Arroyo de la Miel is the residential district of Benalmádena, very different from the tourist strip of Benalmádena Costa. Its beach, 700 metres of fine sand, has free parking, direct access from the train station and, a few kilometres away, the cable car that climbs Mount Calamorro with views of Africa on clear days.
Getting there
Cercanías line C-1, Arroyo de la Miel-Benalmádena station. The beach is a 5-7 minute walk away — without question the most convenient option. By car: free parking beside the promenade, usually with no trouble even in summer.
Facilities
- ✓ Lifeguard
- ✓ Beach bar
- ✓ Showers and toilets
- ✓ Free parking
- ✓ Accessible for people with reduced mobility
The Benalmádena cable car
A few kilometres from the beach, the Benalmádena cable car climbs from Arroyo de la Miel to the summit of Mount Calamorro (771 m). The ascent takes 15 minutes and on clear days the African coast is perfectly visible. At the top there are falconry displays with birds of prey and viewpoints in every direction. Beach in the morning plus cable car in the afternoon is one of the best plans in Benalmádena.
What to do nearby
The Tívoli World site is 2 km away (closed since 2020; reopening pending, so check before going). Benalmádena marina is 3 km away. Parque de la Paloma in Benalmádena Costa is 4 km away.
Places to stay nearby
Apartments and hotels in Arroyo de la Miel at more reasonable prices than on the seafront. A good base for exploring all of Benalmádena by train.
See places to stay in Benalmádena →
Frequently asked questions
- How do I get to the cable car from the beach?
- A 15-20 minute walk up through the district, or five minutes by taxi. The cable car entrance is on Avenida del Teleférico in Arroyo de la Miel.
- Can you get here by train?
- Yes, Arroyo de la Miel-Benalmádena station on the C-1 line. The beach is a 5-7 minute walk away.
- Is there free parking?
- Yes, beside the promenade. Usually no trouble finding a space.
The verdict
Arroyo de la Miel is Benalmádena without the crowds. A quiet beach, easy parking, a train station five minutes away and the cable car up Calamorro for an afternoon at altitude. Literally.
