Things To Do
in Mehdya

Daily-caught fish and sardines, simply grilled with lemon and herbs; available at beachside stalls and small restaurants along the port.

Must-Try!

A coastal variation of tagine featuring white fish, preserved lemons, olives and aromatic spices—common in local eateries.

Traditional Moroccan couscous topped with seasonal stewed vegetables; widely served on Fridays in family homes and restaurants.

A hearty soup of tomatoes, lentils and chickpeas often served during Ramadan but available as a warming starter year-round.

Small daily markets near the harbor where fishermen sell the morning catch; ideal for fresh seafood and quick, inexpensive bites. Look for kebabs, grilled fish stands and vendors selling seasonal fruits and bread.

A larger market in nearby Kenitra offering a wider selection of produce, spices, olives and pastries—great for sampling regional specialties.

Use polite greetings like 'As-salamu alaykum' or a handshake with the same gender; show respect when meeting elders. French phrases are also commonly understood.

Dress modestly, especially in rural areas and when visiting religious sites—shoulders and knees covered is sensible for women and men. Beachwear is fine on the beach but not in town or markets.

Ask permission before photographing people, especially women; be respectful around religious ceremonies and sensitive sites.

Politeness and patience go a long way—accepting mint tea or small invitations is a friendly gesture, and bargaining is expected in markets but do so respectfully.

Tipping is appreciated but not always mandatory—round up bills in cafés, leave 5–10% in restaurants for good service, and give small change to helpers, porters and guides. For taxi drivers, rounding up or adding a small tip is common.

The local currency is the Moroccan dirham (MAD). Cash is widely used in Mehdya—small vendors and food stalls may not accept cards. Credit and debit cards are accepted in larger hotels and some restaurants; ATMs are available in nearby Kenitra and larger towns.

One of the best times to visit—temperatures are mild, wildflowers and coastal vegetation are blooming, and winds are moderate. Comfortable for outdoor activities, birdwatching and exploring without summer crowds.

Warm to hot days tempered by Atlantic breezes; beaches are busiest and water sports are in full swing. Expect more visitors on weekends and bring sun protection; evenings are pleasant for dining outside.

Mild weather and fewer tourists make autumn another excellent season for visiting—sea conditions can still be favorable for surfing and watersports. Occasional storms bring dramatic skies for photography.

Cooler temperatures with periodic rain; the area remains relatively mild compared with inland Morocco. Good for quiet coastal walks and birdwatching, but some outdoor water activities may be limited by weather.

Long-term residents working in fishing, small commerce and services—family-oriented communities shape daily life.

Those employed in the harbor and fishing industry form a visible part of Mehdya’s economy and culture.

Local weekenders from nearby cities and some international visitors come for beach days and watersports, especially in summer.

People working in nearby agricultural areas and the Maamora forest also contribute to the region’s population and economy.

Vegetarian options are available but sometimes limited in very small restaurants—look for vegetable tagines, couscous, salads and lentil dishes. Inform staff using the words for vegetarian in French ('végétarien') or Darija; larger restaurants and hotel kitchens can usually accommodate requests.

Vegan choices exist (salads, cooked vegetables, legumes) but always ask about butter, eggs and chicken stock. Carry snacks if you have strict needs.

Nearly all local meat is halal; pork is uncommon in typical Moroccan restaurants. Alcohol is available at hotels and some restaurants but is not widespread.

Communicate allergies clearly and, if possible, bring translation cards. Cross-contamination can occur in busy kitchens.