to flock to the city to spend part of their vacation, whether in the city itself or at nearby resorts such as Setti Fatma, Agdal and the surrounding mountain areas.
Hotels across the Red City offer access to swimming pools at prices ranging from 300 to 1,200 dirhams, while tourist residences provide apartments at varying rates. Combined with Marrakech’s unique atmosphere, these options continue to attract visitors, especially in the evenings around the famous Jemaa el-Fnaa square.
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Agadir and Dakhla are also among the country’s favorite summer destinations. Their Atlantic beaches, sandy shores and strong waves appeal to sea lovers, with many Moroccans choosing hotels and holiday apartments in Agadir and nearby Taghazout. Others head south to Dakhla, where Morocco’s desert landscape and year-round tourism offerings provide a distinctive vacation experience.
Spain and Portugal remain popular abroad
For those choosing to vacation overseas, the Spanish and Portuguese cities of Málaga, Porto and Marbella remain among the most popular destinations in August.
Although hotel prices and apartment rentals rise sharply during the summer—often ranging between 2,000 and 5,000 dirhams per night, particularly at major resorts—some affluent Moroccan travelers continue to favor these destinations over Morocco’s coastal cities. Many rent apartments in residential complexes near the beaches of Marbella, Málaga and Portugal’s coastline for their summer break.
Others opt for coastal destinations in Italy and France, particularly Marseille, as well as seaside resorts along the Greek coast. Despite the high cost—summer vacations in these destinations can exceed 50,000 dirhams due to expensive accommodation and peak-season airfares—they remain popular with some Moroccan travelers.
