Kayaking the coves of Maro-Cerro Gordo

If you only do one water-based activity on the whole Costa del Sol, make it this one. The kayak route through the Maro-Cerro Gordo Cliffs Natural Area covers the best-preserved stretch of coastline in the province: rock walls dozens of metres high, sea caves, turquoise water and coves you simply cannot reach on foot.

What the route is like

Trips usually leave from Burriana or from Maro beach. A typical outing lasts two to three hours and includes:

• Paddling along the Maro cliffs.
• A stop at the Maro waterfall, a freshwater cascade that drops straight into the sea — the photo everyone comes for.
• Entering sea caves and rock arches when conditions allow.
• A swimming and snorkelling stop in an untouched cove, over the best seabed in Málaga.

What level do you need?

None. This is a beginner activity: the kayaks are stable, you go in a group with a guide, and you stay close to the shore. If you can swim and you are in normal physical condition, you can do it. Most operators take children from 6-8 years old sharing a kayak with an adult.

What to bring

• Waterproof sun cream and a rash vest: you will spend hours in direct sun over reflective water.
• Water shoes.
• A cap with a cord and sunglasses with a retainer.
• Drinking water. The kit — kayak, paddle, buoyancy aid and usually a snorkel mask — is provided.
• Only bring a phone or camera if it is waterproof: you will get completely wet.

When to go

May to October. First thing in the morning is best: flatter sea, fewer people and less sun. Trips are cancelled in a strong easterly wind (levante), so if you have a few days’ flexibility, book early in your stay so you can reschedule if needed.

One important note

You are inside a protected Natural Area. Don’t collect stones, don’t touch the seagrass meadows, don’t leave anything behind. Serious operators insist on this — choose one that does.

Combine it with

An afternoon at Maro beach, or a visit to the Nerja Caves, five minutes away.