Ain Diab Corniche and Beach

Ain Diab is where Casablanca goes to breathe. The district's coastline, known simply as the Corniche, runs west from the El Hank headland along the Atlantic, with a seafront promenade, beaches and a long string of restaurants, cafés, lounges and beach clubs. It is the affluent, outward-looking face of the city, and on warm evenings it seems as if half of Casablanca is out walking along the sea wall.

The beach itself is one of the best known in the city and a hub for water sports. Surf schools and equipment rental shops line the shore, offering lessons for complete beginners as well as more experienced surfers, and you can also try jet skiing, windsurfing, paddleboarding and diving. The Atlantic is powerful here, with strong waves and currents, so swim only where others are swimming, follow any flags or instructions from lifeguards, and take a lesson rather than going out alone if you are new to surfing.

Away from the water, the Corniche is about food and atmosphere. Cafés and restaurants along the seafront serve seafood and Moroccan dishes with views across the ocean, and beach bars and lounges take over as the sun goes down. Throughout the year the area hosts concerts, beach parties and events, and sunset is the moment everyone waits for. Several of the city's best-known seafood restaurants and nightspots are here or nearby, along with the Morocco Mall at the western end.

The Corniche suits almost everyone. Families come for the sand and the promenade, couples for sunset drinks, surfers for the waves and night owls for the clubs. Allow a couple of hours for a walk and a drink, or a full day if you plan to surf or relax at a beach club. Summer weekends are crowded; spring and autumn are calmer and still mild. Bring sunscreen, as the breeze can hide how strong the sun is.

Ain Diab is a short taxi ride west of the city centre. A good route is to start at the Hassan II Mosque, walk or ride west past El Hank Lighthouse, then follow the promenade towards Ain Diab for the evening. The Morocco Mall is at the far end if you need shops or a family attraction.