Benalmadena Holidays

Benalmadena is full of stunning historic monuments that showcase the town’s beauty. Make sure these places are on your must-visit list.

• People-watch at Plaza de España: Start your day at Plaza de España, a charming square where locals gather to enjoy a coffee in the Old Town. Surrounded by whitewashed buildings, there’s plenty of seating and restaurants where you can watch the world go by.
• Explore Castillo de Colomares: Castillo de Colomares is a must-see monument dedicated to Christopher Columbus that tells the story of the discovery of the New World. This stunning sight blends different architectural styles with hidden chambers and a garden to explore.
• See the Stupa de Enlightenment: Just outside of the Old Town, the Buddhist Stupa de Enlightenment is the largest stupa (burial monument) in the Western world. It’s used as a place for meditation, and you can see panoramic views of the Costa del Sol from its platform.
• Reach new heights by cable car: Ride the Teleferico Benalmadena Cable Car to the top of Mount Calamorro 800m above sea level, where you can enjoy breathtaking coastal vistas. Take photos and grab a bite to eat at La Cima Restaurant overlooking Benalmadena.
• Puerto Marina: Puerto Marina is a buzzing part of Benalmadena, which has 1,100 moorings for boats and an array of shops, restaurants and bars to explore. The marina is also a great spot for lively nightlife. Spend your evening hopping between salsa bars, modern clubs and glam terraces.

Enjoy swimming in glistening waters and sinking your feet into the golden and dark sands across some of Benalmadena’s popular beaches and coves.

• Malapesquera Beach: Malapesquera Beach is located alongside the stylish Puerto Marina. The Blue Flag beach has plenty of facilities from parasol hire to watersport activities like jet skiing. The shady palm trees are an added bonus, making this a popular pick with tourists.
• Carvajal Beach: Carvajal Beach is another Blue Flag beach that’s a firm favourite with Spaniards and tourists. Fine, soft sand and calm, blue waters make this an ideal choice for families with small children. On the border with Fuengirola, it remains much quieter than the central beaches.
• Torrevigía Beach: Torrevigía Beach is a quiet beach with a shingly shore. It’s sheltered by 2 apartment complexes and has amenities like sun loungers and umbrellas. The rocky seabed is a treasure trove for divers who will enjoy spotting fish, crabs and sea urchins.
• Santa Ana Beach: The dark sands of Santa Ana Beach get busy because of the amazing facilities like the parasol, sun lounger and water sport rentals like jet skis. It's one of the most popular beaches among locals, and with its Blue Flag status and several restaurants and bars, we can see why.
• Arroyo Beach: Arroyo Beach is at the end of Arroyo de la Miel village with a long promenade that runs to the port and marina. Swimmers enjoy this beach along with water sports enthusiasts. Choose from banana boats, fly-fishing and parasailing experiences!

You’re spoilt for choice when it comes to restaurants and bars in Benalmadena. Whether it’s local cuisine or an elevated culinary experience, you’ll find an array of flavours to sample.

• Lime & Lemon Tapas: Lime & Lemon Tapas near Playa de Bil Bil puts a modern spin on tapas with favourite dishes reimagined as sharers. Mini burgers and croquettes grace the menu, along with classics like succulent and spicy prawns pil pil.
• TORO Puerto Marina: Enjoy Spanish tapas and the comfort of heartwarmingly homemade dishes at TORO Puerto Marina overlooking the marina. Choose from a selection of ultra-fresh seafood, rice dishes studded with fish and veggies and plenty more.
• The Lilac Tree Restaurant and Bar: The Lilac Tree Restaurant and Bar is located in Benalmadena Pueblo. They source fresh ingredients from the village butcher, fishmonger and fruit and veg suppliers. Head here for breakfast or tapas when you feel peckish during the day.
• Yucas Mare Restaurant: Yucas Mare Restaurant is a dining experience like no other. Their 3 areas – restaurant, beach bar and café – make it a place you can visit any time of the day, whether it’s for breakfast, lunch or some drinks looking out at the Mediterranean sunset.
• Coast to Coast: Coast to Coast American Bar and Grill is a family-friendly restaurant known for its hearty American fare. Tuck into burgers, ribs, and BBQ dishes, alongside tasty salads and desserts. Its vibrant atmosphere, sports screenings, and diverse menu make it a popular dining spot.

Benalmadena nightlife is spirited and varied, with energetic bars, trendy clubs and beachside lounges. From live music to dancing to delicious cocktails, there's something for everyone to enjoy after dark.

• NT Ice Bar: Want to do something a little different in the evening? Don your fluffy cloaks and get ready for the most chilled-out evening in all of Benalmadena at the Costa del Sol’s first-ever Ice Bar. Expect sub-zero temperatures, ice sculpture and creative cocktails served in ice glasses.
• Dizzy Donkey: Dizzy Donkey is a popular pub known for its friendly vibe and lively atmosphere. It features a mix of live music and DJs, catering to a fun-loving crowd. Famous for its extensive cocktail menu and affordable drinks, it’s a favourite nightspot for partying.
• Palm 5 Beach Bar: Palm 5 Beach Bar is a laid-back daytime destination with stunning beach views. Popular among families and tourists, it serves refreshing cocktails and tasty snacks. The relaxed atmosphere features soft music, making it ideal for a seamless day-to-night transition.
• Forever Beach Club: Forever Beach Club is a trendy beachfront venue that combines relaxation with vibrant nightlife. With live DJ performances and laid-back daytime vibes, it’s perfect for enjoying sunsets and lively evenings by the sea.
• O'Hara's Irish Pub: Known for its hearty pub fare, including traditional Irish stews and expertly poured pints of Guinness, O’Hara’s is the perfect place to enjoy good craic with friends. Live music nights and engaging events keep the atmosphere buzzing.

Home to aquariums and amusement parks, Benalmadena’s kid-friendly activities make this a family favourite destination.

• Butterfly Park: Watch beautiful butterflies flutter past you at Mariposario de Benalmadena. Over 1,500 butterflies call this tropical paradise home, making this a one-of-a-kind experience with plenty of photo opportunities. If you’re lucky, you might see butterflies emerging from their cocoons!
• Paloma Park: This is a great place to pack a picnic and enjoy the large open fields, while the kids can spend time on the swings, slides and seesaws. You’ll also see peacocks, hens, chickens and rabbits roaming around, which is always a treat for the little ones.
• Aqualand: In nearby Torremolinos, this theme park is perfect for water-loving kids. Make an almighty splash on colourful rides including swooping slides, river rapids, tunnels and lazy rivers. There’s even a giant hot tub and beachy areas if you need time to unwind.
• Blue Kiwi Mini Golf Benalmadena: Just footsteps from the sands of Santa Ana Beach, this miniature golf course is something everyone in the family can get involved with. Reward hungry little golfers with a burger and drink at the bar afterwards.
• Cycling along the coast: Rent bikes on the seafront and explore the coastal paths of Benalmadena. This family-friendly activity allows you to enjoy the fresh air and cover a lot of ground without needing to join a tour. Just be sure to stop frequently for ice cream along the way.

The beaches and water sports are the highlight of this Costa del Sol destination, but for adventurers, there’s a whole natural world to discover beyond the sandy shores of Benalmadena.

• Golf Torrequebrada: For golf lovers, a visit to Golf Torrequebrada to practise your swing is a must-do in Benalmadena. Enjoy an 18-hole course and afterwards, head to the clubhouse for a celebratory drink.
• Kayaking or paddleboarding: Rent kayaks or paddleboards for a fun day of teamwork, bonding and adventure on the water. Explore the coastline, enjoy the beautiful views and even spot some marine life as you go.
• Ziplining at Parque Aventura: For an adrenaline-pumping experience, visit Parque Aventura and try the zipline courses. You can navigate through treetops, tackle rope bridges and enjoy the thrill of hurtling through the air.
• Hiking in Sierra de Mijas: Sierra de Mijas is a gorgeous mountain range that overlooks the Costa del Sol coastline. It also has a myriad of hiking trails both long and short depending on how challenging you want your hike to be.
• Picnicking at the Benalmadena Botanical Garden: Pack a picnic and head to the Benalmadena Botanical Garden. Enjoy the diverse plant species and beautifully landscaped areas while having lunch outdoors. Explore the gardens and relax in a peaceful setting surrounded by nature.