What to see in Benalmádena

When most people think of Benalmádena, they just picture beaches and *chiringuitos* (beach bars), right? But if you’re looking for what to see in Benalmádena, there’s so much more! And hey, we’ve got beaches and *chiringuitos*, and really good ones at that, but sticking only to that is like eating paella and leaving the *socarrat* (the best crispy bit at the bottom) behind. Benalmádena is a curious place, a three-piece puzzle where distinct parts fit together wonderfully: the picture-perfect white village perched in the hills, the daily hustle and bustle of Arroyo de la Miel, and the beachy buzz of the coast. There are plenty of plans and lots of things to do in Benalmádena, whether you’re coming with the family looking never to be bored for a second, you’re more into cultural activities, or you simply need to switch off with the sound of the waves in the background.

Benalmádena: More than Just Sun and Sea on the Costa del Sol (from a local’s perspective)

The Three Faces of Benalmádena: A Quick Tour

To give you an idea, Benalmádena has three main areas, and each has its own vibe:

• Benalmádena Pueblo (Village): Imagine the typical Andalusian village with spotless white houses, narrow streets smelling of jasmine in summer, and flower-filled pots everywhere. That’s the Pueblo. It’s where it all began, with breathtaking sea views.
• Arroyo de la Miel: This is the heart pumping life between the village and the coast. It’s where we do our shopping, go to the bank, grab a coffee… It’s the hub, full of shops, traditional tapas bars, and people coming and going. Plus, key spots like Paloma Park and the cable car are here.
• Benalmádena Costa (Coast): The strip right by the sea. Long beaches, a seemingly endless promenade, and, of course, the famous Puerto Marina. Here, life revolves around the sun during the day and gets quite lively at night.

What will you find in this guide to Benalmádena?

Here, I’ll tell you what to visit in Benalmádena and the best things to do. The idea is simple: detail what you can’t miss and give you the practical info so you don’t go crazy looking for it. I’ll tell you what each place is, roughly when it opens, how much it might cost (Just a heads-up! Times and prices can change, so please confirm before you go via their official website or phone – don’t hold me responsible if prices go up 😉), how to get there without getting too lost, and also options if you’re looking for what to see in Benalmádena for free.

Must-see gems of Benalmádena: my favourites. Let’s start up high, in the historic heart, which has a different feel.

Benalmádena Pueblo: Andalusian Charm Up High

If you’re wondering what to see in Benalmádena village, get ready to discover its Andalusian charm from above.

Wander through the Old Town and Plaza de España

• What it is: Benalmádena Pueblo in its purest form, the original core. Wandering around here is almost mandatory. Cobbled, narrow streets, dazzling white facades, and geraniums everywhere. It’s the pure essence of a white Andalusian village, peaceful, a cultural and relaxing experience perfect for strolling aimlessly and discovering hidden squares. You still find traditional little shops and bars where you can enjoy some tapas. You can tell the locals take pride in their village. The Plaza de España is like the village’s living room. You wind through the little streets and there it is, with our iconic statue of “La Niña de Benalmádena” (a local symbol, which even has a twin in Brussels). It’s a place to sit for a while and watch the world go by, the true social meeting point of the village. Nearby is the Plaza de Andalucía, also very charming.
• Address: Simply, Benalmádena Pueblo (postcode 29639). Plaza de España is a good starting point.
• How to get there:
  • Bus: Several lines run up from Arroyo and the coast (M-103, M-121, M-126). They also connect from Mijas, Málaga, or Torremolinos (M-112, M-121).
  • Car: Parking within the old town is almost impossible and not advisable due to the narrow streets. The best strategy if you’re driving is to head directly to the public car parks nearby (Recinto Ferial Los Nadales or the underground El Chorrillo – the latter is paid but very convenient due to its direct lift to the centre). Finding free street parking requires luck and patience, especially in high season, so having a car allows you to park comfortably in the recommended car park and start exploring stress-free.
  • On Foot: Ideal for getting around within the village. Walking up from the coast or Arroyo is a significant climb, which is why arriving by car gives you much more freedom to explore the village at your own pace and then continue to other nearby points of interest like Colomares or the Stupa.

Santo Domingo Church and the Views from Jardines del Muro

• What they are:
  • The Church of Santo Domingo de Guzmán: It’s the oldest in the village, from the 17th century. Simple on the outside, white, with its tower. Inside, it has wooden details. Its value lies in its history and its prime location, a cultural and historical touch in beautiful surroundings.
  • The Jardines del Muro (Wall Gardens): Right next to the church. These are terraced gardens that serve as a spectacular viewpoint. They were designed by the famous César Manrique on the remains of the old town wall. From here, the coastal views are stunning; on clear days, you can even see Africa. A perfect spot to enjoy panoramic views, relax, and take memorable photos.
• Opening Hours: The church usually opens for mass (best to ask there). The gardens are public, normally open during the day.
• Address: In Benalmádena Pueblo, next to Plaza Santo Domingo (postcode 29639).
• Prices: Entry to the gardens is free. The church usually is too (donations are appreciated). An excellent option if you’re looking for what to see in Benalmádena for free with incredible views.
• How to get there:
  • Bus: The same ones that go to the village (M-103, M-121, etc.).
  • Car: Use the designated car parks for the village (El Chorrillo, paid, is a good option for its proximity and the lift).
  • On Foot: Easy within the old town. A handy tip that makes the visit much easier: there’s a free public lift that directly connects the El Chorrillo car park with the church and gardens area. It saves you a steep climb! It’s especially useful if you’ve parked in El Chorrillo with your car, connecting you directly to the historic heart.

A Hidden Gem: Felipe Orlando Pre-Columbian Art Museum

• What it is: Right in the village, in a charming Andalusian house, you’ll find this museum. It houses one of Spain’s most important collections of Pre-Columbian art (pieces from Mexico, Peru, Colombia…). It was donated by Felipe Orlando, a Mexican artist and anthropologist who settled here. They also have an interesting section with archaeological remains found within the municipality itself. A highly recommended cultural and historical visit to discover something different and learn about Benalmádena’s past.
• Opening Hours: Wednesday to Saturday: 9:30-13:30 and 17:00-19:00. Sundays and public holidays: 10:00-14:00. Closed Mondays and Tuesdays.
• Address: Avda. Juan Luis Peralta, 49 (in Plaza de las Tres Culturas), 29639 Benalmádena Pueblo.
• Prices: Free! They even offer guided tours and audio guides at no cost. This makes culture very accessible and turns it into a gem for anyone looking for what to see in Benalmádena for free.
• How to get there:
  • Bus: Lines going up to the village (M-103, M-121, M-126).
  • Car: Use the public parking options in the village.
  • On Foot: Easy to find while wandering through the village. It’s accessible for people with reduced mobility.

Columbus’s Folly: Colomares Castle Monument

• What it is: Okay, it’s not a historic defensive castle, but a monument in the shape of a castle, a kind of architectural fantasy built between 1987 and 1994 by Dr Esteban Martín. It’s a tribute to Christopher Columbus and the discovery of America, considered the world’s largest monument dedicated to this event. The eclectic mix of styles (Neo-Byzantine, Neo-Romanesque, Neo-Gothic, Neo-Mudéjar) is very detailed and unique. It’s full of symbolism, with representations of the three caravels, intricate mosaics, and stained-glass windows.
• Important: Bear in mind that the visit is strictly limited to the exterior and the gardens; you cannot go inside the structures. Even so, it offers stunning views and is an extremely photogenic place. It’s a unique cultural and architectural visit, ideal for photography lovers and fans of curiosities. If you want to delve deeper into its fascinating history and all the symbolism hidden within before you go, here’s more information about Colomares Castle (link is in Spanish, but contains images).
• Opening Hours: Open Wednesday to Sunday (closed Monday and Tuesday). Hours vary GREATLY depending on the season (closes earlier in winter, open later in summer, often closes midday). Essential to check the official website before you go.
• Address: Finca la Carraca, Carretera Costa del Sol, s/n, 29639 Benalmádena. It’s on the outskirts of the village.
• Prices: Adults around €3. Children/pensioners €2. Groups by reservation. Confirm current prices.
• How to get there:
  • Without a doubt, arriving by car is the most convenient way to visit Colomares, especially if you want to combine it with the Stupa and the Butterfly Park, as it gives you complete freedom with timings and movement between these points which aren’t in the main town centre. Plus, its free parking is a bonus.

An Oasis of Peace: The Enlightenment Stupa

• What it is: An impressive Tibetan Buddhist monument, the largest in Europe and the Western world! Standing 33 metres tall, it symbolises Buddha’s enlightenment. It’s a place that radiates a special, very spiritual calm. Architecturally, it’s unique because it houses a meditation hall *inside*, as well as relics. Its elevated position provides wonderful panoramic views. It’s right next to the Butterfly Park. A cultural and spiritual experience, with spectacular views and imposing architecture that invites serenity.
• Opening Hours: Tuesday to Sunday: 10:00-14:00 and 16:00-18:30 (closed Monday). On Sundays, there’s usually a guided meditation in the afternoon (check exact time, the hall closes earlier for preparation) and sometimes talks.
• Address: Paraje El Retamar s/n, 29639 Benalmádena. Near junction 217 of the A7 motorway.
• Prices: Entrance to the monument (exterior and main meditation hall) is free. There might be a small fee (mentioned as €2 in some sources) to access an exhibition room/library on the lower level. Meditations are usually free or donation-based.
• How to get there:
  • Ideally, visit the Stupa and the Butterfly Park together to make the most of the trip. Although there’s a bus, the flexibility of a car is perfect here, allowing you to enjoy the views and the sites without rushing and making access easy from anywhere in Benalmádena or the Coast. The free parking in the area is a plus.
  • Bus: There’s a “Estupa Tibetana” stop right next to it (Local L2, M-112, M-121, M-126). You can connect with the L2 from the Arroyo train station.

Flying Among Colours: Benalmádena Butterfly Park (Mariposario)

• What it is: Considered the largest butterfly park in Europe, this unique space is housed inside a striking Thai temple-style building. Inside, you immerse yourself in a recreated tropical garden with waterfalls and lush vegetation, where over 1,500 exotic butterflies from around 150 species fly freely around you. You can observe their entire life cycle up close. A fascinating, educational, and very visual natural experience, perfect for families and nature lovers in an exotic setting.
• Opening Hours: Open every day, generally from 10:00 to 18:30 or 19:30.
• Address: Calle Muérdago, s/n (next to the Buddhist Stupa), A7 motorway, exit 217, El Retamar, 29639 Benalmádena.
• Prices: Adults around €10-€13. Children (3-12 years) / seniors (+65) / people with disabilities around €7.50-€11. Children under 3 free. Sometimes there’s a discount for buying online.
• How to get there:
  • Same as for the Stupa, it’s right next door.

Benalmádena Costa: The Rhythm of the Sea

Now we head down to the coast, where the atmosphere is more about holidays, beaches, and boats.

The Nautical and Leisure Heart: Puerto Marina Benalmádena

• What it is: It’s more than just a marina; it’s almost a small town within Benalmádena. Internationally recognised (having won awards like “Best Marina in the World”), it stands out for its unique architecture with artificial islands and integrated luxury apartments. It hosts over 1,100 berths. But for visitors, it’s a vibrant leisure complex with a huge variety of bars, restaurants (some with terraces over the water), fashion and souvenir shops, and lively nightlife. It’s the departure point for numerous boat trips (tours, fishing, dolphin watching). The Sea Life aquarium and the Puerto Marina Shopping centre are also within the complex. It’s the epicentre of daytime and nighttime leisure by the sea, combining a nautical atmosphere, gastronomy, shopping, and fun. A must-visit.
• Opening Hours: Public access to the docks and walkways is generally open (24h). The opening hours of shops, restaurants, bars, and internal attractions vary considerably.
• Address: Edificio Capitanía, Avenida Juan Sebastián Elcano, s/n, 29630 Benalmádena Costa.
• How to get there:
  • Bus: Excellently connected. Numerous lines stop nearby or at “Puerto Marina” (M-110, M-112, M-120, M-121, M-126…). The nearest train station is El Pinillo (C-1 line), about a 10-minute walk away.
  • Car: Parking right in Puerto Marina can be tricky and almost always paid, especially in high season (the marina car parks aren’t cheap). If you’re driving, an alternative is to look for parking in nearby areas like the streets around Paloma Park (free, with some patience) or alternative paid car parks (Solymar), and take a pleasant stroll along the promenade. Having a car also gives you the freedom to head off to less crowded beaches if you’re looking for more peace, or to easily transport everything you need for a beach day (chairs, umbrella, etc.).
  • On Foot: Very easy access from the Benalmádena Costa promenade. It’s downhill from Arroyo; from the Pueblo, it’s a long walk with a significant incline.

An Underwater Journey: Sea Life Benalmádena

• What it is: An aquarium strategically located at the entrance to Puerto Marina. It offers a journey through different marine habitats, home to creatures like sharks, rays, sea turtles, octopuses, jellyfish, seahorses, and Asian otters. Highlights include its underwater tunnel allowing you to walk surrounded by marine life and the interactive touch pools where you can touch starfish. They place emphasis on marine education and conservation. Ideal for families and marine world lovers, offering close encounters with aquatic life and interactive activities in a very convenient location.
• Opening Hours: Usually opens around 10:00 or 11:00 and closes between 18:30 and 19:00. There are specific times for talks and animal feeding sessions.
• Address: Puerto Deportivo de Benalmádena, s/n, 29630 Benalmádena Costa.
• Prices: Buying online is usually cheaper (standard online tickets around €19.50). Annual passes and premium tickets are available. Children under 3 usually enter free.
• How to get there:
  • Bus: Being in Puerto Marina, it’s accessed by the same bus lines serving the port (M-110, M-120…). El Pinillo train station (C-1) is about a 20-minute walk away.
  • Car: Use the Puerto Marina parking options (likely paid and busy, see Puerto Marina section).
  • On Foot: Very easy access from the promenade and within Puerto Marina.

The Red Icon Facing the Sea: Bil Bil Castle

• What it is: That iconic, deep red building on the beachfront – that’s Bil Bil Castle! It catches the eye with its unique Neo-Moorish or Neo-Mudéjar style architecture, featuring tile decoration and bas-reliefs. Originally built as a private villa in the 1930s, today it’s owned by the Town Hall and functions as a vibrant public cultural centre. Here you’ll find temporary exhibitions of art, photography, etc., and sometimes small concerts or talks. It’s also a very popular and sought-after venue for civil weddings, thanks to its charm and prime location facing the sea. It has internal courtyards and is surrounded by Moorish-inspired gardens. An emblematic building for its unique architecture and history, offering free cultural activity in a prime location facing the sea.
• Opening Hours: These tend to vary depending on the exhibition or event. Generally open morning and afternoon Monday to Friday, and often at weekends too (especially if exhibitions or weddings are scheduled). It is ESSENTIAL to check the specific opening hours for your visit dates on the official Benalmádena Town Hall website (look for the Culture or Agenda section) or ask at the tourist office, as they can change without notice.
• Address: Avenida Antonio Machado, 78, 29630 Benalmádena Costa, Málaga. (It’s literally on the promenade, impossible to miss).
• Prices: Entrance to the building and exhibitions is free.
• How to get there:
  • Bus: Perfectly located on Avenida Antonio Machado, the main coastal road. Numerous lines stop very close (look for stops like “Castillo Bil Bil”, “Los Maites” or similar – Lines like M-110, M-120, M-121, M-126…).
  • Car: It doesn’t have its own car park, and parking right next to it is very difficult, especially in high season. There’s some ‘blue zone’ (paid street parking) on the avenue, but it’s usually full. Better option: look in side streets (with patience) or use public/private car parks slightly further away (Paloma Park / Selwo Marina area) and take a short walk along the promenade.
  • On Foot: Unbeatable access. It’s located directly on the Seafront Promenade, ideal for walking if you’re staying in Benalmádena Costa.

A Day of Sun and Sand: Malapesquera and Santa Ana Beaches

• What they are:
  • Malapesquera Beach: Located next to Puerto Marina, it’s a wide urban beach (700m x 50m) with dark sand. Very popular and busy, it’s known for being a good spot for water sports, especially surfing and bodyboarding when the easterly ‘levante’ wind blows. Its waters are warm and shallow.
  • Santa Ana Beach: Adjacent to Malapesquera to the west, separated by a breakwater. It’s a convenient beach (500m x 15m), also with dark sand and moderate waves. It offers direct views of Bil Bil Castle.
  • In general: Both are very well-equipped urban beaches, with Blue Flag status (indicating quality), and flanked by the lively promenade, packed with restaurants, *chiringuitos* (beach bars), bars, and shops. They are ideal beaches for enjoying a comfortable day of sun and sea with the family, with all amenities close at hand, although prone to being very busy in summer. If you’re looking for a more detailed guide to these and other coves to find your perfect spot, you can check out the best beaches in Benalmádena here (link in Spanish).
• Opening Hours: Public access to the beach available 24/7. Services (lifeguards, rentals) operate mainly during the day, with extended hours in high season.
• Address: Along Avenida Antonio Machado and the promenade, 29630 Benalmádena Costa. Malapesquera next to Puerto Marina, Santa Ana further west, near Bil Bil Castle.
• Prices: Beach access is free. Rental of sunbeds, umbrellas, and water sports equipment costs extra.
• How to get there:
  • Bus: Very accessible by bus, with stops for the main lines (M-110, M-120, M-123, etc.) along Av. Antonio Machado, near both beaches.
  • Car: Parking in the area can be difficult, especially in summer. There are regulated parking options (‘blue zone’) on the avenue and nearby streets, as well as public and private car parks in the vicinity (Puerto Marina area, Paloma Park).
  • On Foot: Direct access from the promenade. Very easy for those staying in hotels in Benalmádena Costa.
• Services: Both beaches have a wide range of services: showers, toilets, footbaths, sunbed and umbrella hire, water sports equipment hire, restaurants and *chiringuitos*, cleaning service, bins, lifeguard surveillance, disabled access, and children’s play areas.

Arroyo de la Miel and Surroundings: The Connected Heart

Here we group together what’s in Arroyo de la Miel or accessed from there, that intermediate zone.

The Green Lung: Paloma Park (Parque de la Paloma)

• What it is: An extensive urban park covering over 200,000 square metres, considered the green lung of Benalmádena and a true oasis of tranquillity. It offers large green areas, paths for walking or exercising, and a large artificial lake with ducks, swans, and turtles. One of its most cherished features is the presence of numerous animals roaming semi-freely (rabbits, peacocks, chickens…), which kids absolutely love! It also has enclosures for goats and emus, themed gardens (including an interesting cactus garden – cactarium), modern children’s play areas, picnic spots, and kiosks/cafés. An ideal place to disconnect from the hustle and bustle, enjoy nature, stroll, watch animals, and spend a pleasant day with the family, all for free. It’s a key meeting point and one of the best options if you’re looking for what to see in Benalmádena for free. To discover all its corners, animals, and secrets, check out this specific guide to Paloma Park (link in Spanish).
• Opening Hours: Open every day of the year. Summer hours: 9:00 to 23:00. Winter hours: 9:00 to 22:00.
• Address: Avenida Federico García Lorca, s/n, 29631 Arroyo de la Miel, Benalmádena.
• Prices: Entrance is free.
• How to get there:
  • Bus: Very well connected. Various lines stop nearby (Local M-103, M-110, M-112, M-120, M-121, M-123, M-126…). Relevant stops: “Parque de la Paloma”, “Bil Bil”. The Benalmádena-Arroyo de la Miel train station (Line C-1) is about a 20-minute walk away.
  • Car: It’s generally considered easy to find free parking on the streets surrounding the park, although in peak summer it might require driving around a bit more.
  • On Foot: Very accessible on foot from the centre of Arroyo de la Miel and nearby areas of Benalmádena Costa.

Breathtaking Views: Benalmádena Cable Car (Teleférico)

• What it is: A cable car ride ascending from Arroyo de la Miel (next to the former entrance of Tivoli World) to the summit of Mount Calamorro, at almost 800 metres altitude. During the 15-minute journey, you enjoy spectacular panoramic views of the entire Costa del Sol, Sierra Nevada, and even, on clear days, Gibraltar and the coast of Africa. Once at the top, there are marked trails to explore the Mediterranean flora and fauna, several viewpoints, a café, and traditionally, falconry displays (In April, May, and June, the bird presentation takes place at 13:00, 15:00, and 17:00 on days the Teleférico Benalmádena is open). A must-do for the unbeatable aerial views, the chance to hike in the mountains, and the unique perspective it offers of the coastline.
• Opening Hours: Vary enormously depending on the time of year. Opening is usually at 10:00 or 11:00. Closing time can range from 17:00 in winter to 23:00 in high summer. Operation depends on weather conditions.
• Address: Explanada del Tívoli, s/n, 29630 Arroyo de la Miel, Benalmádena.
• Prices: Buying online is usually cheaper (indicative online prices: general return from €12.90). One-way and combined tickets (SelwoPack) are also available.
• Falconry Displays:
  • Children 3 to 11 years: €4.00
  • Adults from 12 years: €7.00
  • Senior from 65 years: €6.50
• How to get there:
  • Bus: The Benalmádena-Arroyo de la Miel train station (Line C-1) is relatively close. Bus lines M-121 and M-126, as well as local L1/L2/M-103, stop at “Tívoli”, right by the entrance.
  • Car: It’s located next to the esplanade of the former Tivoli World park. There is a large parking area (“Parking Tivoli”), which is a big open space and usually free or very low cost (sometimes unofficial attendants might ask for a small contribution).
  • On Foot: Easy access from the centre of Arroyo de la Miel.

Marine and Exotic Encounters: Selwo Marina

• What it is: A marine wildlife park and Andalusia’s only dolphinarium, located next to Paloma Park. It features an interesting collection of marine and exotic animals: bottlenose dolphins, sea lions, penguins (in the ‘Ice Island’), flamingos, exotic birds, and Amazonian wildlife. It offers educational talks and animal presentations (dolphins, birds). It also provides the opportunity to participate in unique experiences (at extra cost), such as close encounters with dolphins or penguins. It participates in conservation programmes. An attractive visit to see dolphins and penguins up close, enjoy animal presentations, and learn about conservation, ideal for families and very well located next to Paloma Park.
• Opening Hours: Opening hours vary depending on the season and day of the week.
• Address: Parque de la Paloma, s/n, 29630 Arroyo de la Miel, Benalmádena.
• Prices: Buying online in advance usually offers better prices (indicative online prices: general admission from €15.90). Open-dated tickets and the SelwoPack are available. Unique experiences cost extra.
• How to get there:
  • Bus: The Benalmádena-Arroyo de la Miel train station (Line C-1) is nearby. Local buses L1 and L2 have stops (“Selwo Marina”, “Parque de la Paloma”) right next door. Intercity lines like M-110 and M-120 also stop in the area.
  • Car: It doesn’t have its own dedicated car park. However, parking is usually easy to find in the area. The most common option is to look for free parking on the streets around Paloma Park (same as for the park itself), although it might require some patience in high season.
  • On Foot: Very easy access from the centre of Arroyo de la Miel and from Paloma Park, which it directly borders.

A Note About an Old Friend: Tivoli World

We need to talk about Tivoli World. For many of us, and for anyone who visited the Costa del Sol over the decades, Tivoli was Benalmádena. It was the amusement park, a place full of memories.
But the reality is that Tivoli World has been CLOSED since 2020. Don’t make plans assuming it’s open, or you’ll be disappointed.
There’s a lot of talk about its future, whether it will reopen, if it will be refurbished… There have been complex legal processes, changes in ownership, and negotiations between the owners and the town council. As of today, there’s no confirmed reopening date, nor is it known exactly what the final project will look like. If you’re interested, look for very recent news or official statements from the Benalmádena town council, but don’t rely on old information.

Get Organised: Final Friendly Tips

• Confirm, confirm, confirm: I insist, because it’s important: verify opening hours and prices on the official websites or by calling before you go. So there are no nasty surprises later!
• Getting around Benalmádena: You have options. The C-1 Cercanías train line (Málaga-Fuengirola) stops at Arroyo de la Miel, Torremuelle, and El Pinillo – very useful for getting along the coast or to/from the airport. There’s a good network of local and intercity buses (managed by the Transport Consortium / Avanza Group) that connect the three main areas of Benalmádena well and with neighbouring towns. You’ll also find taxis easily. Getting around in your own or a hired car gives you invaluable freedom, allowing you to explore the three areas at your own pace, discover hidden coves, and combine plans easily. However, bear in mind that parking in the village or on the coast in high season can be tricky and often paid, so plan ahead!
• To explore a bit further afield, visit other towns on the Costa del Sol, or if you simply prefer complete freedom with your schedule, hiring a car is an excellent idea. If you’re looking for a company that provides service both on arrival and during your stay, Albacars has very practical options: you can arrange collection directly at Málaga airport when you land, manage it if you’re in Málaga city, or hire your car right here in Benalmádena whenever suits you best. Specifically to help you plan your visit and make the most of that freedom, you might find this complete guide to Benalmádena (link in Spanish) very useful. Furthermore, with a car, you can use Benalmádena as a perfect base to explore other nearby treasures of the Costa del Sol, such as Mijas Pueblo, Fuengirola, Marbella, or even take a trip to Málaga city centre.
• Group your visits: To optimise your time, consider grouping nearby attractions: the Enlightenment Stupa and the Butterfly Park make a perfect pair; Paloma Park and Selwo Marina are adjacent; Puerto Marina houses Sea Life and is the starting point for boat trips; the various attractions of Benalmádena Pueblo (old town, church/gardens, pre-Columbian museum) can be explored together. Colomares Castle requires a short extra trip from the village.
• When to visit?: Benalmádena can be enjoyed almost all year round. Spring and autumn usually offer ideal temperatures and fewer crowds. Summer is perfect for the beach and outdoor life, although it’s the busiest and hottest season. Winter is quiet and mild, but some attractions may have reduced opening hours.
• Enjoy! Benalmádena has a lot to offer, from the tranquillity and history of its white village to the vibrant energy of its coast and the beauty of its parks and viewpoints. Explore all these things to do in Benalmádena, get a little lost, and above all, have a great time! I hope these little tips help. Welcome to my corner of the Costa del Sol!

Useful Information and Official Sources

I’ve prepared this guide with care, based on official sources so you have reliable and up-to-date info. Still, I recommend checking the official websites to confirm opening hours and prices, especially if you’re planning your visit in advance:

🏛️ Benalmádena Tourism and Town Hall

• Official Benalmádena tourism website: turismo.benalmadena.es (Often has an English option or use browser translate)
• Town Hall Tourism Department: Benalmadena.es/delegacion-de-turismo (Spanish)
• Felipe Orlando Pre-Columbian Art Museum: Benalmadena.es/museo (Spanish)

🎢 Main Attractions

• Teleférico Benalmádena (Cable Car) telefericobenalmadena.com (English available)
• Selwo Marina selwomarina.es (English available)
• Sea Life Benalmádena visitsealife.com/benalmadena (English available)
• Mariposario de Benalmádena (Butterfly Park) mariposariodebenalmadena.com (English available)
• Castillo Monumento Colomares (Colomares Castle Monument) castillomonumentocolomares.com (Spanish, basic info usually understandable or use translate)
• Estupa de la Iluminación (Enlightenment Stupa) stupabenalmadena.org/en (English available)
• Puerto Marina Benalmádena puertomarinabenalmadena.com (English available)

🚌 Transport

• Málaga Area Metropolitan Transport Consortium (CTMAM): ctmam.es (Spanish, key info often available in English sections or via translate)
• Renfe Cercanías Málaga (Local Trains): renfe.com/es/en/suburban/malaga (English available)

🌍 Regional and Provincial Tourist Information

• Turismo Costa del Sol: visitcostadelsol.com (English available)
• Andalusia Tourism (Regional Government): andalucia.org/en (English available)