Planning a trip to Morocco often means choosing between the Atlantic coast and Marrakech. For travellers considering an all-inclusive stay, the RIU group operates multiple properties across the country, with beachfront resorts in Agadir and Taghazout and a family-oriented option in Marrakech. This guide compares these hotels using official listings and aggregated guest reviews, so you can match the right resort to your travel style.
Last checked: 2026-10-03
Property Type: All-inclusive resort on Agadir beach · Key Feature: 24-hour All Inclusive with 3 restaurants and 4 bars · Distance to Airport: 25 km from Agadir–Al Massira Airport · Tripadvisor Ranking: #1 of 4 RIU hotels in Morocco
The Complete Guide to RIU Hotels in Morocco: Reviews, Locations, and Tips
How we researched this guide
Last checked: 2026-10-03.
Sources reviewed: official RIU website, TripAdvisor reviews, Expedia listings, Booking.com reviews, Oyster editorial review, Fodor’s review, Hotels.com listings, Kayak reviews, Skyscanner reviews.
No on-site visit, no staff interview, no independent price verification.
Snapshot: RIU Hotels in Morocco
- RIU operates multiple all-inclusive resorts across Morocco, with three on the Agadir coast and one in Marrakech. (RIU Hotels & Resorts)
- Two properties – Palace Tikida Agadir and Palace Tikida Taghazout – advertise 24-hour all-inclusive service. (RIU Hotels & Resorts)
- All three Agadir RIU resorts are situated directly on or within a few hundred metres of the beach. (RIU Hotels & Resorts)
- Hotel Riu Palace Tikida Agadir holds an 8.8 out of 10 on Expedia, the highest among the four properties on that platform. (Expedia)
| Attribute | Details | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Total RIU properties in Morocco | 4 | RIU.com |
| 24-hour all-inclusive resorts | 2 (Palace Tikida Agadir, Palace Tikida Taghazout) | RIU.com |
| Beachfront access | Direct at Palace Tikida Agadir; approx 300–400 m at others | Skyscanner, Oyster |
| Top Expedia rating | 8.8 / 10 (Hotel Riu Palace Tikida Agadir) | Expedia |
| Top TripAdvisor rating (among RIU) | 4.3 / 5 (Hotel Riu Tikida Dunas) | TripAdvisor |
| Family focus | Riu Tikida Dunas described as “perfect for a family holiday” | RIU Hotels & Resorts |
What Are People Saying About the Hotel Riu Palace in Morocco?
Guest reviews across platforms converge on a few consistent themes. On TripAdvisor, Riu Tikida Dunas has received over 7,000 reviews and holds a 4.3 bubble rating; contributors frequently praise the beachfront setting, spacious rooms, cleanliness, and friendly staff (TripAdvisor). The same platform also surfaces concerns about dated décor, maintenance issues, food quality, and service consistency – a pattern echoed on Hotels.com and Kayak for the Palace Tikida Agadir, where guests mention repetitive buffet offerings and air-conditioning performance (Hotels.com; Kayak).
“The staff are so friendly and accommodating and everything is a pleasure from them.”– Skyscanner guest review (Skyscanner)
On Expedia, Riu Palace Tikida Agadir earns an 8.8 rating, with guests highlighting beach access, food variety, and clean facilities, though some find the value-for-money questionable relative to the nightly rate (Expedia). Booking.com gives the same property a 7.8 based on 783 reviews, placing it in the “good” range (Booking.com).
Is RIU Agadir Near the Beach?
Yes, very close. The official RIU website places Hotel Riu Palace Tikida Agadir directly on Agadir Beach, advertising a 24-hour all-inclusive service with beachfront access (RIU Hotels & Resorts). Skyscanner lists the hotel’s distance to the sand at roughly 300 metres (Skyscanner).
Hotel Riu Tikida Dunas, also on the Agadir strip, sits about 400 metres from the beach and roughly 1.78 miles from the city centre (Skyscanner). Oyster notes that Dunas has no elevators, a detail worth considering for guests with mobility concerns or heavy luggage (Oyster).
Is It Better to Stay in Agadir or Marrakech?
The choice depends on your priority: beach and relaxation versus culture and sightseeing. Agadir offers a long sandy coastline and a laid‑back resort atmosphere, with all three RIU properties providing direct or near‑beach access. Marrakech, home to the Riu Tikida Palmeraie, is inland and gives you the historic medina, palaces, and souks – but no beach.
For first‑time visitors, Agadir is the simpler, quieter option if you want a sun‑and‑sand holiday. Marrakech suits travellers who are willing to trade the coast for 1–2 days of immersive sightseeing. The Riu Tikida Palmeraie is set in the Palmeraie district and provides a family‑friendly all‑inclusive base, but you will need taxis or organised tours to reach the city centre.
Is It Best to Go All Inclusive in Morocco?
At RIU properties, all‑inclusive covers meals, snacks, and a range of alcoholic and non‑alcoholic beverages. The two Palace hotels (Agadir and Taghazout) advertise 24‑hour service, meaning food and drinks are available throughout the day and night. However, the Oyster review of Riu Tikida Dunas reports that beverages stop at midnight, and dining is mainly buffet‑based (Oyster). Fodor’s adds that spa treatments, telephone calls, and laundry are extra (Fodor’s).
“All meals and snacks are part of the all-inclusive package, as are unlimited local and imported alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages — until midnight, that is.”– Oyster (Oyster)
For families, the RIU Land programme offers kids’ pools, slides, and supervised activities at Palace Tikida Agadir. The value proposition is strongest for travellers who eat and drink on‑site regularly; if you plan to explore local restaurants, a half‑board option might save money – but RIU properties in Morocco typically sell all‑inclusive packages only.
What Is the Best Month to Go to Morocco?
Spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) offer the most comfortable temperatures for both the coast and Marrakech. Summer months, especially July and August, can be very hot inland but remain bearable in Agadir due to the ocean breeze. Winter (December to February) is mild along the coast, with highs around 18–20°C, while Marrakech can dip to single digits at night.
Peak tourist seasons run from April to October, with higher prices and fuller resorts. If you prefer quieter beaches and lower rates, visiting between November and February – outside the Christmas period – can be a good strategy for Agadir.
Comparison Overview: RIU Properties in Morocco
| Hotel | Location | Beach Access | All-Inclusive Type | Top Amenities | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Hotel Riu Palace Tikida Agadir | Agadir beach | Direct beachfront | 24‑hour | 3 restaurants, 4 bars, pool, spa, RIU Land kids club | Couples, families |
| Hotel Riu Palace Tikida Taghazout | Taghazout | Beachfront (coastal location – verify directly) | 24‑hour | Restaurants, bars, pool, free coffee shop | Couples, surf‑oriented travellers |
| Hotel Riu Tikida Dunas | Agadir (400 m from beach) | ~400 m to sand | Standard (beverages until midnight) | 4 restaurants, nightclub, pools, sports courts | Families, budget‑conscious groups |
| Hotel Riu Tikida Palmeraie | Marrakech Palmeraie | No beach | Standard all‑inclusive | Pools, garden, kids club | Families wanting city access |
Pros and Cons: Agadir RIU Resorts vs. Marrakech RIU Resort
Agadir (Palace Tikida Agadir, Tikida Dunas)
- Direct beach access at Palace Tikida Agadir
- Relaxed, resort‑oriented atmosphere
- Warmer water for swimming most of the year
- Two properties offer 24‑hour all‑inclusive (Palace)
Marrakech (Riu Tikida Palmeraie)
- No beach – requires travel to coast
- Standard all‑inclusive without 24‑hour service
- More crowded during peak tourist months
- Less convenient for a pure relaxation holiday
Best for Each Traveller Type
- Families with children: Hotel Riu Tikida Dunas – budget‑friendly, family‑oriented, with multiple pools and activities.
- Couples seeking romance: Hotel Riu Palace Tikida Agadir – beachfront, 24‑hour inclusive, upscale vibe.
- First‑time visitors to Morocco: Agadir area, especially Palace Tikida Agadir – easy introduction with all‑inclusive comfort and beach.
- Budget‑conscious travellers: Hotel Riu Tikida Dunas – lower nightly rate compared to Palace properties, still all‑inclusive.
Pricing Band
RIU positions its Palace properties (Agadir and Taghazout) in the upscale segment, while the standard Tikida properties (Dunas and Palmeraie) fall in the mid‑range category. All four offer all‑inclusive rates that cover on‑site meals, drinks, and entertainment. Exact nightly prices vary by season, room type, and booking platform, so comparing rates on Expedia or Booking.com for your specific dates is recommended.
Location and Getting There
The three Agadir resorts are clustered near Agadir–Al Massira Airport (suggested driving time of about 30 minutes). Taxis and airport shuttles are available. The Marrakech property, Riu Tikida Palmeraie, is about 15–20 minutes from Marrakech Menara Airport by road. Renting a car is optional; most guests arrange airport transfers through the hotel or booking agent.
Alternatives Within the RIU Set
If you cannot decide between the four, consider the following: For the best all‑around beach holiday, Hotel Riu Palace Tikida Agadir is the top performer on review platforms. For a quieter, more intimate coastal setting, Hotel Riu Palace Tikida Taghazout is a solid option. For budget‑friendly family fun, Hotel Riu Tikida Dunas delivers. And if you want to combine a resort stay with Marrakech’s cultural attractions, Hotel Riu Tikida Palmeraie is the only RIU choice inland.
Our Pick: Hotel Riu Palace Tikida Agadir
For first‑time visitors, beach lovers, and couples, this property strikes the best balance of location (direct beach), 24‑hour inclusive service, and consistently positive guest feedback across Expedia, Kayak, and Skyscanner. The families segment should still consider Tikida Dunas for its lower price and dedicated activities.
Sample Itinerary: Two Days in Agadir Using RIU Hotels
- Day 1: Arrive at Agadir–Al Massira Airport, transfer to Hotel Riu Palace Tikida Agadir. Spend the morning on the beach, lunch at one of the hotel’s restaurants, and afternoon by the pool. Evening: dinner at the buffet or à la carte, followed by evening entertainment at the hotel bar.
- Day 2 (half‑day excursion): Take a taxi (about 20 minutes) to Taghazout for a walk along the surf village. Return to Agadir for late lunch at Hotel Riu Tikida Dunas (you can visit as a guest of the same chain). Afternoon at leisure before evening departure or an extra night.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is RIU Morocco adults‑only?
No. The RIU properties in Morocco are family‑oriented and welcome children. RIU Land programmes and kids’ pools are available at Palace Tikida Agadir. No adults‑only RIU property currently operates in Morocco.
Can a woman wear shorts in Marrakesh?
In tourist areas and hotels, shorts are generally acceptable for both women and men. When visiting the medina or religious sites, covering shoulders and knees is respectful. Marrakech is a modern city with a dress code that is liberal by regional standards.
Is it safe to walk around Agadir, Morocco?
Agadir is considered a safe destination for tourists. The beachfront promenade and hotel district are well‑lit and patrolled. Standard travel precautions apply – avoid walking alone late at night in isolated areas.
Do and don’ts in Morocco?
Do: dress modestly away from the beach, bargain in souks, accept mint tea when offered, learn a few words of Arabic or French. Don’t: photograph locals without permission, drink alcohol in public outside licensed venues, or touch items you do not intend to buy in markets.
Is Morocco affected by the Iran War?
Morocco is not involved in the conflict in Iran (or related regional tensions). The country remains a stable and safe destination for international travel, with no disruptions reported in tourist areas.
Where should I go for the first time in Morocco?
For a first‑time visitor, Agadir offers the easiest introduction: reliable all‑inclusive resorts, a safe environment, and beautiful beaches. Marrakech is a good second stop if you want a culture fix.
What is the best hotel in Morocco?
That depends on your preference. Among RIU properties, Hotel Riu Palace Tikida Agadir receives the highest aggregate ratings. Other luxury options include La Mamounia in Marrakech and Royal Mansour, but they operate on a different price tier.
Sources Cited
- RIU Hotels & Resorts – Hotel Riu Tikida Dunas
- RIU Hotels & Resorts – Hotel Riu Palace Tikida Agadir
- Expedia – Hotel Riu Palace Tikida Agadir
- Expedia – Hotel Riu Tikida Dunas
- Booking.com – Hotel Riu Palace Tikida Agadir Reviews
- TripAdvisor – Hotel Riu Tikida Dunas
- Oyster – Hotel Riu Tikida Dunas Review
- Fodor’s – Hotel Riu Tikida Dunas Review
- Skyscanner – Hotel Riu Palace Tikida Agadir
- Skyscanner – Hotel Riu Tikida Dunas
- Kayak – Hotel Riu Palace Tikida Agadir
- Hotels.com – Hotel Riu Palace Tikida Agadir
- Hotels.com – Hotel Riu Palace Tikida Taghazout