Almuñécar, the city that is the heart of tourism on Granada’s Costa Tropical, next to Málaga’s Costa del Sol, is a Mediterranean gem that captivates visitors both for its ancient history—it is the oldest city in the Mediterranean bathed by the Mediterranean Sea—and for its natural landscapes. Although it is known for its beaches, its old town, and its privileged climate, one of the greatest treasures this Andalusian town offers is the opportunity to discover it from the sea.
Sailing in Almuñécar is not just a recreational activity, but an unforgettable experience that allows you to contemplate its beauty from another perspective, enjoy nature in its purest state, and experience unique moments in a magical setting.
Marina del Este, between La Herradura and Almuñécar, is a luxury port that, although not as well-known, is on par with Marbella’s famous Puerto Banús.
The first thing that catches your eye when setting sail from Marina del Este (located very close to Almuñécar, in La Herradura) is the clarity of the water. The Mediterranean here is calm, with an intense blue color that invites swimming and underwater exploration. From the boat, you can easily see the underwater rock formations, as well as schools of fish and, if you’re lucky, even dolphins accompanying the voyage.
The options for sailing in this area are varied. From small boats that can be rented without a license, to skippered yachts, catamarans for groups, or organized excursions offering themed experiences, such as sunset cruises or snorkeling and paddleboarding trips. Whatever you choose, they all share one thing in common: the feeling of freedom that comes with leaving the hustle and bustle behind and heading out to sea.
One of the most popular routes runs from Marina del Este westward, bordering the Cerro Gordo-Maro Natural Park. This protected area stands out for its imposing cliffs, sea caves, and hidden coves accessible only from the water. Calaiza, Cantarriján, and El Cañuelo are some of these pristine beaches where anchoring becomes a true privilege. Furthermore, the silence, interrupted only by the sound of waves and seagulls, creates an atmosphere of total disconnection.
Sailing around Almuñécar also offers a unique view of its urban landscape. From the sea, you can see the San Miguel Castle crowning the old town, surrounded by whitewashed houses that rise up the hillside. The church towers, the palm groves of San Cristóbal beach, and the greenery of subtropical crops such as avocado and custard apple paint a picture worthy of a postcard.
For recreational sailing enthusiasts, the area offers ideal conditions. The wind is generally light, making it easy to practice dinghy sailing or windsurfing. It’s also an ideal spot for those new to the nautical world, thanks to the calm sea and the presence of specialized schools and companies that organize courses and excursions.
But sailing in Almuñécar isn’t just a sport; it’s also romantic. Many visitors choose to take a trip at sunset, when the sun begins to set over the horizon and paints the sky and sea with shades of gold and pink. At these moments, sharing a glass of wine, a conversation, or simply the silence becomes an unforgettable memory.
In summer, nautical events and parties are held on the high seas, transforming the Mediterranean into a festive setting. Decorated boats, live music, dinners on board… all of this adds to the leisure activities of this coastal town, which has successfully combined seafaring tradition with quality tourism.
Come and enjoy sailing in Almuñécar because sailing in Almuñécar is much more than just exploring a stretch of Granada’s coastline: it’s a way to experience the Costa Tropical from the inside, connect with nature, discover secret places, and enjoy the sea at its finest. For both those seeking adventure and those yearning for peace, the sea of Almuñécar presents itself as a space open to excitement and beauty. An experience that will undoubtedly leave its mark.