The town of Benalmadena is located on the sunny coast of Spain in Costa del Sol, and has many tourist attractions that make it a must-see place to visit in this incredible area of the Mediterranean. Only 20 kilometers from Malaga and 12 kilometers from the airport, this enclave offers its visitors a wide variety of things to do from leisure and fun to nature, culture and sports.
As a city, Benalmádena is a welcoming place, where 5,000 British have established their residence, as well as a large number of Dutch. Additionally, this area is a preferred vacation destination for all Spaniards for its exceptional climate in summer.
This beautiful municipality has scattered population centers throughout the length and breadth of its geography, but three special areas stand out:
- The Town of Benalmádena: A picturesque white Andalusian dream village with the typical southern Spain culture.
- Arroyo de la Miel: A large and elegant residential area where you can breathe peacefully with tranquility and calmness. It also includes alternative tourist attractions from the beach in Benalmádena.
- Benalmádena Coast: Formed by a succession of 15 well-known beaches with a wide range of tourist and leisure activities that make it a reference point on the Costa del Sol in Malaga, Spain.
Walk Through the Old Town (Casco Antiguo)
Narrow streets are not only exclusive to Cordoba, Granada or Seville. Take a trip through Benalmádena and walk through a labyrinth of narrow streets and alleys, with cobblestones. Of course, you should keep in mind that there are slopes as it is a mountainous place next to the sea.
That’s exactly why you’ll find tapas bars where you can sit, have a snack and visit the Church of Santo Domingo de Guzman. From its viewpoint you can see the sea and the coast from this beautiful spot.
Experience Bil Bil Castle
Built in 1927, it was instituted by the Hermann family and designed by the architect Enrique Atencia. However, this family was never able to truly enjoy this home due to the breakout of the Spanish Civil War. From there, it passed into the hands of William Schenstrom, an American who settled in the area and renovated the original building.
Its name also originated from a curious story, as both the new owner and his son were called Bill, short for William. When the workers came to reform the home they greeted them both by saying hello to 'Bil and Bil', meaning the name is not of Arabic origin as it would appear. Today it belongs to the Town Hall and is often used to celebrate weddings as it is a place of great beauty.
Visit Colomares Castle
Christopher Columbus is the common thread of this building that was designed by the surgeon Esteban Martin, who along with two workers, made this Castle Tribute to the V Centenary of the Discovery of America. Although he was often branded as a bit crazy, he did not give up and worked on it until the day of his death, managing to place this attraction for Benalmádena, which has become a must-see monument.
Take in the Beauty of the Marina Port of Benalmádena
The closest thing to a work of art by the sea. But, don’t just take our word for it. The Port of Benalmádena has been highlighted on two occasions as "The Best Marina in the World", and it’s no wonder why. It is an area with an exceptional leisure environment, but besides being a port, it is also a residential area with luxury homes. It’s wonderful for taking an evening stroll as it preserves the remains of a watchtower and is home to the Sea Life Aquarium.
Observe the Immense Buddhist Temple of Benalmádena
If you are looking for seclusion, meditation or simply wish to contemplate a beautiful place, the Buddhist Temple of Benalmádena is a great recommendation. It is the largest Buddhist temple in the West and has been in the town since 2003. Words are superfluous because of the impressive location and the views of the Mediterranean from its vantage point.
It has become a 'must' for tourists and curious people who want to visit different places on their vacations.
Get Lost in Nature at the Selwo Marina and Swim With Dolphins
In a unique setting, Selwo Marina allows you to visit all kinds of animal life from sea lions and exotic birds to armadillos, turtles, iguanas, snakes, penguins and, of course, the main attraction: the dolphins. There are different dolphin exhibitions during the day, with skill shows that amaze young and old alike. But undoubtedly, the very best option is being able to get in the water to feed the dolphins and even touch them. Of course, they take great care to provide the best conditions for both people and the animals!
This park is separated into geographical zones to establish an educational tour, having the four representations of: Las Antillas, La Hondonada, Isla del Hielo and Amazonia.
Bathe in the Carvajal Beach and Sip on a Drink at The Beach Club Higuerón
For those looking for quality in every way, Carvajal beach offers the best guarantees, thanks to its Blue Flag, so coveted throughout the Spanish coast. There are a series of criteria that beaches in this category must meet, such as: information and environmental education, water quality for bathing, environmental management and compliance with the Coastal Law, along with the section on Safety and Services. In this environment is The Beach Club Higuerón, a different, suggestive and cosy place to enjoy cocktails, Japanese food, brunches and live music. Whether you prefer the sunbed for a more comfortable stay on the beach, or to relax on a Balinese bed sipping a glass of champagne, this is a beach club for you and everyone.
Benalmádena Cable Car (Teleférico)
Visit the highest point of Benalmádena with spectacular views! All you have to do is get on the cable car and, of course, avoid the vertigo. In just 12 minutes, you can see how the landscape changes from the sea to the wildest mountain. To finish at the top of Mount Calamorro, you can enjoy an exhibition of trained birds of prey and falconry as a result of the work of the Valle de las Águilas Foundation.
In addition to everything mentioned above, Benalmádena offers a wide variety of options to enjoy a vacation, a getaway or simply sit with a glass of wine and listen to the sounds of the sea. If you want more information about other locations, you can read our post about what to see in Fuengirola or visit the website visitcostadelsol.com.