Benalmádena from Mijas Costa
Benalmádena is one of our favourite day trips with children or for a day full of variety: a spectacular cable car up the mountain, a fairytale marina, a white mountain village and even the largest Buddhist stupa in Europe. Just under half an hour from Mijas Costa, you can fit it all in. Here are our tips.
Why Benalmádena is fun
Benalmádena has three faces: the lively Benalmádena Costa by the sea, the bustling Arroyo de la Miel in the middle, and the quiet white Benalmádena Pueblo in the hills. That combination makes it ideal for a varied day, from beach and marina to culture and nature.
For us it is above all a great destination with children, thanks to the cable car, the attractions and the animal parks. If you prefer a quieter seaside base, read our guide to La Cala de Mijas.
How to get there from Mijas Costa
By car you drive from Riviera del Sol or La Cala de Mijas to Benalmádena in about 20 minutes via the AP-7 or the coastal road. You can park at Puerto Marina and by the cable car, among other places.
Without a car it works too: take the bus to Fuengirola and change to the Cercanías train (line C-1), which stops at Arroyo de la Miel station, the heart of Benalmádena. More transport options are in our guide on getting from Málaga airport to Mijas Costa.
Cable car to Monte Calamorro
The highlight, literally, is the Teleférico Benalmádena: a cable car that takes you to the top of Monte Calamorro, at around 770 metres, in about fifteen minutes. At the top you have a stunning panorama over the whole coast, reaching Gibraltar and the African coast on clear days.
Up top there are walking trails and, in season, birds-of-prey demonstrations. Our tip: go on a clear day and preferably not in the middle of the day, when the light is best and the crowds thinner.
Puerto Marina
Benalmádena's marina, Puerto Marina, has been repeatedly awarded as one of the most beautiful in the world. It is a striking ensemble of white buildings on small islands, with restaurants, bars and shops around the water. By day it is easy-going, by night it buzzes.
We like to come for a stroll along the boats and an ice cream or a drink with a view. The marina is also home to the Sea Life aquarium and the beach, easy to combine with children.
The white village, the stupa and Colomares
Up in the hills lies Benalmádena Pueblo, a quiet white village with narrow streets, flowers and views. Nearby stands the Estupa de la Iluminación, the largest Buddhist stupa in Europe, free to visit and a surprisingly serene spot with sweeping views.
A second curiosity is the Castillo de Colomares, a fanciful monument honouring Columbus, built in a mix of architectural styles. Both are perfect photo stops and a lovely contrast with the bustle of the coast.
With children: parks and beaches
Benalmádena is decidedly family-friendly. Besides the cable car there are Selwo Marina (dolphins and penguins), the Mariposario (a large butterfly garden by the stupa) and Sea Life. The beaches of Benalmádena Costa slope gently and have a long promenade.
For a full family approach to the region, also read our guide La Cala de Mijas with kids and plan your week with our 7-day itinerary.
How far is Benalmádena from Mijas Costa?
About 20 minutes by car via the AP-7 or the coastal road. Without a car, take the bus to Fuengirola and then the Cercanías train (C-1) to Arroyo de la Miel station.
What should you see in Benalmádena?
The cable car to Monte Calamorro for the view, Puerto Marina, the white Benalmádena Pueblo, the Buddhist stupa and the Castillo de Colomares.
Is Benalmádena good for children?
Very much so. The cable car, Selwo Marina, the Mariposario butterfly park, Sea Life and the gently sloping beaches make it ideal for families.
Can you visit the Buddhist stupa?
Yes, the Estupa de la Iluminación near Benalmádena Pueblo is the largest in Europe and free to visit, with sweeping views over the coast.
How high is the Benalmádena cable car?
The Teleférico takes you to the top of Monte Calamorro at around 770 metres, with views to Gibraltar and Africa on clear days.
Looking for a place to stay in Riviera del Sol? See the Coral Mijas Stay penthouse