With Bil-Bil Castle watching over it from the shoreline, the Benalmádena beach that bears its name has one of the most recognisable silhouettes on the whole Costa del Sol. Five hundred metres of fine sand with a Blue Flag, and the marina two kilometres away for the town’s best fish and shellfish restaurants. The perfect balance between town beach and sailing life.
Getting there
Cercanías line C-1, Benalmádena station, a 10-minute walk from the promenade. Local buses run to the seafront. By car: paid parking on Avenida Antonio Machado.
Bil-Bil Castle
The building that gives the beach its name isn’t medieval: it’s a 1920s Moorish-revival villa designed by the Málaga architect Guerrero Strachan. It now houses the Benalmádena Cultural Centre, and its silhouette of towers and battlements is the town’s signature postcard. Entry is free when exhibitions are on. The contrast between the fantasy castle and the Mediterranean beach makes an image you won’t forget.
What to do nearby
Benalmádena marina, 2 km away, has the best shellfish restaurants in the town and boat trips along the coast. The Benalmádena cable car climbs to the summit of Mount Calamorro (771 m), with views of Africa on clear days. Parque de la Paloma, with free-roaming animals, is five minutes away.
Places to stay nearby
Seafront hotels along the Paseo Marítimo Antonio Machado. A wide range of categories and prices all along the Benalmádena Costa seafront.
See places to stay in Benalmádena →
Frequently asked questions
- What is Bil-Bil Castle?
- A 1920s Moorish-revival villa, now the Benalmádena Cultural Centre. Free entry during exhibition hours.
- Does it have a Blue Flag?
- Yes, certifying water quality and facilities.
- How do I get here from Málaga?
- Cercanías line C-1, Benalmádena station. 25 minutes from Málaga María Zambrano.
- Are there water activities?
- At Benalmádena marina (2 km away) there are boat trip operators and water sports companies.
The verdict
Bil-Bil has the most cinematic setting in Benalmádena. A fairytale castle, fine Blue Flag sand and the best marina in the area two kilometres away. A full day guaranteed.
