Things To Do
in El Mansouria
El Mansouria is a laid-back Atlantic coast town just southwest of Casablanca, known for its long sandy beaches and working fishing harbor. The town blends traditional Morrocan coastal life with relaxed seaside charm, making it ideal for slow travel and day trips. Visitors come to swim, surf, and enjoy fresh seafood while watching the sunset over the wide ocean.
Surrounding villages and coastal trails offer easy access to nature, culture, and memorable seaside meals.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Upon arrival in El Mansouria, you will be greeted by the warm Moroccan sun and the welcoming smiles of locals. Take some time to check into your accommodations and freshen up from your travels. After settling in, enjoy a leisurely stroll along the stunning coastline to soak in the picturesque views of the Atlantic Ocean.
For lunch, savor the flavors of the region at a quaint seaside café, where you can indulge in fresh seafood dishes like grilled sardines. After your meal, visit the nearby Harchi Beach and spend the afternoon lounging on the sandy shores or swimming in the refreshing waters. Don’t forget to take in the vibrant atmosphere as local vendors display their crafts and delicious snacks.
As the sun begins to set, head to one of the local eateries for a traditional Moroccan dinner featuring tagine and mint tea. Enjoy the ambiance of the restaurant, often adorned with beautiful lanterns and Moroccan tiles. After your meal, take a leisurely walk along the beach to admire the stars and soak in the peaceful sound of the waves.
Start your day with a traditional Moroccan breakfast consisting of fresh bread, honey, and olives. After breakfast, explore the bustling market (souq) where you can interact with locals and discover unique handicrafts, spices, and textiles. Engage with friendly shopkeepers to learn about their products and the rich history behind them.
Lunch will be a delightful experience at a local restaurant serving classic Moroccan dishes that highlight regional ingredients. Post-lunch, consider taking a short trip to the historic city of Casablanca, which is only an hour away, to visit the majestic Hassan II Mosque, one of the largest mosques in the world. Capture incredible photos and learn about Islamic architecture through your guided tour.
Return to El Mansouria in the evening to find a cozy spot along the beach for dinner. Enjoy fresh grilled fish while listening to the soothing sounds of the surf and watching the sunset paint the sky. Afterwards, wind down at a local café with live traditional music and engage with the community over sweet mint tea.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $10-15 |
| 🥗Meal for two at mid-range restaurant | $25-40 |
| 🚕Taxi ride within town | $3-7 |
| 📶Local SIM card with data | $5-15 |
| 🛏️Budget hotel per night | $25-60 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Relaxed pace and authentic coastal atmosphere
- Fresh seafood and affordable dining
- Beautiful beaches and accessible day trips
- Fewer crowds than larger cities
- Limited nightlife and nightlife options
- Smaller English-speaking population in some areas
- Some services and accommodations may be modest or rustic
- Public transport connectivity is limited compared to big cities
- "Salam" - Hello
- "Shukran" - Thank you
- "Min fadlik" - Please
- "Kam hada?" - How much is this?
- "Ayna al-hammam?" - Where is the bathroom?
- "La afak" - No please
- "Ana min..." - I am from...
Places to Visit in El Mansouria
Visit one of these nice places.
Iconic lighthouse perched on coastal cliffs offering dramatic sea views and great long-exposure opportunities.
Quiet fishing harbor with colorful boats and soft early-morning light for reflective shots.
A sweeping stretch of sandy shore ideal for wide shoreline compositions and sunset silhouettes.
Weathered huts along the shore and nets on the sand provide authentic documentary scenes.
Nearby sand dunes offer expansive Atlantic vistas and dramatic horizon lines.
Food in El Mansouria
El Mansouria Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Grilled sardines marinated in Chermoula, typically served with bread, lemon, and a simple salad.
Must-Try!
Fish tagine with tomatoes, peppers, olives, and preserved lemon, braised to tender perfection.
Steamed semolina with a fragrant fish and vegetable stew folded through.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Morning stalls selling freshly caught fish; perfect for selecting ingredients for a seaside lunch.
Fried calamari, grilled sardines, and light Moroccan pastries with mint tea.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Dress modestly in public spaces; shoulders and knees should be covered, especially in religious or traditional settings.
Greet with a friendly 'Salam' and use right hand for giving/receiving. Ask before taking photos of people.
Haggling is common in markets; smile, be patient, and agree on a price before buying.
Be respectful during daylight hours in Ramadan; some businesses may have reduced hours.
Safety
Tipping in El Mansouria
Ensure a smooth experience
In restaurants, a small tip (around 5-10%) is appreciated if service is not included. Small change or rounding up is common with street vendors. Tipping is not required for quick-service stalls.
Cash in Moroccan dirhams is widely used; many places in El Mansouria accept local cards, but some smaller eateries may be cash-only. ATMs are available in larger nearby towns.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Warm to hot days with cooling sea breezes. Expect sunny beaches, higher visitor traffic, and sparkling water—great for surfing and swimming, but peak hours can be busy.
Mild temperatures with calmer seas and pleasant coastal walks. A good shoulder season for seafood and fewer crowds.
Cool, windy, and occasionally rainy; storms from the Atlantic can bring rough seas. Still workable for walks and local culture exploration with fewer tourists.
Moderate temperatures and blooming coastal flora. Ideal for hiking, photography, and enjoying outdoor cafés.
El Mansouria at Night
Hiking in El Mansouria
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Scenic route along the Atlantic cliffs with ocean views, suitable for a half-day hike.
Gentle trails across sand dunes offering sunset perspectives over the water.
Airports
How to reach El Mansouria by plane.
Major international gateway serving the region; approximately 60-90 minutes by road to El Mansouria, depending on traffic.
Smaller facility offering regional flights; about 1-1.5 hours to El Mansouria by road.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
A strong coastal community with deep ties to the sea and traditional market life.
Tourists, day-trippers, and surfers seeking a relaxed Atlantic escape.
People choosing a quieter coastal lifestyle within easy reach of Casablanca.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
A popular pastime in towns and villages; informal matches and local leagues are common.
Atlantic swells attract surfers; suitable for beginners near calm beaches and more experienced riders at better breaks.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting El Mansouria.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Choose vegetable tagines, lentil soups, salads, and bread-focused meals; ask for dishes without meat or fish and request extra vegetables or legumes.