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Benalmádena

Spain · Coast · EUR · 36.596100, -4.572700
Family friendly 6.9/10 · Rank 843 of 2 709
Best season: March-June, September-October

Best for

Benalmádena is an ideal place for family holidays and beach lovers with developed infrastructure. It is recommended for families with children, couples and those seeking a quiet resort. Suitable for water park and amusement park lovers. Least suitable for those seeking vibrant nightlife.

Best season

March-June, September-October

Daily budget
$129.00 (≈ 11 610 ₽ · ≈ 119 EUR)
For 7 days
$903.00 (≈ 81 270 ₽ · ≈ 831 EUR)
Benalmádena is a resort town on the Costa del Sol, known for its scenic beaches, marina, and Tivoli World amusement park. The city is also famous for its Buddhist monastery, one of the largest in Europe, and its picturesque views of the Mediterranean Sea. Benalmádena attracts travelers with its variety of entertainment and cozy atmosphere.
Summer
34.0°C
Winter
7.0°C
Sea
24.0°C
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Description and atmosphere

Energy

calm

Pace of life

slow

Local character

Benalmádena is a family resort with many tourists. Locals are used to guests and speak English. The atmosphere is relaxed and friendly.

Pros and cons

Pros

  • Beautiful beaches
  • Quiet family atmosphere
  • Colomares Castle — a unique attraction
  • Proximity to Málaga
  • Developed infrastructure
  • Fewer tourists than in Benidorm
  • Good restaurants

Cons

  • High prices
  • Limited nightlife
  • Beach overcrowded in high season
  • Less authenticity
  • Infrastructure is overloaded
Climate
Summer Temperature
Average air temperature in June–August
25.4°C
Summer Daytime Temp
Average daytime temperature in June-August
29.1°C
Summer Max Temp
Maximum daytime temperature in summer months
34.0°C
Winter Temperature
Average air temperature in December–February
12.3°C
Winter Daytime Temp
Average daytime temperature in December-February
16.0°C
Winter Min Temp
Minimum temperature in winter months
7.0°C
Summer Water Temperature
Average sea temperature in the warm season
24.0°C
Water Max Temp
Maximum water temperature in warm season
24.0°C
Rainy Season
Months with the heaviest rainfall
November-February
Sea and beach
Sand Type
Type of beach surface
sand
Sand Color
Colour of the beach sand
golden
Water Entry
Type of water entry
gentle
Waves
Level of waves
mild
Water Clarity
Clarity of the water
clear
Best Beach
Name of the most popular beach
Santa Ana / Carvajal
Beach
Availability of a beach
Yes
Tides
Whether tides are noticeable
No
Rip Currents
Presence of dangerous rip currents
No
Sunbeds
Availability of sunbeds
Yes
Beach Cafe
Availability of a cafe or bar
Yes
Toilet / Shower
Availability of toilets and showers
Yes
Lifeguards
Presence of lifeguards
Yes
Safe for Swimming
Whether swimming is safe
Yes
Sea hazards
Sea Urchins
Presence of sea urchins
None
Corals / Reefs
Presence of corals or reefs
None
Jellyfish
Presence of jellyfish
Present
Sharks
Presence of sharks
None
Overall Danger
Overall danger rating
low
Note

Benalmádena is a safe resort. Beaches are equipped with lifeguards. The main risks are jellyfish in summer.

Sea urchins — details

  • Sea urchins are found in the coastal waters of Benalmadena, especially near rocky areas and breakwaters. They inhabit rocky bottoms and rock crevices.
  • It is recommended to wear protective footwear when entering the water on rocky areas. Sea urchin punctures are very painful, and spine fragments can cause infection.

Corals and reefs — details

  • Coral reefs are virtually absent in the coastal waters of Benalmadena due to strong wave action and sandy bottom. However, isolated coral colonies are found near rocky areas and at depth.
  • Corals can be sharp, so caution should be exercised when swimming and snorkeling. It is forbidden to step on or touch corals with your hands.

Jellyfish — details

  • Jellyfish are occasionally found off the coast during summer months.

Sharks — details

  • Shark attacks off the coast of Benalmadena are extremely rare. Small shark species such as the catshark and nurse shark inhabit the Mediterranean Sea and pose no danger to humans.
  • Over the past decades, not a single case of shark attack on swimmers has been recorded in the Benalmadena beach area. However, encounters with sharks are possible in the open sea, so swimming there is not recommended.
Attractions

Colomares Castle (Castillo de Colomares)

A unique castle built in honour of Columbus in a Neo-Moorish style. One of Spain's most photographed landmarks.

Aqualand Torremolinos Water Park

A popular water park with slides, pools and waves. Located on the border with Torremolinos.

Tivoli World Amusement Park

A famous theme park with rides, concerts and restaurants. Ideal for families.

Pagoda Viewpoint

A hill with pagodas and sculptures offering a panoramic view of the coast.

Santa Ana Beach

A popular urban beach with golden sand and developed infrastructure. Located next to the port.

Benalmádena Port

A marina with shops, restaurants and sea views. Boat excursions depart from here.

Best areas

Port and Beach Area

A coastal area with hotels, restaurants and direct beach access. The best area for tourists.

Arroyo de la Miel

A central area with shops, cafes and nightlife.

Must-try food

Espeto de sardinas

Sardines roasted on a skewer over an open fire. A signature dish of the coast.

Pescaíto frito

Fried fish and seafood in a light batter. A classic of Andalusian cuisine.

Tapas

A variety of snacks: ham, cheeses, olives, shrimp.

Gazpacho

A cold soup of tomatoes, cucumbers, peppers and garlic.

Paella

Rice with seafood, chicken and vegetables.

Sangria

A refreshing drink of red wine, fruit and spices.

Where to go next

Málaga

A large city with the Picasso Museum. 20 minutes away.

Marbella

A glamorous resort. 30 minutes away.

Mijas

A picturesque white town. 15 minutes away.

Family Friendly
Suitable for families with children
Yes
Nightlife
Level of nightlife
moderate
Getting there
Nearest airports
Málaga–Costa del Sol Airport (AGP).
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Visa
Visa requirements
required (Schengen)
Best Season
Months with the most comfortable weather
March-June, September-October
Accommodation
Hostel (Dorm Bed)
Average price for a hostel dorm bed
$35.00
≈ 3 150 ₽ · ≈ 32 EUR
3-Star Hotel
Average price for a 3-star hotel room
$75.00
≈ 6 750 ₽ · ≈ 69 EUR
4-Star Hotel
Average price for a 4-star hotel room
$120.00
≈ 10 800 ₽ · ≈ 110 EUR
5-Star Hotel
Average price for a 5-star hotel room
$190.00
≈ 17 100 ₽ · ≈ 175 EUR
Villa / House
Average nightly rate for a villa or house
$160.00
≈ 14 400 ₽ · ≈ 147 EUR
Apartment
Average nightly rate for an apartment
$95.00
≈ 8 550 ₽ · ≈ 87 EUR
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Food and drinks
Lunch at a Cafe
Average price for lunch at a casual cafe
$14.00
≈ 1 260 ₽ · ≈ 13 EUR
Dinner at a Restaurant
Average check for dinner at a nice restaurant
$35.00
≈ 3 150 ₽ · ≈ 32 EUR
Coffee (Cappuccino)
Average price for a cappuccino
$3.00
≈ 270 ₽ · ≈ 3 EUR
Beer (0.5L)
Average price for a 0.5L beer
$4.50
≈ 405 ₽ · ≈ 4 EUR
Water (1.5L)
Average price for a 1.5L bottle of water
$0.80
≈ 72 ₽ · ≈ 1 EUR
Pizza
Average price for a pizza
$10.00
≈ 900 ₽ · ≈ 9 EUR
Burger
Average price for a burger
$8.00
≈ 720 ₽ · ≈ 7 EUR
Dessert
Average price for a dessert
$5.00
≈ 450 ₽ · ≈ 5 EUR
Fast Food Combo
Average price for a fast food combo
$8.00
≈ 720 ₽ · ≈ 7 EUR
Transport
Airport Taxi
Average taxi fare from the airport to the city centre
$25.00
≈ 2 250 ₽ · ≈ 23 EUR
Public Transport
Average price for a single public transport ticket
$2.00
≈ 180 ₽ · ≈ 2 EUR
Short Taxi Ride
Average fare for a short taxi ride
$8.00
≈ 720 ₽ · ≈ 7 EUR
Car Rental (per day)
Average daily rate for an economy car rental
$45.00
≈ 4 050 ₽ · ≈ 41 EUR
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Activities and rentals
Bike / Scooter Rental
Average daily rate for a bike or scooter
$12.00
≈ 1 080 ₽ · ≈ 11 EUR
Motorbike / Scooter Rental
Average daily rate for a motorbike or scooter
$25.00
≈ 2 250 ₽ · ≈ 23 EUR
Excursion
Average price for an organised excursion
$50.00
≈ 4 500 ₽ · ≈ 46 EUR
Yacht / Boat Cruise
Average price for a boat cruise
$65.00
≈ 5 850 ₽ · ≈ 60 EUR
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Shopping
Shopping
Average amount spent on shopping
$65.00
≈ 5 850 ₽ · ≈ 60 EUR
Souvenirs
Average amount spent on souvenirs
$16.00
≈ 1 440 ₽ · ≈ 15 EUR
Tourist SIM / Internet
Average price for a tourist SIM card
$15.00
≈ 1 350 ₽ · ≈ 14 EUR
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Frequently asked questions
Benalmádena: when is the best time to go?
The best season for a holiday is March-June, September-October. At this time of year the weather is the most comfortable: minimal chance of rain, moderate humidity and optimal air temperature. This is also when the tourist infrastructure runs at full capacity — all hotels, restaurants and entertainment are open. If you want to save money, consider the period right after the high season ends: accommodation prices are lower, and the weather is still pleasant. You can check the temperature by month in the match-by-month tool.
Benalmádena: what is the weather like in summer?
In summer, the air warms up to an average of +34.0°C, during the day — up to +29.1°C. This is a great time for beach holidays and long walks. Sunscreen is recommended during the peak hours from 11:00 to 16:00.
Benalmádena: what is the weather like in winter?
In winter, the air temperature stays around +7.0°C, during the day — up to +16.0°C. For the winter period these are very comfortable figures that allow swimming and sunbathing. Evenings can be cooler, so a light jacket will not go amiss.
Benalmádena: what is the sea temperature?
The sea near the resort warms up to an average of +24.0°C in the warm season. This water temperature is considered ideal for long swims — you can stay in the sea for hours without discomfort. The water is comfortable for both adults and children. If you want to know the exact temperature by month, use the match-by-month tool.
Benalmádena: when is the rainy season?
The rainy season falls on November-February. During this period rainfall is more frequent, but usually short — the rain lasts 1-2 hours, after which the sun comes out again. Humidity is higher, so being outside may be less comfortable. At the same time, accommodation and flight prices during the rainy season are significantly lower — an excellent option for a budget holiday.
Benalmádena: what are the beaches like?
The beaches here are with a "sand" surface, golden sand, clear water. The most popular beaches: Santa Ana / Carvajal. The beaches have sunbeds and cafes and bars.
Benalmádena: is it safe to swim in the sea?
Swimming is allowed here, but standard precautions should be taken. The overall danger level in the sea is rated as low — you can swim and enjoy water sports without worry. Lifeguards are on duty on the beaches.
Benalmádena: what are the sea hazards?
The sea contains: jellyfish. Benalmádena is a safe resort. Beaches are equipped with lifeguards. The main risks are jellyfish in summer.. It is recommended to swim in special shoes and avoid contact with marine life.
Benalmádena: how much does a holiday cost?
A holiday for one person will cost around $129.00 (≈ 11 610 ₽ · ≈ 119 EUR) per day. The daily budget includes: a 3-star hotel, lunch at a cafe, dinner at a restaurant, drinking water, two public transport trips. Flights are not included in the calculation. You can calculate the cost of your holiday in more detail in the trip planning calculator across all 70 parameters.
Benalmádena: how much does accommodation cost?
Accommodation is available for every budget: a hostel dorm bed — $35.00 per night, a 3-star hotel room — $75.00 per night, a 4-star hotel — $120.00 per night, a five-star hotel — $190.00 per night, an apartment — $95.00 per night, a villa — $160.00 per night. In high season prices can be 20-30% higher, and in low season — lower.
Benalmádena: how much does food cost?
Food is one of the main expense items: lunch at an affordable cafe — $14.00, dinner at a restaurant — $35.00, a cup of cappuccino — $3.00, a 0.5L beer — $4.50, a 1.5L bottle of water — $0.80. You can eat significantly cheaper at markets and street cafes.
Benalmádena: how much does transport cost?
a taxi from the airport — $25.00, a single public transport ticket — $2.00, a short taxi ride — $8.00, car rental — $45.00 per day. Public transport is the most budget-friendly way to get around.
Benalmádena: what is there to see?
Among the main attractions are: Colomares Castle (Castillo de Colomares) — A unique castle built in honour of Columbus in a Neo-Moorish style. One of Spain's most photographed landmarks.; Aqualand Torremolinos Water Park — A popular water park with slides, pools and waves. Located on the border with Torremolinos.; Tivoli World Amusement Park — A famous theme park with rides, concerts and restaurants. Ideal for families.; Pagoda Viewpoint — A hill with pagodas and sculptures offering a panoramic view of the coast.; Santa Ana Beach — A popular urban beach with golden sand and developed infrastructure. Located next to the port.. These places are worth visiting first to get a full impression of the destination.
Benalmádena: what local food should I try?
Be sure to try the local cuisine: Espeto de sardinas — Sardines roasted on a skewer over an open fire. A signature dish of the coast.; Pescaíto frito — Fried fish and seafood in a light batter. A classic of Andalusian cuisine.; Tapas — A variety of snacks: ham, cheeses, olives, shrimp.; Gazpacho — A cold soup of tomatoes, cucumbers, peppers and garlic.; Paella — Rice with seafood, chicken and vegetables.; Sangria — A refreshing drink of red wine, fruit and spices.. Local dishes are an important part of the travel experience.
Benalmádena: what are the best areas to stay?
For accommodation you can consider the following areas: Port and Beach Area — A coastal area with hotels, restaurants and direct beach access. The best area for tourists.; Arroyo de la Miel — A central area with shops, cafes and nightlife.. The choice of area depends on your preferences: active or relaxing holiday.
Benalmádena: is a visa required?
Visa: required (Schengen). Before your trip, be sure to check the current requirements with official sources, as the rules may change.
Benalmádena: how do I get from the airport?
The nearest airport — Málaga–Costa del Sol Airport (code AGP). You can get from the airport to the centre by taxi, the average cost is $25.00. Public transport is also available — a more budget-friendly option.
Benalmádena: what is the currency and how much money should I take?
Currency — EUR. It is recommended to have cash for small expenses and a bank card for larger purchases. The approximate daily budget is $129.00 (≈ 11 610 ₽ · ≈ 119 EUR). Check the current exchange rate before your trip.
Benalmádena: is it suitable for a holiday with children?
Yes, the destination is excellent for a family holiday with children. It has all the necessary infrastructure: well-maintained beaches, cafes and restaurants with children's menus, and entertainment for all ages.
Benalmádena: what is the nightlife like?
Nightlife is rated as moderate. There is not much nightlife, but the basics are available.
Benalmádena: where can I go nearby?
Nearby you can visit: Málaga — A large city with the Picasso Museum. 20 minutes away.; Marbella — A glamorous resort. 30 minutes away.; Mijas — A picturesque white town. 15 minutes away.. These places are convenient to visit on a day trip.

Putivator rating

6.9/10
Overall rank: 843 of 2 709
Rank among coastal: 582

Best season

March-June, September-October

Useful information

Currency: EUR
Coordinates: 36.596100, -4.572700