Where to Swim in Morocco in May | Warmest Beaches & Tips
So you’re thinking about hitting up Morocco’s beaches in May? Smart move! May sits right in that sweet spot before summer crowds roll in. The coastal temps hang around 18°C to 28°C (64°F-82°F) depending where you go, with up to 9 hours of sunshine daily. Rainfall basically disappears—we’re talking maybe 5mm over two days max. It’s basically pre-summer paradise, though the water’s still on the cooler side (more on that in a sec).
Is It Warm Enough to Swim in Morocco in May?
Here’s the real talk: the air? Gorgeous. The water? Ehh, depends on what you’re used to. Average sea temps sit between 17°C-19°C (63°F-66°F), which most swimming sites classify as “cool swimming”. The warmest water you’ll find is around 19.3°C in places like Rabat, while spots like Sidi Kaouki dip to about 17°C.
Air temps are way nicer though—northern coast cities like Tangier see around 18-26°C, central spots like Casablanca and Rabat hit 20-28°C, and down south in Marrakech you’re looking at 26-35°C. Wind’s definitely a factor, especially in places like Essaouira where the Atlantic breezes keep things fresh (read: chilly if you’re just in a swimsuit).
Warmest Places to Swim in Morocco in May
1 Agadir
This is your best bet if you want actual warm-ish swimming. The sea temp hits around 18°C (64°F), and the sheltered bay means less wind and gentler waves. Air temps average 26°C, dropping to 14°C at night. It’s super family-friendly with a long sandy beach, palm trees, and tons of facilities. Plus you can walk or bike the promenade at sunset—chef’s kiss.
2 Taghazout
Just north of Agadir, Taghazout’s got similar temps but way fewer tourists. It’s surf central, so if you’re into catching waves, this is your jam. The vibe’s more laid-back bohemian beach town than resort city.
3 Essaouira (and nearby spots)
Okay, full disclosure: Essaouira itself can be super windy in May. But the surrounding beaches offer better swimming conditions if you venture a bit away from the main town. The sun’s out strong, which helps, but maybe pack a windbreaker.
4 Dakhla
Way down south on the Saharan coast, Dakhla’s one of Morocco’s warmest spots year-round. The lagoon’s perfect for swimming and water sports, with reliably sunny weather. Sea temps here can reach 18-19°C, and the sheltered lagoon waters feel warmer than the open ocean.
5 Southern Atlantic Coast
Places like Tan-Tan and Tarfaya are basically Morocco’s hidden beach gems. Super quiet, relatively untouched, and they catch the warmest water temps along the Atlantic coast in May. If you want that “deserted beach” experience, this is it.
Best Beaches for Swimming in May
Agadir Beach: Wide, sandy, facilities galore
Imourane Beach: Near Agadir, less crowded
Oualidia Lagoon: Shallow, calm, and slightly warmer than open ocean—great for families
Legzira Beach isa place of beautiful views with a natural arch, and it has great sun exposure. The Dakhla Lagoon and the Westpoint Beach arewarmandprotected,makingthemidealforkitesurfingaswell.
Water Temperature Guide (By Region)
Northern Morocco (Tangier, Tetouan): Around 17°C (63°F)—pretty chilly
Central Atlantic Coast (Casablanca, Rabat, El Jadida): 17-19°C (63-66°F)
Southern Atlantic Coast (Agadir to Dakhla): 18-19°C (64-66°F)—your warmest option
Beach Conditions in May
You’re looking at about 14 hours of daylight with 9-10 hours of actual sunshine. UV levels get pretty high, so sunscreen’s non-negotiable. Wind picks up in spots like Essaouira and Dakhla—great for surfers and kitesurfers, less great if you just wanna chill on a towel. Crowds? Minimal. You basically have the beaches to yourself since it’s before peak season. Wave conditions vary—sheltered bays like Agadir are calmer, while Atlantic-facing beaches can get some decent swells.
Recommended Beach Activities in May
Swimming: Doable but refreshing (aka cold for some)
Snorkeling: Best in lagoons and sheltered bays
Surfing: Prime time! Taghazout and Essaouira are top picks
Paddleboarding: Calm morning waters are perfect
When it’s too cold to swim in the ocean, you may prefer taking a camel ride or walking along the beach. You can look through this section to see the perfect place for your next visit!
Places to have a holiday on the coast in May
Agadir resorts: Full-service hotels right on the beach
Dakhla eco-lodges: For the adventurous types
Oualidia boutique stays: Charming small hotels near the lagoon
Essaouira: Tons of riads and guesthouses in the medina, short walk to beach
Tips for Swimming in Morocco in May
Best time to swim: Afternoon when the water’s had time to warm up a tiny bit
Wetsuit or no wetsuit?: Honestly? If you’re planning to stay in more than 10 minutes, bring a shorty wetsuit or rash guard. That 18°C water gets chilly fast.
Sun protection: UV’s very high—SPF 50+, reapply often, wear a hat
Safety: Stick to beaches with lifeguards, check for flag systems, and watch for currents especially on exposed Atlantic beaches
Beach etiquette: Morocco’s moderate-conservative, so avoid super skimpy swimwear. Women might feel more comfortable in modest one-pieces or tankinis, though bikinis are fine at tourist beaches.
FAQs
Can you swim in Morocco in May?
Yep! The water’s just cool rather than warm, so it depends on your cold tolerance.
Which city has the warmest beaches in May?
Agadir and Dakhla are your best bets for warmer waters.
Is the Mediterranean side warm enough?
The Mediterranean coast (northern Morocco) tends to be cooler than the southern Atlantic coast in May.
Are Moroccan beaches windy in spring?
Some are! Essaouira and Dakhla especially can get breezy, but southern beaches like Agadir are more sheltered.
If you’re cool with slightly chilly water (pun intended), Morocco in May offers seriously gorgeous beach weather minus the summer crowds. Head south to Agadir or Dakhla for the warmest swimming conditions, or embrace the wetsuit life anywhere else along the coast. Either way, you’ll get sunshine, stunning scenery, and beaches practically to yourself. Not a bad trade-off, right?
