The clean, sandy strip of beach at Plage des Nations, 17km north of Rabat, is a popular spot with Rabat locals. It gets some serious wave action good for surfers, but the currents can be dangerous for swimming.
Above the beach, the Hôtel Firdaous is remarkable for its original '70s decor. The peeling paint, rusty radiators and threadbare carpets are only just mitigated by rooms with ocean views and new bathrooms. Book in advance to have any chance of a room in summer.
To get to the beach, drive north as far as the Musée Belghazi and turn left down a road known as Sidi Bouknadel. Bus 9 or 48 from Rabat or Salé will drop you at the turn off, from where it’s a 2km walk to the beach past huge developments of holiday apartments.
