Benalmádena Area Guide

30th July 2025 · 11 min. read · by Manuel Dávila

Benalmádena stands out as one of the most desirable destinations on the Costa del Sol. Its unique blend of natural surroundings, modern infrastructure and cosmopolitan lifestyle makes it a prime choice for both full-time living and smart real estate investment.

With a robust property market, a thriving international community and an exceptional offering of leisure, wellness and cultural services, Benalmádena continues to be one of the most coveted enclaves in southern Europe.

• Table of contents
• Where is Benalmádena?
• Why choose Benalmádena as a place to live or invest?
• What types of properties can I find in Benalmádena?
• Does Benalmádena have sea views?
• What is the environment and landscape like in Benalmádena?
• What is the connectivity and accessibility like in Benalmádena?
• What services and amenities are in Benalmádena?
• Best restaurants in Benalmádena
• What international schools are in or near Estepona?
• What else can I do in Benalmádena and its surroundings?
• Is Benalmádena a safe place to live?
• Our top reasons for choosing Benalmádena

Benalmádena is located in the province of Málaga, in the very heart of the Costa del Sol. It lies between Torremolinos and Fuengirola, just 15 minutes from Málaga International Airport and around 20 minutes from Málaga’s historic city centre.

Its privileged position on the hillside gives it a unique topography, with many natural viewpoints overlooking the sea. The upper part of the town, known as Benalmádena Pueblo, retains the charm of a traditional Andalusian village with cobbled streets, whitewashed houses and flower-filled balconies. Further down, Benalmádena Costa is home to golden beaches, beach clubs, elegant promenades and the iconic Puerto Marina, one of the most renowned marinas in Europe.

1. Prime location: Ideally situated between Málaga and Marbella, with quick access to the airport, the motorway and the main cities along the Costa del Sol.
2. Beautiful beaches: Golden sands, calm waters and a wide range of beach clubs and chiringuitos, perfect for year-round enjoyment.
3. Iconic marina: Puerto Marina is one of the most awarded marinas in Europe, renowned for its architecture, nautical facilities, shopping and nightlife.
4. Excellent rental returns: Benalmádena is a smart and safe investment, with strong demand for both short-term holiday lets and long-term rentals.
5. High-end infrastructure: Luxury hotels, gourmet restaurants, boutique shops and premium services catering to discerning residents and visitors.
6. International lifestyle: A multicultural and welcoming environment with a wide expat community and a full calendar of cultural events.
7. Healthy outdoor living: Ideal climate and surroundings for golf, water sports, hiking, cycling and wellness.
8. Top international schools: Excellent private and bilingual schools offering British and international curriculums.
9. Fine dining scene: From Michelin-starred restaurants to creative fusion cuisine, Benalmádena’s gastronomy is a major draw.
10. Safety and quality of life: A peaceful, well-maintained town with low crime rates and gated communities offering round-the-clock security.

Benalmádena offers a diverse and elegant selection of properties, designed to meet the expectations of international buyers seeking lifestyle, investment potential and exclusivity. From cutting-edge villas with infinity pools and sea views to modern apartments in gated communities with spa facilities, the real estate landscape here is both stylish and versatile.

Some of the most sought-after areas include Benalmádena Costa, known for its proximity to the beach and vibrant atmosphere, Torrequebrada, popular for its golf course and panoramic homes and the prestigious El Higuerón, a hillside development with high-end amenities and spectacular views.

Properties typically feature spacious open-plan layouts, floor-to-ceiling windows, landscaped gardens, designer kitchens and luxury finishes such as natural stone, fine wood, and high-performance glazing.

Yes, one of the most distinctive features of Benalmádena’s residential offering is the exceptional views. Thanks to the town’s elevated position and hillside topography, many properties enjoy uninterrupted panoramas of the Mediterranean Sea, the coastline and the surrounding mountain ranges.

Benalmádena boasts a unique blend of coastal beauty and mountain serenity. The town stretches from sandy beaches along the Mediterranean up to the forested foothills of the Sierra de Mijas, creating a layered landscape where sea and nature meet in perfect harmony.

The mountain areas offer scenic hiking trails, native pine forests and protected natural parks, home to a wide variety of Mediterranean flora and fauna. The Monte Calamorro, accessible by cable car, is one of the town’s highest points, offering panoramic views over the coast and on clear days, even across to the mountains of Morocco.

Along the coastline, golden beaches alternate with rocky coves and small cliffs, providing diverse scenery and habitats for marine life. The vegetation in Benalmádena is characteristically Mediterranean, enriched by a subtropical touch thanks to the mild climate. Expect to find tall palm trees, jacarandas, bougainvillaea and citrus trees lining the streets and gardens.

Benalmádena enjoys excellent transport links, making it one of the most accessible towns on the Costa del Sol. It is strategically located just a short drive from both Málaga International Airport and Málaga city centre, and is directly connected by the A-7 motorway and the AP-7 toll road, which run along the coast.

For public transport, the town is served by the Cercanías train line (C1), with several convenient stops including Benalmádena-Arroyo de la Miel and Torremuelle, providing fast and direct access to the airport, Málaga city, Torremolinos and Fuengirola.

Benalmádena is exceptionally well-equipped when it comes to daily conveniences and premium lifestyle services. Whether you’re a full-time resident or a second-home owner, you’ll find everything you need within easy reach, from gourmet shopping to private healthcare and wellness centres.

Supermarkets and gourmet food shops:

Benalmádena offers an excellent variety of supermarkets and speciality food stores to meet the needs of a discerning, health-conscious clientele. Well-known national chains such as Carrefour, Mercadona and Aldi are present throughout the town, while delicatessen shops provide organic produce, international brands and locally sourced gourmet items.

Fashion and lifestyle retail:

From the elegant boutiques of Puerto Marina to the independent shops found across Arroyo de la Miel and Benalmádena Pueblo, the town blends coastal sophistication with authentic Andalusian charm. Shoppers can explore jewellery stores, fashion labels and home décor studios, many of which cater to international tastes.

Healthcare and wellness:

Benalmádena is recognised for its excellent healthcare infrastructure. Leading private institutions such as Vithas Xanit International Hospital offer advanced medical services and multilingual care. Other reputable facilities, like Clínica Santa Elena and Premium Clinic, provide specialisations in cardiology, dermatology, internal medicine and more. The town also hosts a wide selection of dental clinics, physiotherapy centres, wellness providers and aesthetic medicine practices.

Sports and fitness facilities:

A healthy lifestyle is central to Benalmádena’s identity. The town is home to premium fitness centres, tennis and padel clubs, as well as wellness resorts and yoga studios. Golfers can enjoy the renowned Torrequebrada Golf course, with its stunning layout and Mediterranean views, or practise in more compact, modern facilities such as Benalmádena Golf. Additionally, numerous walking trails, beachside promenades and mountain routes make it easy to stay active in the open air, all year round.

Benalmádena has earned a reputation for its refined and diverse culinary scene, blending traditional Mediterranean flavours with international influences and modern creativity. Whether you're looking for a fine dining experience, a beachfront lunch or a romantic dinner with sea views, the town offers a wide variety of options to suit every occasion.

One of the culinary stars of the area is Sollo, a Michelin-starred restaurant led by chef Diego Gallegos. His approach to sustainable haute cuisine has made Sollo a reference in contemporary gastronomy. Another standout is Trocadero Benalmádena, located right on the beachfront, offering a stylish and relaxed atmosphere with a menu that celebrates fresh seafood and Mediterranean flavours with a gourmet twist.

In Puerto Marina, El Mero is a long-standing favourite renowned for expertly prepared fish dishes. For a more international experience, The Japo offers a modern take on Japanese cuisine, while La Perla presents a blend of Mediterranean and European flavours in an elegant setting.

Benalmádena and its surrounding areas offer a strong network of prestigious international schools, making it an ideal location for families relocating from abroad or for those seeking a multilingual, high-quality education for their children. These institutions follow British and international curriculums and are known for their academic excellence, modern facilities and nurturing environments.

Among the top choices are The British College of Benalmádena, the International School Torrequebrada, Sunny View School in nearby Torremolinos, and Novaschool Benalmádena. Each of them provides a well-rounded education in English or bilingual formats, with a strong focus on academic performance, creativity, and personal growth.

Benalmádena is a town that invites you to explore, relax and enjoy life at your own pace. Whether you prefer nature, culture, shopping or nightlife, there’s always something to discover.

One of the town’s most iconic experiences is a ride on the Benalmádena Cable Car, which takes you to the summit of Monte Calamorro. From there, you can enjoy panoramic views of the entire coastline and, on clear days, even the distant coast of Africa. The mountain also offers hiking trails and bird of prey exhibitions for nature enthusiasts.

For a peaceful afternoon, Parque de la Paloma is the perfect escape. This beautifully landscaped park features lakes, walking paths and a variety of animals, making it a favourite among families and joggers alike. Not far from there, the Castillo de Colomares is a fascinating architectural tribute to Christopher Columbus, blending fantasy, history and fairy-tale aesthetics in a truly unique setting.

Lovers of marine life can visit Sea Life Benalmádena, an interactive aquarium located in Puerto Marina. Meanwhile, water sports enthusiasts can take full advantage of the marina’s many activities, from sailing and paddleboarding to jet skiing and diving excursions.

For hiking lovers, routes like the ascent to Monte Calamorro or the more demanding Ruta del Tajo de la Sabia, winding through the Sierra de Mijas, offer scenic and rewarding experiences in nature.

When the sun goes down, the town transforms into a lively social scene. Puerto Marina is the epicentre of nightlife, offering chic cocktail bars, music venues and waterfront lounges. For a more festive atmosphere, Plaza Solymar remains a vibrant hotspot, with late-night venues and dance clubs popular among locals and visitors alike.

Yes, Benalmádena is considered one of the safest towns on the Costa del Sol. With low crime rates and a strong presence of both public and private security, residents enjoy a relaxed and peaceful daily life, whether they live in the town centre, along the coast or in the surrounding residential communities.

Many of the town’s most exclusive developments are gated, with 24-hour surveillance, restricted access and professional security teams, offering an additional layer of privacy and reassurance. These communities are particularly popular among international families, retirees and second-home owners seeking comfort, discretion and peace of mind.

• A vibrant hillside town with sea views and Mediterranean charm: Benalmádena offers the perfect balance between coastal living and natural surroundings.
• A prime location between Málaga and Marbella: Strategically positioned on the Costa del Sol, Benalmádena is just 15 minutes from Málaga International Airport and 20 minutes from the city centre.
• An exceptional mix of leisure, nature and culture: From golden beaches and a world-class marina to mountain trails, cable car rides, parks, castles and aquariums. Benalmádena offers something for everyone.
• A thriving real estate market with strong investment appeal: Whether you're looking for a frontline beach apartment, a hillside villa or a luxury residence in gated communities like El Higuerón or Torrequebrada, Benalmádena presents high-quality property options with excellent rental potential and long-term value.
• A relaxed, healthy and cosmopolitan lifestyle: With over 300 days of sunshine, excellent dining, golf courses, water sports, wellness centres and a strong international presence, Benalmádena encourages a balanced, active and joyful way of life by the sea.