Paradis Plage Surf Yoga & Spa Resort

Built with local materials by artisans from surrounding villages, Paradis Plage looks like a collection of traditional North African buildings along a stretch of private shoreline. The upscale resort is owned by a family that lived in a house on the grounds since the 1950s, and that house still remains on the more than seven acres surrounding the hotel. The lobby's design pays homage to a classic Moroccan riad with its central atrium, though it's not actually open to the sky. White-glazed pottery and ornate metal lamps mix with contemporary furniture throughout the bright lounge areas. The garden Zen Space is among the most striking common areas on the property, with natural stone pathways, Buddha statues, and dark-wood pergolas draped in white curtains. Guests are evenly spread between families, couples, and groups of friends, who want a relaxing atmosphere and direct access to the beach. 

The hotel is situated along the beach, a 35-minute drive outside the city of Agadir; the hotel provides two free shuttles into Agadir for guests who want to dine and shop in this tourist-heavy area. The resort is also a 10-minute drive from the surfer's village of Taghazout. The surrounding area offers little of interest other than local housing, and there are no attractions within walking distance. Guests should expect a 65-minute drive to Agadir International Airport.

The hotel has 105 rooms, bungalows, and villas with beach or garden views. The locally made decor is refined, if a bit plain, with tiled floors, simple white furniture, and blue decorative accents. Beach photography on the walls is a pleasant touch. At 538 square feet, Junior Suites are the smallest room type, with sitting areas that have sofa beds, flat-screen TVs, and DVD players. Free Wi-Fi comes standard, along with mini-fridges, microwaves, and coffee- and tea-making facilities. Larger rooms have kitchenettes with sinks and electric stovetops. The tiled bathrooms have walk-in showers, some adding separate tubs. Two-story Bungalows and Villas have larger furnished terraces, are closer to the beach, and have better views of the ocean. There are also a few luxury apartments with full kitchens that fit up to six people.

Most of the amenities at Paradis Plage are wisely centered around its beachfront. There are all kinds of water sports on offer, from boating to jet skiing, though the main attraction is its great surfing school. The Surf House has all the gear and instruction needed for a surfing holiday; it also has an outdoor movie screen and games, as well as a beach bar serving drinks and casual fare such as burgers. Likewise, the yoga studio has open-air beach pavilions for Hatha, Vinyasa, and Yin Yoga classes. Both the surfing and yoga classes are available for a fee. Off the beach there's a rectangular outdoor pool that's heated by solar panels. The Zen Space is a tranquil garden filled with pergolas, breezy sunbeds, and a hot tub. A full-service spa has all the usual treatments, with the addition of a hydrotherapy tub and two hammams -- one traditionally tiled steam bath and another that incorporates aromatherapy. There are also a hair salon and a small fitness room. Parents can drop children off at the kids' club for supervised activities and games. The hotel has a business center and various indoor and outdoor event spaces for corporate functions and weddings. 

The Ocean restaurant serves a daily buffet breakfast (not included) that consists of muesli, figs, and other fresh fruit, along with Moroccan pancakes and honey from local hives. Evening buffets are sometimes offered. The 27 (so named for the distance in kilometers away from Agadir) serves regional cuisine and seasonal, locally caught seafood for dinner. Lunch is served on an alfresco terrace at The Lounge, with Viennese and Moroccan pastries. Private dinners can be booked in The Khaima, a traditional nomadic Arabian tent on the beach, with Moroccan cuisine served on furs and rugs.