Benalmádena is a relaxed Costa del Sol base with beaches, a marina, family-friendly attractions, and easy day trips to Málaga and beyond. This guide covers what to do, where to stay, what to book ahead, and easy ways to plan your days without overthinking.
Quick Facts
- Best for: Sunshine breaks, families, couples, beach time, easy day trips
- Ideal trip length: 4 to 7 days
- Getting around: Walkable areas, local buses, taxis, and short train trips nearby
- Best time to visit: Spring and early autumn for comfortable days
- Booking tip: Popular activities and day trips are easier if booked ahead in peak season
Top things to do in Benalmádena
- Benalmádena Marina for an evening stroll and waterfront dining
- Cable car to Mount Calamorro for views (weather dependent)
- Parque de la Paloma for an easy, free afternoon
- Benalmádena Pueblo (old town) for traditional streets and viewpoints
- Beach time around Santa Ana and Bil-Bil
- Selwo Marina or similar family attractions nearby
- Day trip to Málaga for museums, food, and old town walks
- Short trip to Mijas Pueblo for views and a change of pace
Where to stay in Benalmádena (best areas)
Choose your base based on the vibe you want.
Benalmádena Costa (beachfront strip)
Great for: beach access, easy walks, quick meals, relaxed stays
Vibe: practical, coastal, good value
Puerto Marina (marina area)
Great for: dining, nightlife, families who like everything nearby
Vibe: lively, convenient, lots happening
Arroyo de la Miel
Great for: transport links, local feel, budget-friendly stays
Vibe: busy, authentic, good base for exploring
Benalmádena Pueblo
Great for: quieter stays, views, traditional Andalusian feel
Vibe: charming, slower pace, more local
What to book ahead (do not leave these last minute)
- Cable car tickets (busy periods and weekends)
- Popular day trips (Málaga, Mijas, Gibraltar, or Granada if you plan a long excursion)
- Boat trips or sea excursions from the marina
- Airport transfers if arriving late or with family
Easy itineraries
Benalmádena in 1 day (highlights)
Morning beach walk → Parque de la Paloma → lunch near the coast → marina at sunset
Benalmádena in 3 days
Day 1: Beach time + marina evening
Day 2: Cable car + Pueblo + relaxed dinner
Day 3: Málaga day trip (old town + museums)
Benalmádena in 5 days
Add: Mijas half day, a boat trip, extra beach time, and one bigger day trip if you want. Choose one main day trip rather than trying to do several.
Getting to Benalmádena and getting around
- Arriving: Málaga Airport is the main gateway, plan your route before you land
- Getting around: walking for coastal areas, local buses and taxis for easy hops
- Comfort tip: midday heat can be intense in summer, schedule walks early or late
- Simple planning rule: pick one main outing per day and keep the rest flexible
Book your Paris trip
Simple low-impact travel tips for Benalmádena
- Choose a base close to what you will do most (beach, marina, or transport links)
- Walk for short trips and use buses for longer hops
- Carry a reusable bottle and avoid single-use beach plastics
- Eat local and seasonal, and try smaller independent places where you can
- Plan one bigger day trip, not several rushed ones
Benalmádena essentials to pack
- Sun protection (hat, sunscreen, sunglasses)
- Light layers for evenings and sea breeze
- Comfortable sandals plus walking shoes
- Reusable bottle and a small tote bag
- Portable charger
- Travel adapter (if needed)