The lesser-known coves of Maro and how to get to them.
The lesser-known coves of Maro and how to reach them
Talking about Nerja is to talk about the beauty of its coast. While central and emblematic places steal our hearts with their atmosphere and sunset views, our beloved municipality hides a wild treasure just a few kilometres from its urban core. We refer to the Natural Area of Maro-Cerro Gordo Cliffs, a spot where the mountain literally merges with the Mediterranean Sea.
Visiting the beaches of Nerja is an essential experience if you come to enjoy a few days with us. Forget about the large promenades for a few hours; here, asphalt gives way to paths flanked by pines, rosemary, and thyme.
If you've ever wondered what coves there are in Maro, get ready, because we are going to dive into one of the most magical corners of all Andalucía.
Moreover, thanks to the privileged location of the accommodations at Bajamar Hotels, it is possible to organise your route from the early hours of the morning, comfortably accessing the main roads that will take you directly to this natural paradise, and returning in the afternoon to enjoy the atmosphere of the historic centre.
The wild soul of the coast: The Coves of Maro
Although our coastline boasts exceptional urban beaches full of life, the atmosphere changes completely when we cross into the protected area. The coves of Maro in Nerja offer a virgin environment that is hard to find today in southern Europe. The crystal-clear water, protection from the winds thanks to the enormous cliffs, and the rich biodiversity make this place a haven of peace. Authentic nature.
For those visiting the town looking for disconnection, venturing to discover these secret beaches of Maro is the best plan possible. However, precisely because of their wild character, access to the coves of Maro requires knowing a few details before setting off. It is difficult not to fall in love with these landscapes, but it is always best to be well prepared. Join us in discovering the best coves of Maro in Nerja.
El Cañuelo Beach: The jewel of crystal-clear waters
The El Cañuelo beach in Nerja is undoubtedly one of the great favourites of both visitors and locals. It is located at the exact boundary where the province of Málaga meets Granada, and it is the ideal spot if you are looking for a natural setting without sacrificing some comfort.
The atmosphere and charm of El Cañuelo
With its mix of dark sand and pebbles, El Cañuelo beach in Nerja shines with its own light. During summer days, the atmosphere here is relaxed. Families, couples, and groups of friends come down to enjoy a sunny day where the main sound is the murmur of the waves. It is a spacious Cañuelo beach in Nerja, which means that even in high season, you can always find a quiet corner to lay down your towel and disconnect from everything.
Gastronomy by the sea
Well, the traveller lives off nature and good food. Despite being in a protected area, enjoying El Cañuelo beach in Nerja with a beach bar is almost a tradition. Sitting in the shade with a cold drink or enjoying a good plate of fresh fish while contemplating the horizon is a true luxury. The combination of untouched nature and local gastronomy is perfect.
How to get to and park at El Cañuelo
One of the most frequent questions at the reception of our hotels is about how to get to El Cañuelo beach in Nerja. As it is an area of high ecological value, access for motor vehicles to the shore is restricted during the summer months.
To solve the enigma of how to get to Cañuelo beach in Nerja, you must take the old N-340 road. The views along this winding road are already a gift. You will see clear signs towards playa Cañuelo Nerja parking at the top of the cliff. After leaving your car, access to the Cañuelo cove in Nerja is comfortably done via shuttle minibuses that, for a very low price, take you down and bring you back up throughout the day. If you visit us in the low season, the walk down is a delight for the senses.
The iconic Cala de Maro and its natural magic
If we continue our journey, we come across the famous Maro beach in Nerja. Although it has gained a lot of notoriety in recent years, Maro beach still retains its rustic essence surrounded by tropical crops, reed beds, and ancient watchtowers.
The spectacle of the Maro Waterfall
But we would be lying if we said that the cala de Maro is just sand and sea. Just a few metres from the beach, hidden among the stone walls, is one of the most photographed natural phenomena in the area: the Maro waterfall in Nerja.
We are talking about the Sanguino stream, which, after crossing the village, plunges into the Mediterranean from about 15 metres high. The best way to see the Maro beach Nerja waterfall is to rent a kayak or a paddleboard from the cove itself. Paddling on those turquoise waters, approaching the waterfall, and feeling the cool breeze is an experience that will be etched in your memory forever.
Access instructions
As for the cala de Maro and how to get there, the path is very pleasant. You need to divert from the N-340 and cross the charming little village of Maro (a district of Nerja). From its main square, a winding road takes you downhill through orchards and greenhouses to the vicinity of the cove. We recommend leaving early from your room at Bajamar Hotels to find a good spot before the bulk of bathers arrive.
The absolute refuge: Barranco de Maro Cove
If your spirit is 100% adventurous and what you seek is to step on the hidden coves of Nerja, your place is the Barranco de Maro cove. This small tongue of pebbles at the mouth of a ravine represents the most intimate essence of the coastline.
Being one of the lesser-known beaches of Nerja, its occupancy level is always very low. There are no services, no bars, just you and the vastness of the sea surrounded by an imposing mountainous landscape. It is the ideal setting for reading a good book or simply listening to the sound of the water crashing against the rocks. Access requires leaving your car by the N-340 and walking down narrow, steep paths, so wearing good sports footwear is essential.
A natural aquarium: Snorkelling in the Coves of Maro Nerja
The underwater environment in this area is as impressive as the terrestrial one. Snorkelling in the coves of Maro in Nerja is diving into a world full of colour and life. Thanks to the forests of Posidonia Oceanica —a marine plant that oxygenates and cleans the waters—, visibility is absolutely spectacular.
The rock formations of the coves in Nerja serve as a refuge for octopuses, schools of bream, starfish, colourful anemones, and tiny fish that swim around you without any fear. Snorkelling in Mano cove in Nerja, or exploring the nooks near the waterfall, are activities that do not require large equipment: with just a pair of goggles and a snorkel, you will be ready to explore.
That said, don’t forget to pack some water shoes; they will be very comfortable for moving among the rocks and pebbles.
Quick guide: How to get to the coves of Maro
To ensure your route goes smoothly, here’s a summary of how to get to the coves of Maro and make the most of the experience:
- Starting point: It all begins by taking the N-340 road that runs along the coast from Nerja towards the east (towards Almuñécar).
- Vehicle: The car is your best ally for getting close to the area, but remember that the natural site protects its coastlines by restricting vehicle access to the shore in summer.
- Shuttle transport: In the most accessible and crowded coves like El Cañuelo, use the designated minibuses. It’s an eco-friendly, economical, and very comfortable system.
- On foot: For the more secret coves, access will always be on foot down the cliff paths. Closed footwear, a hat, and plenty of water are essential.
Enjoying Nerja after a day in nature
Choosing well-located accommodation allows you to make the most of your stay, balancing adventure and nature days with rest and nightlife. Staying in the historic centre makes it easier to enjoy this wild environment during the day, without the need for long journeys when returning.
At the accommodations of Bajamar Hotels, we offer you precisely that comfort and proximity. From our hotels, you can head out in the morning towards the coves of Maro with total ease, and in the afternoon, after a good swim in our pool or a refreshing shower, take a leisurely stroll along the Balcón de Europa, dine at one of its wonderful terraces, and end the day with the relaxed rhythm characteristic of the Andalusian coast. All of this while walking.
The coves of Axarquía represent one of the purest and most beautiful faces of our environment. Whether rowing under a freshwater waterfall, snorkelling among colourful fish, or simply resting on a secret beach, exploring this natural area is much more than just sunbathing. It is discovering the Mediterranean essence in its most virgin state and taking home an unforgettable memory.
Sources:
https://www.campingelpino.com/blog/mejores-playas-de-maro/
https://www.elmundo.es/andalucia/2025/06/17/68510d2ee85ece146b8b4582.html
https://www.malagahoy.es/la-farola/cala-secreta-malaga-mejor-playa-verano_0_2003911351.html