20 Amazing Things to Do on a Holiday in Benalmádena: An Itinerary for All-Out Fun!
A picturesque town nestled in the Malaga Province in Andalusia, Spain, Benalmádena is home to a wide selection of remarkable attractions and activities catering to all types of travellers and age groups. Bedecking the stunning resort of Costa del Sol, the charming town ensures tourists have an unforgettable experience. As such, you never have to wonder what to do in Benalmádena!
Whether you desire to delve into the region's rich history, explore its gorgeous coastline, or shop your heart out, you can do them all in a single trip! Check our carefully-curated list of the most exciting things to do in Benalmádena Costa del Sol resort, and try your hand at as many of them as you can on your trip.
Best Things to Do in Benalmádena
1. Beach Hopping
Wander popular beaches on your holiday in Benalmádena, ensuring a memorable seaside escape. Playa Arraya and Playa Bonita are two of the most popular ones, easily accessible and linked to the city. Benalnatura Beach is a mind-numbing blend of soft sands and rocks, while the renowned Tajo del la Soga teeming with unmatched natural beauty is the ideal choice for tranquil beach getaways.
2. Benalmádena Old Town
Also called Benalmádena pueblo, the old town quarter is among the most magical and iconic places to visit on your bargain holidays to Benalmádena. Perched atop a 250-metre hill, the captivating area peers out at the expansive Mediterranean Sea, depicting authentic Andalusian charm. Amble across cobblestone streets, elegant squares, and stark-white houses, and try the local cuisine.
3. Aqualand
The biggest water park in all of Costa del Sol, Aqualand is among the topmost Benalmádena attractions to enjoy as a family, couple, or solo! Expect your all-out water adventure to be filled with thrilling rides, tube slides, and stunning garden areas all around. You can also set up an intimate picnic during your retreat, enjoying delicious local fare.
4. Ice Bar
If you're wondering what to see in Benalmádena that you won't find elsewhere, Boal's Ice Bar is it! Spain's very first, everything here is made of ice, from the walls and seats to the bar and glasses. With temperature around -5°C, you will also see intriguing ice sculptures and other formations at the bar. So, head here for a chilled-out (pun intended!) time and enjoy a delicious drink in a glass made of ice.
5. Cable Car Ride to Calamorro Mountain
A 15-minute cable car ride to the peak of the Calamorro Mountain is among the most exciting and unforgettable things to do in Benalmádena Spain for those unafraid of heights. Besides breathtaking eagle-eye views, the birds of prey show is a bonus you must not forgo! While families can enjoy the ride, it's more popular among couples on a romantic, adults-only break.
6. Live Music and Shows
Benalmádena boasts a wide and eclectic range of entertainment venues featuring catchy live music and other shows. The Sunset Beach Club, Moonlight Theatre, Molly Malones Pub, and Bonanza Bar are some top places to enjoy these entertainment activities. A casual concert hall with an on-site bar, the Auditorio Benalmádena is another must-visit.
7. Tivoli World
Among the most fascinating attractions Benalmádena is home to, this famous amusement park in Arroyo de la Miel is an excellent place to visit with family. Operational since 1972, it offers a plethora of fun options, including go-karting, carousels, waterslides, haunted houses, and an indoor play area. On Fridays, it hosts an expansive street market and a funfair with afternoon shows.
8. Water Sports
Indulging in adrenaline-pumping water sports is among the most thrilling things to do in Benalmádena Malaga for adventure seekers on a holiday. A haven for seaside fun, this is a great place for budget family escapes by the sea. Try everything from classic banana boat rides and jet skiing to fly-fishing, kayaking, and parasailing.
9. Benalmádena Marina
Spending an evening at the vibrant marina is among the best Spain Benalmádena things to do, allowing you access to endless bars, restaurants, cafés, shopping outlets, and even an aquarium. Take a stroll along the brightly-lit marina with a refreshing cocktail in hand, enjoying live music and views of boats afloat glittering, moon-lit waters.
10. Paloma Park
The scenic park is one of the most tranquil places to see and spend time during .cheap holidays to Benalmádena. Located in the centre of town, it's home to plenty of garden areas, an impressive lake, and play areas for kids. There are also good chances to spot live animals, such as rabbits, wild ducks, and turtles, roaming about freely inside the park.
11. Dine Out!
Have dinner at Bonanza Square, an exciting Benalmádena to do activity for foodies touring the region. Try the most exquisite seafood options, truffle ice cream, and pates with homemade bread. Lime & Lemon Restaurant is another popular place to eat, known for its scrumptious lunch fare. You can also try tapas at traditional local bars or fresh fish at one of the beach bars for the most authentic dining experience.
12. Butterfly Park
The largest one in Europe, the stunning Butterfly Park in Benalmádena is a treat to sore eyes. Visiting this beautiful place, home to over 150 species of butterflies is among the most fun things to do for families with kids and couples alike. The gardens are teeming with ferns, orchids, and other vibrant tropical flora, elevating the already surreal experience.
13. Experience Benalmádena Nightlife
Head to the marina or the 24 Hour Square to experience the best nightlife Benalmádena has to offer. Lined with a sea of bars, nightclubs, discos, and cocktail bars, these are the trendiest places to party after dark. Arroyo de la Miel is the ideal setting to enjoy a chilled beer on the terraces and rooftops of traditional tapas bars. Kiu Bar, El Elefante, and La Cubana are other fantastic night-spots to explore.
14. Horse Shows in El Ranchito
The famed Andalusian horse show held at El Ranchito is among the topmost attractions to enjoy even on last-minute getaways, especially if you happen to be a genuine equestrian lover. Watch beautiful horses and their finely dressed riders make their way across the course to soothing music. Be amazed at the unique choreography as the riders present their skills, the ethereal music elevating the experience.
15. Street Markets
One of the most exciting Benalmádena Costa del Sol things to do is to explore the colourful traditional bazaars held Monday through Sunday in the region - each market a different day! Pick handmade crafts, jewellery, and other souvenirs from colourful stalls. Haggle for the best bargains as you collect remarkable local items to gift your loved ones back home.
16. Colomares Castle
An excursion to the Colomares Castle is a must for history lovers on budget Benalmádena holidays. Among the most impressive sights to behold, the structure was built around 30 years ago, as a dedication to the life and adventures of Christopher Columbus. There are fancy decorations, hidden clues, a small church and other gems to explore here.
17. Sea Life
A visit to Sea Life will bring marine life lovers across the most amazing things to see in Benalmádena. The facility is home to a range of colourful fish, intimidating sharks, giant turtles, and other sea creatures, all of which you can see clearly in a guided tour. Informative lectures help kids and adults alike learn more about these fascinating creatures.
18. Go Golfing
Teeing off at lush world-class golf courses is among the most fun activities in Benalmádena, whether you're an amateur or a pro golfer. Golf Torrequebrada, Benalmadena Golf, and Bil Bil Golf are some of the most popular golf courses, each clubhouse featuring modern amenities and panoramic views. They also have fancy dressing rooms, restaurants, bars, and terraces.
19. The Zoo
in the neighbouring town of Fuengirola, this is one of the top zoos in Spain and among the best places to visit for families on a getaway. Called Bioparc Fuengirola, it's home to all kinds of fascinating wildlife, from baby Hippopotamuses and striking Silverback Gorillas to Sumatran Tigers and the endangered Red Pandas. All in all, the zoo is home to around 200 animal species, with around 1,400 animal residents
20. Day Trips and Excursions
The scenic Benalmádena city centre is the ideal base to settle down, and take off on day trips, tours, and excursions to various parts of the Costa del Sol. You can head to the Arabic gem of Granada to see iconic landmarks like the Alhambra Castle. A day trip to Ronda, deemed the capital of modern bullfighting is another exciting option. Gibraltar, Cordoba, and Seville are other popular excursions to take.
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