What’s newGlobal Highlights

Highlights

Dakhla — Top 10 Highlights

Explore the essentials of Dakhla with precise pins and a quick-scan overview—clean, fast, no popups.

Did you know?

Discover Dakhla’s tranquil dunes and golden beach, where the desert meets the sea, offering a serene escape for relaxed travelers. Feel the wind whip across Dakhla Beach as you step onto the shore. The turquoise waves lap at your toes, and the salty air carries the scent of seaweed and distant dunes. In the distance, the Dakhla Desert stretches like a golden sea, its dunes rolling under a sky that shifts from cobalt to blush pink at sunset. A short walk takes you to the historic Dakhla Fort, where stone walls echo stories of traders and fishermen who once guarded this crossroads of land and sea. Nearby, the Dakhla Museum offers artifacts that trace the city’s evolution from a humble fishing village to a vibrant cultural hub. As night falls, the dunes glow under a blanket of stars, inviting you to linger and let the quiet of the desert soothe your spirit. When you’re ready, wander further and discover the hidden corners of this remarkable place.

Tip: Open individual spots in Google Maps from the table below.

Dakhla — Top 10 Highlights (Overview)

Swipe to see more columns →

# / NameWhy goSignificanceSinceCategory
Dakhla · Dakhla-Oued Ed-Dahab
Enjoy sunrise over Atlantic, kite surfing, and salt flats.Historic fishing hub, now a gateway to desert adventures.— (natural)Beach
Dakhla · Dakhla-Oued Ed-Dahab
Traverse dunes, spot rare desert flora, and watch endless horizons.Largest dune field in Western Sahara, shaped by Atlantic winds.— (natural)Outdoor
Dakhla · Dakhla-Oued Ed-Dahab
Ride dune buggies, capture sunrise photos, and feel sand beneath feet.Iconic dunes define the peninsula’s landscape, attracting photographers worldwide.— (natural)Outdoor
Dakhla · Dakhla-Oued Ed-Dahab
Explore colonial architecture, panoramic sea views, and local history.Fortification marks 19th century maritime defense against piracy.— (natural)Outdoor
Dakhla · Dakhla-Oued Ed-Dahab
Discover artifacts of Sahrawi culture, trade routes, and resistance.Preserves heritage of a contested region, educating visitors on its struggle.2015Museum

“Since” dates reflect earliest public access (opening/consecration/founding) or UNESCO/natural markers. Natural sites show “— (natural)”.

Hidden gems · Insider picks

Three lesser-known spots worth a detour—remote, scenic, or just special

Sidi Bousselham Beach

Sidi Bousselham

Remote, pristine shoreline ideal for sunrise photography and quiet walks.

Logistics: Accessible by a 30‑minute drive from Dakhla; parking available near the beach.

Updated: 2025-10

Sidi M'hamed Fishing Village

Sidi M'hamed

Authentic local culture with a bustling market, traditional mosque, and fresh seafood.

Logistics: Located 15 km west of Dakhla; best visited by local taxi or rented scooter.

Updated: 2025-10

Dune Safari at Sidi Bousselham

Sidi Bousselham

Scenic desert adventure with guided dune climbs and sunset views over the Atlantic.

Logistics: Tours depart from Dakhla center; 1‑hour drive to the dune camp.

Updated: 2025-10

When to go

Kite Surfing & Wind SportsOct–Apr: Mild temperatures, steady winds, low crowds, perfect for kite surfing and windsurfing.
Desert ExplorationJun–Sep: Hot days, cooler nights, moderate crowds, ideal for camel treks and dune hikes.
Cultural & City VisitsJan–Mar: Comfortable weather, fewer tourists, great for exploring local markets and historic sites.
Summer Heat & NightlifeJul–Aug: High temperatures, lively nightlife, higher prices, best for those who enjoy hot beach days and evening entertainment.
Off-Season Budget TravelMay–Jun, Sep–Oct: Cooler temperatures, lower prices, moderate crowds, suitable for budget travelers and photographers.

Weather varies by region—always check local forecasts.

Family picks

Three kid-friendly wins—mix of attractions, activities, or stays

Dakhla Lagoon Nature Reserve

$$

Lagoon Reserve

Attraction3–12Updated: 2025-10

Explore wildlife and dunes; easy trails for kids, educational signage, and calm environment.

Logistics: Guided tours available; bring sunscreen, water, and a hat. Strollers allowed on most paths.

Camel Trekking in Dakhla Dunes

$$

Dakhla Dunes

Activity5–12Updated: 2025-10

Short 1‑hour rides let kids feel the desert; gentle pace, guided safety.

Logistics: Book through local tour operators; bring light jacket, water, and a hat.

Kite Surfing Lesson for Kids

$$

Dakhla Beach

Activity6–12Updated: 2025-10

Short beginner lessons teach balance and safety; instructors supervise all kids.

Logistics: Reserve a 1‑hour slot; bring swimsuit, towel, and sunscreen.

Where to eat (Lunch)

Three easy picks by budget — quick to decide, easy to book

La Casa de la Miel

Old Town

Fresh pastries and light Moroccan dishes

Updated: 2025-10-12

El Mero

€€
Port

Seafood platters with local catch

Updated: 2025-10-12

Café de la Mer

Beachfront

Casual lunch with sea views

Updated: 2025-10-12

Where to sleep

Location first, then value and consistency

Hotel Dakhla Oasis

€€
City Center

Comfortable rooms, free Wi-Fi, close to attractions

Updated: 2025-10-12

Casa de la Miel Guesthouse

Old Town

Cozy stay, friendly host, budget-friendly

Updated: 2025-10-12

Dakhla Luxury Suites

€€€
Beachfront

Spacious suites, pool, premium service

Updated: 2025-10-12

Safety: practical snapshot

Overall call

Dakhla offers beautiful beaches and desert landscapes; stay alert to petty theft, traffic hazards, and extreme heat, especially during summer.

  • Petty theft in crowded markets.
  • Road accidents on unpaved roads.
  • Heat exhaustion during midday.
  • Scams targeting tourists.
  • Sandstorms reduce visibility.

How to travel it safely

  • Keep valuables in a hotel safe.
  • Use licensed taxis or ride share apps.
  • Wear sunscreen and stay hydrated.
  • Avoid driving during peak heat hours.
  • Carry a small first aid kit.
  • Verify tour operators' credentials.
  • Stay on marked trails in dunes.

Emergency: Call local emergency number; in Morocco dial 112.

Information may change; check local advisories.

Published: Oct 12, 2025Updated: Oct 12, 2025

Send feedback / Suggest a hidden gem

We’ll only use your email to follow up if needed.