Selwo Marina
Selwo Marina is one of Benalmádena's most popular attractions and offers families the chance to discover fascinating animals from around the world in a beautifully landscaped setting. Visitors can enjoy close encounters with sea lions, penguins, tropical birds, reptiles and squirrel monkeys, whilst learning more about wildlife through engaging educational presentations.
The attraction is compact enough to explore comfortably in half a day, making it ideal for families with younger children, yet varied enough to keep older children entertained too.
Visitor Information
Location: Parque de la Paloma, Arroyo de la Miel
Highlights: Sea lions, penguins, tropical birds, reptiles, squirrel monkeys and educational presentations.
Ideal for: Ages 3+ and animal lovers.
Pushchair friendly: Yes.
Recommended visit: 3–4 hours.
Booking: Recommended during school holidays and summer.
Good to know: Presentation times vary throughout the day, so collect a timetable when you arrive to help plan your visit.
Monowa Butterfly Garden
(Formerly Mariposario)
Previously known as the Mariposario de Benalmádena, Monowa Butterfly Garden is one of Europe's largest butterfly houses and a magical attraction for visitors of all ages.
Walk through lush tropical gardens where thousands of colourful butterflies fly freely around waterfalls, flowers and exotic plants. Children love watching butterflies emerge from their chrysalises, while adults appreciate the peaceful atmosphere and beautiful surroundings.
It's one of Benalmádena's most relaxing attractions and is located next to the impressive Buddhist Stupa.
Visitor Information
Location: Avenida de Retamar, Benalmádena Pueblo.
Highlights: Thousands of free-flying butterflies, tropical gardens, live butterfly emergence area and educational displays.
Ideal for: All ages.
Pushchair friendly: Yes.
Recommended visit: 60–90 minutes.
Booking: Not normally required.
Good to know: Indoor attraction, making it an excellent choice during very hot weather or occasional rainy days.
Benalmádena Cable Car (Teleférico)
One of the Costa del Sol's most spectacular experiences, the Benalmádena Cable Car takes visitors on an unforgettable journey to the summit of Mount Calamorro.
During the ascent you'll enjoy breathtaking panoramic views across the Mediterranean Sea towards Gibraltar and, on clear days, the mountains of North Africa. At the summit you'll discover walking trails, viewing platforms and seasonal birds-of-prey demonstrations.
It's one of the very best places in Benalmádena for family photographs.
Visitor Information
Location: Explanada del Tívoli, Arroyo de la Miel.
Highlights: Scenic cable-car ride, panoramic views, mountain walks and seasonal birds-of-prey displays.
Ideal for: Ages 5+ and families who enjoy walking and nature.
Pushchair friendly: Limited. Pushchairs are best left at the lower station if planning to explore the summit.
Recommended visit: 2–4 hours.
Booking: Advance booking recommended during busy periods.
Good to know: Services may be suspended during periods of high wind.
Parque de la Paloma
Often described as one of Spain's finest public parks, Parque de la Paloma is a favourite with both locals and holidaymakers.
Children love feeding the ducks and spotting rabbits, peacocks, chickens and other birds that roam freely throughout the gardens. The park also offers large playgrounds, lakes, picnic areas and wide paths perfect for a leisurely stroll.
Best of all, it's completely free to visit and makes a wonderful place to relax between attractions.
Visitor Information
Location: Avenida Federico García Lorca, Benalmádena Costa.
Highlights: Beautiful lakes, playgrounds, picnic areas, free-roaming animals and landscaped gardens.
Ideal for: All ages.
Pushchair friendly: Yes.
Recommended visit: 1–3 hours.
Booking: Not required.
Good to know: Early mornings and late afternoons are especially pleasant during the summer months.
After exploring Parque de la Paloma or spending the morning discovering Benalmádena's attractions, why not take a relaxing break in the peaceful surroundings of The Lilac Tree Restaurant in Benalmádena Pueblo? Enjoy freshly prepared food, homemade cakes, refreshing drinks and a warm welcome before continuing your family adventure.
SEA LIFE Benalmádena
Located within the award-winning Puerto Marina, SEA LIFE offers families the opportunity to discover the fascinating underwater world through immersive exhibits and interactive displays.
Walk beneath sharks and rays in the underwater tunnel, meet playful otters, colourful tropical fish and graceful sea turtles, and enjoy daily feeding demonstrations throughout the aquarium.
Its manageable size makes it ideal for families with younger children or as part of a day exploring Puerto Marina.
Visitor Information
Location: Puerto Marina, Benalmádena Costa.
Highlights: Underwater tunnel, sharks, rays, sea turtles, otters, tropical fish and feeding sessions.
Ideal for: All ages, particularly younger children.
Pushchair friendly: Yes.
Recommended visit: 90 minutes–2 hours.
Booking: Online booking is recommended during busy periods.
Good to know: Combination tickets with other Merlin attractions are sometimes available.
Puerto Marina
Frequently voted one of the world's most beautiful marinas, Puerto Marina is much more than a harbour. Families can spend hours exploring its waterside walkways, watching luxury yachts, feeding fish, enjoying ice creams or simply soaking up the lively atmosphere.
Boat trips depart throughout the day, while nearby you'll find SEA LIFE, children's amusements, cafés, restaurants and occasional seasonal entertainment.
It's particularly beautiful during the evening when the marina lights reflect across the water.
Visitor Information
Location: Benalmádena Costa.
Highlights: Award-winning marina, family boat trips, SEA LIFE, cafés, shopping and waterfront walks.
Ideal for: All ages.
Pushchair friendly: Yes.
Recommended visit: 2–4 hours.
Booking: Boat trips should be booked in advance during summer.
Good to know: One of the best places in Benalmádena for an evening stroll.
Benalmádena's Beaches
With over 10 kilometres of coastline, Benalmádena offers a wonderful choice of family-friendly beaches. Popular favourites include Santa Ana Beach, Bil Bil Beach and Malapesquera Beach, all offering soft sand, calm waters and excellent facilities.
Many beaches feature children's play areas, beach cafés, sunbed hire, seasonal lifeguards and water sports, making them perfect for a full day by the Mediterranean.
Visitor Information
Location: Throughout Benalmádena Costa.
Highlights: Blue Flag beaches, calm waters, family facilities, beach cafés and water sports.
Ideal for: All ages.
Pushchair friendly: Most promenades are fully accessible.
Recommended visit: Half or full day.
Booking: Not required (sunbeds available for hire).
Good to know: Santa Ana and Bil Bil beaches are particularly popular with families due to their excellent facilities and gentle waters.
Family Tip
If you're visiting during the summer holidays, consider alternating busy attractions with quieter experiences such as Parque de la Paloma or the Butterfly Garden. Younger children often enjoy a more relaxed pace, especially during the warmest part of the day, while many attractions are at their quietest shortly after opening.
Continue Exploring Benalmádena
Family adventures don't stop here. Discover even more ideas to help you make the most of your stay.
➡️ More Family Fun
Discover boat trips, seasonal events, water sports, play areas and other family-friendly activities around Benalmádena.
➡️ Beyond Benalmádena
Looking for an unforgettable day out? Explore some of the Costa del Sol's best nearby attractions, including Aqualand Torremolinos, Crocodile Park, Bioparc Fuengirola and more.
End the Day Together
After a fun-filled day exploring Benalmádena's wildlife parks, beaches and family attractions, now's the perfect time to slow the pace and enjoy a relaxing evening meal together.
Nestled in the heart of the beautiful whitewashed village of Benalmádena Pueblo, The Lilac Tree Restaurant offers a warm welcome to families, delicious freshly prepared food and a peaceful terrace where everyone can unwind after a busy day of adventures.
Whether you're celebrating a special occasion or simply sharing stories from the day's discoveries, we'd love to welcome you.
📍 Just a short drive from Benalmádena Costa with free nearby parking. Click image below to make a booking
