For those exploring things to do in Benalmádena, this popular holiday resort on Spain’s Costa del Sol offers an enticing mix of family-friendly activities within a short drive of Málaga Airport. Once a quiet fishing village, Benalmádena has grown into a lively destination with three distinct areas: the charming hillside Benalmádena Pueblo, the bustling waterfront of Benalmádena Costa and the residential Arroyo de la Miel.
Thanks to its inviting Mediterranean climate, Benalmádena is ideal for year-round fun along its sun-drenched beaches and promenades. Summer brings families eager to enjoy the warm waters, scenic coastal paths and a wide array of kid-friendly attractions. From leisurely walks on the palm-lined promenade to shopping at local markets and taking the Benalmádena Cable Car for panoramic views, visitors of all ages will find plenty to enjoy in this dynamic Costa del Sol town.
Getting There: The most efficient way to reach Benalmádena from Málaga Airport is by taking the C1 Renfe Cercanías train, which runs directly from the airport to Benalmádena in about 15 minutes. Trains depart every 20 minutes, making it a quick, affordable option. Alternatively, taxis and private transfers are available at the airport and reach Benalmádena in approximately 20 minutes via the AP-7 or A-7 motorway.
Best Things to Do in Benalmádena
Discover Benalmádena Pueblo
One of the most charming parts of Benalmádena is Benalmádena Pueblo, the old town situated slightly inland. This traditional Andalucían village is characterised by whitewashed buildings, narrow cobbled streets and blooming geraniums which decorate every corner. The Pueblo is a quieter part of town, offering a glimpse into authentic Spanish culture with its quaint architecture and panoramic views over the coast. Highlights here include the Church of Santo Domingo, perched on a hill and dating back to the 17th century and Plaza de España, a small square with an attractive fountain at its centre.
For those interested in local art, the Museo de Arte Precolombino Felipe Orlando has a remarkable collection of Latin American artefacts, making it an unexpected but fascinating find on the Costa del Sol.
Benalmádena Marina
Benalmádena’s award-winning marina is a hub for nautical activity and offers a range of entertainment options. Although one of Spain’s most attractive marinas, it’s not only a mooring place for luxury yachts but also home to a lively collection of restaurants, bars, shops and even an aquarium. The architectural style here is unique, combining elements of Arabic and Andalucían design which create a striking atmosphere for a day or evening stroll.
The marina is particularly well-suited to families and groups, as activities such as boat tours, dolphin-watching trips and underwater submarine experiences are readily available. In addition, the nightlife here is well established, with numerous bars and clubs providing a lively atmosphere once the sun sets.
Parque de la Paloma
A visit to Paloma Park is highly recommended for those looking to enjoy outdoor activities in a lush, green environment. Located near the beach, this park covers over 200,000 square metres and features well-kept gardens, ponds and scenic pathways. One of the unique aspects of Paloma Park is its free-roaming animals, including rabbits, peacocks and other birds which wander the grounds, making it a delightful experience for families with young children.
The park is a great spot for picnics and relaxation, with plenty of shaded areas and benches. A large lake sits at the park’s centre and pedal boats are available for hire. The park also hosts sculptures and installations which add an artistic element to the natural surroundings.
Mariposario de Benalmádena
The Butterfly Park of Benalmádena is Europe’s largest butterfly house and home to over 1,500 butterflies from various parts of the world. Located close to the Stupa of Enlightenment, the park offers visitors the chance to learn about different butterfly species and witness their lifecycle stages. The tropical environment inside is carefully regulated to resemble the butterflies’ natural habitat, which allows them to thrive.
Apart from butterflies, the park also houses other exotic species, including iguanas and colourful tropical birds. For nature lovers and families, the Butterfly Park is an educational and visually engaging experience.
Buddhist Stupa of Enlightenment
The Stupa of Enlightenment, also known as the Benalmádena Stupa, is an unexpected spiritual site which overlooks the coastline. This Buddhist monument, the largest of its kind in Europe, was built to promote peace and harmony. Visitors come here not only for its spiritual significance but also for the panoramic views of the Costa del Sol from its elevated position.
The white structure stands out starkly against the blue sky and the surrounding grounds offer a peaceful atmosphere for reflection. The stupa occasionally hosts meditation sessions and cultural events, making it a unique addition to the typical beach and sightseeing itinerary.
Take a Cable Car Ride to Mount Calamorro
The Benalmádena Cable Car offers one of the best ways to see the Costa del Sol from above, taking visitors from the town to the summit of Mount Calamorro. The ride lasts approximately 15 minutes, during which passengers can enjoy impressive views of the Mediterranean coastline. Once at the top, there are several walking trails with viewpoints which provide vistas over the coast and on a clear day, you can even see as far as the African coastline.
Mount Calamorro is also known for its falconry shows, where visitors can see birds of prey in action. This combination of scenic views and interactive shows makes the cable car ride a popular tourist attraction for all ages.
Selwo Marina
Selwo Marina is Benalmádena’s aquarium and dolphinarium, where visitors can observe marine life and enjoy various animal shows. The park is divided into different zones, each representing a unique ecosystem such as the Amazon and the Caribbean. Among the animals on display are dolphins, sea lions and penguins, with regular interactive shows which offer both entertainment and education. There are also opportunities for close encounters, allowing visitors to swim with sea lions or meet dolphins under professional supervision. An excursion to Selwo Marina is one of the most popular things to do on the Costa del Sol during a family holiday.
Castillo de Colomares
The Castillo de Colomares is a unique architectural tribute to Christopher Columbus and his discovery of America. Built in the late 20th century, the castle is a blend of various architectural styles, including Gothic, Romanesque and Mudejar, creating a somewhat fantastical structure. The castle is filled with intricate details which depict different elements of Columbus’s journey and Spain’s exploration history. Despite being relatively modern, the castle gives the impression of a historic monument and its fascinating design makes it a popular photography spot. The surrounding gardens and views add to the appeal, providing a peaceful backdrop for exploring this lesser-known site in Benalmádena.
Explore the Beaches
Benalmádena’s coastline stretches over 20km and features a range of beaches, from lively spots with full amenities to quieter coves for relaxation. Some of the most popular beaches include Playa de Bil Bil, characterised by its iconic red castle and Playa Arroyo de la Miel, which offers a range of water sports including jet-skiing and paddleboarding. Most beaches here have well-maintained promenades lined with restaurants and bars, allowing visitors to enjoy local cuisine with sea views.
During the summer months the beaches tend to get very busy, with additional amenities and services to cater to tourists, but some quieter areas can still be found for those looking to unwind by the sea.
Sea Life Benalmádena
Sea Life Benalmádena, located within the marina, is an aquarium which allows visitors to explore marine biodiversity through interactive displays and walk-through tunnels. The aquarium houses a variety of marine species, including sharks, rays and turtles. The walk-through shark tunnel is a highlight, offering an up-close view of some of the ocean’s most captivating predators. Educational workshops and feeding sessions make it a popular choice for families and the conservation efforts at Sea Life provide an added layer of interest for those passionate about marine life.
Dolphin-Watching Tours
For those interested in marine wildlife, Benalmádena offers several dolphin-watching tours which depart from the marina. These boat excursions provide the opportunity to see dolphins in their natural habitat, with some tours offering onboard guides who share information about dolphin behaviour and conservation. While sightings aren’t always guaranteed, these tours often yield positive results due to the abundance of dolphins along this stretch of coastline. The experience is both educational and thrilling, especially for families and animal lovers looking to enjoy an activity beyond the usual beach day.
Best Day Trips from Benalmádena
Málaga City
Only a short train or car ride away, Málaga is a city full of historical landmarks and contemporary culture. Highlights include the Alcazaba fortress, the Roman Theatre and the Picasso Museum. Wander through the Soho Arts District, filled with street art and enjoy tapas at the bustling Mercado de Atarazanas.
Ronda
Perched atop dramatic cliffs, the historic town of Ronda is known for its iconic bridge, Puente Nuevo, which spans the El Tajo Gorge. Amongst its many attractions, the town is home to the oldest bullring in Spain and a charming old town with narrow streets and whitewashed buildings.
Nerja and the Nerja Caves
Located about 80km east of Benalmádena, the coastal town of Nerja is famous for its Balcón de Europa viewpoint and the Nerja Caves. With enormous caverns and prehistoric paintings, these caves are one of Spain’s most visited attractions.
Gibraltar
A day trip to Gibraltar is one of the most popular activities from Benalmádena. Highlights of the British Overseas Territory include the Rock of Gibraltar, the St. Michael’s Cave, duty-free shopping and the opportunity to see wild Barbary macaques up close.
