About the city
Al Hoceima sits along the azure Mediterranean coast at the heart of the Rif mountains. The city blends unspoiled beaches, rugged peaks and a rich Berber culture. It is one of Morocco's best-kept secrets — popular with Moroccans themselves but still under the radar for international visitors. The beaches in particular are legendary: the central Quemado beach right below town, the turquoise bay of Tala Youssef framed by dramatic cliffs, and tiny hidden coves only reachable by boat or a steep mountain path.
📜 History
Al Hoceima was founded in 1925 by the Spanish under the name "Villa Sanjurjo" during their protectorate over northern Morocco. After independence in 1956, the city took its current name. The Rif region has a strong identity of its own, with a proud Amazigh (Berber) population and a rich history of resistance.
🗺️ Things to do
- ✓Discover Al Hoceima National Park with its dramatic cliffs, caves and rare osprey
- ✓Swim in the turquoise bay of Tala Youssef — one of the most beautiful pockets of the Mediterranean in northern Morocco
- ✓Relax on Quemado town beach or the wilder Cala Iris
- ✓Take a boat trip to the Spanish islet of Peñón de Alhucemas
- ✓Wander the old medina, fish market and Plaza del Rif
- ✓Drive to the mountain village of Issaguen for stunning views
- ✓Savour fresh seafood at one of the harbour restaurants
🍴 Food & drink
Al Hoceima's kitchen revolves around the sea: grilled sardines, sea bream and prawns, often with chermoula (a marinade of cilantro, garlic and lemon). Try bissara (local bean soup) and the Rif-style tajines with goat meat and mountain herbs.
🏘️ Neighbourhoods
The modern district around Mohammed V boulevard is the bustling heart, full of cafés and shops. The medina lies next to the harbour — quieter but authentic. Calle Marina along the promenade is perfect for an evening stroll.
☀️ Best time to visit
May through September is ideal for beach and sea. April and October are more pleasant for hiking in the Rif.
✨ What makes it special
The blend of mountains diving straight into the Mediterranean, paired with a unique Berber culture, makes Al Hoceima truly one of a kind in Morocco. A perfect base for anyone who wants to discover the real northern Morocco, well away from the mass-tourism routes.
📷 City photos
