Paloma Park in Benalmádena is an impressive green space of over 200,000 square meters located in the heart of the municipality. This natural oasis has become an essential meeting point for both residents and families visiting the Costa del Sol in search of relaxation, nature, and outdoor leisure.
If you’re planning a getaway and wondering about the opening hours of Parque de la Paloma, you should know that it opens every day at 9:00 AM, closing at 10:00 PM in winter and extending its hours until 11:00 PM during the summer months. If you’re wondering whether there’s an entrance fee to Parque de la Paloma, the answer is absolutely no, as access is free and open to everyone. If you’re traveling from the airport or staying in nearby towns, renting a car in Benalmádena is the ideal way to transport luggage, strollers, or picnic items comfortably and without relying on public transportation.
History of Paloma Park
The history of this area is a clear example of urban and environmental restoration on the Malaga coast. What we see today as an idyllic natural setting was originally conceived in 1970 as a large recreational area to provide the city with a true green lung.
During the 1980s, the municipal administration launched a comprehensive regeneration plan to transform what was once a landfill into a large urban park. This process required extensive land reclamation, soil conditioning, and replanting with flora adapted to the Mediterranean climate.
The landscape design incorporated expansive lawns, pedestrian paths, and a central lake that serves as the focal point of the entire park. After years of intensive work, the park officially opened in 1995, establishing itself as one of the most beautiful and visited urban parks in all of Andalusia.
How to get to Paloma Park
The park enjoys a prime location in the heart of Benalmádena Costa, very close to Avenida Federico García Lorca and the seafront promenade. If you’re using a rental car, it’s easily accessible via the A-7 or N-340 highways. There is free parking available nearby, although during peak season it’s advisable to arrive early to find a parking spot without difficulty. The park is also well-connected by the network of local and intercity buses linking Benalmádena with Málaga and Torremolinos.
What to see and do in Paloma Park
The park’s expanse offers multiple themed areas designed for relaxation, learning, and family entertainment.
Lake and animals
The large artificial lake is the heart of the park. Ducks, swans, and herons live freely in its waters. Along the paths, it’s common to encounter peacocks, rabbits, goats, and chickens strolling peacefully among the vegetation, much to the delight of children.
One of the most popular activities to do as a family is to observe and feed the animals while strolling along the shore, enjoying an unparalleled natural environment where the fauna coexists in harmony with the visitors.
Grounds
The park is renowned for its botanical diversity, boasting a wide array of themed gardens. Among them is the iconic Cactus and Succulent Garden, which brings together exotic species from various continents in a variety of shapes and colors.
You can also explore the Rose Garden, a space full of color and intoxicating aromas ideal for flower lovers, the area of aromatic plants such as lavender, rosemary and thyme, and a picturesque Tropical Garden populated by palm trees and lush vegetation that transports the visitor to a totally exotic environment.
Playground
The children have access to spacious play areas fully equipped with slides, swings, and certified climbing structures. This large playground has areas adapted for different age groups, ensuring fun for both toddlers and older children looking for more challenging play.
The facilities have cushioned surfaces to ensure maximum safety and are surrounded by numerous perimeter benches so that parents and companions can rest comfortably while supervising the games.
Sports activities
Athletes and outdoor fitness enthusiasts will find the park’s perimeter trails an excellent place for running, cycling, or walking. The park features courts for team sports like soccer and basketball, ping-pong tables for outdoor games, a running track, and areas with outdoor fitness equipment. For those who prefer more relaxed activities, there are expansive grassy meadows ideal for yoga, Pilates, or stretching, as well as an area dedicated to traditional pétanque.
If you’re wondering if there are restaurants inside Paloma Park, you should know that there aren’t any formal restaurants within the park itself, although there are kiosks and cafes where you can buy drinks, snacks, and light meals. However, if you prefer a full meal at a table, there are excellent options in the surrounding area and along the coast, which you can find in this guide to eating in Benalmádena .
Tips for visiting Paloma Park
To make the most of your day, we recommend wearing comfortable shoes for walking without fatigue, as well as sun protection and a hat during the summer months. If you’re traveling with family, you can use the meadows to have a picnic on the grass. After spending the morning in the park, you can complete your day by visiting the best beaches in Benalmádena , located just a few minutes’ walk away.
Many visitors ask if there are any special activities at Parque de la Paloma during the Christmas holidays. Throughout December, the park typically hosts children’s events, decorative lighting, and themed markets, complementing the wide range of festivities in Benalmádena . If you’re planning your holiday in advance and looking for the best location to easily explore the area, we recommend researching accommodation options in Benalmádena to choose the hotel or apartment that best suits your needs.
Paloma Park is a must-see for those who want to combine beach tourism with quality natural spaces. Its free admission, easy access, and wide range of leisure activities make it the perfect place to enjoy with the family. Exploring its gardens and discovering its rich wildlife is an enriching experience, best enjoyed with the freedom of having your own transportation during your vacation.que ofrece disponer de tu propio medio de transporte durante las vacaciones.
