There’s a place on the Costa Tropical of Granada where fresh water meets the Mediterranean — only accessible from the sea. We’re talking about the Maro Waterfall.
What is the Maro Waterfall?
The Maro Waterfall is a freshwater waterfall that rises in the cliffs of the Maro-Cerro Gordo Nature Reserve and falls directly into the Mediterranean. It’s the only waterfall of this kind on the entire Spanish Mediterranean coast. The cliffs, reaching 200 metres, make land access virtually impossible — which has kept these coves pristine for decades.
The route from Marina del Este
Departing from Marina del Este in La Herradura, you cross the Bay of La Herradura heading east. The cliffs grow dramatic as you approach the nature reserve. Along the way: sea-access-only coves perfect for anchoring and swimming, sea caves accessible in calm conditions, and at the end — the Maro Waterfall itself. Distance: approx. 12 nautical miles. Journey time: 40 minutes to 1 hour.
The route from Nerja
From El Playazo in Nerja the waterfall is only 4-5 nautical miles west. Journey time: 15-25 minutes — the most popular option for visitors staying in Nerja.
Best time to visit
May to October is the main season. June, July and September offer the best balance between weather and crowds. August is the busiest — book ahead. Spring (April-May) is best for maximum waterfall flow.
Which boat to choose
No licence: Nireus 490 from Nerja — 5 people, 15 HP.
With licence: Four Winns HD240 (10 people, toilet) or Nireus 620 CL (7 people) from Marina del Este.
With skipper: Dantoio D28 (9 people), Rio 750 (7 people), or the Azimut 46 Fly 15-metre yacht.
FAQs
Can you reach it on foot? No — the only access is from the sea.
Journey time? 40 min-1hr from Marina del Este; 15-25 min from Nerja.
Can you swim there? Yes, in calm conditions — always wear life jackets.
Does it flow year-round? Yes, peak flow January-May.
Need to book ahead? In July-August, yes — several days in advance.
Book now
📞 +34 958 048 128 (Marina del Este) · +34 951 592 425 (Nerja)
