Nerja & Maro Kayak Tour: Sea Caves, Waterfalls & Cliffs

Summary

Kayak the wild cliffs of Nerja to Maro waterfalls with swims and secret caves

You’ll paddle along Nerja’s dramatic cliffs with a local guide, slip into sea caves like Cueva del Lobo, swim at quiet beaches near Maro, and get free GoPro photos of your adventure. With all gear included—and even lockers for your stuff—you’ll end up tired but full of stories (and maybe salt in your hair).

What’s the experience like?

“You sure we’re not lost already?” I asked, half-laughing, as our guide Pablo pointed out the line of orange kayaks bobbing on Burriana Beach. The morning air in Nerja was salty and warm—maybe a little sticky on my skin, but honestly it felt good after too many days in city air. Pablo handed us bright vests and paddles (mine squeaked a bit), gave us a quick rundown in both Spanish and English, then off we went. The first few strokes felt wobbly—my arms are not used to this kind of work—but soon enough we were gliding past the first rocky outcrops. You can actually smell the seaweed here, especially close to the rocks. It’s weirdly comforting.

We hugged the cliffs heading east toward Maro, stopping at Cueva del Lobo. Pablo told us locals call it Sea Wolf Cave—I tried to say it in Spanish (“Cueva del Lobo”), but he just grinned and corrected my accent. Inside the cave, it was cooler and echoey; water slapped gently against the walls. Outside again, sunlight bounced off the water so bright I had to squint. At one point we drifted near a patch where gulls nest—honestly, they’re louder than you’d think—and Pablo pointed out some tiny purple flowers clinging to cracks above us. He said there’s a whole vertical garden up there, which I never would’ve noticed on my own.

We stopped at Playa Caleta de Maro for a swim—I hesitated at first because I’m not exactly graceful getting back into a kayak (Pablo pretended not to notice). The water is cold but super clear; you can see your toes wiggle over pebbles if you look down. Someone from our group found a smooth black stone shaped like a heart—she kept it for luck. We paddled further to Cascada de Maro, though Pablo warned us that with this year’s drought, there’s barely any water falling now. Still, seeing where the waterfall should be made me weirdly thoughtful about how much things change with weather.

On the way back I was tired but happy—the sun higher now, arms sore in that good way you get after doing something real. Pablo snapped some GoPro shots while we floated together before heading in (he promised he’d send them later). I still think about that stretch of cliff where everything smelled like salt and wild thyme, and how small our kayaks looked under those huge rocks. Makes you feel kind of lucky just to be out here.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Kayak tour along Nerja and Maro cliffs

• Start at Burriana Beach
• Visit Sea Wolf Cave
• See Maiden Waterfall
• Explore Seagulls' House and Vertical Garden
• Stop at Caleta of Maro
• Arrive at Maro Waterfall
• Swim and observe seabed
• Learn about local flora and fauna
• Take photos and videos with GoPro

Top questions

Where does the Nerja & Maro kayak tour start?

The tour starts from Burriana Beach in Nerja.

Is swimming included during the kayak route?

Yes, there are stops for swimming and observing the seabed along the route.

Are lockers available for storing belongings?

Yes, large lockers are available for €2 each to store backpacks or valuables.

What happens if weather conditions are bad?

If wind or waves make kayaking unsafe, the activity is canceled and your reservation refunded.

Will we see waterfalls during this kayak tour?

You’ll visit Cascada de Maro; however, due to drought conditions it may not have flowing water.

Is this kayak tour suitable for beginners?

The route is suitable for all physical fitness levels but not recommended for those with spinal injuries or poor cardiovascular health.

Are photos included on this day trip?

Yes, free photo and video reporting is done with a GoPro camera during your tour.

How long does the kayak route from Nerja to Maro take?

The duration depends on conditions but typically covers several scenic stops between Burriana Beach and Cascada de Maro.

What’s included

Your day includes kayak rental with paddles and vests for everyone in your group; free GoPro photo and video service so you don’t have to worry about bringing your own camera; use of lockers at Burriana Beach (for €2 per large locker) to store backpacks or valuables before setting off; plus several scheduled departure times so you can choose what fits best—all led by an experienced local guide who shares stories along the way.