Exploring the Wild Beaches of Maro - Cerro Gordo Natural Park
If you thought the Costa del Sol was all about crowded beaches and rows of sunbeds, think again. Just east of Nerja lies the Maro–Cerro Gordo Natural Park — a rugged stretch of cliffs, pine forests, and secret coves where the Mediterranean still feels wild.
This is the place where adventure meets the sea.
A Little Slice of Wilderness
The park runs for about 12 kilometres between Nerja and La Herradura, with cliffs rising up to 75 metres, caves, waterfalls, and lookout towers from centuries past. Both the land and the seabed are protected, which is why these coves feel like a journey back to a wilder, quieter coast.
The Coves and Beaches
Most of the beaches here are only reached on foot, and the paths can be steep and rocky. Some are quick strolls, others more of a sweaty workout — but every step down is rewarded with clear water and peace far from the crowds.
Playa de Maro – A very popular beach, easy to reach and well-loved for kayaking and snorkeling. It has a small chiringuito, parking nearby, and plenty of visitors in summer — so while beautiful, it’s not as secluded as the others.
Molino de Papel – A magical spot with the ruins of an old paper mill. The beach is split in two by giant rock formations, and you can clamber or swim between them, even sunbathe on the warm rocks like a natural terrace.
Las Alberquillas – Long, wild, and more stony than sandy. Perfect for space and peace, even in high season.
Cala Torre del Pino – Two small coves hidden below cliffs and pine trees. The path down is steep and rugged, but once you arrive, the seclusion and raw beauty make it worth every step.
El Cañuelo – A real gem with dazzling turquoise water and superb snorkeling. In summer you leave the car at the top and take the shuttle bus down. Be warned though: it’s extremely popular with local tourists in high season, so don’t expect to have it to yourself in July and August.
Cantarriján – Just over the border in Granada, this naturist-friendly cove is calm and beautiful. One of only two beaches here (along with Cañuelo) that has chiringuitos.
Tips for adventurers:
Wear good shoes for the walk down — the paths are rocky and uneven.
Bring swim shoes too: some coves are pebbly rather than sandy, so your feet will thank you when getting in and out of the water.
Pack food and plenty of water. Apart from Maro, Cañuelo and Cantarriján, there are no chiringuitos.
The perfect day out? Bring your own picnic to enjoy on the beach rocks, or — if you prefer not to carry too much — spend the morning in a secluded cove, then head to La Herradura or Maro in the afternoon for a relaxed lunch.
Wildlife Encounters
This isn’t just a day at the beach — it’s an adventure into nature. Along the cliffs you might spot mountain goats balancing on the rocks or even wild boar with their young in the scrub. They’re incredible to see, but keep your distance: wild boar are fiercely protective of their babies, and you don’t want to pick that fight!
Why Go?
Because when Nerja’s main beaches are buzzing with umbrellas and inflatables, these coves are the perfect escape into the wild. Swim in clear water, sprawl out on sun-warmed rocks, or simply listen to the waves echo against the cliffs.
It’s not always easy to get there — you’ll sweat on the way down and puff on the way back up — but that’s exactly why it feels so special. Here is where Costa del Sol stops and Costa Tropical starts. Different, wild and beautiful!
