If you’re planning a holiday in Benalmadena and are looking for fun ideas to keep the kids happy, this post is going to come in handy.

We’ve put together a list of – what we consider to be – the best things to do with kids in Benalmádena. Whilst most of the attractions and activities recommended here are located in Benalmadena, there are a couple (Aqualand and Bioparc) which are in neighbouring towns but which need to be included on this list as they’re some of our favourites!

Some of these activities and attractions are free whilst others require payment; however, what is guaranteed, is that you and the kids are going to have a whale of a time! 🙂

#1: Selwo Marina

Selwo Marina is probably one of the most popular family attractions in Benalmadena and a definite ‘must-visit’ if you have kids. It’s the only Dolphinarium in Andalucia and offers visitors a wonderful experience including dolphin exhibitions, sea lion show, penguin feeding, exotic birds and lots more.

If you’re looking for something special, Selwo Marina also offers visitors unique experiences which allow for direct interaction with some of the fun loving animals, including a dolphin encounter, swimming with sea lions and a VIP penguin visit which takes you behind the scenes and allows you to discover their unique – and very chilly – world.

#2: Ice Rink

Did you know Benalmadena has its very own Ice Rink? And it’s the only one in all of Andalusia. Located in the ‘Palacio de Deportes’ the ice rink is open to the public at specific times (See link). Skates and helmets are available for hire and they also have special packages for celebrating kid’s birthday parties.

#3: Discover Fascinating Sea Creatures at Sealife

One of Benalmadena’s most established tourist attractions, Sea Life aquarium is the perfect place to take the little ones and learn about some of the most fascinating creatures living beneath the sea. Home to over 2000 creatures, Sea Life Aquarium offers the following:

• Feeding demonstrations all-day
• Rockpool Experience where you get to hold a crab and touch starfish!
• 36 spectacular displays including sharks, Giant Turtles, Sea Rays and an octopus!)
• Watch Sharks feeding 
• See the sea creatures up close as you walk through the underwater tunnel
• A Children’s soft play area
• Café and souvenir store

#4: Cable Car to the top of Mount Calamorro

Apart from the fun ride in a tiny gondola which swings its way to the top of Benalmadena’s Mount Calamorro, this fun trip on the Cable Car has an amazing reward when you reach the summit… the views!

Kids can enjoy an educational bird of prey exhibition and a true adventure walking some of the trails which lead to stunning ‘miradors’ which make for superb photo opportunities!

#5: An afternoon of adventure in Paloma Park 

Paloma Park is one of the largest – and most spectacular – parks on the Costa del Sol. Located in the centre of Arroyo de la Miel, it makes for a fantastic family afternoon out. Your kids will love it as there’s so much to do, including:

• Feeding all the animals which run freely through the park. There are peacocks, hens, chickens, rabbits… and the large lake in the centre of the park is home to large carp, turtles, ducks and elegant swans.
• Enjoy a picnic and an afternoon of games on the large areas of lawn within the park.
• Have fun on the swings, slides and see saws available in 2 large playgrounds.

#6: A Day in Aqualand

Although technically located in Torremolinos, Aqualand water park is close enough (just 10 minutes by car) to warrant a place on this list.

The Coast’s largest water park has a fabulous selection of water slides including the impressive Kamikaze slide, the twister, the boomerang and two special areas for the younger kids!

There are restaurants and bars onsite as well as large green areas to relax and soak up some sun whilst taking a break from the crazy rides.

#7: Visit Bioparc Zoo

Located in the centre of Fuengirola (just 15 minutes by car from Sunset Beach Club) this small zoo makes for an enjoyable family experience. Upon entering the main gates, you are transported to a world of exotic wildlife and stunning surroundings.

The design and layout of the zoo is impressive, especially considering its located in the centre of town. The care and attention taken to ensure a wonderful experience for all who visit make this one of the most popular tourist attractions on the Coast.

During your visit you’ll encounter more than 160 different species of animal including: Tigers, silverback gorillas, chimpanzees, a pygmy hippo and the world’s largest Komodo dragon!

#8: Dolphin Watching

The waters just off Benalmadena are home to numerous pods of dolphins. If you head down to the Marina, you’ll find various boat tours offering trips which take you on an adventure to watch these friendly creatures. You can also book these trips through the Sunset Beach Club Leisure Desk located on the 6th floor of the hotel.

#9: Prison Island and Laser Island Adventure Parks

For a day of fun and adventure, we highly recommend you visit Prison Island and Laser Island, two of Benalmadena’s newest adventure attractions. Based on hit TV show ‘Fort Boyard’ the Prison Island experience requires participants to work in teams to solve tricky challenges and tasks in a series of ‘cells’ in order to collect the maximum number of points. 

Laser Island is a new Laser Tag theme park based on a galactic battle which is ideal for all age groups. Equipped with latest-generation vests and laser guns, you’ll be able to choose from a selection of different game options.

#10: Butterfly Park 

A trip to the Butterfly Park provides a fun and educational visit for the kids. This purpose-built installation resembling a traditional Thai building is home to over 1500 exotic butterflies (from 150 different species).

The butterflies are actually flying around you as you walk through the park and allow for great photo opportunities. If you’re lucky, you’ll be able to watch as they break out of their cocoons and spread their colourful wings for the first time. 🙂

Fascinating Fact: Butterflies have an average life expectancy of just 2 weeks!

To learn more about these beautiful creatures, be sure to head up to the Butterfly Park in Benalmadena Pueblo.

Bonus Tip: Enjoy a Day of Fun with our Mascots, Dizzy, Pablo and Polly

If you come and spend your holiday with us at Sunset Beach Club, your kids can take part in all the fun kid’s activities programmed throughout the week.

And if they are feeling adventurous, they can take part in our special days’ with our mascots, Dizzy, Pablo and Polly. They’ll enjoy a whole host of fun and exciting activities including games in the pool! 

As you can see, there are plenty of activities and attractions to keep your kids busy next time you visit Benalmadena. If you’d like more ideas, we recommend you read our post with 50 Things to do with Kids on the Costa del Sol!

That being said, please remember that some of the above-mentioned suggestions are only available during the high-season months (April to October).

Have fun! 🙂