Kayaking in Nerja is one of our favourite ways to see the coastline. Paddling around Maro and Cerro Gordo gives you a completely different view of the cliffs and small coves, and it is easy to combine with swimming, snorkelling and a visit to the Maro waterfall.
The stretch of coast east of Nerja is wilder and greener than the town beaches, and much of it is best appreciated from the water. You don't need to be an experienced paddler to enjoy it.
From a kayak you see the coast the way you never can from the road: steep cliffs, quiet coves and clear water that is perfect for a swim. The area between Maro and Cerro Gordo is beautiful, and the scenery changes every few minutes as you paddle along.
It is the kind of morning that feels active without being hard work. You can go at your own pace, stop whenever a cove catches your eye and jump in for a swim before carrying on.
Playa de Maro, about 15 minutes by car from the house, is the natural starting point. The scenery is lovely and the beach is excellent for kayaking, paddle boarding and snorkelling. For more on Maro and the other beaches, see our guide to the best beaches in Nerja.
One of the highlights is the Maro waterfall, which is around a 10-minute paddle from Playa de Maro. Seeing a waterfall tumble down the cliffs straight into the sea is a lovely moment, and it is close enough to reach easily even if you are new to kayaking.
You can either book a kayak and explore yourself, or join a guided kayak tour. A guided tour is a good choice if it is your first time, if you want to know the best spots, or if you are travelling with children. Hiring a kayak suits you better if you want to set your own pace. Either way, we recommend booking ahead, especially in high season, and checking current prices and times when you book.
Morning is often the best time. It is cooler on the water and a gentler way to start the day. In summer, an early start also helps with parking, which brings us to the one practical issue.
Parking at Maro is limited and can be difficult, especially in summer. Go early so you are not circling for a space when your tour is about to start. Our post on parking in Nerja has more tips for the busier beaches.
If kayaking isn't your thing, paddle boarding is a great alternative at Maro, and the calm, clear water makes it a good place to try. Snorkelling is also excellent here, either straight from the beach or from the coves you reach by kayak. Many people combine all three over a single morning.
The Cueva de Nerja is very close to Maro, so it is easy to turn a kayaking morning into a full day. Paddle early, have lunch, then visit the caves in the afternoon when it is warmest outside. Check tickets before you go; our Nerja caves guide has everything you need.
There is nothing better after a morning kayaking than coming home, rinsing off under an outdoor shower and putting your feet up on a sunbed. That is exactly what the private terrace at our house is for. Have a look at our holiday home in Nerja, just outside the centre in Ladera del Mar.
Our favourite area is around Maro and Cerro Gordo, starting from Playa de Maro, about 15 minutes by car from Nerja. You can hire a kayak or book a guided tour.
The Maro waterfall is around a 10-minute paddle from Playa de Maro, so it is easy to reach even if you are new to kayaking.
Morning is often best: it is cooler, and parking at Maro, which can be difficult, is easier if you arrive early.