Where to Stay in Benalmadena: Best Areas & Hotels

If this is your first time travelling to Benalmadena and you’re unsure where to stay, I’ve covered everything you need to know in this guide. I’ve broken down every area, what makes them good or not-so-good, and which are best for different types of travellers.

I’m a Costa del Sol native expert who constantly explores Benalmadena and its surroundings. I’ve been visiting Benalmadena since I was a kid, so the place holds a special place in my heart; in fact, it’s where I’m getting married.

Therefore, besides knowing the area, I’ve had to do the research for my British family who are coming.

Without further ado, here is my ultimate guide to where to stay in Benalmadena.

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Quick summary of where to stay in Benalmadena

• Best for nightlife: Benalmádena Costa and Puerto Marina
• Best for families: Arroyo de la Miel, Torrequebrada and Torremuelle
• Best for couples: Benalmádena Pueblo and Torrequebrada
• Best for budget: Benalmádena Pueblo and Arroyo de la Miel

Main areas to stay in Benalmadena

Benalmadena Pueblo

👉 Best for: couples, culture, relaxing stays
👉 Downsides: you need transport to the beaches

One of the most charming areas in Benalmadena is the old town. It isn’t as touristy as the coast, so this is a good place to stay for authenticity and attractions. It’s cosy, welcoming and picturesque.

Here is where you will find historical buildings like Colomares Castle, a monument shaped like a castle and a must-see for anyone who loves photography. Personally, it’s quite small and gets crowded, but you can still visit it without the crowds if you go as soon as they open or during the last 30 minutes before they close. I love it.

Other places to visit in Benalmadena Pueblo are the Pre-Columbian museum, the Butterfly Park (great for families with small children!) and the Buddhist temple.

Due to its size and atmosphere, there aren’t many accommodation options. You won’t find all-inclusive resorts and chain hotels here. If you’re after a beach holiday, I wouldn’t stay here. It isn’t within walking distance of the beach. It’s at the top of a hill. I would still visit it for a few hours one day.

Accommodation recommendations in Benalmadena Pueblo

• Hotel La Fonda de Benalmádena (4-star)
• Boutique Hotel Pueblo (2-star)
• Hotel Casa Rosa (2-star)

Benalmadena Costa and Puerto Marina

👉 Best for: first-time visitors, nightlife, beach holidays
👉 Downsides: it can be crowded and noisy

Benalmadena’s main marina is surrounded by many hotels, and it’s a popular choice among travellers who want a beach holiday with a lively atmosphere. Puerto Marina has a bit of everything, from supermarkets and clothing shops to restaurants, pubs, and attractions like Sea Life.

Besides winter, the port has a buzzing atmosphere with all sorts of travellers. Therefore, don’t stay here if you don’t like the crowds. I think it’s perfect for partying but not for a romantic getaway.

It’s a very convenient location, of course, you have everything you need, and you’re a walk from attractions like Selwo Marina, Parque de la Paloma and the cable car.

Accommodation recommendations in Puerto Marina

• Comfy Studios Hotel (5-star)
• Mac Puerto Marina Benalmádena (4-star)
• Apartamentos MS Puerto Marina (3-star)

Torrequebrada

👉 Best for: romantic getaway, beach holidays
👉 Downsides: it can be expensive

This is my top recommendation for anyone who wants a beach holiday without the crowds. It’s outside the main centre, but you aren’t that far from places like Bil Bil Beach and Parque de la Paloma. It’s easy to walk to these.

There are quite a few resorts like Sunset Beach Club, Hotel Best Benalmadena and Estival Torrequebrada. They have half board or full board options, an on-site pool and other great facilities while you’re right on the beachfront.

I would only recommend these options if you’re staying longer than a weekend, as some require a minimum stay of 4 nights. These hotels aren’t open all year round; they close during winter.

Regarding restaurants, you have beach restaurants serving delicious fresh seafood and fish, Mexican-inspired dishes, burgers and Italian dishes. Tulum is my go-to place for smashed burgers with a beautiful sea view.

Accommodation recommendations in Torrequebrada

• Estival Torrequebrada (4-star)
• Hotel Best Benalmadena (4-star)
• Sunset Beach Club (4-star)

Arroyo de la Miel

👉 Best for: families, longer stays, budget travellers
👉 Downsides: it isn’t directly on the beach

Arroyo de la Miel is the modern centre of Benalmadena and a convenient location, if you’re especially relying on public transport to move around Benalmadena and other towns on the Costa del Sol, since the main train station is there.

It’s home to plenty of restaurants, bars, and cafes, and it’s next to the cable car. If you walk down the hill, you can easily go to Parque de la Paloma, Selwo Marina or Bil Bil Castle and Beach.

I would recommend staying here for short stays year-round, as most accommodation is open during the off-season. Nevertheless, most of the accommodation you’ll find is either a hostel or an apartment/home rental via platforms like VRBO and Airbnb.

Accommodation recommendations in Arroyo de la Miel

I recommend checking the map below to find VRBO homes within Arroyo de la Miel:

Torremuelle

👉 Best for: beach holiday
👉 Downsides: it isn’t within walking distance of the main attractions

Similar to Torrequebrada, Torremuelle is a tranquil area with reputable and well-known resorts. It’s a great place to be away from the crowds; however, you can still be pretty close to the attractions when driving or taking an Uber.

For me, the highlight of Torremuelle is the beaches. Playa Bonita is one of my favourite beaches in Benalmadena. The water colour, the cosiness of the small beach, and the lack of crowds make it fantastic. Other lovely nearby beaches include Playa de Torremuelle and Playa Malibu.

If you love photos, you must check out the viewpoint swing at sunset!

Accommodation recommendations in Torremuelle

• Hotel Benalma Costa del Sol (4-star hotel)
• Holiday World Village, Affiliated by Melia (top choice for families)

If you don’t like the resort vibes, I recommend searching for VRBO and Airbnb apartments in this area.

Extra local tips on deciding where to stay

• Pick your hotel based on the area and travel style. You can find accommodation at all sorts of prices around Benalmadena.
• Book accommodation in advance. Many hotels fill up quickly during the peak season (June to September), especially those offering package holidays; therefore, I suggest booking as soon as you can.
• If you want to visit Malaga and other towns such as Fuengirola by train or bus, staying near Arroyo de la Miel is your best choice.
• The most touristy area is Puerto Marina, so if you aren’t a fan of Irish bars and crowds, avoid it.

Short FAQ

Conclusion

The best area to stay in Benalmadena will be different from person to person. If you love resorts, you have many options in Torrequebrada. If you want to be in the hustle and bustle of the city, you’ll like the Puerto Marina area and its surroundings. For a more authentic experience, head to the old town.

Overall, there’s no wrong choice; it’s really down to your preferences.

Do you have any questions about Benalmadena? Join my Facebook group, it’s the best place to get your questions answered and connect with other travellers and me.

Enjoy your holiday in Benalmadena!

Cristina