Santa Ana Beach in Benalmádena offers the best family day out on the whole Costa del Sol: a morning on a Blue Flag beach and an afternoon at Parque de la Paloma, where ducks, peacocks and other birds roam freely five minutes’ walk from the sand. A kilometre of beach designed around families.
Getting there
Benalmádena Costa local buses, or Cercanías line C-1 to Benalmádena station plus a connecting bus. By car: paid parking on Avenida del Mar. Free alternative at Parque de la Paloma, a 10-minute walk from the beach.
Facilities
- ✓ Lifeguards
- ✓ Beach bar
- ✓ Showers and toilets
- ✓ Sunbed hire
- ✓ Children’s playground
- ✓ Fully accessible
The perfect family plan
Parque de la Paloma, five minutes’ walk away, has ducks, peacocks, chickens and other birds roaming semi-freely that children can feed directly. Beach in the morning plus park in the afternoon is the most complete plan for families with young children anywhere on the western Costa del Sol. The playground beside the beach is among the best equipped in the town.
What to do nearby
Parque de la Paloma, five minutes away. Benalmádena marina, 3 km away, with boat trips. The cable car up Mount Calamorro for panoramic views. The Tívoli World site is 2 km away, though the theme park has been closed since 2020 and its reopening is still pending — check its status before counting on it.
Places to stay nearby
Family hotels in Benalmádena Costa with direct access to the promenade. Many have pools and children’s entertainment programmes.
See places to stay in Benalmádena →
Frequently asked questions
- What is Parque de la Paloma?
- A free municipal park with semi-free-roaming animals (ducks, peacocks, chickens). Five minutes from Santa Ana beach.
- Is it good for young children?
- One of the best in Benalmádena. Children’s playground, Blue Flag, adapted access and the animal park next door.
- Does it have a Blue Flag?
- Yes, in recognition of its water quality and facilities.
The verdict
Santa Ana is the family beach of Benalmádena. If you’re travelling with children, beach plus Parque de la Paloma plus the marina makes a perfect day without leaving the town.
