Dakhla: A Hidden Gem for Adventure and Relaxation

Dakhla isn’t just another beach destination—it’s where the desert kisses the Atlantic, where the wind never takes a day off, and where adventure meets absolute tranquillity. Tucked away in southern Morocco, this hidden gem is a playground for kitesurfers, nature lovers, and anyone looking to escape the usual tourist trail. Think turquoise lagoons, golden dunes, and seafood so fresh it practically jumps onto your plate. Whether you’re here to ride the waves, explore the Sahara, or just soak in the surreal landscapes, Dakhla won’t just impress you—it’ll make you wonder why you didn’t visit sooner.

Top things to do in Dakhla

Kitesurfing & Windsurfing

If there’s one thing Dakhla is famous for, it’s kitesurfing. The wind here? Relentless. The lagoon? Smooth as glass. Whether you’re a pro chasing speed or a beginner trying not to drink half the ocean, this is the place to do it. The best part? You’ll be gliding across the water with nothing but desert dunes in the background—talk about a surreal contrast.

Compared to Essaouira, where the wind mixes with the city’s bustling atmosphere, Dakhla offers a more isolated, pure kitesurfing experience with endless space and uninterrupted wind.

White dune & Dragon island

A giant sand dune rising from the water like it got lost on its way to the Sahara. That’s the White Dune. You can climb it, roll down it, or just admire how bizarrely beautiful it is. Nearby, Dragon Island sits in the middle of the lagoon, a tiny slice of paradise where you can take a dip in turquoise waters. Some say the island looks like a sleeping dragon—though after a long day in the sun, everything might start looking a bit mystical.

Sahara desert excursion

The dunes don’t stop at the beach. A short drive away, the Sahara stretches endlessly, golden and hypnotic. Take a 4x4, ride a camel, or just stand there and feel tiny. At night, the stars explode across the sky, brighter than you’ve ever seen. It’s like the universe decided to show off.

If you’ve been to Marrakech, you’ve likely heard of the desert, but Dakhla’s Sahara is a whole different level of remote and untouched. Here, it’s all about the quiet, vastness, and pure desert beauty—no crowds, just you and the endless dunes.

Flamingo watching

Think flamingos are only in Miami? Think again. These pink divas love hanging out in Dakhla’s lagoon, wading gracefully through the shallow waters. Early morning is the best time to catch them in action—just you, the birds, and a quietness that feels almost unreal.

Local market visit

Every good trip deserves a bit of chaos, and Dakhla’s souk delivers. It’s a mix of scents, colours, and voices, where fresh seafood, spices, and handmade crafts fight for your attention. Want to taste the ocean? Grab a plate of just-caught oysters. Bargaining is part of the game here, so channel your inner negotiator and see if you can score a deal.

Best places to eat in Dakhla

Seafood dominates here, and rightfully so. The oysters? Fresh and briny. The fish? Grilled to perfection. Try a seafood tajine, where slow-cooked spices wrap everything in a warm, fragrant hug. Not a fan of fish? No worries—there’s always couscous, tagine, and sweet Moroccan pastries to keep you fuelled. You’ll also find French, Spanish, and Middle Eastern influences sneaking into the menus. Just don’t expect fast service—Dakhla runs on its own time.

Practical Information for Visiting Dakhla

_Health: Drink bottled water, wear sunscreen, and bring basic medicine. Pharmacies are available, but serious care requires travel to Laayoune—insurance is recommended.

_Safety: Very safe, but watch your belongings in markets. Desert trips require a guide, and water sports should be done with caution.

_Clothing & Equipment: Light, breathable clothes for the day, a warm layer for nights. A scarf helps with sand, and good shoes are a must for exploring.

_Accommodation: Options range from luxury resorts and eco-lodges to mid-range hotels, budget hostels, and desert camps.

_Budget: £30–50/day for budget travel, £60–100/day for comfort, £150+ for luxury. Seafood is affordable, but imported goods can be pricey.

_Getting to Dakhla: Direct flights from Casablanca, Agadir, and some European cities. Buses (24h from Casablanca) and long road trips with a rental car are alternatives.

_Best Time to Visit: October–April for kitesurfing, March–June for warm weather, May–September for fewer crowds. Always sunny, always windy.

Must-Visit Places Around Dakhla

Porto Rico beach: A secluded paradise south of Dakhla, Porto Rico Beach offers soft golden sand, crystal-clear waters, and a sense of complete isolation. Perfect for a quiet beach day or a picnic with an Atlantic breeze, it’s also a great spot to see local fishermen at work.

Imlili desert oasis: Hidden in the middle of the desert, Imlili is a surreal sight—small natural pools filled with fish, surrounded by dunes. The water is slightly salty, and locals say the fish give a natural foot spa treatment. It’s a unique stop that feels like a mirage come to life.

Asnaa hot springs: For a little relaxation, head to the Asnaa hot springs, where warm, mineral-rich water flows naturally from the ground. Locals believe the water has healing properties, and whether or not that’s true, soaking in the middle of the desert is an experience in itself.

Jorf El Hmam cliffs: These towering cliffs along the Atlantic coast offer breathtaking views of the ocean crashing against the rocks below. A bit off the beaten path, they’re ideal for those looking to experience the raw, untamed beauty of Dakhla’s coastline.

The oyster farms of Dakhla bay: Seafood lovers, this one’s for you. Just outside the city, you’ll find oyster farms where you can taste some of the freshest shellfish in Morocco, straight from the source. Pair them with a squeeze of lemon and a sea view, and you’ve got a simple but unforgettable experience.

Dakhla isn’t just a destination, it’s an experience. Whether you’ve been gliding across the lagoon, exploring the desert, or indulging in the freshest seafood, this place has a way of staying with you. It’s raw, it’s beautiful, and it’s nothing like the usual tourist hotspots. So, if you’re looking for something different, peaceful, and utterly unforgettable, Dakhla is waiting.