Ultimate Guide To Parque De La Paloma

Whether you love green spaces, want a place to set up a picnic, or want a family-friendly spot, Parque de la Paloma ticks all the boxes.

Since I was a kid, I’ve come to Parque de la Paloma, and I can tell you it’s an emblematic place in Benalmadena.

I’d probably say it’s one of the best parks on the Costa del Sol. It’s big, it has good facilities, and it’s the place to disconnect from the hustle and bustle of Arroyo de la Miel or Puerto Marina.

In this guide, I’ve compiled all the information you need before heading to this park based on my personal experience.

Pinterest pin featuring four images of La Paloma Park in Benalmadena, Spain.

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Location and how to get there

Artificial lake at Parque de la Paloma in Benalmadena.

Parque de la Paloma, also known as “Dove Park”, is located between Arroyo de la Miel, which is considered Benalmadena centre, and Benalmadena Costa. It’s in a very good location.

If you stay in the centre or near Bil Bil Beach and Castle, you can easily walk to the park. I even walk from Torrequebrada and Puerto Marina. It’s about 30 minutes one way, so if you don’t mind walking, it’s a nice walk.

For other locations, you’ll want to come by car, and you’ll be there in no time. There is a street car park on the sides of the park, and you are likely to find a space, especially in the morning, although it sometimes does get busy.

Map of Parque de la Paloma

1. Set up a picnic

Cristina sat on the grass looking the artificial lake in La Paloma Park in Benalmadena, Spain.

One of my favourite things to do in Parque de la Paloma is to have a picnic with friends. There are many green spaces across the park where you can lay out your tablecloth, set down your basket, and enjoy small bites.

It’s a fantastic activity in Benalmadena off-season, when it isn’t too hot or cold, and it’s budget-friendly too.

I like sitting near the hill where you can enjoy a view of the artificial lake, but it’s a bit inclined, so if you’re looking for a flat surface, consider the area with the head sculptures.

2. See the cacti

Cacti garden in Parque de la Paloma, Benalmadena, Spain.

Within Parque de la Paloma, you’ll find the Cacti Garden, which is one of the most photogenic spots in the whole park. This relatively small area has over 400 species of cacti and succulents, which is quite impressive. The Benalmadena tourism website mentions that it’s in fact one of the best collections of cacti and succulents in Europe.

If you’re into the plant world, you can find informative signs to learn more about these cacti.

3. Spot the animals

Rabbits, peacocks, pigeons, chickens… I simply love the fact that animals freely run around the park. I must admit I don’t see as many animals as there used to be. In my last visit, I didn’t see rabbits, but you can still find other little animals.

Besides the ones that are wandering around the park, you can also find others enclosed, such as the Malaga goats.

Also, pay attention to the ponds and the big artificial lake where swans, ducks and turtles live. I have even heard and seen frogs too.

4. Take photos

Big bench at Parque de la Paloma, a photo spot.

Parque de la Paloma fountain with marble sculpture in the middle.

If you’re into photography, you have plenty of photo opportunities at Parque de la Paloma.

There are many beautiful corners to be photographed, from cacti and sculptures to ponds, fountains and small animals.

Here is a list of my favourite things to take pictures of:

Main artificial lake from above
Cacti and succulents garden
Bamboo trees and small pond with view of Benalmadena library
Head sculptures

📷Looking for other places to take photos in Benalmadena? This detailed guide includes my go-to places and photography tips.

5. Let the kids enjoy their time at the playgrounds

One of the playgrounds at Parque de la Paloma, Benalmadena.

Visiting Parque de la Paloma is one of the best things to do in Benalmadena with kids.

Children love spotting different animals at the park and running in the green areas.

However, you can also let them burn off their energy at one of the playgrounds while you watch them from a bench or join them.

Where to eat in Parque de la Paloma

Small kiosk with table service in Parque de la Paloma, Benalmadena.

While you are a stone’s throw from restaurants and bars, you can also have food at Parque de la Paloma.

I always opt for having my own picnic or eating somewhere else, as I think there are better places to enjoy a meal, but you have these options too.

Café Bar Europa Benalmádena

This cafe at the bottom of Parque de la Paloma is the main spot to have a drink or meal inside the park. The food menu has burgers, salads and sharing dishes like nachos. It looks quite simple.

It has a 3.8 out of 5 on Google, and the main downside is the waiting time. The service can be slow. Having said that, I haven’t eaten here, so I can’t confirm this.

Kiosco La Paloma

You can buy gummies, crisps, biscuits, ice cream and drinks from this little kiosk.

However, it isn’t the average kiosk since they also offer table service, serving coffee and sweets like American pancakes.

Other information

Free public toilets are available inside the park. Note that they aren’t spotless or modern, from my experience, but it’s good that you don’t need to pay to access them.
Don’t leave any rubbish behind. I know this applies to anywhere you go, but it’s even more important here as animals live in the park.
You don’t need more than an hour to walk around the park. However, you can spend more time if you’re having a picnic, stopping for a drink or visiting with children.
Don’t feed the animals. It’s actually mentioned on the sign before entering the park. Staff feed them.

Things to do near Parque de la Paloma

Bil Bil Castle in Benalmadena Costa, Spain.

As I mentioned above, this park is very central, and you’re a short walk from other attractions.

If you aren’t a resident and it’s your first time in the city, you probably want to discover other places after visiting the park.

Here is a list of nearby spots with the walking distance for reference:

Arroyo de la Miel (15 minute walk)

This is the main hub in Benalmadena, which refers to the area where you find the train station. You can find shops, restaurants, and traditional small squares surrounded by bars where locals and travellers gather for an alfresco lunch or coffee break.

Playa de Santa Ana (10 minute walk)

If you fancy spending time at the beach, this is the closest beach to Parque de la Paloma. While it isn’t the prettiest and I do think there are more beautiful beaches, it has great facilities.

Castillo de El-Bil-Bil (10 minute walk)

Bil Bil Castle isn’t the average castle, as you’ll find the tourism office inside, and it’s a common spot for intimate wedding ceremonies and events.

Nevertheless, it’s nice to get a picture from the outside and find other scattered pieces of it across the beach promenade.

Puerto Marina (25 minute walk)

Benalmadena Marina is a touristy place, and I feel you either love it or hate it. The Marina has plenty of shops, restaurants and family-friendly activities such as boat tours, Sealife and the Benalmadena wheel.