Approximately 100 kilometres south of Casablanca lies the vibrant port town of El Jadida, which has a fascinating history as the site of a 16th-century citadel built by the Portuguese. While this UNESCO World Heritage Site still lies at the heart of the city, El Jadida has evolved into an important economic and tourism hub along a sun-drenched strip of Moroccan coastline.
If you’re thinking about visiting El Jadida during your Morocco itinerary, there are plenty of wonderful places to stay, from luxury beach resorts to traditional riads and budget-friendly dars. Aside from staying in the heart of all the action (within the Cité Portugaise itself), you can enjoy a classic beachside vacation or escape to the picturesque countryside nearby.
In this article, I’ll share 8 of the best places to stay in El Jadida, with something for all budgets.
Top tip: The surrounding beaches can get incredibly busy in the summer months, so be sure to book your accommodation early if you plan on visiting during this period.
To learn more about visiting El Jadida, including the best things to see and do, check out my Ultimate Travel Guide to El Jadida.
Best luxury hotels in El Jadida, Morocco
A reflecting pool illuminated at night at Mazagan Beach & Golf Resort (photo courtesy of Expedia)
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Best riad hotel in El Jadida
Tucked away in the historic old town of El Jadida lies the serene and inviting Riad Soleil d'Orient. Stepping through its doors, you’re immediately transported into an enchanting world, one that’s a welcome respite from the energy of the surrounding city. The property features seven themed rooms arranged around a central courtyard, which is shaded by a canopy of fruit trees.
Guests can dine al fresco in the picturesque patio or enjoy Moroccan and Mediterranean cuisine in the elegant dining room. For those seeking quiet contemplation, the riad offers several inviting spaces, from the oriental-inspired living room to the Amazigh-style lounge with its crackling fireplace. Be sure to visit the rooftop terrace, which boasts shaded sitting areas and loungers bathed in Moroccan sunshine.
"What a lovely place! A true oasis in El Jadida.” - Emilia (read more reviews here)
Best hotels in El Jadida, Morocco
One of the luxurious suites at Mazagan Beach & Golf Resort in Morocco (photo courtesy of Expedia)
Best hotel in El Jadida for golfers
Sprawling across 250 hectares, this Moorish-inspired resort overlooks a long stretch of sand to the northeast of El Jadida. It’s ideal if you’re after a big resort experience, with nine restaurants serving up globally inspired cuisine and three bars to choose from. You can spend your days at the luxury spa or experience a traditional hammam before kicking back beside one of the pools.
For golf aficionados, the resort's course, designed by Gary Player, provides the perfect setting to practice your swing, complete with spectacular ocean views. The stylish guest rooms are outfitted with French balconies, well-stocked minibars and complimentary Wi-Fi, as well as access to 24-hour room service. Coupled with complimentary airport transfers and stays at Mazagan Beach & Golf Resort are as hassle-free as a holiday can get.
"Lovely place for a relaxing break away.” - Ann (read more reviews here)
Best riads in El Jadida, Morocco
The leafy internal courtyard of Riad Dar El Malaika in El Jadida (photo courtesy of Expedia)
Best romantic riad in El Jadida for couples
If you're searching for a luxury hotel in El Jadida that oozes romance, Riad Dar El Malaika is the answer. As you pass through the beautifully carved wooden doors, you'll find yourself immersed in a setting reminiscent of the opulence found in "One Thousand and One Arabian Nights" - this is Moroccan hospitality at its finest. Located in the heart of the medina, this stunning El Jadida riad boasts gorgeous gardens, which provide a peaceful retreat from the lively medina outside.
On the upper floor, you'll find five beautifully appointed suites, each uniquely adorned with carefully chosen furnishings and art pieces. In addition to the elegant marble floors, the spacious bathrooms feature deep-soaking tubs and rainfall showers. Dining is a magical experience in the candlelit courtyard, making Riad Dar El Malaika one of the best places to stay in El Jadida for couples.
"The staff were exemplary. The room was very romantic. The breakfast was the best one we had in Morocco.” - John (read more reviews here)
Best riad hotels in El Jadida, Morocco
One of the luxuriously appointed suites at Riad Dar El Malaika in El Jadida (photo courtesy of Expedia)
Best budget hotel in El Jadida
Centred around a whitewashed courtyard, Dar Ettaki is a recently renovated hotel in El Jadida, right in the heart of the Cite Portugaise. It features just a handful of rooms and suites, all of which are colourfully decorated and offer access to a shared lounge and kitchen. From the picturesque terrace, there are impressive views across the city!
Each morning, guests at this budget El Jadida hotel can enjoy a continental breakfast, featuring local specialties, fresh pastries and juices. It’s served in a communal setting that encourages mingling and conversation with fellow travellers - perfect if you're flying solo! The welcoming hosts go above and beyond to ensure a memorable stay, even assisting with parking arrangements and helping guests find the hotel on arrival.
"Stunning riad and an authentically Moroccan experience.” - Harriet (read more reviews here)
Best boutique hotels in El Jadida, Morocco
Alfresco dining at Hotel L'Iglesia in El Jadida (photo courtesy of Expedia)
Occupying a 19th-century Portuguese church, this historic El Jadida hotel stands out due to its distinctive architecture. I just love the ambiance here! Each of the 14 uniquely designed rooms features furnishings sourced from antique shops throughout Morocco, blending modern comfort with timeless elegance. Eight of the suites are situated in the original convent, while five are located in the annex that once served as the American consulate.
For history buffs, stays at L'Iglesia are sure to be a memorable experience and there's a rooftop terrace overlooking the ramparts that offers stunning ocean views. Guests can start their day with breakfast on the terrace, dine on authentic Moroccan cuisine at the on-site restaurant and end the evening with a cocktail from the bar.
“Exquisite interior of a former Portuguese church dating from the 1700s.” - Rafal (read more reviews here)
Best places to stay in El Jadida, Morocco
Views across El Jadida at sunset from the rooftop terrace of Hotel L'Iglesia (photo courtesy of Expedia)
Best guest house near El Jadida
Dar Al Manar is a charming guest house around five minutes’ drive from El Jadida and a great choice for those with a rental car. It’s situated amidst the gorgeous scenery of the Doukkala countryside and is equally convenient for exploring Azemmour, which is just 10 kilometres away. Owners Fatima and Pascal have crafted what really is a serene haven, surrounded by a one-and-a-half-hectare garden brimming with olive trees, mimosas and laurels.
Each of the guest rooms at Dar Al Manar is named after a destination in Morocco's north, such as Rabat, Fes and Tangier. Mornings at this highly-rated El Jadida guest house begin with a traditional Moroccan breakfast while lunch and dinner can be ordered à la carte and feature fresh vegetables from the garden. A five-minute drive from the property is Plage Haouzia where you can swim, surf or ride horses along the beach.
"Perfect getaway not too far from the big city.” - Sofia (read more reviews here)
Looking to rent a car in Casablanca to reach El Jadida? Discover everything you need to know about renting a car in Casablanca here.
Best hotels in El Jadida
Artworks adorns the foyer at MIA Mazagan Bay in El Jadida (photo courtesy of Expedia)
Best modern hotel in El Jadida
MIA Mazagan Bay elevates the standard hotel experience and is definitely one of the best places to stay in El Jadida. This four-star establishment blends contemporary design with an artistic flair - I love the images of Moroccan coastal scenes that adorn the walls. Ideally situated along the corniche, MIA Mazagan Bay is just a short walk from all of El Jadida’s main attractions.
Each of the 90 rooms and suites features a sleek and minimalist aesthetic, with options for business professionals, couples and families seeking an affordable hotel in El Jadida. Enjoy a restful night on the premium bedding and wake up rejuvenated, ready to indulge in the breakfast buffet and enjoy a swim in the pool. After a day of sightseeing, you can head to one of the restaurants or cafes just a short walk away.
"Exceptionally clean and beautiful hotel...Exceptionally clean and beautiful hotel.” - Monika (read more reviews here)
Best beachfront hotels in El Jadida, Morocco
One of the ocean-facing suites at MIA Mazagan Bay in El Jadida (photo courtesy of Expedia)
Best El Jadida hotel in Cite Portugaise
Tucked away in the Cite Portugaise, this beautifully restored El Jadida riad offers an authentic Moroccan stay. It features colourful stained glass windows and gorgeous lanterns throughout the interior, as well as cosy lounge areas and a really eclectic vibe. The double rooms are impeccably clean and come complete with ensuite bathrooms while the included breakfast will ensure you’re fuelled up for a day of sightseeing.
A highlight of staying at this budget-friendly El Jadida riad is the stunning rooftop terrace, which offers panoramic views that seem to encompass the entire Cite Portugaise. It’s a great place for admiring the historic architecture of the medina and the waters of the Atlantic Ocean beyond. Step outside the front door and you’re in the heart of all the action - everything is within walking distance of A Casa da Mare.
"Beautiful, cozy and peaceful casa in Cite Portugaise.” - Jacylene (read more reviews here)
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About the author
I'm Malika, a global traveller who first visited Morocco in 2014 before marrying a local and settling down in a little village on the Atlantic coast. Over the years, I've developed an intense love for Morocco, its majestic landscapes, storied cities and the incredibly warm hospitality of its people. As the owner and content creator of Malika in Morocco, I share my years of experience exploring the country, from north to south and from the Atlantic Ocean to the Sahara Desert. I am passionate about helping others plan their Moroccan travel adventures to ensure they get the most out of their North African experience.