Skhirat
الصخيرات
A fashionable beach resort town just south of Casablanca with pristine sandy beaches and modern amenities serving as a relaxing alternative to the busier capital. Its proximity to Casablanca and quality beaches make it popular for weekend escapes.
Things to do
- Skhirat Beach — A wide, well-maintained sandy beach ideal for swimming and sunbathing with modern facilities and beach clubs along the shore.
- Royal Palace Walk — Stroll along the vicinity of the royal palace grounds and admire the elegant colonial architecture that defines much of Skhirat's landscape.
- Watersports at Skhirat Beach Club — Engage in surfing, paddleboarding, and jet skiing at one of the Atlantic coast's popular watersports destinations.
- Marina Skhirat — Browse the modern marina development with upscale shops, restaurants, and yacht facilities offering a cosmopolitan atmosphere.
- Day trip to Casablanca — Visit Hassan II Mosque and the medina just 30 kilometers north as a convenient half-day excursion from the quieter resort town.
- Coastal Walks at Sunset — Walk the promenade during late afternoon to experience golden-hour views over the Atlantic and observe local evening leisure activities.
Food to try
- Grilled Sea Bream (Dorada) — Fresh whole fish caught locally, simply grilled with lemon and olive oil, served at beachfront restaurants throughout Skhirat.
- Seafood Tagine — A traditional slow-cooked stew combining locally caught fish and shellfish with tomatoes, onions, and aromatic spices served in a clay pot.
- Calamari Grillé — Tender squid rings grilled over charcoal and dressed with garlic, parsley, and lemon, a staple at seaside establishments.
- Moroccan Harira — A warming tomato and chickpea soup traditionally served during Ramadan but available year-round at local eateries and casual restaurants.
- Fresh Juice and Pastries at Breakfast — Start your morning with fresh-squeezed orange or pomegranate juice paired with flaky Moroccan pastries at beachside cafés.
Local customs & good to know
- Modest Beachwear Expectations — While Skhirat is more relaxed than inland towns, women should consider wearing cover-ups away from beach clubs and avoid extremely revealing swimwear in public areas.
- Ramadan Dining Considerations — During Ramadan, many restaurants close during daylight hours; eating or drinking in public is considered disrespectful, though tourist areas and hotels typically remain open.
- Greetings and Politeness — A simple 'Salam alaikum' (peace be upon you) and learning basic French or Arabic phrases will earn respect and goodwill from locals in shops and restaurants.
- Friday Prayer Awareness — Avoid scheduling activities for midday Friday when many businesses close for prayer time, and be respectful around mosques during prayer hours.
Nearby
- Casablanca — 30 km
- Rabat — 75 km
- Rabat Beaches (Rabat & Northern Atlantic) — 76 km
- Salé — 80 km