Set between the sands of the Sahara and sparkling Atlantic waters, Dakhla remains a hugely underrated water sports hub. A beautiful year-round destination, the city sits on the narrow Río de Oro Peninsula, in the Moroccan-administered Western Sahara. Expect vast golden beaches and superb conditions for surfing, windsurfing and kitesurfing on a windswept lagoon. Western Sahara has a fascinating cultural heritage, and there’s plenty to discover on this striking stretch of Africa’s coastline. The best boutique hotels in Dakhla are intimate boltholes tucked within dramatic desert landscapes. Built from natural materials and celebrating traditional craft, our selection of places to stay will delight couples, families and sociable solo adventurers alike.
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22 rooms 
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24 rooms 
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36 rooms 
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7 rooms 
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7 rooms 
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21 rooms 
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90 rooms 
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32 rooms 
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15 rooms The lagoon is undoubtedly Dakhla’s biggest attraction for kite and wind-surfers. Whether you’re an old hand or trying these adrenaline-inducing sports for the first time, you can expect reliable winds from famous spots including PK25 Beach and more challenging Speed Spot. Amateur surfers, on the other hand, should head to Foum El Bouir Beach on the Atlantic Ocean coast for great swells.
Catamaran cruises come highly recommended, as do fishing trips and diving or snorkelling expeditions. Don’t miss spotting migratory birds at La Dune Blanche, another famous kite surfing point. Nature lovers will also be intrigued by the Imlili Desert, where more than 160 natural saltwater pools are home to tiny fish. Horse riding excursions along enormous beaches or into the desert are very special; as are thrilling 4x4 journeys.
Delve into traditional life with a classic Saharawi tea tasting, or a wander through the city’s colourful souk. Keen shoppers can stock up on lightweight melhfa fabrics, loose leaf tea and handicrafts aplenty. Vendors are generally far more easygoing than in the larger souks of Marrakech.
Dakhla has long exported oysters to Europe, and tours of the oyster farms — ideally in the early morning — are fascinating. Watch workers harvesting oysters by hand, and understand a little more about the natural environment of the lagoon whilst in this gorgeous part of the Western Sahara.
Most of the best boutique hotels in Dakhla are dotted around the lagoon. The city itself sits close to the airport on the narrow western side of the water, and you’ll find a couple of attractive hotels along that stretch. These are a wonderful choice for travellers eager to experience more of Dakhla’s culture, and to be closer to shops and eateries. The journey from Dakhla’s small airport will also be appealing short.
Some of our other recommendations face popular PK25 Beach, a kite and wind-surfing hotspot on the lagoon’s northern shore. Typically, this is a favourite area for sports enthusiasts — and certainly a windswept option for a beach break.
The hotels on the eastern side of the lagoon feel particularly remote, surrounded by desert sands and inviting guests to kick back in absolute tranquility. Pick this area for a laid-back romantic escape, or a more nature-focused trip.
Dakhla remains a little-visited destination, with most travellers focusing on the exceptional kite surfing conditions. With the season peaking between April and October, you can expect the best boutique hotels in Dakhla to be at their busiest during these months.
Many hotels offer week-long packages to kite and wind-surfers of all abilities, including gear hire and coaching. It’s well worth looking into these elements in advance. You’ll find most hotels just steps from the lagoon, perfect for zipping in and out of the water throughout the day. Hotels are also happy to organise desert excursions and activities ranging from oyster farm visits to horse riding, as well as excellent cultural tours.
Soothing wellness centres with spa treatments and yoga classes are another highlight. This is a beautiful destination for a rejuvenating retreat.
