We all know Benalmadena is a popular holiday destination in the high-season Spring and Summer months. However, this gorgeous part of Spain is also fantastic to visit in the quieter Winter months.
We’ve put together a list of great things you can do when you visit Benalmadena in December and January. Whilst we’ve recommended things in the Benalmadena area, we have also ventured a little further afield with some must-do’s in neighbouring Malaga city, especially over the Christmas period… you can thank us later!
December
The month leading up to Christmas celebrations is full of fun things to do. Here are our favourites…
Take a Stroll Through the Wonderful Christmas Markets
This is the best way to get into the Christmas spirit. Take a stroll through one of the gorgeous Christmas Markets you’ll find along the Costa del Sol. You’ll find all sorts of gifts, Christmas decorations, accessories as well as loads of tasty sweet treats. Some of the markets also have fun activities and entertainment for kids. Here are our favourite Christmas markets for you to visit:
- Benalmadena has a very popular Christmas market in Avenida de la Constitución.
- Fuengirola has a stunning traditional Christmas Market in the main ‘Plaza de la Constitución’.
- The Christmas Market in Málaga’s Muelle Uno waterfront.
- The Christmas market in ‘Paseo del Parque’ which runs along the main Alameda Park in Málaga.
Christmas Lights in Malaga
The Málaga Christmas Lights show in the famous Calle Larios is not to be missed if you are here in December. It really is a stunning spectacle with people travelling from all over Spain (and beyond) to see it.
This year the lights will be officially switched on the 24th November and will shine bright until the 6th January. Official details of the light show will be released nearer the date, and we’ll be sure to update this post then. One thing’s for sure, it’s going to be epic!
Sunset Beach Club guests can grab the nº110 bus from just outside the hotel and it’ll take you right into the centre of Malaga. The Christmas lights are just a short 2-minute walk from the bus stop.
Hiking in the Hills
If you’re into nature, fitness and healthy living, you’ll be delighted to know that Benalmadena has several official walking and hiking routes for you to enjoy during your stay.
There’s something for all levels and stunning views of the Coast are guaranteed!
Christmas Garden in the Malaga Botanical Gardens
Malaga’s Botanical Gardens will be open to the public at night during the Christmas Holidays with a beautiful light display. The gardens are gorgeous by day, but at night they are out of this world (see photo above).
This year’s light show is called ‘Angelical’ which promises a tour full of fantasy where the angels tell their unique Christmas tale.
Tickets can be bought on the official website HERE. We recommend buying them in advance as this is a very popular attraction over the Christmas period.
Christmas Day Celebrations and a Visit from Santa
On Christmas Day, we’ve got a wonderful festive programme in store for you at Sunset Beach Club.
Santa Claus will be visiting our Panorama Bar at midday bearing gifts for all the kids staying in the hotel whilst Mum and Dad enjoy a complimentary glass of Bucks Fizz!
At 1:00pm it’s time for our Christmas Day Buffet Carvery Lunch in our Sala Malaga. A scrumptious meal, live music and stunning sea views all make for a fantastic Christmas day!
Click Here to book your Christmas lunch!
Go to the Ballet
The Cervantes Theatre in Malaga always offers a fabulous ballet performance at Christmas Time. This year you can venture into the gorgeously lit Malaga city centre and enjoy Swan lake on the 7yh January 2024. great ballets…
For more information and to buy tickets, please visit www.teatrocervantes.com.
New Year’s Eve Gala Dinner & Party
See in the new year in style! The Sunset Beach Club New Year’s Eve Gala Dinner is the place to be! Enjoy a delicious five-course meal followed by music and dancing with DJ.
Click HERE to see the full menu and to book your place.
January
Watch the Three Kings Parade
The eve of the 5th January is a special day here is Spain, especially for the younger members of the family. The streets of all major towns and cities come alive with the liveliest and colourful events of the Holidays, the Three Kings Parade.
In Benalmadena, the Three Wise Men arrive at the Marina by boat at around midday. In the afternoon they set off through the streets of Arroyo de la Miel and Benalmadena Pueblo in their beautifully-decorated floats throwing tons of sweets to the thousands of people lining the streets to greet them.
In Fuengirola, the Three Kinds arrive by helicopter! This parade is also worth watching as it tends to be one of the biggest with up to 25 impressively-decorated floats.
If you don’t mind larger crowds, the Three Kings Parade in Malaga is also stunning to watch. You’ll have to get there early as it gets very busy!
Bus Tour Around Benalmadena
This has to be the best way to explore Benalmadena! Hop aboard the comfortable double-decker tourist bus and visit all the best attractions: The Stupa Buddhist Temple, Butterfly Park, Paloma Park, Bil-Bil Castle and lots more.
The buses are equipped with audioguides in 9 languages so you can learn all there is to know about our beautiful city. You can even buy a Two-day pass which allows you up to 48 hours to use your ticket and take your time at each attraction.
You can buy tickets at the Sunset Beach Club Leisure Desk located at the entrance to the hotel.
Enjoy our Winter Activities Programme
At Sunset Beach Club we’ve got a fantastic daily activities programme over the Winter months. Enjoy yoga or stretching classes early in the morning, a game of Petanque or Molky before lunch or join in the pool or ping pong competitions in the afternoon.
And don’t forget our cooking classes by the pool on Wednesdays! Learn how to make an authentic Spanish Paella whilst enjoying a glass of complimentary wine!
Play a Round of Golf
The Costa del Sol is a golfing paradise. We’re fortunate to have more than 30 courses within a 45 minute drive of Sunset Beach Club and our onsite Golf desk can get you discounted green-fees at most of them.
If you need help booking a golf holiday, our friendly team can help you with all aspects of your stay: Accommodation, car hire, green fees and golf club rental to name a few.
Hire a Bike for a Day
For a more sustainable and healthy way to visit Benalmadena and the surrounding area, you might want to consider hiring a bike. Our friends at Fast Monkey have all sorts of bikes for hire and they even offer guided tours.
To book your bike, just head down to our Leisure Desk where our friendly team can help you.
Enjoy Panoramic Views of Benalmadena from the New Ferris Wheel
Benalmadena has its very own Panoramic Ferris Wheel! 😊
Located in the Marina it offer fabulous views of Benalmadena and beyond.
The price for a ride on the Ferris Wheel is €10 per adult.
Indoor Pool & Massage
We all enjoy a little rest and relaxation whilst on holiday. At Sunset Beach Club you can soak your troubles away in the gorgeous indoor pool located in the gym on the first floor. Fully equipped with soothing water jets and ambient lighting, it’s the perfect place to unwind after a stressful day of sightseeing.
To make your visit down to the gym even more special, we recommend you book a relaxing massage with their talented therapists… you will be in virtual heaven!
So there you have it, our list of things you can do when you visit Benalmadena in December or January. Have we missed anything? Let us know in the comments.
And if you’re looking for accommodation for your Winter visit to Benalmadena, be sure to check out the fantastic rates available at Sunset Beach Club. www.sunsetbeachclub.com
