Ain Sbaa Beach: A Surfing Haven on Morocco’s Coast

Looking for a quieter slice of Casablanca’s coastline? Aïn Sebaâ beach might just be your spot. No flashy resorts, no crowds snapping selfies every two metres — just sand, sea, and a very local atmosphere. It’s where the ocean breathes differently, where the pace slows down, and where a simple walk along the shore feels like a break from time itself.

An introduction to Aïn Sebaâ beach

Far from the usual postcard clichés, Aïn Sebaâ Beach is not Casablanca’s most famous spot. Yet it holds a certain charm. Nestled in a working-class neighbourhood to the east of the city, it stretches out along the Atlantic with a raw, authentic feel. There are no private beach clubs or neatly lined sun loungers here. This is a local beach, lively and unpretentious, often visited by nearby families, youngsters kicking a football around or anglers trying their luck.

The sand can be wet or dry depending on the tide and the water is sometimes a bit rough. But it is precisely this wild, untamed nature that makes Aïn Sebaâ a magnet for surfers. Far from the busy tourist spots, it’s a local favourite where both beginners and experienced surfers come to ride the waves. The swell picks up especially in the late afternoon, offering powerful, challenging conditions that attract a dedicated community of surfers. There are no large surf schools here, just passionate individuals who value the freedom and raw energy of this spot, practising their skills away from the crowds and the usual tourist buzz.

The vibe is genuinely local with no frills attached. People come here to feel the wind on their skin, listen to the crashing waves and watch the sun slowly dip below the horizon. It is a raw, unfiltered moment perfect for curious travellers wanting to discover a different side of Casablanca.

Things to do at Aïn Sebaâ beach

Swimming but be cautious

Let’s be honest, this isn’t a calm, postcard-perfect lagoon. The currents here are strong and the waves unpredictable. Swimming is possible, yes, but only if you feel confident and the conditions are right. Lifeguards are not always present and safety signs can be few and far between. If you’re with children, it’s best to stay close to the shore and enjoy the water without taking unnecessary risks.

Surfing and bodyboarding for the adventurous

If surfing or bodyboarding is your thing, you’ll appreciate the raw power of the waves here. It’s not quite Taghazout or Imsouane, but it has its own wild, unpredictable charm and can be quite challenging at times. Local surfers tend to hit the water early in the morning when the tides are just right. There aren’t many surf shops nearby, so it’s wise to bring your own equipment or get in touch with a local surf group before you arrive.

Walking, sunset views, and people-watching

You don’t have to get wet to enjoy the beach. The long, open stretch is perfect for a stroll, especially at sunset when the sky turns golden and the horizon seems a little closer. Locals gather in small groups, some selling roasted corn, others simply watching the waves roll in. It’s one of those places where doing very little somehow leaves you feeling refreshed.

Practical advice for visitors

How to get there: From downtown Casablanca, it’s about a 25 to 30-minute drive, depending on traffic. The tram is a simple, budget-friendly option: head towards Aïn Sebaâ, get off at the final stop, then walk around ten minutes to reach the beach. If you’ve rented a car, parking nearby is usually easy, especially in the morning or on weekdays.

When to go: Early morning is your best bet. The vibe is quiet, the light is softer, and the heat still manageable. Late afternoons get noticeably busier, especially during school holidays, weekends or in the summer months.

What to bring: No need to overpack. Light clothes, a towel, water, a few snacks and a hat will do the job. If you plan to wander across rocks or explore the wilder edges of the shore, proper shoes might come in handy.

On-site facilities: Aïn Sebaâ is a no-frills kind of beach. No cabins, no showers, and no public toilets. That said, street vendors often pass by offering mint tea, fried dough, or ice creams for the kids.

With children: The beach is family-friendly, but caution is key. Lifeguards aren’t always present, and the waves can surprise the little ones. Better to keep them close, especially when the tide’s in.

Atmosphere: No blaring music, no swarms of tourists. It’s a local beach, vibrant, unpolished, and at times a little rough around the edges. But that’s exactly where Aïn Sebaâ finds its charm. You don’t come here for luxury, you come to disconnect and experience a genuine slice of coastal life.

What to see near Aïn Sebaâ beach?

Aïn Sebaâ might not be the heart of Casablanca’s tourist scene, but step away from the sand and you’ll find a few places worth your time. There’s culture, architecture, a bit of shopping, and enough local flavour to keep things interesting. Here are six spots to check out nearby.

Hassan II mosque: Roughly twenty minutes by car from Aïn Sebaâ, this mosque is nothing short of breathtaking. Part of it is built directly over the Atlantic Ocean. The minaret towers above the city, and the interior is all marble, cedarwood, intricate mosaics, and light. Guided tours are available and absolutely worth it, even for those not usually into religious landmarks.

The Habous quarter: Also called the new medina, this neighbourhood is a quiet alternative to the hustle of traditional souks. It was built during the French protectorate but looks and feels like a classic Moroccan maze. You’ll find booksellers, olive stands, spice shops and tailors side by side. It is one of those places where time slows down a little, and that’s part of the charm.

Morocco mall: Yes, it is a shopping mall, but it is also an experience. With hundreds of stores, a cinema, a musical fountain, and even an indoor aquarium, this place is ideal for families or anyone looking for a modern pause. After the salty wind of Aïn Sebaâ, a bit of air-conditioned comfort can hit the spot.

Ain diab corniche: A classic Casablanca stop. The corniche is where the city meets the sea in style. Cafés, beach clubs, and ice cream parlours stretch along the promenade. It is livelier than Aïn Sebaâ, with more places to sit, sip and people-watch. Some even compare it to the Riviera, although the Atlantic waves have their own attitude.

Museum of the villa des arts: If you are craving a dose of culture, this small but elegant art museum showcases Moroccan contemporary art inside a 1930s villa. The exhibitions change often, and it is rarely crowded. A great place to cool down and see how local artists are reshaping tradition.

Royal palace of casablanca (from the outside) : It is not open to the public, but the Royal Palace in the Habous district is still worth a look. The gates, the gardens, the guards in bright red uniforms, all make for a striking scene. It is one of those spots that remind you that Morocco is a kingdom, with all the pageantry that comes with it.

Aïn Sebaâ beach isn’t perfect, and that’s exactly why it’s worth your time. It’s unpolished, real, and refreshingly free of clichés. Whether you’re watching the Atlantic roar or chatting with locals over sweet mint tea, you’ll catch a glimpse of Casablanca that’s hard to find elsewhere.