Marina del Este - Dolphins, Boat Trips and Dine by the Sea

Not far from Nerja, tucked into the rocky cove of Punta de la Mona in La Herradura, Marina del Este sparkles like a hidden jewel along Spain’s Costa Tropical. Its charm lies in being smaller than the big ports, which makes it quieter, prettier and a lot more relaxed — exactly why so many locals and visitors alike love spending a day here.

This peaceful little marina is the perfect place to launch your own seaside adventure. Many come here to hire a small motorboat and drift along the rugged coastline at their own pace, discovering tucked-away coves like Berengueles and Calaiza — places you simply can’t reach from land. If you don’t have a licence, don’t worry — small no-licence boats are easy to rent and are just right for pottering between coves and secret beaches.

If you dream of captaining something larger, remember that in Spain you do need a valid boat licence to hire bigger boats. Getting one is an option, but courses are usually only in Spanish, so it’s something to plan well ahead if you’re keen to take the wheel yourself. Otherwise, you can always sit back and relax on one of the many skippered tours or join a catamaran party boat instead. Many love the skippered charters here — perfect for special celebrations or a laid-back day in the sun without having to worry about steering.

Sailing out of Marina del Este almost always brings a treat or two, especially if you choose a route through the Maro–Cerro Gordo marine reserve. This stretch is famous for dolphin sightings, so don’t be surprised if they appear and play along the boat. Most tours run for two to three hours, often stopping for snorkelling and paddle-boarding along the cliffs. Trips usually leave from berth 72, near the popular “El Barco” restaurant — an easy spot to start and end your adventure.

When you return, the marina’s quayside is just the place to linger. Some with casual seafood spots and small bars, it’s perfect for plates of fresh fish, tapas, pizza and cold local wine as the sun slips behind anchored yachts. There’s something effortlessly elegant about watching the masts sway while your fork dives into a sunset dinner.

Not far from the harbour are beaches worth wandering to as well. Playa de La Herradura stretches long and pebbly — a favourite for paddle-sports and windsurfing. But it’s the hidden spots that draw most people out on the water. Los Berengueles and El Muerto coves, tucked just east of the marina, are tiny and intimate — ideal for a quiet swim and snorkel. Further out you’ll find Cantarriján and Calaiza, wild naturist beaches with dramatic cliffs, accessible only by boat. Anchor off the sand, dive into turquoise water and enjoy the calm far from summer crowds.

Getting here is easy. From Nerja, it’s about a 20-minute drive heading east along the coastal N-340 road towards La Herradura. Follow the signs for Marina del Este or Punta de la Mona, then wind your way down to the waterfront — there’s parking close to the marina but it does fill up quickly on summer weekends, so arriving early is always a good idea.

Whether you’re steering your own boat or joining a local skipper, Marina del Este is still one of the prettiest corners on the Costa Tropical. Smaller, calmer, and full of hidden places just waiting to be discovered — licence or no licence, there’s always an adventure waiting on the water here.

Marina del Este Office
If you need general info or want to ask who’s renting boats, the marina office can help.
Contact: +34 958 64 08 01 Mobile: +34 658 90 86 34
Email: marinaeste@marinasmediterraneo.com

Good to know:
Small boats under 6 meters with low horsepower can usually be rented without a license in Spain. For anything bigger, you’ll need a valid Spanish or international boating license — or you can book a skipper to captain it for you.

Nerja Amigo Approved: Nautica MH for private hire with own license - info@nauticamh.com Phone: +34667253986 they also chat on whatapp.