3 Best Hotels in Tangier and the Mediterranean, Morocco

Morocco’s first Banyan Tree is an all-villa resort, each with a private pool and just a pebble’s throw from a sweep of shell-strewn beach, that pays homage to the region's history with its sparkling white Andalusian-Moroccan–style architecture. The large, ultraprivate villas are decorated in neutral tones without losing their sense of place. Abundant amenities include a host of water sports, a state-of-the-art gym, a kids club, and plenty of laid-back lounging spaces, one of which is an oud-scented library. Guests have no shortage of dining options, with Thai cuisine at Saffron, Moroccan at Tingitana, and catch of the day and pizza by the beach at Azura, plus tapas at Le Baga and cocktails at the chic Volubilis Bar. Head to the world-class spa's deluxe hammam for long, pampering sessions. If you can tear yourself away from your sun lounger, the resort also organizes a variety of excursions.

This 1920s hilltop palace has been reborn with an air of understated luxury. The rooms—along with some stunning signature suites—celebrate Morocco’s crafts in a contemporary way, with brass filigree lamps, wooden lattice screens, and bespoke fabrics. It can be hard to tear yourself away from the outsized black marble swimming pool and the expansive spa to go sightseeing. But later you can refuel at one of the six restaurants and bars—perhaps farm-to-table Mediterranean fare at Crudo or made-for-sharing Persian cuisine at the speakeasy-style Parisa.

Just a few blocks from the Mediterranean, this five-star Hilton impresses, from its showstopping lobby to the stylish rooms. Guest rooms (connected rooms are available for families) and spacious, marble-clad bathrooms are neutral-hue but far from bland and businesslike, with Moroccan highlights in the framed weavings, beaten copper artworks, and Islamic motifs. The buffet breakfasts are as good as you’d expect, but the views from La Kasbah (the all-day dining restaurant serving gourmet Mediterranean-Moroccan cuisine) almost outshine them. On a clear day you can see Tarifa shimmering in the distance. You can also soak in the views from La Terrasse on the 13th floor—half swimming pool, half chic lounge—over tasty tapas and a creative cocktail.