It offers its visitors a unique combination of enjoyment, from its soft sandy beaches and clear waters to the stunning natural landscapes provided by its lagoon. To this, one can add the distinctive taste of oysters for which the region is famous.
Without a doubt, it is the best refuge for those seeking moments of solitude, calmness, and mental clarity, with its soothing sounds of nature and breathtaking views.
This is Oualidia, a coastal village in the Sidi Bennour province, located in a low-lying basin surrounded by small islands that protect it from the wind.
Oualidia is one of the finest beaches on the northern Atlantic coast, positioned between the cities of Safi and El Jadida. It lies 158 kilometers from Casablanca and 212 kilometers from Marrakech.
The village is named after Sultan Al-Walid of the Saadian dynasty and includes historical remains that date back to its golden age between the 16th and 17th centuries.
In 1634, Sultan Al-Walid entrusted the Dutch with building the kasbah to monitor and guard the coasts, which were under Portuguese occupation, and to defend the port’s entrance and ensure safe access.
Getting There and Accommodation
You can reach Oualidia by road from El Jadida or Safi, either by bus (priced at about 30 dirhams) or by taxis. If you choose the latter, don’t miss the opportunity to enjoy the views offered by the coastal road, with its stunning natural scenery and the blue sea accompanying you throughout the journey.
For accommodation, Oualidia has a hotel capacity of 216 beds, not to mention apartments and villas available for rent, often at reasonable prices year-round.
The Lagoon
Oualidia’s lagoon stretches over 12 kilometers and has been classified as a protected site since 1978. It attracts thousands of birds, adding an extraordinary and beautiful touch to its scenery.
Take a moment to catch your breath as you enjoy this stunning natural scene, sitting by the banks of the rivers and saltwater lakes near Sidi Moussa, where ducks and storks settle during the winter.
Oualidia may not have art centers or museums, but its nature offers some of the most beautiful and vivid scenes imaginable.
When the tide lowers and the lagoon’s depth ranges from two to five meters, its beauty is enhanced as green grass-covered islets appear. If you are lucky, you might witness herds of cows swimming across the lagoon to reach these islets for grazing before retreating as waves reappear after a few hours.
A Dose of Adrenaline
While Oualidia is a quiet village, it doesn’t lack moments of excitement. Its lagoon invites you to swim in its clear waters, while the Atlantic waves offer an adventure in surfing and the thrill of riding the tide.
It’s worth noting that Oualidia was the first Moroccan town to host a surfing school, established in 1991 by Laurent Miramon, a former surfing champion born in Casablanca.
Horseback riding through the region’s vast open spaces or along its large, deserted beaches is another exhilarating experience. It offers a glimpse into the past, evoking memories of ancestors who relied on horses as their primary mode of transport.
Exploring the ancient city within Oualidia and heading to the kasbah, with its walls and Portuguese cannons that stand as witnesses to a rich history, is another remarkable experience.
The old palace of the late King Mohammed V is also worth exploring. Whether admiring it from the shores of the lagoon or visiting one of the oyster farms within its grounds, this site is a historical landmark. It remains a testament to the period when King Mohammed V would spend his summer at this retreat.
The Oyster Capital
Oualidia is strongly associated with oysters, which have gained international recognition. The town produces around 37 tons annually and boasts seven oyster farms in its lagoon.
If you’re eager to try a seafood dish, don’t hesitate, as you’re in the oyster capital. This is undoubtedly the best place to enjoy various oyster dishes.
At “La Marissa,” the small harbor, blue-and-white-striped shacks serve oysters and mussels with different seasonings, either cooked or raw, catering to all budgets. A single oyster can be tasted for just 6 dirhams.
In addition to oysters, Oualidia is also famous for spider crabs and lobsters. During the summer, straw huts pop up, offering grilled fish dishes, including red mullet, sea bream, and seabass, freshly caught by local fishermen.
Here, it’s not just about enjoying the food but also the surrounding waters, nature, and indescribable beauty that leaves a lasting impression.
If you enjoy shopping and exploring local products, the weekly market bustling with farmers and their goods is an excellent opportunity to discover local culture and its offerings, from food to clothing and accessories.
