Benalmadena

Explore, Dream, Discover

On the Malaga coast,
Benalmádena stands out as a destination full of light, sea and life.

Person enjoying panoramic view of Benalmádena and Mediterranean coastline from Mount Calamorro.

Its streets, adorned with flowers and bright colours, invite you to get lost and explore every corner, while its golden sand beaches and crystal-clear waters invite you to relax under the warm southern sun.

This charming town, which stretches between the mountains and the sea, is a perfect fusion of natural beauty and modernity. Benalmádena is not only sun and sea, it is also history and culture. In its
Puerto Marina , considered one of the most beautiful in the world, luxury boats rest next to an endless offer of bars and restaurants.

But it’s not just the port that will surprise you. The Colomares Castle , an architectural gem that pays homage to Christopher Columbus, will take you on a journey back in time, while the Pre-Columbian Art Museum invites you to discover distant cultures. For nature lovers, the Parque de la Paloma is a haven of peace, where you can stroll among lush gardens, lakes and animals.

And if you’re looking for adrenaline, Tivoli World , Benalmádena’s amusement park, is the perfect place for a day of fun. Benalmádena will also surprise you with its vibrant nightlife, from beach bars to elegant nightclubs. Each sunset at its viewpoints is a unique spectacle that becomes the prelude to a night full of magic and joy. Benalmádena is the destination that combines the best of the sea, culture and fun. A place where every moment is special, and where every corner hides a new adventure waiting to be discovered.

1. Marina Port

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In the south of Spain, in the heart of the Costa del Sol, lies Puerto Marina de Benalmádena, a dream port that has earned its fame for being one of the most beautiful and picturesque in the world.

This marina, with its unique architecture and canals lined with vibrantly coloured houses, becomes a place full of life, ideal for strolling, enjoying local cuisine or simply relaxing to the rhythm of the sea. Along its docks, luxury boats and yachts rest in perfect harmony with the bustle of bars, restaurants and shops.

The terraces facing the water offer an excellent opportunity to savour fresh tapas while watching the waves roll in, and the sea breeze caresses your face. Puerto Marina is filled with colour during the day, but when night falls, it transforms into an even more magical place, with lights shining on the water and a vibrant nightlife that invites you to enjoy the party until the early hours. The port is not only a paradise for sea lovers, but also for those seeking entertainment and leisure.

From water attractions and boat trips to the Sea Life aquarium , a marine world full of surprises. In addition, Puerto Marina hosts a wide variety of events throughout the year, such as concerts, markets and festivals, making it a nerve centre of activity and fun. Puerto Marina Benalmádena is not just a port, it is a destination where the sea, culture, gastronomy and fun come together to create an unforgettable experience. A place that invites you to immerse yourself in the beauty of the Costa del Sol and enjoy every moment in its warm embrace.

2. Pigeon Park

The Parque de la Paloma in Benalmádena is a corner of serenity and natural beauty that invites you to lose yourself in its green landscapes.

Located in the city centre, this park has become one of the green lungs of the Costa del Sol, an oasis of tranquillity in the midst of the hustle and bustle of everyday life. As you walk along its paths, you will find yourself surrounded by lush vegetation that combines palm trees, pine trees, native plants and colourful flowers, creating a fresh and welcoming atmosphere. The park is ideal for long walks, picnics on its large lawns or simply sitting on one of its benches to enjoy the peace and beauty that surrounds it.

One of the most fascinating attractions of this place is its central lagoon , where ducks and swans glide across the calm waters, creating a picturesque scene. In addition, the park is home to a variety of fauna, from chickens and peacocks to rabbits and squirrels, making it a perfect place for nature lovers and families with children. The Parque de la Paloma is also a place full of history and art, with small sculptures and monuments that give a cultural touch to the surroundings.

And best of all, access is completely free, making it one of the most accessible options to enjoy a day in contact with nature. In the Parque de la Paloma, Benalmádena shows itself in its greenest and most relaxing facet, a refuge of calm and natural beauty where the soul can rest and recharge its energies, while breathing the freshness of the Mediterranean air and contemplating the majesty of the Costa del Sol.

3. Benalmadena Cable Car

The starting point for adventure. Once you reach the top, you can enjoy several hiking trails, a restaurant with a terrace where you can relax while enjoying a good meal, and an observation area where photography lovers will find their paradise.

The Benalmádena Cable Car , with an impressive length of 5,565 metres , has been a symbol of the city since its inauguration in 2000. This means of transport connects the lively Arroyo de la Miel with the summit of Monte Calamorro , located at an altitude of more than 700 metres in the Sierra de Mijas . Throughout the journey, which lasts approximately 15 minutes, passengers witness the transformation of the landscape, from urban bustle to the serene splendour of mountainous nature.

Once at the top, a range of possibilities opens up for outdoor lovers, with hiking and cycling routes that allow you to explore the biodiversity of the Málaga region. The highlight of the experience is undoubtedly the panoramic view offered from the top of Calamorro. From there, you can enjoy spectacular views of the Costa del Sol , the Sierra de Mijas and the Mediterranean Sea .

On clear days, it is even possible to make out the outline of Africa on the horizon, a unique experience that connects you with the vast landscape that surrounds Benalmádena. The Benalmádena Cable Car is not only a comfortable way to reach the heights, but also an open door to nature, adventure and dreamlike views that make this route a must for anyone visiting the area.

4. Colomares Castle

With its impressive structure evoking the essence of a medieval castle, it is much more than a fortress.

This unique monument, dedicated to Christopher Columbus and the discovery of America , stands as a vibrant tribute to the historic feat that marked the course of the modern world. Located in Benalmádena , Málaga, the castle was conceived by Dr. Esteban Martín y Martín , who between 1987 and 1994 transformed his vision into a unique architectural reality. Colomares Castle is a mosaic of architectural styles , fusing medieval, Renaissance and Moorish influences.

Every corner of the monument is a display of exquisite detail, with its construction in brick , concrete , natural stone and wood , creating a visual symphony that transports visitors to another era. The design, filled with towers, arches and ornamental richness, is a spectacle for the senses, evoking the grandeur of history whilst remaining faithful to the spirit of the time. Upon entering the interior of the castle, visitors are greeted by a series of vibrantly coloured stained glass windows , which tell stories and details about Columbus’ adventure and his journey to the New World.

The light that filters through these coloured glass windows adds a magical touch to the experience, making each visit a visual as well as an emotional journey. Colomares Castle is not only a monument to history, but a genuine journey back in time that invites you to reflect on the impact of that momentous moment. It is undoubtedly one of the most fascinating destinations in Benalmádena , leaving an indelible mark on the hearts of those who visit it.

5. Butterfly House

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The Benalmadena Butterfly Park is a true tropical paradise, where more than 1,500 butterflies from different parts of the world fly freely among exotic plants.

In this magical space, which houses butterflies from the warmest corners of the planet, you can experience a constant spectacle of colour and nature. With more than 150 different species throughout the year, the garden is an ever-changing environment, since, due to the short average lifespan of butterflies (2 to 3 weeks), you can always admire new species. In addition to the adult butterflies, the Butterfly House offers the opportunity to learn about and follow the fascinating life cycle of these creatures by observing their eggs , caterpillars and the different stages of their metamorphosis .

Every day, visitors are lucky enough to witness the magical moment when a butterfly emerges from its chrysalis, unfolding its wings for the first time and taking its first flight in freedom. These births, so full of delicacy and life, are a true gift from nature. The space, designed to simulate the ideal conditions of tropical butterfly habitats, maintains a warm temperature between 24 and 29 ºC and a high humidity of 80% , creating a perfect environment for their development and well-being.

Surprisingly, although species from various parts of the world coexist, there is no conflict or competition between them, making this place a harmonious example of natural coexistence. Visiting the Benalmádena Butterfly Farm is a unique and immersive experience, where beauty and nature intertwine, offering a window into the fascinating world of butterflies and their mysterious life cycles.

6. Buddha Stupa of Benalmadena

Estupa Budista Benalmadena foto nocturna de la estupa majestuosa

The Stupa of Illumination in Benalmadena is an impressive monument that exudes serenity and wisdom. It is a living symbol of peace, prosperity and harmony for the world, a place where visitors can immerse themselves in reflection and meditation.

Its presence, elevated in the landscape of the city of Benalmádena, invites introspection and a deep connection with the Buddhist teachings. Inaugurated on October 5, 2003, the Stupa of Enlightenment was erected thanks to the inspiration of the revered Buddhist Master of Bhutan, Lopon Tsechu Rinpoche, and with the support of the City Council of Benalmádena. This majestic monument was consecrated by the 14th Kunzig Shamar Rinpoche.

in a solemn ceremony that brought together thousands of devotees from around the world. Among the attendees were such important figures as Lama Ole Nydahl, the former mayor of Benalmádena, Don Enrique Bolín, and members of the Bhutanese royalty, along with approximately 4,000 friends and followers.

The Stupa of Enlightenment is a special type of Tibetan Stupa that symbolises the enlightenment of Buddha Shakyamuni , that is, the fully awakened mind. Its construction follows the strict rules of Tibetan design, with precise proportions that convey deep meaning in every detail. The external structure is designed to inspire peace and wisdom, while its interior houses symbolic treasures, sacred objects and energies charged through powerful ceremonies.

Buddhists believe that by walking around a Stupa, their wishes and prayers come true. The practice of circumambulation , also known as kora, is performed in a clockwise direction, thereby transmitting the spiritual influence of the stupa into our daily lives. What makes the Stupa of Enlightenment in Benalmadena unique is that it incorporates a meditation hall within it , something rare in the world.

Thanks to its monumental size, this stupa stands as the largest in the West , offering a space not only for worship, but also for deep meditation and spiritual learning. A place of peace and contemplation, the Stupa of Enlightenment is undoubtedly a cultural and spiritual treasure that offers all who visit it a refuge of wisdom, calm and connection with the universe.