A Family Summer Home in Morocco: An Alternative to Spain or Portugal
British families searching for sunshine and space are increasingly looking beyond Spain and Portugal and discovering that Morocco offers something fresh, affordable and full of potential. If you are thinking about buying a summer retreat for your family, here is why Morocco could be the smarter move.
Why Choose Morocco Over Spain or Portugal
Better value for money
Many of Spain’s best known coastal regions have become very expensive. In Morocco you will find comparable homes for significantly less, often with more outdoor space.
Short travel from the United Kingdom
Flights from major UK airports take between three and four hours. The beaches are accessible, the culture is different enough to feel exciting, and yet the comforts and lifestyle feel familiar.
Family friendly living
There are beaches, surf schools, warm weather and plenty of room for children to enjoy outdoor life. Many towns are also noticeably less crowded than Spain’s busiest resorts in peak season.
Potential investment
A family summer home can be used for your own holidays and potentially rented out at other times of the year. While returns vary by region, Morocco offers opportunities for rental income in growing tourism markets.
A coastline with many moods
Morocco’s coastline stretches for more than 2,000 kilometres and offers a variety of weather patterns and sea conditions. From sheltered beaches with mild breezes to dramatic Atlantic waves suited to surfers, you can choose the type of seaside lifestyle that suits your family best. The northern coast is calm and warm, similar to southern Spain, while farther south the Atlantic brings cooler summers, reliable sunshine and livelier seas.
Top Locations for British Families
From scenery that resembles Spain and Portugal to more distinct Atlantic landscapes, Morocco offers a variety of beach lifestyles. These price examples give you a snapshot of what is available in each region. If you are interested in exploring further, contact Sorato.io and we can introduce you to estate agents who work regularly with British buyers.
Tangier
Tangier is the closest Moroccan coastal city for access to Europe. It sits just across the Strait of Gibraltar, with ferries running from Tarifa and Algeciras. The city blends Moroccan heritage with visible European influences in its architecture and urban layout. Tangier is lively, well connected and the most practical entry point for British families who want both convenience and character.
Price guide
Prime areas are quoted at approximately 13,500 to 14,200 MAD/m², or roughly £1,000 to £1,050/m², for standard homes. Luxury villas typically range between 16,300 and 18,500 MAD/m².
Why it works for families
It has easy access, modern amenities and room for long term appreciation as the city continues to grow and develop.
Asilah
Asilah is a peaceful, whitewashed seaside town known for its art festivals, relaxed atmosphere and charming medina. It has quieter beaches than Tangier and is popular with families who prefer calm surroundings.
Price guide
Property prices here are generally lower than in Tangier, with many homes ranging from 9,000 to 12,000 MAD/m² depending on proximity to the coast and condition.
Why it works for families
It is tranquil, scenic and ideal for families seeking a slower pace while staying within easy reach of Tangier and its international links.
Essaouira
Essaouira suits families with older children or those who enjoy water sports. Positioned on the Atlantic coast, it benefits from consistent winds that attract kitesurfers and windsurfers. At the same time, the town retains a calm, creative atmosphere that appeals to parents and children alike.
Price guide
Typical homes range between 10,000 and 14,000 MAD/m² depending on location. Villas and riads vary widely, although many family sized properties fall between £150,000 and £300,000.
Why it works
Its cultural richness and more relaxed rhythm make it ideal for families who enjoy a blend of beach time, art, history and local cuisine.
Agadir and Taghazout
This region is ideal for families who love sunshine, sea and surf. Agadir enjoys Morocco’s most reliable weather, with more than 300 days of sunshine per year. Summers are warm but moderated by Atlantic breezes, and winter temperatures are mild. Tourism is busy from October to April among Europeans seeking winter sun, and July and August are peak seasons for domestic holidaymakers. Taghazout, just north of Agadir, is famous for its surf culture and relaxed beach cafés.
Price guide
As of September 2025, apartments in central Agadir average around 12,800 MAD/m². Suburban areas are closer to 9,400 MAD/m². Villas range from approximately 16,000 MAD/m2 to 35,000 MAD/m² for luxury beachfront options.
Morocco overall shows modest growth, with some villa segments experiencing slight declines in recent years.
Why choose this area
You will find excellent sunshine, strong rental demand and an active outdoor lifestyle suitable for families of all ages.
Why Morocco Works Especially Well for British Families
With children, you will appreciate the space, sunshine, fresh air and safe neighbourhoods. The outdoor lifestyle is a major draw, with beaches, surf schools, coastal walks, historic towns and nature all within easy reach.
International schools are available in larger cities if you plan extended stays, and many families choose home education during long summer visits.
Day to day living costs, including food, household help and dining out, tend to be lower than in Spain or Portugal, which helps your budget go further.
Spain’s popular coastal zones are already heavily developed, and parts of Portugal are reaching saturation. Morocco still offers early entry opportunities with room for growth in many markets.
The rental market in Morocco is less crowded than the Mediterranean market in Spain, so letting your property when you are not in residence may offer a helpful income stream.
What to Be Aware Of
Morocco is a growing market and not as straightforward as the United Kingdom when purchasing property, so it helps to be well informed.
The buying process requires proper legal support. Foreign buyers can own residential property, but you will need a bilingual notary or solicitor familiar with local regulations.
Transport and access vary by town. Some areas are well served by international airports, while others require transfers, so it is wise to check travel times, local health services and schooling options.
Market maturity in Morocco is still developing. While the long term outlook is positive, price growth has been modest and varies by region. Consider this a lifestyle investment with potential, rather than a guaranteed return.
Maintenance and local services also require attention. If you will be abroad for much of the year, property management is essential.
Finally, resale activity differs from one region to another. While Tangier and Agadir have relatively active markets, smaller towns may take longer to sell.
Our Last Thoughts
If you are looking to buy a summer home that offers sunshine, space, culture and excellent value, Morocco deserves a serious look. Your choice of location, property type and budget will shape the experience, but whether you prefer Tangier for convenience, Essaouira for charm or Agadir for warmth and surf, you will find something special.
Visit your chosen area, speak to agents who work with UK buyers and review your budget, running costs, travel schedule and potential rental income. With thoughtful planning, your dream family retreat in Morocco can become a reality.
