Playa de Maro, Protected sand beach in Nerja, Spain.
Playa de Maro is a protected sand beach just south of Nerja, stretching about 500 meters and framed by tall limestone cliffs. The shoreline combines golden sand with pebbles, while Mediterranean plants grow along the cliff edges above.
The area holds remnants of ancient fishing communities and features a 16th-century watchtower built as defense against pirates. This structure reflects how crucial coastal protection was for the region.
The surrounding hillsides show terraced farmland where locals grow subtropical crops that have shaped the landscape for generations. Visitors walking above the beach can see how agriculture and the coast have always been intertwined here.
The beach has restrooms, showers, a seaside restaurant, and rental equipment for water activities available from June through September. The best time to visit is during the warm months when all facilities are open and the water is pleasant.
Freshwater cascades flow directly from the cliffs into the sea at several points along the shoreline. Kayakers come here specifically to paddle near these natural waterfalls and experience this rare sight up close.
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