The Sidi Fredj Peninsula juts into the Mediterranean about 25km west of central Algiers. It has some of the best sandy beaches in the Algiers area, a small pleasure harbour with sailing boats and fishing vessels, and an old Ottoman fortress that guards the neck of the peninsula. In summer the beach fills with Algerois, and several waterfront restaurants and cafes open late into the night.
The peninsula is also notable as the landing point of the French invasion force in June 1830 — the military operation that began 132 years of French colonisation. A visit brings that history to life in a specific, physical way. The drive out from the city along the coastal road takes about 40 minutes in light traffic.