Parque de la Paloma in Benalmadena – family guide, walking routes and attractions at Benal Beach

Parque de la Paloma is the green heart of the resort and one of those places where adults truly relax while children still have “one more thing to see.” This urban park is perfectly located: close to beachfront apartments, yet in a quiet, green area where it’s easy to find shade and a breath of fresh air. For families staying in the Benal Beach area, it’s a quick morning, afternoon, or leisurely stroll before dinner.

This guide provides a practical itinerary: the most convenient entrances, a 60-90-minute walking loop, the best attractions for children, and places to take a break. There are also tips for “heat-proofing,” photo ideas, and suggestions for combining the park with other attractions around the Costa del Sol. If your goal is a comfortable family day out with a “minimum logistics, maximum fun” approach, Parque de la Paloma is often the perfect place.

Parque de la Paloma – why families come back every day

This isn’t a park you just “do” once. In practice, Parque de la Paloma functions as a pleasant daily routine: a short walk from the apartment , a moment of play, animal watching, and a refreshment in the shade. Many people say the park has become a favorite place for family mornings because everything is so close at hand, and the attractions change automatically every few minutes.

Why does it work so well?

• different zones in one place (play, water, plants, quiet alleys),
• friendly alleys for strollers and small children,
• lots of greenery and shade in the middle of the city,
• the presence of animals and plants that fascinate children more than the screen,
• easy rhythm: 15 minutes of walking → 15 minutes of observation → 15 minutes of play.

In tourist rankings, the park is often described as a great place for a family outing – including on websites such as TripAdvisor.

Interesting fact: Parque de la Paloma was opened in 1995 and today covers approximately 200,000 m² as a large green area and one of the most recognizable walking areas on this part of the coast.

Where is the park located and how does it fit into the area map?

Where exactly is the park located? It’s very close to the seaside and has excellent connections to recreational areas.

In practice, Parque de la Paloma lies between the tourist area of ​​Benalmádena and the Arroyo de la Miel district. This is a huge advantage, as it’s easy to get to from the hostel, while also allowing you to quickly travel further afield, for example, to family attractions or the promenade.

In what region is all this happening?

• Benalmádena – a town on the coast,
• Costa del Sol – the main holiday zone,
• Andalusia – a region of Spain with a characteristic climate,
• nearest landmarks: Malaga, Torremolinos and Mijas .

For families planning more than one walk, it is worth treating this park as a “base camp” – it is close to the beach, smaller attractions, and places for ice cream, coffee or quick shopping.

The shortest route from Benal Beach to the park (stress-free and with a stroller)

If you’re looking for a quick walk from your beachfront apartment, Parque de la Paloma is ideally located for Benal Beach —usually a short walk away. The easiest route is towards Avenida Federico García Lorca (one of the more convenient approaches from the main streets).

In short:

• start: near Benal Beach, near the promenade and apartments,
• entrance: convenient gates from the main streets,
• navigation: straight uphill towards dense greenery.

It is also worth remembering one simple phrase: it is best to visit Parque de la Paloma in the morning or late afternoon – then it is more pleasant and the animals are more active.

What makes Parque de la Paloma stand out from other Costa del Sol attractions?

There are plenty of family attractions on the Costa del Sol, but many are noisy, expensive, or “all-inclusive.” Parque de la Paloma is different because:

• is a natural oasis of greenery,
• allows you to relax without the pressure of a schedule,
• children have attractions “along the way”, not in one zone.

That’s why the park is often cited as one of the best places for a family walk in the region. Some lists even list it as one of the “25 Most Beautiful Parks in Europe” – alongside icons like Madrid’s Retiro Park.

Animals in the Park: Little Safari for Kids (tickets not included)

This is one of the biggest attractions: at Parque de la Paloma, animals are part of the daily walk. For children, it’s a “wow” moment, with no lines or fees.

Who can you meet?

Many species can be seen and heard in the park – sometimes literally a few meters from the path.

• ducks (often at the pond),
• geese,
• swans,
• turtles basking on the stones,
• rabbits on the lawns,
• peacocks strutting proudly between the alleys,
• pigeons near benches and entrances,
• in selected zones there are also “farm” animals such as chickens,
• sometimes even an emu appears (for children this is usually the biggest surprise).

For a better imagination, you can treat it as a mini-zoo, because the park has several zones that resemble small, open mini enclosures.

An important rule: the park is “wild and tame” at the same time – the animals are worth watching, but without chasing or touching.

Pond and water attractions: a peaceful attraction for the whole family

The pond at Parque de la Paloma is a magnet: children watch birds, parents take photos, and the walk slows down for a moment. Ducks and swans are the most common sights here, with fish and the aforementioned turtles also spotted along the shore.

For safety around small children, it is worth adopting a simple rule:

• watching – yes,
• running by the shore – no,
• feeding only in a controlled manner (no bread).

This is a great time for a short break, a sip of water, and some quiet family photos.

Greenery, plants and a cactus garden: a “wow zone” in the middle of a walk

If children enjoy unusual things, the cactus and succulent garden is a must-see. It’s a section of the park where the plants look otherworldly, and a walk becomes a mini lesson in flora.

Important keywords worth remembering:

• cactus (one of the hits for children),
• plants with thick leaves and thorns – great for photos,
• single palm trees in a park atmosphere,
• many deciduous trees that provide shade even in the heat.

This place is particularly picturesque in good light – and photography looks best here in the late afternoon.

Playgrounds and exercise: activity zones for children and adults

The park is family-friendly, but not “boring.” There are both play areas and activities for adults.

What is particularly useful for families?

• several play areas for children (various levels of difficulty),
• lots of open space to run,
• activity elements such as exercise equipment (simple outdoor training),
• a place where you can easily spread out a blanket.

For those who enjoy exercise, the park has an “active” element – it’s a good stop for a quick family sport (no stress, more of a “get-starter”).

60-90 minute walking route: a ready-made loop for families

Below is a ready-made plan for a loop that works best with children. It’s the most versatile option because it combines animals, play, and plants.

Family loop step by step

1. Entrance : closest from Benal Beach
2. First Fun Zone : 10–15 minutes warm-up
3. Pond : bird watching + photos
4. Cactus Garden : A Break in the Shade
5. Second fun zone : closing the children’s route
6. Return : a calm arc to the exit

Sunset is especially recommended in the evening, as the light becomes soft and the park takes on a peaceful atmosphere.

Table: entrances and most convenient approaches (for strollers and children)

Practice: Toilets, Breaks, Shade, and a Family Heat Plan

When vacationing in Spain, the most important rule is simple: keep your plan realistic. A rhythm works best:

• 15–20 minutes walk,
• 5 minutes break in the shade,
• water + quick snack,
• return to attractions.

Simple rituals also work great with children:

• “a sip of water at every bench”
• “a photo by the pond and one by the cacti”
• “playground at the start and end”

If the plan is to take a break for food, a picnic is best – the park has plenty of lawns where you can sit comfortably and without crowds.

What to pack for a family trip to the park

Minimalist list (so as not to carry too much):

• water (for children and adults),
• hats / headgear,
• SPF cream,
• wipes + mini first aid kit,
• small snacks,
• optional: binoculars or a children’s sketchbook.

Parque de la Paloma as part of a 2-day itinerary

Holidays on the Costa del Sol often follow a similar pattern: beach, pool, walk, dinner. Parque de la Paloma fits perfectly into this plan as an “in-between” attraction – no commute or tight schedule.

Day 1: beach + park + quiet evening

• morning at the beach (shortly before it gets hot),
• returning to the apartment for a while,
• 60–90 minutes with Parque de la Paloma,
• dinner in the neighborhood and a leisurely walk.

Day 2: Family-friendly attractions nearby (easy selection)

Variants to choose from:

• Selwo Marina (nice option for an “animal day”),
• a short trip to Malaga (if the children can handle the city well),
• transfer to Torremolinos to the promenade or other attractions,
• a short trip to Mijas for views and atmosphere.

This is a good arrangement because the park “reduces” the logistics: it acts as a light attraction between larger events. It also offers something parents love most: beautiful views of the Mediterranean Sea at the nearby walking trails.

Overnight stay near the park: Benal Beach and quick access on foot

For families, the convenience is simple: the closer to the greenery, the better. If you stay overnight in the Benal Beach area, the park becomes an “everyday attraction,” not an “excursion.”

Organizational tip: When choosing accommodation, it is worth checking the map and making sure that access to the park is easy and safe for a stroller.

This is a great solution, especially when the plan is for a relaxing holiday: the beach in the morning, the park in the afternoon, without having to travel by car.

FAQ: frequently asked questions

Is there an entrance fee to Parque de la Paloma?

No, admission is free. This is one of the biggest advantages for families – you can visit several times a day without having to count the cost. Expenses are limited to coffee, ice cream, and souvenirs, if you choose to buy them.

What is the best time to visit the park with children?

It’s best to go in the morning or late afternoon, when it’s cooler and the animals are more active. Plan for shorter, shaded sections at midday and more frequent water breaks. Before entering, check the seasonal hours signs.

Can you feed animals in the park?

We don’t feed bread—it’s harmful to birds and the water. If you prefer, use special grains for waterfowl and keep your distance. Remember to respect wild rabbits and peacocks—we don’t touch or chase them.

Is the park stroller friendly?

Yes. The paths are wide and well-maintained, with gentle slopes. The most convenient stroller gates are located on Avenida del Parque and Avenida Federico García Lorca. You’ll find shaded benches every few hundred meters.

Where to park your car near Parque de la Paloma?

Parking is available on the streets surrounding the park, especially on Avenida del Parque and Avenida Federico García Lorca. During peak season, arrive early – spaces fill up faster, and fees may apply in some areas.

Summary: why is it worth coming back here?

Parque de la Paloma is a quick, safe, and very pleasant family destination in Benalmádena, especially for those staying near Benal Beach. The park combines animals, playgrounds, plants, and peaceful paths, ensuring children won’t get bored even on shorter walks. Furthermore, it’s convenient: everything is close by, and the Andalusian climate is perfect for walks almost year-round.

Finally, one thought that perfectly captures the essence of this attraction: it’s a true paradise for lovers of peaceful family walks – ticket-free, stress-free, with nature at your fingertips. And if your itinerary includes a few days in Spain, Parque de la Paloma is a great way to close the schedule between the beach and larger excursions in the surrounding area, even if the goal is a quick reset in the here and now.