Things To Do
in Beni Oulid
Beni Oulid is a small coastal town in northern Morocco where the Rif mountains meet the Mediterranean Sea. It offers a relaxed, family-friendly atmosphere with whitewashed houses and sea breezes. The town serves as a gateway to nearby Tetouan and other historic sites in the Tangier-Tetouan-Al Hoceima region.
Visitors can experience a blend of coastal life, Berber hospitality, and easy access to larger cities for day trips.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the local souk, where you can experience the vibrant atmosphere and purchase traditional Moroccan goods. Immerse yourself in the sights and sounds as local vendors sell spices, handicrafts, and fresh produce. Enjoy a traditional Moroccan breakfast at a nearby café, savoring fresh bread and mint tea.
Explore the historic kasbahs and architectural gems that define Beni Oulid, discovering the intricate designs and cultural significance behind them. Take a guided tour to learn about the region's rich history and the influence of Berber culture. Wrap up your afternoon with a leisurely stroll through the quaint streets, absorbing the local lifestyle and architecture.
As the sun sets, find a charming local restaurant for dinner, where you can indulge in authentic Moroccan dishes like tagine and couscous. Engage with locals over your meal, sharing stories and laughter as the evening unfolds. After dinner, take a quiet walk under the stars, enjoying the peaceful ambiance of the town.
Begin your morning with a guided hike in the nearby foothills, surrounded by breathtaking landscapes and stunning views of the Atlas Mountains. Witness the rich flora and fauna while your guide shares fascinating insights into the local ecosystem. Don't forget your camera to capture the picturesque scenery along the way.
After your hike, enjoy a picnic lunch with local delicacies amidst nature, soaking up the tranquility around you. In the afternoon, visit a nearby waterfall, where you can take refreshing dips in the natural pools. This serene setting is perfect for unwinding and reconnecting with nature.
In the evening, return to Beni Oulid and head to a local café, where you can relax with mint tea and Moroccan pastries. The warm ambiance and the sound of local musicians playing traditional music will create a memorable atmosphere. Consider joining a storytelling session to learn more about Moroccan folklore and traditions.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $6-12 |
| 🥗Three-course meal for two (mid-range restaurant) | $20-40 |
| 🧺Groceries for a week | $40-70 |
| 🏨Mid-range hotel per night | $40-100 |
| ☕Coffee and pastry at cafe | $2-5 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Warm, hospitable people and a relaxed pace
- Access to nearby Tetouan’s culture and coastline
- Delicious seafood and Mediterranean-influenced cuisine
- Reasonable costs and fewer crowds than bigger cities
- Limited nightlife and fewer high-end dining options in town
- Language barriers can appear in rural areas
- Smaller infrastructure for some tourist services compared with larger cities
- "Salam" - Hello
- "Labas?" - How are you?
- "Shukran" - Thank you
- "Afak" - Please
- "Ma'a salama" - Goodbye
- "Bghit had l-haja" - I would like this
- "Fayn lqahwa?" - Where is the coffee shop?
- "Ma3lish" - Sorry/Excuse me
Places to Visit in Beni Oulid
Visit one of these nice places.
Long sea-side walkway with sea-lit horizons and boats bobbing in the harbor, ideal for golden-hour photography.
Narrow, whitewashed lanes with blue doors and textured walls—great for candid street photography.
Panoramic vantage points where green hills meet the blue Mediterranean for sweeping landscape shots.
Calm morning light on fishing boats and quiet quay, perfect for reflections and still-life shots.
Food in Beni Oulid
Beni Oulid Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A fragrant tagine featuring fresh fish or shellfish with tomatoes, peppers, olives, and preserved lemon.
Must-Try!
Steamed couscous piled with seasonal vegetables and often chickpeas; can be paired with a tomato-based sauce.
Whole grilled fish seasoned with herbs, olive oil, and a squeeze of lemon, commonly served with bread and olive salad.
A hearty fava bean or lentil soup, especially popular in cooler weather.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Seasonal seafood, olives, bread, citrus, and fresh vegetables sold by friendly vendors near the harbor.
Colorful stalls offering herbs, spices, dairy, and legumes; great for picking up ingredients for a home-cooked meal.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Greet with a warm ‘Salam’ and a handshake or cheek kiss if familiar; use the right hand for giving/receiving.
Modest clothing in public spaces is respectful; shoulders and knees covered, especially in traditional areas.
Guests are often offered tea or coffee; accepting hospitality is appreciated and common practice.
Safety
Tipping in Beni Oulid
Ensure a smooth experience
In restaurants, leave a small tip if service is not included (about 5-10%). Small tips for hotel staff, and round up taxis to the next dirham if comfortable.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Mild temperatures and blooming landscapes; ideal for hikes and outdoor markets.
Hot days with strong sun; plan outdoor activities for early morning or late afternoon and enjoy coastal breezes.
Comfortable temperatures and fewer crowds; great for city walks and cultural visits.
Cool to mild with possible rain; good for museums, cafés, and hill walks with light layers.
Beni Oulid at Night
Hiking in Beni Oulid
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A scenic route along the Mediterranean with sea views and occasional shaded areas, suitable for a half-day hike.
A circuit that winds through foothill terrain with viewpoints over the coast, offering opportunities to spot local flora and birds.
A forested trail in the surrounding hills, providing cooler temperatures and tranquil landscapes away from the coast.
Airports
How to reach Beni Oulid by plane.
Closest international and domestic airport serving the region; short drive from Beni Oulid, with connections to major Moroccan hubs and some European destinations.
Larger international airport further west; good option for longer-haul connections and regional flights.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
A mix of Rif-speaking Berber communities and Arabic-speaking residents, with French widely used in business and education in the region.
A growing number of visitors from Europe and other parts of Morocco who visit Tetouan, Tangier, and coastal towns for day trips and beach holidays.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The most popular sport in the region, followed passionately by locals and played in community fields and schools.
Common in schools and community centers; local games and pickup matches occur in towns nearby.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Beni Oulid.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian options are available in most eateries: salads, lentil dishes, vegetable tagines, and couscous with vegetables. When ordering, ask for no meat stock and confirm ingredients with staff.