Paradis Plage, Agadir

Set on a wild stretch of Atlantic coast just north of Agadir, Paradis Plage Surf Yoga & Spa feels like the sort of place where family life instantly slows down - just the spot for a family surfing holiday. Shoes are abandoned somewhere near reception, salty hair becomes the default look, and children spend most of the holiday either in the pool, on the beach or swinging from hammocks beneath the palms.

Part eco-resort, part surf retreat and part laid-back beach hideaway, the hotel sits between the Atlas Mountains and a huge sweep of golden sand that seems to roll on forever. The atmosphere is gloriously relaxed: think terracotta buildings, tropical gardens, ocean breezes and the gentle soundtrack of crashing waves.

Families are particularly well catered for thanks to the spacious suites and villas, some with kitchenettes and all with enough room for everyone to spread out. There’s a swimming pool overlooking the sea, plenty of shady loungers for parents in need of mint tea and five minutes’ peace, and direct access to the beach for sandcastle championships of epic proportions.

Older children and teenagers can try surfing with the on-site surf school — the area around Taghazout is famous for its beginner-friendly waves — while grown-ups sneak off for yoga classes in the beachfront shala or an argan-oil massage in the eco-spa. The hotel even has a campfire area and an outdoor cinema for movie nights under the stars, which feels wonderfully magical after a day in the Moroccan sunshine.

Food is another highlight, with fresh seafood, organic produce and generous breakfasts packed with pancakes, fruit and local honey. Best of all, though, is the mood: calm, sunny and endlessly easy-going. Paradis Plage is the kind of family holiday where nobody minds a bit of sand in the bed — in fact, it’s practically encouraged.