Jijel corniche: beaches, the marvellous caves and where to stay

Jijel has one of Algeria's most spectacular coastlines: mountains drop straight into the sea, the road winds between cliffs and coves, and sandy beaches alternate with rocks. That coastal road west of the city is known as the Jijel corniche. Here is what to see along it, Jijel's best-known beaches, and where to stay.

The Jijel corniche, towards Béjaïa

West of Jijel, the N43 road to Béjaïa runs along the sea on the cliffside, with bends, coves, small beaches below and sea views all the way. A car makes things much easier, as beaches and sights are spread over several dozen kilometres. In summer, traffic is heavy on this narrow road: set off early.

Jijel's best-known beaches

West of the city the coast is mostly rocky. Popular spots include Kotama and La Crique, the Grand Phare beach below the Ras El Afia lighthouse (about 6 km west of town), the Plage rouge (also called Sahel) and El Aouana beach. East of Jijel the coast turns flat and sandy, with long beaches such as Sidi Abdelaziz, a good choice for families who prefer sand to rocks.

The "marvellous caves" of Ziama Mansouriah

About 35 km west of Jijel, in Ziama Mansouriah, the Grottes merveilleuses open in the cliff right by the corniche. They were discovered when the road was cut, and are known for their strikingly shaped rock formations. Opening times can change, so check locally, and take care when parking: traffic passes right in front of the entrance.

Taza National Park and Kissir

In the west of the province, Taza National Park covers about 3,800 hectares by the sea. A recognised biosphere reserve, it combines sandy beaches, cliffs and caves. With children, the Kissir animal park in El Aouana is a popular summer outing.

Where to stay in Jijel

Stay in Jijel itself and explore by car. Two hotels you can book with us:

• Hôtel Dar El Aaz, in the Errabta district, by the sea, a few minutes from the centre, with sea views from some rooms;
• Hôtel Taghrast, a small hotel in the centre, handy for exploring on foot.

Each page also sums up guest reviews, good and bad. Looking for another hotel in Jijel? Contact us with your dates. Driving on to the end of the corniche? See our guide to Béjaïa's beaches.

Swimming

For the 2026 season, the authorities announced 470 beaches authorised for swimming along the Algerian coast. Swim only on authorised, supervised beaches, respect the flags, watch out for currents and submerged rocks, and leave no litter. Under the 2026 rules, an operator may use at most 30% of an authorised beach for paid services; the rest is free to access.

When to go

July and August mean swimming but also crowds; June and September are calmer, and spring is ideal for walks in Taza. For summer, book early.

Booking and payment

You book your hotel online. From Algeria, you pay in dinars without a bank card: BaridiMob, bank transfer or cash at our Telemly office. Live abroad? You can also pay online by card, and your voucher is sent to you after payment. More coastal ideas on our Algeria beaches page.

See our hotels in Algeria