8 Family Attractions in Benalmadena

Benalmadena is a dynamic and picturesque coastal town with a large variety of attractions and landmarks that are enjoyed year-round by tourists and locals alike. Here is a selection of 8 of the most popular attractions for tourists and families living along the Costa del Sol.

1. Puerto Marina

The Benalmadena Marina is known for its unique architectural design and is one of the Costa del Sol's busiest centres by day and night. With over 1,100 moorings, and up to 6 metre long boats from all around the globe, the port has been named 'Best Marina in the World' in the past, known for its wide selection of restaurants, water sport facilities, including scuba diving, kayaking and water skiing, and for its energetic nightlife.

2) Paloma Park

Located in Arroyo de la Miel, this beautiful patch of green is one of the largest parks on the Costa del Sol. Including dedicated pathways for walking and cycling, a large lake, an intricate display of Mediterranean trees and fauna and lots of animals, the Paloma Park is best enjoyed on mild days during autumn, winter or spring.

3) Sea Life Aquarium

Benalmadena's Sea Life is a walk-through underwater park with 30 tanks in nine different rooms with a large variety of aquatic species from the Atlantic, Pacific, Indian Oceans and the Rea Sea, including giant turtles, sharks, rays and starfish.

4) Selwo Marina

Costa del Sol's only Dolphinarium has bottle-nosed dolphins, sea turtles and the only Ice Penguinarium in Andalucia. The marine park offers a variety of dolphin and parrot shows as well as a selection of interactive displays for children.

5) Butterfly Park

Europe’s largest Butterfly park is a 2000 square metre installation specially regulated and maintained to house 150 different species of butterflies from around the world.

6) Tivoli World

Benalmadena's oldest attraction and the Costa del Sol's biggest theme park, Tivoli offers a selection of over 300 rides including rollercoasters, water logs, carrousels and entertainment for all ages. The setting is a unique combination of tropical gardens, beautiful plazas, lit fountains, theatres and a host of food stalls and themed restaurants.

7) Cable Cars

Launched in 2003, Benalmadena's Telecabina's are four-seater cable cars that take you to 800m above sea level to the top of Monte Calamorro. The 15 minute journey offers panoramic views of the coast and there are several paths for those who wish to walk, cycle or bike back down.

8) Colomares Castle

Built between 1987 and 1994, this unique monument is a tribute to Christopher Columbus. Designed by Dr. Esteban Martin, the fairytale-like castle was a labour of love that took seven years to build with the help of two local builders. The monument has a surface area of 1500 square metres and comprises of meticulously placed stones and carved sculptures and structures relating to the historic journey made across the Atlantic.