Skhirat is one of the longest continuous Atlantic beaches near Rabat, stretching for kilometres between Temara and Bouznika. The royal summer palace of Skhirat sits at the northern end (exterior viewing only) and gave the resort its quietly upmarket reputation. The sand is wide, the swell is steady, and the beach clubs cluster around the small town of Skhirat Plage. It's a 30-minute drive south of Rabat, manageable by grand taxi or rental car.
Why visit
If you want a longer Atlantic walk than Temara offers, or you want to get away from beach-club crowds, Skhirat is the answer. The sand stretches for kilometres and at the southern end you can walk for an hour without hitting a structure. The royal-palace presence also means the stretch has been kept cleaner and less developed than the main Casablanca beaches.
What to expect
A wide continuous beach along the Atlantic, with a small town of Skhirat Plage at the centre offering clubs, restaurants, and shops. North of the clubs the beach empties quickly; south it mixes with small holiday villages. No real services outside the central zone — bring water and sun cover.
Best time
June to September for warm water and full facilities. October and May are empty and pleasant. Winter storms bring powerful Atlantic swell — beautiful, but no swimming.
How to combine
Easiest as a half-day out of Rabat. Pair with Temara for a beach-to-beach coastal drive, or extend south along the Atlantic to Bouznika or Mohammedia. Grand taxi is the most practical transport; rental car gives the most flexibility.
Price range
Free: Skhirat is a public beach. The shore is maritime public domain under Moroccan law and free access to it is guaranteed, so the sand and the water cost nothing.
The summer beach clubs strung along it are private businesses with their own entry, lounger and food charges. Those are optional, and separate from the beach — no one may charge you simply to sit on the sand.
Temara is closer to Rabat and more compact. Skhirat is further, longer, and quieter once you're past the central Skhirat Plage stretch — better for a longer walk or a weekend picnic.
Yes — the wide flat sand is great for small children, and the beach clubs around Skhirat Plage provide shade and food. Watch ocean currents; lifeguards are posted at the main clubs in summer only.
The northern end near the royal palace is fenced and patrolled — stay well south of the marked perimeter. The rest of the beach is fully public.
July and August weekends, especially Sunday afternoons. Weekdays even in peak summer are calm. Out-of-season it feels almost deserted.
