Aims The Algerian coastline is exposed to several types of pollution, including hydrocarbons. The aim of this work was to isolate oil‐degrading bacteria and to explore the intrinsic bioremediation potential of part of its contaminated harbour. Methods and results A collection of 119 strains, capable to grow on mineral medium supplemented with hydrocarbons, were obtained from polluted sediment and seawater collected from Sidi Fredj harbour (Algiers). Twenty‐three strains were selected for further studies. Sequencing of the 16S rRNA gene showed that most isolates belong to genera of hydrocarbonoclastic bacteria (Alcanivorax), generalist hydrocarbons degraders (Marinobacter, Pseudomonas, Gordonia, Halomonas, Erythrobacter and Brevibacterium) and other bacteria not known as hydrocarbon degraders (Xanthomarina) but were able to degrade hydrocarbons. Strains related to Marinobacter and Alcanivorax were frequently isolated from our samples and resulted the most effective in degrading crude oil. Screening of catabolic genes alkB and xylA revealed the presence of alkB gene in several bacterial strains; one isolate harboured both catabolic genes while other isolates carried none of the studied genes. However, they grew in the presence of crude oil implying the existence of other biodegradation pathways. Conclusions The samples of seawater and sediment from the Algerian coast contain high level of hydrocarbon‐degrading bacteria that could be interesting and useful for future bioremediation purposes. Significance and Impact of the Study This investigation demonstrates the diversity of hydrocarbon‐degrading bacteria from a marine‐contaminated area in Algeria, and their variable biodegradation abilities