The drive from Casablanca to Mohammedia is one of the easiest and most underrated short trips in Morocco. Covering just 25–30 km, it offers a quick escape from city congestion to calmer beaches, seaside cafés, and relaxed coastal promenades. For residents, business travelers, and tourists alike, Mohammedia is often chosen for half-day beach breaks or quiet evenings by the ocean.
This guide explains the best routes, where to park near the beach, ideal timing to avoid traffic, and what to expect when driving between these two coastal cities.
Table of Contents
Overview of the Casablanca–Mohammedia Trip
Distance, Driving Time & Road Options
Route Option 1: A1 Highway (Fastest)
Route Option 2: Coastal & Urban Roads
Best Time of Day to Drive
Weekend vs Weekday Traffic Patterns
Parking Near Mohammedia Beaches
Beach Areas Explained (Which One to Choose)
Fuel, Stops & Practical Tips
Common Mistakes First-Time Drivers Make
FAQs About Driving to Mohammedia
Conclusion
Overview of the Casablanca–Mohammedia Trip
Mohammedia sits directly north of Casablanca and is often described as Casablanca’s beach suburb. While Casablanca has a long corniche, Mohammedia’s beaches are generally less crowded, easier to access, and calmer, especially outside summer weekends.
The short distance makes it ideal for:
Beach afternoons
Evening dinners by the sea
Quick business breaks
Family outings
Because the route is straightforward, planning is more about timing and parking than navigation difficulty.
Distance, Driving Time & Road Options
Distance: ~25–30 km
Driving time (off-peak): 30–40 minutes
Driving time (peak): 60–90 minutes
Road quality is excellent, but congestion can significantly affect travel time. Understanding route options is key.
Real-time navigation apps help drivers visualize traffic layers, congestion zones, and alternative routes, which Google explains in its official guidance on traffic views and live road conditions:
https://support.google.com/maps/answer/144339
Route Option 1: A1 Highway (Fastest & Most Reliable)
Casablanca → A1 → Mohammedia
This is the preferred route for most drivers.
Why choose it:
Direct connection
Smooth road surface
Clear signage
Predictable travel times outside rush hours
Important notes:
Toll applies
Traffic builds quickly during peak hours
Best option for first-time drivers
⏱ Average time:
Off-peak: ~30 minutes
Rush hour: up to 90 minutes
Route Option 2: Coastal & Urban Roads (Slower but Scenic)
Casablanca → Ain Sebaa → Coastal/Urban Roads → Mohammedia
This route runs closer to residential and industrial areas.
Why choose it:
No toll
Useful if highway is blocked
Better access to northern Casablanca districts
Drawbacks:
Heavy truck traffic
Traffic lights and roundabouts
Slower average speed
⏱ Average time: 50–80 minutes
This option is better for locals than visitors.
Best Time of Day to Drive
Timing matters more than route choice.
Best Times
Mid-morning: 10:30 AM – 12:00 PM
Early afternoon: 2:00 PM – 4:00 PM
Late evening: After 8:30 PM
Worst Times
Morning rush: 7:30 – 9:30 AM
Evening rush: 5:30 – 7:30 PM
On Fridays, traffic toward Mohammedia increases earlier in the afternoon.
Weekend vs Weekday Traffic Patterns
Weekdays
Heaviest congestion during commuting hours
Easier parking near beaches
Calmer overall atmosphere
Weekends
Heavy outbound traffic from Casablanca
Beach parking fills quickly after 11:00 AM
Sunday evenings see return congestion
If visiting on a weekend, leave Casablanca before 9:00 AM or after 3:00 PM.
Parking Near Mohammedia Beaches
Parking is one of Mohammedia’s advantages compared to Casablanca.
Main Parking Areas
1. Mohammedia Central Beach
Informal roadside parking
Attendants usually present
Close to cafés and promenade
2. Sablettes Area
More organized parking
Easier access during weekdays
Popular with families
3. Northern Beach Zones
Less crowded
Limited services
Best for quiet visits
Parking is usually affordable, but always carry small cash.
For understanding urban road layouts, coastal access points, and parking zones, Michelin’s official map platform provides neutral, non-commercial cartography useful for planning short city drives:
https://www.michelin.com/maps
Beach Areas Explained (Which One to Choose)
Central Beach
Most lively
Cafés and snacks nearby
Busier on weekends
Sablettes Beach
Cleaner and wider
Better for families
Easier parking access
Quieter Northern Spots
Fewer services
Ideal for calm walks
Limited shade
Choosing the right area depends on whether you want convenience or tranquility.
Fuel, Stops & Practical Tips
Fuel
Fill up in Casablanca
Multiple stations available near Mohammedia exits
Restrooms
Available in cafés near central areas
Limited on quieter beaches
What to Bring
Cash for parking
Sun protection
Water (especially in summer)
Common Mistakes First-Time Drivers Make
Leaving Casablanca during rush hour
Underestimating weekend congestion
Parking too close to water during high tide
Expecting structured beach parking everywhere
Returning too late on Sunday evening
Avoiding these mistakes makes the trip effortless.
FAQs About Driving from Casablanca to Mohammedia
Is the drive suitable for beginners?
Yes, especially via the A1 highway.
Are tolls expensive?
No, the toll is modest and worth the time saved.
Is parking secure?
Generally yes, especially with attendants present.
Can this be a half-day trip?
Absolutely, it’s ideal for short outings.
Is night driving safe?
Yes, main roads are well lit.
Is Mohammedia less crowded than Casablanca beaches?
Usually, yes especially on weekdays.
Conclusion
The drive from Casablanca to Mohammedia is short, simple, and rewarding when timed correctly. With smooth highway access, easier beach parking, and calmer coastal vibes, Mohammedia offers an ideal escape without the commitment of a long journey.
By choosing the right departure time, understanding parking zones, and avoiding peak congestion, this short trip becomes one of the most convenient coastal drives in the Casablanca region—perfect for a relaxed day by the sea.
