From Nerja: Guided Paddle Surf Cliffs and Maro Waterfall

Experience the Cliffs of Maro and Maro Waterfall on a Guided Paddle Surf Tour from Nerja

In just 2.5 hours, you can explore some of the most striking natural features along Andalusia’s coast, from the Cliffs of Maro-Cerro Gordo to the enchanting Maro Waterfall. Starting at the lively Playa de Burriana, this guided paddleboarding adventure (costing around $34 per person) offers both magnificent views and a chance to snorkel among colorful fish and underwater rock formations.

What we love most about this experience is the chance to paddle along the dramatic cliffs that tower over the water, giving you a sense of being in a remote, untouched part of Spain. The underwater caves and coral reefs are a definite highlight, especially since your guide will take digital photos and videos to keep as souvenirs.

One small consideration is that the activity involves some physical effort, especially if you’re new to paddleboarding or not used to being on the water. The route is longer than some might expect, which means it’s best suited for active travelers who enjoy a bit of a workout combined with sightseeing. If you’re looking for an authentic, scenic adventure that combines outdoor activity with natural beauty, this tour is a wonderful choice—especially for those eager to see the cliffs and caves from a new perspective.

Key Points:

• Stunning Natural Scenery: Paddle along the cliffs and underwater caves of Maro-Cerro Gordo.
• Inclusive Photos & Videos: Your guide captures memories with a GoPro for you.
• Suitable for Beginners: Receive an initiation lesson on paddleboarding.
• Active but Accessible: The route is longer and may be tiring for some, but stops are available.
• Great Value: At $34, it offers a well-rounded experience with guide support and digital keepsakes.
• Ideal for Adventure Seekers: Best suited for travelers comfortable with water activities and physical exertion.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An In-Depth Look at the Nerja Paddle Surf Tour

When we first considered this tour, what caught our eye was the combination of adventure, natural beauty, and cultural authenticity. It’s a chance to escape the busy beaches and discover the rugged coastlines that make this part of Spain so special.

Location and Duration
The tour begins at the Educare Aventura office at Nerja’s Playa de Burriana, a lively spot filled with cafés and bustling activity. After a brief introduction and paddleboarding lesson, you head out along the coast toward the Cliffs of Maro, a dramatic formation that’s a favorite for both photographers and nature lovers. The entire experience lasts about 2.5 hours, making it a manageable half-day outing suitable for most travelers.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out?
One of the main attractions here is the spectacular scenery. Imagine paddling past jagged, towering cliffs that seem to rise directly out of the sea, with seabirds soaring overhead. The route takes you past the Maro waterfall, a refreshing sight where freshwater tumbles into the sea, and into the Acantilado caves — an adventure in itself.

Another feature that appeals to many is the snorkeling component. Equipped with your own mask and fins (not included), you can explore underwater formations teeming with fish and coral. The guide’s expertise ensures safe and enjoyable exploration, even for first-timers.

The Guide and Support
Reviews overwhelmingly praise the knowledgeable guides. One reviewer, Kaylah, commented, “Juanca was very informative, friendly, and helpful,” making the experience both educational and fun. Guides are attentive, providing instructions for paddleboarding and making sure everyone feels comfortable on the water.

Photo and Video Memories
A significant bonus is the digital photos and videos taken by the guide with a GoPro. Many travelers have appreciated this, noting it allows them to relive the experience without worrying about capturing every moment themselves. Megan, for example, called the guide “brilliant,” especially helpful for first-time paddle surfers.

What to Expect at Each Stop

Starting Point – KAYAK NERJA-MARO Educare Aventura
Here, you’ll meet your guide, receive a quick safety briefing, and get fitted with your paddleboard gear. The team offers a variety of boards to cater to differing skill levels, which is reassuring for beginners.

Playa de Burriana
This lively beach is the launchpad for the tour. It’s a popular spot, packed with restaurants and shops, making it easy to grab breakfast, rent gear, or simply soak in the atmosphere before heading out.

The Route along the Cliffs
Paddling past the impressive cliffs, you’ll get a sense of the wild beauty of the coastline. The route is designed to include stops at the waterfall and caves, giving you opportunities to rest, snorkel, or just marvel at the scenery.

Return to the Meeting Point
After about two and a half hours, your adventure concludes back at the starting point. You may feel tired but exhilarated, with plenty of photos to remind you of your day.

The Experience: What You’ll Feel and See

We loved the way the water reflects the sunlight, illuminating the sea caves and coral reefs below. The initial paddleboarding instructions are straightforward, making it accessible even to those new to the sport. The guides are patient, ensuring everyone understands how to handle the board and paddle.

The highlight, for many, is the waterfall stop. As you paddle closer, you’ll see freshwater tumbling into the sea, a sight that seems almost surreal next to the rugged cliffs. If you’ve brought snorkel gear, you can dip beneath the surface to see a colorful underwater world filled with fish and corals.

The caves, accessible by board and underwater, are like secret hideouts carved into the cliffs. For those willing to explore underwater with their snorkel, the experience is even more immersive.

The digital photos and videos are a real treat. Several reviews mention how these captured memories, especially the videos of swimming under the waterfall or paddling through caves, became treasured keepsakes.

What’s the Value for the Price?

At $34 per person, this tour offers impressive value. It includes guide support, paddleboarding gear, and the digital media. Considering that many similar activities charge more for less, it’s a good deal, especially given the quality of the scenery and the natural attractions.

While snorkeling gear is not included and costs an additional €1 for a locker, this small fee is worth considering if you want to keep your belongings safe during the water activities. The tour also offers flexibility—if the water conditions aren’t ideal, some reviews mention guides adjusting plans or providing stops, which shows a focus on safety and customer satisfaction.

The small group sizes and experienced guides make a significant difference, making the activity feel personal and secure. Many travelers appreciated the friendly, knowledgeable guides who made the experience both fun and informative.

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Who Will Enjoy This Tour?

This adventure suits adventurous travelers who aren’t shy about a bit of physical activity. While it’s accessible to beginners, the longer route can be tiring, especially if you’re not used to paddleboarding. Perfect for nature lovers, families with kids over 6, couples, or solo travelers seeking a scenic, active experience.

It’s also ideal for those who want to combine water sports with sightseeing, offering a different perspective on Nerja’s coastline than the usual beachside lounging. If you’re looking for authentic natural beauty, personalized guide support, and memorable photos, this tour checks all the boxes.

The Sum Up

This paddle surf tour from Nerja combines the thrill of outdoor water sports with some of the most beautiful coastal scenery in Andalusia. With expert guides, stunning cliffs, underwater caves, and waterfalls, it offers a balanced mix of adventure and relaxation. For a reasonable price, you get a well-organized experience that leaves you with lasting memories — especially thanks to the professional photos and videos.

It’s best suited for active travelers, nature lovers, and those eager to explore from a different angle. Whether you’re trying paddleboarding for the first time or are a seasoned water sports enthusiast, this tour provides a unique glimpse into Nerja’s wild coastline.

If you’re craving a fun, scenic, and authentic adventure that combines physical activity with the chance to see marine life and caves, this guided paddle surf tour is a fantastic choice. It’s a day well spent, leaving you with stories to tell and photos to cherish.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for beginners?
Yes, beginners are welcomed. You’ll receive an initiation course on how to paddleboard and use the paddle, making it accessible even if it’s your first time.

How long is the tour?
The total experience lasts approximately 2.5 hours, including guidance, paddling, and exploring the caves and waterfall.

Do I need snorkel gear?
Snorkel equipment is not included in the tour price. You can bring your own or rent gear on site for a small additional fee (€1 for a locker).

Can children participate?
Children under 6 are not suitable for this activity, mainly due to safety and physical demands. It’s best suited for older kids, teens, and adults.

What should I bring?
Bring swimwear, a change of clothes, sunscreen, and water to stay hydrated. It’s also a good idea to have breakfast beforehand, as the activity can be physically demanding.

What happens if the weather is bad?
The tour is flexible, and guides will adjust plans if weather conditions are unsuitable. You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Is there transportation included?
You meet directly at the Educare Aventura office at Playa de Burriana; transportation from other locations is not included. It’s easily accessible by foot or local transport from Nerja.

In short, this guided paddle surf tour offers a perfect mix of adventure, scenery, and memorable moments. It’s a fantastic way to see Nerja from a different angle while enjoying the thrill of paddling along cliffs, under waterfalls, and through caves that few visitors get to experience firsthand.

You can check availability for your dates here: