The Maro–Cerro Gordo cliffs are a natural paradise that combines sea, mountains, and hidden beaches. If you’re looking for what to do with one day in maro cliffs, here’s a step-by-step plan to make the most of your visit.

1. Enjoy sunrise by kayak and snorkel

Start early: the sea is calm, the light is soft, and there’s less boat traffic. Paddling alongside the cliffs lets you discover rock arches, small caves like the Cueva del Lobo Marino and the Cueva de las Palomas, and the famous Maro waterfall, which drops 15 meters into the sea. Set aside 2 to 3 hours for this outing, always keeping a safe distance from the cliff face.

Make a stop at a sheltered cove, such as the quiet beach of El Cañuelo or the charming cove of Las Alberquillas, to go snorkeling. With mask and snorkel you’ll spot schools of fish, starfish, and—if you’re lucky—a camouflaged octopus among the rocks. Swim slowly and avoid touching rocks and seagrass meadows to protect the environment. In summer, watch out for boats and jet skis: although some areas are restricted, not everyone respects them, so stay close to the shore.

If it’s your first time kayaking, the best option is to choose a guided tour. This way you can get to know the area with the help of an instructor, get familiar with the technique and equipment, and build confidence for future outings. If later you’d like to go on your own, you can rent a kayak in La Herradura and plan the route at your own pace. If you’re looking for more ideas on what to do in La Herradura, here’s a guide to essential things to do. Afterwards, you can spend the afternoon snorkelling at the beach, taking advantage of the calm waters and the good visibility at this time of day.

Sunrise kayaking by the Maro Cliffs–Cerro Gordo is the perfect way to begin one day in maro cliffs.

2. Midday break at a beach bar

After your time on the water, refuel at one of the beach bars in Maro and Cerro Gordo, perfect for lunch by the sea and a rest before the afternoon. In high season it’s essential to book or arrive early to avoid waiting, while in quieter months you can improvise and choose a table with views.

Recommendations by season:

  • Summer: choose beach bars with open terraces and shaded areas to avoid intense heat, and enjoy the lively seaside vibe.
  • Spring and autumn: look for places with good views where you can still sit outside, but with the option to move indoors if it cools down.

Always ask for the catch of the day to ensure the best local quality and flavor.

3. A relaxing afternoon at the beach

The best way to spend the afternoon—especially if you want comfort and space—is to pick a large beach like Burriana, Maro, or La Herradura, where you’ll find more services and room to spread out your towel without crowds. If you’d like to combine the beach with a stroll through town, check out this guide to things to do in Nerja to add viewpoints, caves, or a tapas plan to your afternoon. If you prefer a wilder experience, you can head to coves like Cantarriján, El Cañuelo, or Las Alberquillas, but keep in mind that in the afternoons—especially on weekends—they fill up quickly and finding a spot can be tricky. The best hours to enjoy the sea are from 4:30 pm to 7:30 pm, when the light is softer and the water is perfect.

Bring a large towel and a beach chair to relax more comfortably, plus an umbrella for sun protection. If you feel like it, put on your snorkel mask: in the afternoon the sea is usually flatter and visibility improves.

4. Sunset at the Maro Cliffs

End the day at the Mirador de Cerro Gordo, with spectacular views of the coast and the cliffs. The golden hour starts about 40 minutes before sunset, followed by the blue hour, which paints the sky in purples and pinks.

If sunset catches you at the viewpoint, take a moment to watch how the colors of the sky and sea change without rushing, soaking up the views and the atmosphere of the place.

For safety, stay away from the edge and wear shoes with good grip and a flashlight for the way down if it gets dark.

Practical tips for your Maro–Cerro Gordo excursion

  • Book activities and restaurants in advance during high season.
  • Bring sunscreen, a cap, sunglasses, water shoes, water, and a dry bag.
  • Don’t leave any waste and avoid single-use plastics.
  • Check summer access rules for coves so you can plan your visit properly.