La Herradura is a horseshoe-shaped bay on the Costa Tropical in the province of Granada, Andalusia, Spain, stretching from Punta de la Mona to the cliffs of Maro-Cerro Gordo. The pebbly dark-sand beach has clear water and is well known for snorkelling and diving. It has a small marina, chiringuitos and restaurants along the seafront. The village is about 95 km from Granada, reached by car in around an hour and twenty minutes or by Alsa coach in 1.5 to 2 hours. It is the westernmost beach of the Granada coast and borders the Maro-Cerro Gordo protected area. Water is warmest from July to October.
| Distance | About 95 km south of Granada (roughly 1 hour 20 minutes by car) |
|---|---|
| Getting there | Alsa coach from Granada to La Herradura (about €7–8 each way, roughly 1 hour 30 minutes to 2 hours); check alsa.com. By car via A-44 and A-7, about 1 hour 20 minutes |
| Difficulty | easy |
| Best season | June–September |
| Address | Paseo Marítimo, 18697 La Herradura, Almuñécar, Granada, Spain |
Amenities
- Lifeguards in season
- Showers
- Sunbed rental
- Chiringuitos and restaurants
- Public toilets
- Marina nearby
Good to know
- Best for
- swimmers, snorkelers, families, couples
Location
Paseo Marítimo, 18697 La Herradura, Almuñécar, Granada, Spain
36.7355, -3.7380 View on map
Highlights
- Horseshoe bay with clear water
- Good snorkelling and diving conditions
- Fishing-village feel with chiringuitos
- Close to the Maro-Cerro Gordo protected coast
Tips for visiting
- Bring a snorkel mask and water shoes
- Arrive early in July and August
- Check the lifeguard flag
- Confirm the last coach back to Granada
- Eat fresh fish at a chiringuito
When to visit
June to September.
Accessibility
The promenade is flat; adapted bathing services vary by season.
Visit, book or contact
Frequently asked questions
How far is La Herradura from Granada?
About 95 km, roughly an hour and twenty minutes by car.
Is it good for snorkelling?
Yes, the water is clear and the bay is sheltered.
Is there a bus?
Yes, Alsa coaches run from Granada; check alsa.com.
Is it crowded?
Busy in July and August; early arrival helps.