yachting club la herradura

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Kayaking and snorkeling on costa tropical spain, in la herradura.

I first visited Costa Tropical in March and back then I only got a little taster of all the activities that you can do here. I enjoyed so much the nature that I promised myself I will return in summer to explore more. I didn’t make it in summer, but I came back in September to try out kayaking and snorkeling on Costa Tropical.

About Costa Tropical and La Herradura

Costa Tropical is a beautiful area of Southern Spain with its own microclimate which makes it warm during the winter months as well. Because the Sierra Nevada , the highest mountains in Spain, are so close to the Alboran Sea, farmers can grow all sorts of exotic fruits on Costa Tropical, and this is where the name of the region comes from. As a tropical fruit finca owner once told me, there is no fruit that I can think of that she doesn’t grow in her orchard.

La Herradura is a beautiful small town, one of the best places on Costa Tropical to practice water sports. The bay of La Herradura is flanked by mountains, which makes it a very calm area, kept away from strong winds. The bay is part of the Cerro Gordo National Park, where the fauna and flora are protected.  The marine life is very rich, with beautiful corals and plenty of fish, so snorkelling here is fantastic, and you don’t have to go too far from the shore either. The crystal-clear water makes it easy to see through as well.

Where to Stay on Costa Tropical

There are plenty of options of places to stay on Costa Tropical and out of season, they are all more than affordable. If you are traveling to Costa Tropical in summer, make sure you book in advance your accommodation as the hotels get full quite quickly.

For a mid-budget option, stay at Playa Granada, in between Salobrena and Motril. This resort is located right on the beach and has beautiful, spacious and modern decorated rooms. I enjoyed a lot the view from my room, which was towards the sea on the left and towards the mountains on the right. The resort has a spa and a couple of gorgeous outdoor pools. You can read the reviews on TripAdvisor or check the rates and book directly on Booking.com

For a budget option, Hotel Avenida Tropical is a good choice, in the heart of Salobrena , 5 minutes’ walk to the beach and just across the street from the old town. I chose this hotel as a last minute getaway to Costa Tropical because it was one of the very few that still had rooms available at the end of July. It was a decent hotel with a jacuzzi on the rooftop and a lovely view over the old town of Salobrena and the castle. Parking was free, in a locked yard behind the hotel for which I was given a key. If you want to park in the underground garage, you do need to pay extra. You can read the reviews on TripAdvisor or check the rates and book directly on Booking.com

On this particular trip I chose to stay in Nerja, at Hotel Nerja Club & Spa, as I wanted to visit Frigiliana in the morning. I was pleasantly surprised by this hotel and didn’t expect it to be so modern for the low price I paid for the room. My stay also included an hour in the spa, which I took advantage of to relax my muscles after over two hours of paddling. I noticed that this was a TUI Hotel, which meant that there was live entertainment in the evening and a fixed price buffet dinner. The hotel is located on the outskirts of Nerja, on the hill, but has beautiful views over the coast. I have to mention the staff, which was very friendly and helpful as well. You can read the reviews on TripAdvisor or check the rates and book directly on Booking.com

Kayaking and snorkeling on Costa Tropical with Activ8you

I was very excited to finally try out kayaking and snorkeling on Costa Tropical with Activ8you, after meeting Sophie – the owner – before, during my first trip here. Back then she guided me on a hike on top of the cliffs of the Cerro Gordo National Park and I loved it so much that when I decided to return to Costa Tropical, I contacted her directly.

Activ8you can organise your entire trip on Costa Tropical, tailored to your preferences. Sophie knows everything and everyone in the area, so you will be in the perfect hands! There is nothing that she can’t arrange for you, from the most beautiful hikes and water sports, to horse riding in the stunning Alpujarra region, to cooking classes and flamenco lessons. For anything you need, just drop her a line on www.activ8you.com and she will help making your holiday on Costa Tropical perfect.

Back to my experience of kayaking and snorkeling in La Herradura, I actually missed the morning departure due to heavy traffic on the motorway. Arriving around three hours before the afternoon one, I had time to enjoy lunch and then sunbathe for a bit.

If you arrive by car in La Herradura, you should know that there are plenty of parking spaces just outside the Activ8you beach hut. I was pleasantly surprised that parking was free, because the high season ended.

Watch the video I made with the experience:

After everyone arrived for the 3PM tour, we were given snorkeling gear and flippers, which we had to try on to make sure they fit. Then, a short demonstration on how to paddle followed. Even if I kayaked before (not on the open sea though), I didn’t know that you have to slightly turn the paddle when you push the water on the left side. I also didn’t know that there were three different methods of paddling. Until now I just hired kayaks and went on my own, so I never actually knew how to paddle properly.

I liked that the tour was kept small, so each of us got to hear the guide’s explanations whilst on the water.

After the briefing was done, we put on the life vests, hoped in the kayaks and off we went, on our paddling test. Kayaking in the bay was quite easy and entertaining, going through the rocks and being challenged not to bump into them. The water underneath was so clear that I could see the fish swimming between the reef. The rocks between which we were passing were full of the so-called sea tomatoes, some red large masses that resemble the humble fruit. However, don’t be fooled of their adorable look, as they are very toxic.

As we left the rocky area and started to paddle towards the open sea, I started to feel the current. Paddling became more and more difficult, especially as the sea was a bit choppy out there in the open. We were heading around the cliffs to explore two caves: the pirates cave and the pigeons cave.

En route we passed by quite a sight: a massive boulder coming out of the sea, disconnected by the mainland, on which a mountain goat was sunbathing undisturbed. Only the goat knows how it managed to get up there without getting wet.

We kept paddling and paddling, until we reach Cueva de los Piratas, which in the past was known as the place where the pirates would hide their smuggled goods brought in from Morocco.

The second cave, Cueva de las Palomas, is known not for the pigeons inside, as there are none, but for the stunning changing color water from the inside. The cave is actually full of bats but no worries, they don’t come out during the day. The only way to access this cave is by boat and it is way worth the effort of kayaking up to here, even if the sea is choppy. Inside there is a small altar, which I found very interesting. The first eight meters are accessible by kayak, but the cave goes further up into the mountain for another 80 meters.  It is a pretty spectacular cave and I loved that we got plenty of time to spend inside and observe all the natural rock formations.

The way back seemed a bit easier, especially that the current was somehow behind us. We stopped on this beautiful remote beach, where we pulled the kayaks out of the water and prepared out snorkeling gear. Here’s a tip: don’t put your flippers whilst still on the shore, as you will get the full of sand. Also, walking with fins on is a pain. Put them on after you get into the sea.

After making it into the water, you only have to swim a few meters in order to look underneath you and see the beautiful underwater world. The reef is covering the entire bottom of the sea and among it there are plenty of different fish swimming around. If you look closely, you can observe octopuses, cuttlefish and sand eels hiding underneath the rocks. Because the underwater terrain is so rocky, there are a lot of fish around them, so you don’t have to go very far from the beach to watch them.

A Few Things to Consider Before You Go Snorkeling:

• Please wear a sunscreen that is reef friendly.
• Do not touch the reef.
• Be mindful of your surroundings when you are underwater, it’s very easy to kick and break corals with your fins if you don’t pay attention.
• Do not step on the sea bed.

How about you? Have you been to Costa Tropical in Spain yet? Have you tried kayaking and snorkeling in the open sea before? Let me know your thoughts in the comments below.

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Disclaimer:  Please note that I was a guest of Activ8you and I received this experience complimentary. However, all the opinions in this article are my own and I would not recommend anything that I wouldn’t have enjoyed myself doing or think it was a great place to visit.

Some of the links one this website are “affiliate links.” This means that if you click on the link and do a purchase, I will receive an affiliate commission at no extra cost for you. This helps me keep my website running and continue to share my traveling knowledge with you. I thank you for booking your flights or hotels using the links on my website. Regardless, I only recommend products or services I use personally and believe will add value to my readers.

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I am Joanna, the writer of this blog. I have been calling Andalucia home for the past few years, time in which I have explored extensively this beautiful land. This blog’s aim is to help you discover everything that Andalucia has to offer, from beautiful beaches to stunning mountains, from hidden white villages to off the beaten path experiences, from culinary adventures to fantastic road trips.

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Venecia yatch club, choose dates to view prices.

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Popular amenities

• Airport transfer Airport transfer Airport transfer
• Pool Pool Pool
• Parking available Parking available Parking available
• Bar Bar Bar
• Lounge area Lounge area Lounge area
• 24/7 front desk 24/7 front desk 24/7 front desk

Main amenities

• 3 smoke-free homes
• Daily housekeeping
• Near the beach
• Restaurants and bar/lounge
• Outdoor pool
• Breakfast available
• Self parking
• Meeting rooms
• Airport shuttle
• Area shuttle

Feel at home

• Children stay free
• Rollaway/extra beds
• Private bathroom
• Separate dining area

What's around

• Popular Location Costa del Sol Beach 14 min walk
• Popular Location Costa Del Sol Tourist Center 9 min drive
• Popular Location Playa Costa del Sol Football Stadium 9 min drive
• Airport San Salvador (SAL-El Salvador Intl.) 68 min drive

Room options

View all photos for luxury house, 5 bedrooms, canal view, oceanfront.

Luxury House, 5 Bedrooms, Canal View, Oceanfront

• 3 King Beds and 5 Single Bunk Beds

View all photos for Luxury House, 3 Bedrooms, Canal View, Oceanfront

Luxury House, 3 Bedrooms, Canal View, Oceanfront

• 1 Double Bed, 1 Queen Bed and 2 Single Bunk Beds

Similar properties

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About the area, what's nearby.

• Costa del Sol Beach - 14 min walk
• Costa Del Sol Tourist Center - 9 min drive
• Playa Costa del Sol Football Stadium - 9 min drive
• San Marcelino Beach - 26 min drive
• Bahia de Jiquilisco - 90 min drive

Getting around

• Cuscatlan International Airport (SAL) - 68 min drive
• San Salvador (ILS-Ilopango) - 120 min drive
• Airport shuttle (surcharge)
• Area shuttle (surcharge)

Restaurants

• ‪La Ola Beto's - ‬8 min drive
• ‪Acajutla Costa del Sol - ‬17 min walk
• ‪La Pampa Costa Del Sol - ‬3 min drive
• ‪Mariscos Mary - ‬5 min drive
• ‪Muelle Turistico De San Luis La Herradura - ‬36 min drive

About this property

Entire place, at a glance, arriving/leaving.

• Check-in start time: 3 PM; check-in end time: 8 PM
• Express check-in available
• Minimum check-in age – 18
• Check-out time is 1 PM

Restrictions related to your trip

• Check COVID-19 restrictions

Special check-in instructions

• Guests must contact the property in advance for check-in instructions; front desk staff will greet guests on arrival
• To make arrangements for check-in please contact the property at least 48 hours before arrival using the information on the booking confirmation
• If you are planning to arrive after 8 PM please contact the property in advance using the information on the booking confirmation
• For more details, please contact the property using the information on the booking confirmation

Required at check-in

• Credit card, debit card or cash deposit required for incidental charges
• Government-issued photo ID may be required
• Minimum check-in age is 18
• Up to 3 children (3 years old and younger) stay free when occupying the parent or guardian's room using existing bedding
• No cots (infant beds)
• Pets not allowed

Property amenities

• Indoor/Outdoor pool
• Manicures and pedicures

Parking and transport

• Self parking on site (surcharge)
• 24-hour return airport shuttle (surcharge)
• Local area shuttle (surcharge)

Family friendly

• Children stay for free (see details)
• Fridge (full size)
• Coffee/tea maker
• Cookware/dishes/utensils
• Cooked-to-order breakfast available for a fee daily 6:30 AM–10 AM: USD 10.00 per person
• 1 restaurant
• 1 poolside bar and 1 bar
• Snack bar/deli
• Premium bedding
• Bed sheets provided
• Rollaway/extra beds: USD 10.0 per night
• Bath or shower
• Towels provided
• Free toiletries

Living spaces

• Living room
• Dining room
• Sitting area

Entertainment

• Flat-screen TV with cable service
• TV in a common area

Outdoor areas

• Furnished balcony
• Picnic area
• Dry cleaning/laundry service
• Laundry facilities

Work spaces

• meeting rooms
• Air conditioning
• No pets allowed

Suitability/Accessibility

• If you have any requests for specific accessibility needs, please contact the property using the information on the reservation confirmation received after booking.
• Grab bar near toilet
• Low-height worktop and sink
• Soundproofing
• Wheelchair-accessible
• Smoke-free property

Services and conveniences

• Tour/ticket assistance
• Iron/ironing board
• Luggage storage
• Free bottled water
• 24-hour front desk

Location highlights

• Near the ocean

Things to do

• Fishing on site
• Kayaking on site
• Marina on site
• Boat tours on site
• Motorised watercraft on site
• Fishing nearby
• Snorkelling nearby
• Hiking/biking trails nearby

Safety features

• Carbon monoxide detector not reported (host has not indicated whether there is a carbon monoxide detector on the property; consider bringing a portable detector)
• Smoke detector not reported (host has not indicated whether there is a smoke detector on the property)

Fees & policies

Refundable deposits.

• Deposit: USD 250.0

Optional extras

• Cooked-to-order breakfast is offered for an extra charge of approximately USD 10.00 per person
• Airport shuttle service is offered for an extra charge of USD 60.00 per vehicle (one way)
• Local area shuttle service is offered for an extra charge

Children & extra beds

• Rollaway beds are available for USD 10.0 per night
• Self-parking is available for an extra charge

Also known as

Frequently asked questions, most popular destinations.

ESCAPE THE EVERYDAY

Welcome to del rey yacht club.

DRYC HISTORY IN THE MAKING

FACILITIES & AMENITIES

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There are many levels of membership to meet your needs and our club is reciprocal with approximately 700 yacht clubs worldwide..

Named Yacht Club of the Year by Southern California Yachting Association (SCYA) for 2019, 2016, 2015, 2013, 2012, 2009, and 2006

• Boat rental in La Herradura

BOAT RENTAL IN LA HERRADURA

Rent your boat in La Herradura with Náutica MH and have a great experience with your family and friends. We have a large fleet with boats of all kinds so that anyone can enjoy the pleasure of sailing.

From our location in the Marina del Este Marina you can explore the wonderful Costa Tropical, the bay of La Herradura or Almuñécar, and even enter the Costa del Sol in municipalities such as Nerja, Torrox or Malaga itself.

Bayliner 235 – ALMAIR (full day)

Bayliner 235 – almair (half day).

Bayliner E16 – AURELIO (full day)

Bayliner e16 – aurelio (half day), bayliner e16 – e16 (full day), bayliner e16 – e16 (half day).

Bayliner M15 – CLEOPATRA (full day)

Bayliner m15 – cleopatra (half day), bayliner m15 – ra (full day), bayliner m15 – ra (half day), bayliner m15 – zeus (full day), bayliner m15 – zeus (half day).

Bayliner VR5 – Fueraborda – VR5 (full day)

Bayliner vr5 – fueraborda – vr5 (half day).

Bayliner VR5 – Intraborda – HERA (full day)

Bayliner vr5 – intraborda – hera (half day).

Jeanneau 635 (full day)

Jeanneau 635 (half day).

Ocean Runner 460 – Jayla I (full day)

Ocean runner 460 – jayla i (half day), ocean runner 460 – jayla ii (full day), ocean runner 460 – jayla ii (half day), ocean runner 460 – jayla iii (full day), ocean runner 460 – jayla iii (half day).

Sea Ray 190 – KAUTAR (full day)

Sea ray 190 – kautar (half day).

Sea Ray 240 – KALANY (full day)

Sea ray 240 – kalany (half day), sea ray 240 – kiko (full day), sea ray 240 – kiko (half day).

Our boat rental service in La Herradura has different models of boats, with skipper and without skipper. Our boats are in perfect condition and equipped with everything you need. You can find us at our facilities at the Puerto Deportivo Marina del Este.

Our fleet has boats of different sizes, so we are the ideal option for couples, families or a group of friends. We have the boat that fits what you are looking for.

You deserve to have the most fun in the water, and Náutica MH is here to help you. Our boat rental service is in charge of providing you with a comfortable and safe experience, which adapts to all needs. With our online reservations, you are ready to go from beach to beach, diving, swimming, sightseeing, sunbathing, fishing or sailing to your favorite place.

Boat Rental in Nerja and Almuñécar

If you are looking to relax and see the best places, do not hesitate to bet on the boat rental in La Herradura. The proximity to other tourist destinations such as Almuñécar or Nerja guarantees you a fun day without limits. You will have a wonderful experience with tons of memorable moments. We will provide an excellent customer experience from booking, pricing and navigation.

Náutica MH can provide you with everything you need to enjoy your time on the water and have a fun and unforgettable experience.

Boat rental with and without skipper

Should i hire a skipper if i rent a boat.

When you rent a pleasure boat you must have the required nautical qualification to carry it. If you do not have a degree, you must hire a professional skipper to be able to navigate legally.

When is it recommended to hire a professional skipper?

Even having a nautical title, if you are going to sail for the first time in a new area, if you do not have the necessary experience or if you do not know well the type of boat you will rent, it is highly recommended to hire a professional skipper.

Can you force me to hire a skipper when renting a boat?

If you do not have the appropriate nautical qualification, you must hire a skipper. If even having it, we observe that your knowledge is not enough, we may require you to hire a skipper to close the contract, but this is not usual.

Can I hire a skipper part of the rental time?

An interesting option when renting a boat, if it is for several days, is to hire a professional skipper for one or two days, who will show us the navigation area and the handling of the boat. The rest of the time we can navigate on our own.

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Quick contact

• Marina del Este Marina, 18697 La Herradura, Granada, Spain
• Office: 958 640 203
• [email protected]
• Monday to Sunday: +34 667 25 39 86
• From 1/6 to 30/9: Monday to Sunday 10h - 20h Rest of the year: Monday to Friday 10h - 20h / Saturday 10h - 14h / Sunday closed

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Charter Nerja to La Herradura

Yacht Brokers Gibraltar Ltd. was founded in 2012 by Gerard van Leest after he had spent over ten years in the yachting industry. All Yacht Brokers Gibraltar’s exclusive charters begin and end in Gibraltar. Here, Gerard offers some tips on what to see in the south of Spain.

Set below the foothills of the stunning Almijara Mountain range, and with views out to the Mediterranean Sea, Nerja is a popular destination for young and old alike. This one-time fishing village, situated about 45 minutes east of Malaga airport, is the largest resort on the eastern Costa del Sol and remains somewhat unspoilt compared to its western counterparts. Nerja has resisted the influx of high-rise apartment blocks in favour of a more traditional and relaxed atmosphere in a typical Spanish environment.

The winding cobbled streets of the whitewashed old town all lead to the Balcon de Europa (named by Spain’s King Alfonso XII on a visit in 1885)– which offers a palm lined promenade leading to a spectacular viewpoint carved out of the rocky headland. Relax in one of the bars that surround the square or wander down to one of the coved beaches that lie below the headland.

Here you will also find the beautiful Iglesia del Salvador church where, if you are lucky, you may see one of the many Spanish weddings that take place here over the course of the summer.

Nerja has a good selection of beaches as well – from the Playa Torrecilla, located adjacent to the town centre, to the popular beach resort of Burriana, located to the east of the town with its selection of bars restaurants and beach front Chiringuitos.

Nerja has a population of around 20,000, with approximately 25 per cent of these inhabitants being foreign residents. This fact is reflected in the choice of restaurants in and around the old town – choose from tapas, French, Italian, Indian, Greek, English, Chinese, and, of course, typical Spanish offerings.

For the young, and young at heart, Nerja offers a good selection of bars and nightclubs mainly gathered around the Plaza Tutti Frutti and nearby on Calle Antonio Millon. Alternatively, for those of you looking for fine dining, there are plenty of excellent places to end those summer evenings in style.

Venturing inland – Frigiliana

Just four kilometres inland from Nerja, clinging to the lower slopes of Monte el Fuerte, lies the pretty little whitewashed village of Frigiliana. In this ancient Moorish settlement where originally only those Moors who converted to Christianity were allowed to live, you will find a maze of geranium and bougainvillea-adorned cobbled streets that wind endlessly upwards. Much of the town’s history can be learned from reading a series of ceramic plaques posted about the streets.

Steeped in history, this beautiful village is a haven of tranquillity and tradition that is truly appreciated by the locals, making it the most honoured town within the Axarquia province. In the 1980s, the town was awarded by the tourist department of Spain 1st prize for the most beautiful place in Spain. An early contribution to this was the law introduced by the incumbent mayor in 1971; he declared that everyone in Frigiliana must whitewash their houses once a year – a law that is still enforced today.

Due to its unrivalled charm, Frigiliana attracts a vast number of tourists during the summer months. Sunny summer days can be spent enjoying a light refreshment in one of its numerous bars and cafes, taking in the sights of some of its enduring processions and fiestas, or exploring the area by taking a walk through olive groves, avocado plantations and lines of almond trees.

Only a ten-minute drive from the beaches of Nerja and Maro, Frigiliana enjoys stunning views down to the coastline, many fine restaurants offering local dishes such as ‘choto con salsa almendras’ (kid in almond sauce) along with many good shops selling local wines and craft items.

La Herradura

The bay of La Herradura is a fishing village-resort suburb of Almunecar and one of the prettiest bays along the southern coast of Spain. Together they form the main tourist area of the Costa Tropical, which lies between the Costa del Sol to the west and Almeria to the east.

Unlike most resorts, development has been limited here and height restrictions are in place to maintain its traditional Spanish aspect of whitewashed buildings climbing up the hill from the beach. Along the length of the bay many beach bars can be found as well numerous companies offering various varieties of water sports and equipment hire. Divers will find this area of particular interest too.

In recent years, La Herradura has expanded eastward along the coast towards the next headland of Punta de la Mona. This gives great views of the spur of Almunecar and its castle. Protected by the bay of Punta de la Mona is the pretty harbour of Marina del Este, which can be considered as one of the most beautiful in the Mediterranean. Here you can enjoy a relaxing meal at a variety of waterside bars and restaurants.

Venturing inland – Competa

Competa sits about 650 metres above sea level in the Sierra Almijara and a 30-minute drive from the beaches of Torre del Mar and Torrox Costa. From its pretty white houses and flower-lined streets are spectacular views out to sea as well as beautiful vistas of the mountains and Andalucian countryside.

Originally a Moorish settlement, the town retains a relaxed atmosphere while offering all that is required for contemporary living; banks, bars, restaurants and shops.

Competa’s focalpoint is its charming main square known as Plaza Almijara, which sits beneath the lofty bell tower of the 16th century church of Nuestra Senora de la Asuncion. Here you can relax and soak in the tranquillity of the village while enjoying a refreshment in one of its bars or restaurants. On August 15th each year the village holds its annual fiesta ‘Noche del Vino’ when hundreds of barrels are rolled through the village and local revellers gather to sample as much of the free vino made from the local Muscatel grape as they can manage.

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SANTA MONICA PIER

WHALE & DOLPHIN WATCHING

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CHANNEL ISLANDS

CHARTERING IN LOS ANGELES

Marina del Rey, the coastal playground of Los Angeles, is a yachter’s paradise known for its water activities. Bask in the California sunshine on the sunbed of your yacht charter in Los Angeles or go ashore to experience the famous laid-back vibe along the famous Venice Beach boardwalk, a coastal walk that runs along the coast from Marina del Rey to the Santa Monica Pier, full of stores and food stands.

Marina del Rey is North America’s largest man-made small-craft harbor. It is home to about 5,000 boats and is the major sailing and water-related recreation destination in the greater Los Angeles area. Its marina offers a mix of charming waterways, colorful boats, and a handful of waterfront restaurants, and is a berth to most luxury yachts in Los Angeles. Your YachtLife charter specialist will be able to help create your bespoke itinerary in Marina del Rey, so the below should be considered inspiration for your yacht charter in Los Angeles. Additionally, we have created a seven-day Southern California yachting itinerary you may enjoy.

Visit the Fisherman’s Village

One of Marina del Rey’s biggest tourist attractions is the Fisherman’s Village, located right at the marina’s entrance and built in a style similar to a fishing village in New England. It consists of five vividly painted wooden buildings, commercial boat docks, a water fountain, a lighthouse, and a waterfront promenade from which you have a panoramic view of the full harbor. Since most Los Angeles yacht charters depart from Marina del Rey, all those who choose to explore the Southern California coast will definitely get acquainted with this California yacht marina.

Lounge in the Del Rey Yacht Club

Marina del Rey is also home to Del Rey Yacht Club. It is a huge marina-front property where guests are able to dine in luxury, partake in water activities or simply lounge by the pool.

Cruise Along Venice Beach

When you opt for a private yacht charter in Los Angeles, you will most definitely board your yacht at Marina del Rey. As you cruise out of the marina, you will encounter the famous Venice Boardwalk, which runs along Venice Beach and connects Marina del Rey and the Santa Monica Pier. As you lounge on your yacht, you will be able to observe the famous L.A. scene: musicians, singers, jugglers, acrobats, mimes, comics, magicians, and fortune-tellers are some of the more conventional entertainers on offer along the 3-mile-long sidewalk.

Enjoy Santa Monica Pier

From Marina del Rey, it is only a 30-minute cruise to Santa Monica Pier. If yachting with kids, take the day to explore this iconic destination in the Los Angeles coast. Tender ashore to enjoy Pacific Park, a mini-amusement park with a Ferris wheel, a small roller coaster, other small rides, and the Heal the Bay Aquarium .

Go Whale & Dolphin Watching

Keep a watch out for dolphins and whales as you explore Santa Monica Bay; from Marina del Rey it is possible to go whale watching. Set sail through the bay and follow the seasonal grey whale migration during the winter for a chance to see sea turtles, porpoises, sea lions, dolphins, giant mola mola, and minke whales.

Soak up the Hollywood Glamor in Malibu

For a slightly longer cruise, sail from Marina del Rey to Malibu. Known as the home of many Hollywood movie stars and others associated with the entertainment industry, Malibu is also famous for its warm, sandy beaches. Drop anchor and tender ashore to spend the day lounging in the sun amid beachfront mega mansions. Later, enjoy sushi at Nobu Malibu .

Check out Catalina Island

One of the perks of a private yacht charter in Los Angeles is the ability to explore one of Southern California’s natural beauties: the Channel Islands. The Channel Islands are an eight-island archipelago along the Santa Barbara Channel in the Pacific Ocean, just off the Southern Californian coast, and the perfect spot for a charter vacation.

Rent a yacht in Los Angeles to sail to one of the Channel Islands, Catalina Island, known for its wildlife, dive sites and Mt. Orizaba. The cruise from Los Angeles to Catalina Island should take about two hours. Drop anchor at the resort town of Two Harbors for a fun day snorkeling in clear waters to observe Catalina’s thriving marine life, take the jet ski out for a spin, or step ashore at Descanso Beach in Avalon Bay.

Visit the Channel Islands National Park

A private yacht charter in Los Angeles will allow you to explore Channel Islands National Park , a marine sanctuary full of natural arches and huge cliffs soaring out of the ocean. Plan to depart for the park early in the morning and spend the day cruising and exploring the park’s unique wildlife. There are many animal species here that can't be found anywhere else.

Yachting in Los Angeles will prove to be an experience you do not want to miss and will make for lifelong memories for you and your guests. With a yacht charter in Los Angeles, you will enjoy the region as it was meant to be seen — from the water. You will be able to explore the diversity this region has to offer, from its glamor spots of Santa Barbara and Malibu to its impressive natural beauty in the Channel Islands.

How to Charter a Yacht in Los Angeles?

Chartering a private yacht in Los Angeles should be simple and stress-free.

Whether we are working with you to create the perfect itinerary or procuring water toys or provisions, at YachtLife, we do our absolute best to ensure your yacht charter in Los Angeles will be one to remember.

We focus on the smallest details so you can focus on what matters most — enjoying your Los Angeles charter vacation.

If you are looking to charter tomorrow or planning your next vacation, YachtLife is here to help you find the perfect yacht for any occasion.

Go to our website or mobile apps ( Android and iOS ) and browse our hand-selected inventory of yachts to charter in Los Angeles. View photos, specs and pricing, and reserve without having to call a broker.

If you have any questions or need help planning, our team of professional yacht brokers is more than happy to assist in finding the perfect yacht for your charter vacation.

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What To Expect From La Herradura, Almuñécar Spain

La Herradura, Almuñecar, Spain, is a lovely coastal town in Granada’s Costa Tropical. The meaning of the name is The Horseshoe, so it is no surprise that is located in a bay, formed like a horseshoe.

While other beach towns in Andalucia see a chaotic summer season, La Herradura, Granada, is a lot more laid back and relaxing.

Crystal-clear water stretches between Cerro Gordo and the Punta de la Mona Lighthouse which both offer sweeping views of the coast.

While it is a small town, there are still enough things to do in La Herradura, Spain for a couple of days, and if you want to stay longer, it is only a short drive from the bustling Almuñecar , one of the best cities in Andalucia .

Disclosure: This post may contain affiliate links. That means that if you make a purchase through one of those links, I will get a small commission at no extra cost to you.

Table of Contents

How to get to La Herradura Bay

Getting to La Herradura Bay is easiest by car, but there are direct buses from Malaga and Granada that take from 1.5 hours. You can check bus tickets and prices here .

Besides, there are local buses from Almuñecar (the blue bus) that take you there in 20 minutes and from Nerja in 15 minutes.

If you drive to La Herradura, you will easily find parking on the streets. However, in the high season, you might find it harder to find unless you arrive early in the morning, especially on weekends.

Driving is the easiest way to get around between the nearby places you might want to see on your excursion to the Herradura Bay.

Even if this gem is located on the Granada coast, it is one of the beast quiet beach towns near Malaga with less than an hours travel time.

Driving time from nearby cities:

• Malaga: 55 minutes
• Granada: 1 hour
• Almuñecar: 10 minutes
• Nerja: 15 minutes
• Almeria: 1.5 hours

Hire a car for your trip here

Best time to visit La Herradura, Andalucia, Spain

La Herradura, Almuñecar Spain is without a doubt a summer town. During the winter months, it turns into a somewhat ghost town compared to other destinations in Andalucia.

Personally, I like going there in early summer or late summer when there are fewer crowds, yet this strip of sand is usually a great retreat without too much fighting for space.

Where to stay in La Herradura, Almuñecar, Spain

There are several places to stay in La Herradura. Hotels typically require a minimum of 2-3 nights stay, which is perfect for a weekend or a long weekend getaway. Besides hotels, you find multiple holiday homes and apartments for rent.

BEST HOTELS IN LA HERRADURA SPAIN MID-RANGE: La Tartana Hotel Boutique & Restaurant – located a 10-minute walk from the beach, this is a lovely hotel with an Andalusian-style courtyard, a restaurant, and a bar. MID-RANGE: Hotel Almijara – a great hotel just a short walk from the beach. Some rooms have balconies with sea views. There is a bar on site and breakfast is fabulous. MID-RANGE: Sol Los Fenicios – the hotel is located on the beachfront and has a good restaurant and bar on site. There is an outdoor swimming pool too with sun loungers.

Things to do in La Herradura

Cerro gordo watch tower.

One of the best things to do in La Herradura Spain is to see the iconic views of the bay from Cerro Gordo watch tower. You will not be able to climb the watch tower, but it happens to stand on a cliff jutting into the sea overlooking the coast from west to east.

As you can imagine, the views from up there are otherworldly. It is possible to hike from La Herradura to Cerro Gordo.

I have not done the hike myself, as I have always driven up there. It is a 12-minute drive on narrow mountain roads accompanied by spectacular views.

However, it looks like a very nice hike up a forested area and I have seen families with kids doing it too.

Cerro Gordo viewpoint

Cerro Gordo viewpoint is located a few meters before reaching the watch tower. Walking from the inland trail leading there (coming from the restaurant/bar) it is signposted to the right before reaching the watch tower.

The viewpoint only offers views of the west coast, so you won’t see La Herradura from there, but it is also the best sunset spot in La Herradura.

Go kayaking and snorkeling tour

The area around Cerro Gordo and towards Maro is spectacular for snorkeling and kayaking. The water is crystal clear and there is abundant sealife to see.

I suggest going on a tour, as your guide will take you to the most beautiful spots and you will learn about the area. Sea caves and secluded beaches are just some of the things you can expect from kayaking in La Herradura.

Check availability for your dates

Relax at the beach

La Herradura Beach is well equipped with lifeguards in the summer, showers, sunbeds for rent, and water sports. While the beach is pebbled, as is so typical of the beaches in Granada , it also means that you can expect turquoise water that is completely see-through even on deeper ground.

Due to the location between cliffs on each side, the 2-kilometer-long beach stretch is very attractive. You can rent sun loungers and parasols or bring your own parasol to lay down closer to the shore.

Have tapas and drinks

La Herradura, Almuñecar, Spain is a true foodie heaven. Restaurants and bars are plentiful, especially along the beachfront.

You will not go hungry in La Herradura, and there is a variety of traditional food and international options for every taste.

Like in most provinces in Andalucia, you usually get a free tapa when you order a drink, so there is a big chance you will be fine only by ordering drinks for lunch.

La Herradura Castle

Built in the late 1700s, the castle of La Herradura is one of the best-preserved castles in Andalucia . It was used to defend the coast from pirate and Berber attacks, but it also served as a first line defence for Granada city.

The army used the fortress until 1839 and was restored by the city hall in 2005. It is a small but well-preserved castle to visit with original canons on the front.

Inside, you find the 1562-La Furia del Mar Museum that recently opened in 2021.

Opening hours: Wednesday-Sunday: 10:00-14:00 and 17:00-20:00 Monday-Tuesday: Closed

Punta de La Mona Lighthouse

Punta de La Mona Lighthouse was originally a watchtower dating back to the 1700s, protecting the coast together with Cerro Gordo watch tower. It wasn’t before 1992 that it was converted into a lighthouse.

It rises 10.5 meters high and can be seen from Balcón de Europe in Nerja after dark as it flushes light over the Mediterranean every 5 seconds.

It stands on the opposite side of Cerro Gordo in La Herradura and is a picturesque walk from the town center through a steep, winding road flanked by colorful rhododendron cascading down whitewashed walls.

The views get better and better as you get to the top where you get sweeping views of the Merina del Este and Almuñecar.

San Jose and Santa Rita Hermitage

San Jose and Santa Rita Hermitage was built in the 1970s by Francisco Prieto Moreno. It is a wonderful escape right next to the lighthouse. You can basically walk down the path behind the lighthouse and get there in a few minutes.

Behind the chapel, there is a nice recreational area shaded by pine trees with spectacular views of Almuñecar. Going for a walk up there is by far one of the best things to do in La Herradura.

Marina del Este

Tucked below the Punta de Mona cliffs, Marina del Este is a relaxed harbor with promenades, restaurants, and cafés. There is also a diving center there for those who want to explore the underwater world around La Herradura, Nerja, and Maro.

Going for an evening stroll at Marina del Este and having dinner with wine at one of the restaurants, is a relaxing experience in La Herradura. Andalucia, Spain in the summer can get very crowded and busy, and Marina del Este somewhat gives you an opportunity to wind down.

Explore the Cotobro Roman Bridge

Located between La Herradura and Almuñecar off the N340, you find one of the best-preserved Roman bridges in Andalucia.

The Cotobro Roman Bridge is nestled deep in the countryside and you must wear good walking shoes to get down the steep tracks leading to it. It is not recommended to walk down there for anyone with mobility impairment.

The bridge is situated on what used to be one of the most important Roman roads, Vía Heracleia, which started in Cadiz and ended in Rome.

It is only 18 meters long with one eye, thus also known as Alcantarilla de Cotobro. Alcantarilla refers to bridges with one eye.

While the bridge has undergone several remodeling projects throughout history, it originates from the 3rd century. If you are up for a little adventure, this is a great attraction to add to your La Herradura holidays.

EPIC PLACES TO VISIT NEAR LA HERRADURA:

• Calahonda, Granada

Reflections on visiting La Herradura Spain

As you can tell, in La Herradura, things to do are quite abundant considering the small size of the town. If you are looking for a relaxing beach destination with outdoor activities, this is by far one of the best beach towns near Malaga to go.

La Herradura, Granada, Spain is by far a favorite of mine and I highly recommend going. Just be aware, that it can get pretty dead outside of the tourist season, so even early June is way more empty than July and August.

Happy travels!

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Visitor Center is open Monday, Wednesday, and Friday from 11 a.m.-3 p.m. (Open Monday through Friday 11 a.m.3 p.m. beginning May 17.)  Click here for ways to keep in touch with Visit San Pedro

Please go to our main visitor information website at www.VisitSanPedro.org

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From Club matches to participating in tournaments, La Herradura offers the best polo playing experience.

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From beginner to advanced, learn to play polo with our specialized lessons and clinics.

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Memo & Meghan Gracida

Guillermo “Memo” Gracida, Jr.’s international polo career includes several record-setting achievements, most notably, the highest record of 16 U.S. Open Championship victories and the most consecutive years as a 10-goal professional polo player, 21-years. Memo shares his passion to teach, educate, and coach current and future players with his wife, Meghan. Memo continues to travel the world playing at a competitive level and providing his week-long clinics, known as La Herradura Classic. Meghan and Memo currently reside in Santa Ynez, California, at their new property, La Herradura Polo & Equestrian Center, where they offer a full service polo program.

Our Philosophy

Polo is a game of horses, when you provide world-class ponies to your students, you are giving them confidence, security and the desire to continue. a safe horse is a good horse., memo gracida.

Located in the beautiful Santa Ynez Valley, La Herradura Polo Club boasts top-notch polo facilities and offers polo club services year-roun d.

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Buenos Aires

Located just one hour outside of Buenos Aires in Pilar, the polo capital of the world, La Herradura Polo Club in Lagunas del Polo is a polo club for all levels of players.

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