What is the best way to get to the beach?

You can get down to Playa del Cañuelo via the minibus available during the summer months, or if you prefer you can walk down along the path.

Are there any bars or kiosks on the beach?

Yes, you can find the Chiringuito Las Piedras right on Playa del Cañuelo.

How much is the bus service to the beach?

The price of the ticket per person is €2 return, covering the journey from the car park to the beach and back.

How difficult is the access on foot?

Moderate difficulty; suitable footwear is recommended.

How far can I go by car?

You must park your vehicle at the start of the access track to Playa del Cañuelo.

BeachesMaro BeachesLive

El Cañuelo Beach — Secluded Cove in the Maro Cliffs

Hidden within the Maro-Cerro Gordo Natural Park, Playa El Cañuelo is one of the most unspoilt and beautiful coves on the entire Costa del Sol.

El Cañuelo Beach (Playa del Cañuelo) is one of the most spectacular and best-preserved coves near Nerja. Nestled within the Maro-Cerro Gordo Natural Park, on the border between Málaga and Granada provinces, it offers an almost untouched stretch of coastline with strikingly clear water and a wild, natural atmosphere.

What to Expect

The beach is a small, sheltered cove backed by steep, vegetated cliffs. The sand is coarse and mixed with pebbles, and the water is a vivid turquoise — superb for snorkelling. Because access requires a walk, it never feels as crowded as the more accessible beaches, even in high summer.

Getting There

Turn off the N-340 at the sign for Cantarriján/Cañuelo (just before the Málaga-Granada provincial boundary). A shuttle minibus runs from the car park to the beach during summer; outside peak season you walk down a steep path (15–20 minutes, sturdy shoes recommended). Parking is limited — arrive early.

Facilities

A basic chiringuito operates in summer.
No sunbed hire or showers.
Bring plenty of water and sun protection — shade is limited.

Video

1 video

El Cañuelo Beach — Secluded Cove in the Maro Cliffs — video 1

Beach information

Jellyfish today

Jellyfish live

No risk

Today, 21/08/2026, the jellyfish risk is no risk. The water is at 26.3°C.

No riskVery high

Latest sightings (1)

Data updated daily

Expected crowds

Water sports & activities

This beach has no water-sports service, but you can enjoy them very close by. We show you the nearest beaches where you can book them.

Kayak

Nearest: Playa de Maro (1.3 km), Playa de Burriana (3.9 km), Playa El Playazo (6.4 km)

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Paddleboarding (SUP)

Nearest: Playa de Maro (1.3 km), Playa de Burriana (3.9 km), Playa El Playazo (6.4 km)

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Snorkelling

Nearest: Playa de Burriana (3.9 km)

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Jet skis

Nearest: Playa de Burriana (3.9 km)

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Parasailing

Nearest: Playa de Burriana (3.9 km)

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Boat trips

Nearest: Playa de Burriana (3.9 km)

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Best time to visit

The swimming season runs from June to October. The best months to enjoy the beach with good weather and fewer people are May, June, September and October.

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Where to park

Playa del Cañuelo has a large area of free parking next to the N340. We recommend arriving early if you do not want to have to park on the main road.