Things To Do
in El Haouaria
El Haouaria is a small coastal town on the eastern edge of Tunisia's Cap Bon peninsula, perched above the Mediterranean with dramatic limestone cliffs. It offers a rugged, uncrowded alternative to the more touristed northeast coast, with a working fishing harbor and a sleepy atmosphere. The landscape blends sea, limestone formations, olive groves, and traditional Tunisian hospitality.
Visitors can savor fresh seafood, scenic viewpoints, and a genuine sense of coastal life away from larger cities.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Arrive at the airport and transfer to your accommodation in El Haouaria. Settle in and take a moment to breathe in the fresh coastal air. Enjoy a leisurely breakfast at a local café, sampling the Tunisian pastries.
Explore the quaint streets of El Haouaria, visiting artisan shops and local markets. Immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere, where you can engage with friendly locals and learn about their crafts. Take a relaxing walk along the beach, enjoying the stunning views of the Mediterranean Sea.
Savor a delightful dinner at a seaside restaurant, indulging in fresh seafood dishes. After dinner, take a stroll along the waterfront, breathing in the salty breeze. Enjoy the tranquil ambiance as the sun sets over the horizon.
Embark on a scenic drive to Cap Bon, known for its stunning landscapes and rich history. Visit the ancient ruins of Kerkouane, a UNESCO World Heritage site, and learn about its Phoenician heritage. Enjoy a picnic breakfast while overlooking the beautiful coastal cliffs.
Upon returning to El Haouaria, explore the stunning beaches, soaking up the sun or trying out water sports such as snorkeling. Spend some time at the local beach clubs, where you can unwind with a refreshing drink. Engage with locals and fellow travelers to share stories and experiences.
Experience a traditional Tunisian dinner with family-style dishes served at a local eatery. Try local specialties like couscous and brik, accompanied by lively conversation. Conclude your day with a cultural experience featuring local music and dance.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $6-12 |
| 🍽️Meal for two at mid-range restaurant | $20-40 |
| 🏨Hotel room (budget) | $25-60 |
| 🚍Local transport (bus/taxi) for a day | $2-7 |
| ☕Coffee or tea | $1-3 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Stunning coastal scenery and dramatic limestone cliffs
- Fresh seafood and welcoming local hospitality
- Limited nightlife and fewer big-city amenities
- Public transportation options can be infrequent outside peak season
- "السلام عليكم" - Hello / Peace be upon you
- "شكرا" - Thank you
- "من فضلك" - Please
- "كيف حالك؟" - How are you?
Places to Visit in El Haouaria
Visit one of these nice places.
Golden light over dramatic limestone formations and a calm sea, ideal for wide landscape shots.
Colorful boats, nets and market activity bathed in soft evening light and reflections on the water.
Natural rock formations with interesting shapes and sheltered coves to photograph from viewpoints.
Coastal streets and staircases with blue accents create charming, characterful scenes.
Food in El Haouaria
El Haouaria Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Fresh catch seasoned with garlic, parsley, cilantro, paprika, and lemon oil; best enjoyed at harbor-side eateries.
Must-Try!
Tomato-pepper-onion sauce with seafood and eggs; hearty and spicy, great with crusty bread.
Crispy pastry pocket filled with tuna, egg, and herbs; popular as street or light cafe fare.
Light, savory couscous served with fresh fish, vegetables, and a fragrant broth.
Warming bread and chickpea stew spiked with harissa; a comforting option, especially in cooler weather.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Daily market offering fresh seafood, produce, olives, herbs, and bread; great for sampling local flavors.
On-the-spot grilled fish and seafood skewers right by the pier; ideal for a quick lunch or snack.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Tunisia is conservative by local standards; light coverage is respectful, especially in religious sites and rural areas.
A handshakes or greetings in Arabic or French are common; avoid public displays of affection in more traditional spaces.
Ask permission before photographing people or private spaces; be mindful of sensitive locations like mosques.
Use the right hand for giving or receiving items and money; the left hand is considered less polite in some contexts.
Safety
Tipping in El Haouaria
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is appreciated but not always expected. In restaurants, consider 5-10% if service is not included; small tips to guides or drivers are common practice.
Cash in Tunisian dinars is widely accepted in markets and small eateries. Credit/debit cards are more commonly accepted at larger hotels, restaurants, and tourist services; ATMs are common in towns nearby.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Mild temperatures with blooming flora; pleasant for hikes and coastal walks. Bird activity increases as migratory species pass through.
Hot days with refreshing sea breezes; peak tourist season in nearby areas may bring crowds, so plan early morning or late afternoon activities.
Warm days and cooler evenings; excellent for outdoor activities and photography without the peak heat.
Milder temperatures with occasional rain; great for cozy cafe outings and markets, though some outdoor facilities may have reduced hours.
El Haouaria at Night
Hiking in El Haouaria
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A scenic route along the limestone coastline with sea views, rock formations, and birdwatching opportunities.
Gentle to moderate hikes offering panoramic vistas of the coast and surrounding countryside.
Airports
How to reach El Haouaria by plane.
Main international gateway for the region; serves international and domestic flights. Access to El Haouaria typically involves a drive or private transfer from the capital region.
Secondary international airport serving northern Tunisia; farther from El Haouaria but convenient for certain routes and charter flights.
Other regional hub offering international flights; useful if combining a longer trip to central or southern coastal areas.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
A strong presence in the harbor community, with traditional practices and seasonal work tied to the sea.
Residents engaged in agriculture, olive oil production, and daily commerce in the market and streets.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The most popular sport across Tunisia, with local matches and community games common in towns like El Haouaria.
A strong local fishing culture supports recreational fishing, snorkeling, and small boat outings along the coast.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting El Haouaria.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian options include salads, vegetable-based tagines, couscous with vegetables, and falafel-style bites; communicate cravings and request cheese or egg additions where needed.