If you’re travelling with the tots in tow, you’ll no doubt be searching for a destination that has a good mix of beaches and activities, to make sure that you never hear those dreaded two words, ‘I’m bored’. Getting the right balance can be tricky, but the Costa del Sol, with it’s superb coastline, family-friendly hotels and manageable flight times could be an option worth considering. It also has a wealth of activities and excursions to choose from, so you can keep the little darlings busy.
Water Parks
There’s nothing the kids love more than a water park, so slap on the factor 50 and take them to one of the many splashtastic options along the Costa del Sol. The largest is Aqualand Torremolinos, which is packed with flumes and slides for all ages. Those in search of adrenalin-inducing fun should try out the Boomerang, a 15-metre high half pipe with an almost sheer drop that’s sure to get the heart racing. Small children are also well catered for with Kidsworld Splash Park providing water-jets, fountains and mini-slides. Aquavelis, in Torre del Mar, is another popular park, with a good selection of slides, a splash park and ample sunbathing space, as well as the obligatory café and restaurant for all those ice-creams. It’s worth checking out opening times before you go, as some water parks close during the cooler months.
Parks & Gardens
There are numerous parks and gardens in the Costa Del Sol that will be popular with both kids and adults. La Concepcion Historical-Botanical Gardens in Malaga were created in around 1855 and feature a collection of tropical and subtropical plants and flowers. Smaller, but just as beautiful, are the Molino de Inca Botanical Gardens, located close to Aqualand Water Park in Torremolinos. This little slice of paradise showcases a stream, dotted with waterfalls, tropical plants and bridges. The newest addition is the Japanese Water Garden, which has an impressive collection of bonsai trees and a tranquil pond.
Castillo de Colomares & Tivoli World
A must for budding knights and mini-adventurers, Castillo de Colomares, a fairytale style castle built in the late ‘80s and early ‘90s, provides a fun day out for all. This was erected as a tribute memorial to Christopher Columbus and is one of Benalmadena’s top attractions. Explore the spires, turrets and ramparts of this Baroque and Gothic inspired building and let the kids’ imaginations run wild. Combine a trip to the castle with some time at Tivoli World, just a 15-minute drive away. Tivoli World is a charming funfair with a distinctly retro feel. Among other attractions, there’s a candy-striped carousel, roller coaster and giant ferris wheel, all of which are sure to encourage some squeals of excitement.
Natural Attractions
Those travelling with older children, may want to enjoy hiking, walking and picnics in Sierra de las Nieves, a natural park situated in the hills behind Marbella. There are numerous ways to enter the park and once inside, you’ll be able to take in the incredible natural scenery. There are picnic spots and recreational areas dotted throughout the park, so pack a lunch and enjoy a leisurely day. As well as hiking, activities in the area include mountain climbing and horse riding. El Torcal park, with its unusual rock formations, is also worth a look and is around 30 kilometres north of Malaga. You might fall in love with it so much and decide you’ll never want to leave! You never know, so thankfully Abogados Marbella can advise on any legal advice you might need to do so.
Cable Car & Sea Life Aquarium, Benalmadena
For outstanding views of the Costa del Sol and beyond, check out the Benalmadena Cable Car. The 15-minute ride is not for the faint-hearted and will scenically transport you up to the top of Mount Calamorro. The trip will take you up to 771 metres above sea level and if you look closely, you’ll be able to see the African shoreline in the distance. Whilst in Benalmadena you could also check out the Sea Life Aquarium. It’s the ideal place to escape the sun for a few hours and is packed with an array of sea creatures, from clown fish to sharks.
BioParc Fuengirola & Sould Park Fuengirola
If you’re looking for ideas for family days out, the resort of Fuengirola is worth considering, either as a base for your holiday or to visit for a day. As well as having a great beach, this lively resort serves up a feast of kid-friendly activities. The BioPark Fuengirola, is one option. More than just a zoo, this park is packed with a diverse selection of animals including lemurs, tortoises and lizards, which children can see at close quarters. Combine a morning here with a few hours at Sould Park, a funfair packed with low-key rides, slides and attractions, which is perfect for pre-school kids. If you have time, Fuengirola also has a miniature railway and adventure golf course.
Hopefully this has given you a few family-friendly ideas for your Spanish holiday schedule and if all else fails, remember the awesome beaches will provide hours of sand-castle building opportunities, which is all completely free.
