There are nicknames that say it all. And the one that Tamuda Bay (sometimes also written as Tamouda Bay) already receives is a good example of this: the Moroccan Costa del Sol. In this post, we tell you where it is and why one of the trendiest areas in the whole country, especially among lovers of sun and beach tourism, receives this nickname.
Location and Access
The bay of Tamuda corresponds to a wide strip of Mediterranean coast, which runs approximately from Ceuta in the north to Rincon (M’diq in Arabic) in the south. The central point of this bay is Marina Smir, one of the most modern and largest in the entire country. Another important urban center in the area is Castillejos (Fnideq in Arabic and other languages). But the reference city for Tamuda Bay is Tetouan.
And not only because of its name (Tamuda is the name that the ancient Romans gave to the settlement that preceded the current Tetouan): it is also because it is very close to here, just 23 km from the aforementioned Marina Smir. It is the second largest city in northern Morocco and also the one with the strongest links to Spain, having been the capital of the Protectorate until 1956.
To get directly here, the main airport is Tangier, located about 90 km away, a similar distance (85 km) to that separating Tamuda Bay from the city’s urban port. However, the best option to arrive by ferry is Tangier Med, just over 40 km to the north.
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Development and Investment
Tamuda Bay is already operating at full capacity, as in recent years it has experienced a significant boost from Moroccan administrations and foreign investors, although they ran into the Covid-19 crisis just when they intended to make this destination known on a large scale. In any case, the regular presence of King Mohammed VI is a clear indication of the level of quality and activity that the area already has.
Features of Tamuda Bay
Tamuda Bay has the essential elements for any sun and beach destination: wide sandy beaches, several kilometers long, clean waters and a pleasant climate, in this case Mediterranean, like the aforementioned Spanish Costa del Sol but with a few degrees higher on average, due to its more southern location.
Luxury Resorts
The list of resorts present in Tamuda Bay is very extensive, and includes hotels and tourist complexes managed by major international chains, from Europe, the United States, and the Middle East. And this decisive commitment to this destination is a clear indication of the relevant positioning that Tamuda Bay is acquiring among tourists from all over the world.
Among the many resorts that can be highlighted are the Banyan Tree, the Royal Mansour Tamuda Bay, the Sofitel Tamuda Bay Beach and Spa or The Ritz Carlton Tamuda Bay. Just reading their names gives a good account of the level of luxury and exclusivity that the area has achieved.
For years, the country’s jet-set crowd has been summering in Tamuda Bay - a quiet, sandy spot on the northwest coast, about 30km south of Spanish enclave Ceuta. In comparison to the cacophonous chaos of Marrakech or Fez’s culture-crammed corridors, Tamuda Bay feels relaxed and exclusive, with little to do aside from eat at beachside restaurants and visit the nearby UNESCO-listed towns.
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But thanks to a handful of luxury hotel openings (most notably, the recent arrival of Royal Mansour’s third property), the area is rapidly making its way onto many luxury travellers’ must-visit lists.
One of the newest developments in Morocco, Tamuda Bay is a gorgeous place to stay on the Mediterranean coast. A short distance from Tangier, it makes the most of a wonderful stretch of land between Fnideq and M’diq, where the sand is golden, the waters are crystal clear and the weather is almost always good. There are plenty of high quality hotels and resorts to stay at, and everything there is designed for you to have fun, whether you enjoy golf, watersports, shopping or scuba diving.
Royal Mansour Tamuda Bay
Waking up at the shiny new Royal Mansour Tamuda Bay is an experience fit for a king - quite literally so, as the Royal Mansour brand is owned by Mohammad VI of Morocco. While the 55 accommodations, spaced across 25 acres of verdant leafy low-rise, do include suites, it’s the signature villas, and in particular the 18,000 sq ft Royal Villa, that deliver as sumptuous a sea-front style signifier as is found anywhere. Think, the Maghreb meets Malibu, but devoid of any ostentation.
A network of underground tunnels totalling 280,000 sq ft places much of the logistics out of sight, enabling staff to pop up and disappear like genies, using strategically positioned elevators. One likely reason why King Mohammed is deploying his first-hand knowledge of first-class hospitality is probably to do with traditional Moroccan craftsmanship, for which he is an enthusiastic proselytiser. The mosaic tilework, marquetry, metalwork, and some particularly exquisite marblework are finished to the highest of standards.
The Royal Mansour restaurants are yet another indicator that an “only the very best will do” attitude discreetly underpins everything. The three restaurants at Royal Mansour Marrakech are already garnering awards, and the three that have just opened in Tamuda Bay are destined to make no less of an impact.
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Royal Mansour Tamuda Bay also features a 46,000 sq ft spa complex that extends over three floors and presents a beautifully conceived oasis of tranquillity. With a hammam, two spectacular pools, one of which transforms into a giant jacuzzi, cryotherapy and a pink salt room, it proffers limitless opportunities for preeminent pampering.
Banyan Tree Tamuda Bay
Without a doubt, my time at Banyan Tree Tamouda Bay was a highlight of my Moroccan adventure. I’ve stayed in countless hotels around the world, but this property-tucked along the serene northern coastline of Morocco-offered an experience that was both luxurious and intimately personal. It helped that we went during low season; not many travel to the this resort city in March.
From the moment we arrived to the day we checked out, every detail felt thoughtfully curated. Our Harmony Pool Villa was spectacular-an ideal mix of privacy, space, and understated elegance.
Mornings at Banyan Tree Tamuda Bay are refreshingly cool in March, so we headed to the main restaurant to warm up with breakfast. The Moroccan breads-especially msemmen-were a standout. Flaky, slightly sweet, and divine when dipped into honey and jam. I also piled my plate with seasonal fruit, savoring oranges, strawberries, and melons that tasted freshly picked. Everything was a la carte with no buffet option available.
On my wife’s actual birthday, I’d been under the impression we’d dine at one of the resort’s regular restaurants, albeit with a secluded table and prix fixe menu. The staff, however, had bigger plans. They set up a private table at the spa, of all places.
Things to Do in Tamuda Bay
Tamuda Bay is a place that exists to serve the tourism industry. This means that it’s one of the most welcoming places in Morocco, visitors are made to feel at home by the locals as soon as they arrive. Tamuda Bay is an area that seems to have everything you want in one place, but it also makes a very good base for anyone who wants to take a trek out to the surrounding areas.
- Beach Activities: The beach at Tamuda Bay is one of the main reasons that this resort is becoming so popular with tourists and locals alike. On the north coast of Morocco, close to the city of Tangier, the beach at this relatively new development is long and sandy, with gentle breezes to cool the heat of the day.
- Water Sports: There are also plenty of ways to take part in a wide range of water sports, whether you want to go surfing, scuba diving, kayaking or jet-skiing.
- Golf: If you’re looking for a place to give your clubs an airing when you visit Morocco, then why not take them to Tamuda Bay? Once you’re here you can pit your skills against the fairways and greens of the Royal Cabo Negro Golf Course at Tetouan.
- Explore Tetouan: Tamuda Bay may be a new resort, but nearby Tetouan has enough heritage for both. Standing at the foot of the Rif mountains, this city of white buildings and palm lined streets is a perfect place to explore the multicultural history of northern Morocco.
- Motorbike Tours: Tamuda Bay may be better known as a beach resort, but it’s also a great area to explore from the saddle of a motorbike, either as a day trip or as part of a longer tour along Morocco’s Mediterranean coast.
Exploring Tetouan's Medina
As with many other Moroccan cities, the Medina is the place to go to discover the heritage of Tetouan. It may be relatively small, but that just works in your favour as it gives you the chance to explore without losing your bearings.
Tetouan, in addition to its fascinating Spanish colonial district, has the most perfectly preserved medina in Morocco, listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1997. Its atmospheric, never-ending maze of alleyways and constant confusion of hurried humanity is like being immersed into a pre-mass tourism time-warp.
Traditional crafts flourish here, and in 2017, Tetouan was inducted into UNESCO’s Creative Cities Network, where it’s also possible to visit the Royal Artisan School, the only one of its kind in Morocco, of which the king is a prominent patron.
Family Activities
One of Morocco’s newest holiday resorts, Tamuda Bay is an ideal destination for a family. It’s in a region with long, beautiful sandy beaches where you and your children can relax or play. When the sea gets a bit rough, or if you just fancy a change, visit the nearby water park with its large swimming pools and exhilarating range of waterslides.
Away from the water there are places in Tamuda Bay where you can race in go-karts and enjoy the rides of a funfair.
Food and Drink
When you’re hungry in Tamuda Bay, head to Mohammed V Avenue where you’ll find a pedestrianised street lined with restaurants, cafes and street vendors.
For a truly traditional experience visit the town’s Medina, a UNESCO World Heritage Site that is a great place to uncover the area’s multicultural heritage, including the cuisine. Whether it’s something cooked or the raw ingredients you’re sure to find something here to tempt your tastebuds.
Situated on the Moroccan Mediterranean coast the seafood here is fresh and plentiful and you should attempt to try as much of it as possible.
Practical Information
Morocco is one of those types of destinations that can be visited year-round. You have to understand the geography of the country in order to choose the best time to visit Morocco. Taking into account that you have vast desert regions, probably those should not be visited during the peak summer months such as July and August.
Also, knowing that Morocco has most part of its territory with mountains above 10.000 feet and up to 14.000, you will surely encounter snow in highlands above 4200 feet. So, expect snow during the months of November until February.
Tourists have been visiting Morocco for years and Moroccans have well-earned reputation for warmth and kindness toward visitors. Moroccan cities are generally very safe, especially in area where tourists frequent. Morocco is very well secured, Police in every location, there is so many checking points, this is what makes Morocco safe and 100% secured to make sure everybody are safe and comfortable in Morocco.
Travel insurance should be obtained before leaving your country of origin. It is not compulsory to purchase it. Local hospitals have limited diagnostic capability. You can relax and wear whatever is familiar, comfortable, and best suited for you during your holidays. Morocco is very tolerant and welcoming to visitors, and you’re not expected to act or look like a Moroccan.
Longer shorts and shirts are fine for men. It’s not easy to get Moroccan Dirham outside the country as it is a closed currency. Those who succeeded have paid heavy commissions for banks.
There are ATMs everywhere in the country, exchange points, banks, and many businesses/shops/restaurants nowadays accept cards mostly with a 5% transaction fee. The best place to exchange money with high rate is the touristic areas.
The Moroccan Dirham (MAD) is the currency of Morocco. Made up of 100 centimes per unit, the currency is issued by the Bank Al-Maghrib (Morocco’s central bank). Historically, the Moroccan Dirham originates from the Byzantine Empire’s Drachm, and was used in Arabia and the Levant in pre-Islamic times. The name “Dirham” stems from the Roman word “denarius” .
Credit cards are widely used in Morocco in hotels, many shops, restaurants, and cafes. Most stores in markets accept credit cards. Visitors to Morocco must have a passport valid for at least 6 months beyond the scheduled return date to enter Morocco and you can obtain a visa from Morocco Consulate before departure.
Also, entry visa is available upon arrival Morocco airports against USD 27 per passport for specific nationalities and need to check before. Some nationalities don’t need a visa to visit Morocco for the purpose of tourism for up to 3 months such as United States of America, Canada, United Kingdom, Australia, Denmark, Netherlands, New Zealand, and Switzerland.
It is always recommended for travelers who wish to have their own supply of cigarettes and alcohol with them in Morocco to purchase them upon arrival. There are duty free shops in the airports in Casablanca, Marrakech, Agadir, Fez, Tangier and Rabat.
English and French are studied in school all over Morocco. This is why most Moroccans, who live in the cities, speak or understand at least some English words or phrases, and most of Moroccans are speaking French well. Fewer Moroccans can speak Italian, Spanish, and German; however, professionals in the tourism sector are accustomed to visitors who cannot speak Arabic.
They speak enough English and many other languages to fulfill the needs of most travelers. Many travelers enjoy their stay in Morocco without learning a single word of Arabic; however, it is always good to learn a few Arabic words to expressing greetings or thanks. If you are planning to visit some places other than popular tourist destinations, it is advisable to learn some Arabic phrases.
Many people in the tourism sector depend on tips, as a major part of their income. Therefore, tipping is considered customary in Morocco. It is a customary attitude for expressing ones satisfaction of good services rendered to him by staff on duty with him.
The check-in time in most hotels in Morocco is around midday, 1 or 2 PM. If you arrive in the hotel late at night or in the early morning, you may have to pay for an extra night to get to your room immediately without having to wait until the normal check-in time.
Accommodations for travellers in Morocco fall across a broad range-everything from world class luxury to simple hostel accommodations are available. A step down from these is a variety of local hotels that ranges from luxurious to simple. Moroccans are well known all over the world for their tolerance and hospitality; however, it is always polite to ask permission before taking a photograph of people, especially women, and stores or products.
Photography is non-permitted around army bases, airports, dams and bridges. Non-Muslims are generally welcome to visit and access Hassan 2 mosques in Casablanca except when they are being used for prayer, on Friday and during the five prayers of the day. Tourists are not allowed to enter any other mosque at any time.
Most of the monuments, historical sites, and museums in Morocco open from 9 AM until 6 PM. Most of the shops in Morocco open from around 9 AM and stay open until 10 PM; however, many shops, cafes, and restaurants especially in main cities like Marrakech, Casablanca, Fez, Agadir, and Rabat stay open much later and some facilities and shops are open 24 hours a day in touristic areas.
During Ramadan, the holy month of the Islamic calendar, opening hours may change significantly with shops closed during the middle of the day and staying open much later. There is a public transit system in Morocco that uses a rail to link the main towns and buses for inner-city trips. Small private and group tours will typically use large vans and sedans.
Cultural Immersion
Tamuda Bay is a treasure trove of natural beauty, cultural richness, and immersive experiences. Immerse yourself in Moroccan traditions in Tamuda Bay. Here, belly dancing and henna tattoos aren’t just performances; they’re celebrations of a rich cultural heritage. Local artisans and craftsmen showcase their skills through intricate pottery and traditional handicrafts, inviting you to take home a tangible piece of Moroccan culture.
Historical Significance
Tamuda Bay is more than just a sun-soaked retreat; it’s a gateway to Morocco’s captivating history. Ancient ruins whisper tales of Roman and Phoenician civilizations, providing a fascinating glimpse into the region’s past.
Culinary Delights
Tamuda Bay doesn’t merely captivate visitors through its history. Its vibrant culinary scene adds a sensory dimension to your journey. Traditional Moroccan dishes like tagine and couscous, infused with a unique blend of spices, await your palate in the charming restaurants and cafes dotting the bay.
Venture into the Souks
Venture into the bustling markets and souks, where the vibrant Medina of Tetouan takes center stage. Lose yourself in the maze-like streets filled with stalls offering colorful textiles, aromatic spices, and exquisite handmade jewelry. These markets aren’t just shopping destinations; they’re portals to the heart of Tamuda Bay’s culture.
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