Things To Do
in Ras el Oued
Ras el Oued is a small Atlantic coast town in western Morocco known for its working harbor and laid-back atmosphere. The town centers around fishing boats, colorful markets, and a coastline that shifts with the tides, making it ideal for relaxed exploration. You’ll find simple, flavorful meals, friendly locals, and sea breezes that keep the heat at bay.
Overall, Ras el Oued offers an accessible glimpse into coastal Moroccan life away from the larger tourist hubs.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Arrive in Ras el Oued and check into your beachfront hotel, where the sound of waves sets the perfect mood for your getaway. After unpacking, enjoy a leisurely breakfast on the terrace overlooking the ocean, taking in the fresh sea breeze. Stroll along the picturesque beach, collecting shells and soaking in the serene atmosphere.
After lunch, engage in water sports activities such as kayaking or windsurfing, making the most of the stunning coastal landscape. Alternatively, relax on the beach with a good book or take a refreshing swim in the Mediterranean waters. As the sun begins to lower in the sky, gather your thoughts and connect with nature on a beach walk.
Savor a delectable seafood dinner at a local restaurant, where you can indulge in dishes prepared from the day’s fresh catch. Take a peaceful evening walk along the shore as the sun sets, painting the sky in hues of orange and pink. Conclude your first day with a drink at a beach bar, relishing the warm evening air and local music.
Start your day with a visit to the bustling souk, where you’ll find an array of local goods, from spices to handmade crafts. Engage with local vendors and learn about their products, enhancing your understanding of Moroccan culture. Enjoy a traditional Moroccan breakfast at a nearby café, featuring fresh bread and mint tea.
Spend your afternoon wandering around the market, immersing yourself in the vibrant colors and sounds of Ras el Oued. After collecting some unique souvenirs, grab lunch at a local eatery to taste authentic Moroccan cuisine. Don't miss the chance to sample tagine or couscous, prepared with fragrant spices and fresh ingredients.
As the day cools, find a cozy spot at a rooftop café to enjoy a panoramic view of the town. Relish your favorite beverage while watching the sunset over the Atlas Mountains. Close the day with a stroll back to your accommodation, listening to the local nightlife begin to stir.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $10-15 |
| ☕Coffee/tea at a cafe | $1-3 |
| 🚕Taxi ride within town | $3-6 |
| 🛍️Groceries/basic goods (weekly) | $15-35 |
| 🏨Budget hotel room per night | $25-60 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Authentic coastal Moroccan experience with fresh seafood
- Compact town is easy to explore on foot
- Limited nightlife and fewer tourist facilities than bigger cities
- Occasional language barriers outside the main market areas
- "Salam" - Hello
- "Shukran" - Thank you
- "La shukran" - No, thank you
- "Shhal hadha?" - How much is this?
- "Min fadlik" - Please
- "Bshhal hatha?" - What is this price?
Places to Visit in Ras el Oued
Visit one of these nice places.
Colorful fishing boats and the morning market come alive as light hits the harbor corridors.
Long waterfront walk with sea breeze, fishing boats, and dramatic skies over the open water.
Close-up textures of seafood, spices, and vendors—great for candid street photography.
Viewpoint above waves where the town meets the Atlantic, perfect for wide-angle seascapes.
Food in Ras el Oued
Ras el Oued Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A fragrant tagine featuring fish and shellfish simmered with tomatoes, peppers, and lemon.
Must-Try!
A hearty dish of steamed couscous with seasonal vegetables and chickpeas.
A comforting tomato-lentil soup often enjoyed with dates and bread.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A bustling harbor market offering olives, bread, dried fruit, and quick grilled skewers.
A local market with fresh seafood, produce, spices, and street-food stalls.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Greet with 'Salam' or 'Bonjour'; a handshake is common. Show respect to elders and use polite language.
Modest clothing is advised in town and rural areas; shoulders and knees should be covered, particularly for women.
Bargaining is part of the culture; start with a friendly offer and smile while negotiating.
Ask permission before photographing people or private spaces; avoid taking photos inside some religious or private buildings.
Safety
Tipping in Ras el Oued
Ensure a smooth experience
In casual meals, rounding up the bill or leaving 5–10% is appreciated; in cafes and street stalls, small change is common.
Cash is widely used; many places accept credit/debit cards in towns. ATMs are common; carry small dirhams for markets and tips.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Mild temperatures around 18–24°C; bloom season brings vibrant colors to markets and coastal paths.
Hot days with refreshing sea breezes; beach activities are at their peak, but seek shade during peak sun hours.
Pleasant temperatures; seafood is abundant and the sea remains comfortable for long walks.
Mild and occasionally damp with cooler mornings; fewer crowds and the chance of rain.
Ras el Oued at Night
Hiking in Ras el Oued
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A moderate 3-5 km loop along the cliff edge offering sea views and seabird activity.
A 4-6 km route through scrubland just inland from the town, best done in the cool of morning.
Airports
How to reach Ras el Oued by plane.
Major international hub with frequent connections; typically a transfer point to coastal towns by road.
Smaller airport offering domestic and some international flights; shorter drive to the coast.
Regional airport closer to the Atlantic coast; convenient for coastal trips and some European connections.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Predominantly Arab-Berber communities with strong fishing and market-trade traditions.
A core part of daily life and the local economy; you’ll see them at the port and markets.
Some guesthouse owners and visiting artists enrich the town with a cosmopolitan flair.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The most popular sport across towns; local matches and informal games are common.
A traditional activity tied to the harbor; many locals fish from the piers or boats.
Coastal areas along the Atlantic support beginner-friendly surfing and bodyboarding, weather/season permitting.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Ras el Oued.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Most markets and eateries offer vegetable-based tagines, salads, and bread. Ask for no meat or fish stock; request separate cooking to avoid meat stock.