Last Updated on January 8, 2023 by Suzy McCullough
Spain remains one of the most popular sun-kissed holiday destinations for families in Europe and indeed the world. We have had some lovely holidays in Spain and one of our favourites was Benalmadena in the Costa Del Sol. The name roughly translates to the sun coast. The name sums the area up beautifully as it basks in more than its fair share of sunny days throughout the year.
This glorious climate combined with the miles and miles of dreamy beaches, the magnificent mountainous backdrops, the delectable cuisine and the friendly people all join together to result in its popularity. The Globales Los Patos will be a big hit with the kids and the Ikos Andalusia is located next to a gorgeous beach. When it comes to choosing accommodation there are many family-friendly hotels in the area and below we look at some of the very best for those travelling to the Costa de Sol with children. If you click on a link in this piece, we may earn affiliate revenue.
Globales Los Patos Park
Address: C. Torrealmádena, 5, 29630 Benalmádena, Málaga, Spain
About – The delightful Andalusian town of Benalmadena is the home of the Globales Los Patos Park hotel. Benalmadena boasts gorgeous long stretches of golden sandy beaches, ideal for memorable, lazy days playing ball games, swimming and snorkelling. The hotel itself is fully geared up for the enjoyment of families. The on-site splash park is an absolute winner for younger guests with its super cool pirate ship, colourful slides and mischievous water cannon.
There is a great range of dryland activities to take part in too, including aerobics, dance classes and table tennis. Mealtimes can be enjoyed at the international buffet-style restaurant, and there are also various snack bars around the hotel which offer drinks and snacks throughout the day.
Why We Love the Globales Los Patos Park hotel
- On-Site Aquapark
- Fun Atmosphere
Iberostar Malaga Playa
Address: Avenida Ferrara, s/n, 29793 Torrox Costa, Málaga, Spain
About – The Iberostar Malaga Playa enjoys a marvellous reputation with families returning year after year to enjoy the comfortable facilities, outstanding service and great food. Younger guests will never be short of things to do as they explore the splash park and join in at the Kid’s Camp.
This inspired hotel kids’ clubs goes to a new level. It is similar to that of a scout camp where children can challenge themselves and learn through fun activities such as problem-solving, cooking and crafts. Mealtimes can be enjoyed at the large buffet-style restaurant where some evenings guests can view the entertaining show cooking by the chefs. Evening entertainment is varied and fun with something to please everyone.
Why We Love the Iberostar Malaga Playa
- On the Seafront
- Splash Park With Slides
Ikos Andalusia
Address: N-340, Km 164, 29680 Estepona, Málaga, Spain
About – The Ikos Andalusia enjoys an outstanding reputation for offering complete luxury in a family-friendly environment. The hotel itself sits within seventeen acres of pretty, well-manicured grounds and looks out over the sparkling Mediterranean sea. There are various outdoor pools to have fun in, plus the indoor heated dip pool at the spa. Some of the family-focused activities include super fun kids’ clubs, the use of kayaks and games of beach volleyball.
Estepona is a beautiful town on the Costa del Sol. Imagine whitewashed houses, traditional cobbled streets, golden sandy beaches and a magnificent mountain backdrop. Enjoy the perfect combination of traditional Spanish tapas and flamenco dancing and sophisticated shops, bars and restaurants.
Why We Love the Ikos Andalusia
- 9 Pools, 9 Bars and 9 Restaurants
- Beachfront
Benalmadena Palace
Address: C. Cam. Gilabert, 29630 Benalmádena, Málaga, Spain
About – The Benalmadena Palace takes on a very relaxed vibe, but still manages to offer masses of family-friendly activities throughout each day and into the evening. There is a large main pool area, which is the heart of the activities. From relaxing on a lounger to joining in with the aqua aerobics classes you can laze away the days here under the glorious Spanish sun.
During the summer months, there are delicious and sociable outdoor barbeques, where you can choose the meat you have and how it is cooed before enjoying it on the pool terrace. Mealtimes can also be enjoyed at the buffet-style restaurant which focuses on the very best of Mediterranean cuisine. There are plenty of activities to join in with, from football and volleyball to basketball and mini golf. There’s also a playground where younger guests can let off steam.
Why We Love the Benalmadena Palace
- Great for Families
- Spacious Studios and Apartments
MAC Puerto Marina Benalmadena
Address: Avenida del Puerto Deportivo, s/n, 29630 Benalmádena, Málaga, Spain
About – Located very close to the beautiful and vibrant Benalmadena marina the MAC Puerto Marina Benalmadena is a great choice for families. Just a stone’s throw from the local golden sandy beach the hotel enjoys a conveniently central position along the coast of the town. The property takes on an aesthetically pleasing Moorish style with whitewashed walls and impressive arches.
For those lazy afternoons, why not treat yourself to room service or enjoy the brand-new spa area, which features an inviting indoor pool, gym, massage room and sauna? There is a large outdoor pool, and a separate children’s section ideal for little ones to get in a bit of swimming practice. The on-site restaurant is buffet-style and offers show cooking for both breakfast and dinner. Evening entertainment can be enjoyed by the whole family and usually involves professional dance shows and live music.
Why We Love the MAC Puerto Marina Benalmadena
- Close to Benalmadena Marina
- Sandy Beach Nearby
Occidental Fuengirola
Address: C. Miguel Márquez, 43, 29640 Fuengirola, Málaga, Spain
About – The delightful long stretches of golden sandy beaches and the calm waters make the coastline of Fuengirola the ideal destination for a beach holiday with a young family. The Occidental Fuengirola enjoys the perfect location, right on the seafront promenade meaning you can enjoy the surrounding area and all it offers as easily as the great hotel facilities.
The nice-sized family pool offers far-reaching sea views and is the ideal place to relax and cool off. The rooms are modern, stylish and well-equipped to ensure absolute comfort throughout your stay. The area is packed full of delightful cafes and restaurants, but you can also choose to eat at the hotel where you will find an al la carte that serves traditional Spanish cuisine and a buffet-style eatery which serves a great variety of international dishes.
Why We Love the Occidental Fuengirola
- On the Seafront
- Great Location
Kempinski Hotel Bahia
Address: Autovía del Mediterráneo, Km 159, 29680 Estepona, Málaga, Spain
About – If it is the perfect combination of luxury and style with family-friendly facilities and activities that you are looking for then the Kempinski Hotel Bahia is the ideal choice. From the chic and stylish interiors to the glitzy pool areas this hotel takes class to another level. The property is just a five-minute drive to the popular and bustling town of Estepona.
At the hotel, you will be charmed by its russet façade, and the towering turrets give it the feel of a Moorish palace. Inside, the marble-floored lobby is decorated with contemporary art, including paintings and sculptures by local artists. There are three pools of various sizes and plenty of wet and dryland activities to get involved with.
Why We Love the Kempinski Hotel Bahia
- 3 Outdoor Pools
- Beachfront Location
Fuengirola Beach
Address: 29640 Fuengirola, Málaga, Spain
About – The fabulous stretches of golden sandy beaches and the calm, shimmering waters make the coastline of Fuengirola the ideal destination for a beach holiday with a young family. Fuengirola Beach Hotel provides superb family-friendly accommodation in the form of bright and modern apartments. The combination of convenient location, spacious self-catering accommodation and great facilities make Fuengirola Beach very popular with holidaymakers many of whom return year after year.
The beach is just across the road and the ideal destination for days spent swimming, playing ball games and soaking up some rays. The hotel has a great-sized family pool and plenty of super fun entertainment in the evenings. Younger guests will love the musical mini disco, while adults can kick back with a cocktail or two from the lounge bar.
Why We Love the Fuengirola Beach
- Close to the Beach and Resort Centre
- Friendly Atmosphere
Holiday Village Costa del Sol
Address: Rotonda de los Elefantes, Av. del Sol, 195, 29630 Benalmádena, Málaga, Spain
About – The Holiday Village Costa del Sol enjoys a spacious location just on the outskirts of the super popular town of Benalmadena. This resort has been designed with families in mind with a whole array of fun activities and facilities. The whole family will love challenging themselves on the adrenaline-fuelled Aerial Adventure course, whilst younger guests can explore the duo of playgrounds.
The aquatic zone is fabulous fun, with one pool sporting elephant jet hoses and a second pool featuring a giant pirate ship to explore and a wave machine to endure! The hotel has a beach club just across the road and it is the perfect spot for lunch between sandcastle design and snorkelling. In addition to a crowd-pleasing international buffet place, there is also an American Diner on site and an Italian restaurant which serves all your pizza and pasta favourites.
Why We Love the Holiday Village Costa del Sol
- Seafront Hotel
- Theatre for Shows
Hotel Balcon De Europa
Address: Pl. Balcón de Europa, 1, 29780 Nerja, Málaga, Spain
About – The Hotel Balcon de Europa is a unique property, built into the rock face and literally just a few steps from this splendid attraction. The hotel boasts a compact but stylish infinity pool, lined with comfortable loungers. Plus, there is a fabulous a la carte seafood restaurant and of course an easily accessible beachfront.
Every way you look this very popular hotel offers a stunning view. Whilst the on-site facilities at the hotel are modest, the location gives you immediate access to a whole range of shops, restaurants and attractions guaranteed to please all members of the family.
Why We Love the Hotel Balcon de Europa
- On the Beach
- In the Old Town
For further reading and holiday inspiration please check out the following posts:
20 Best All-Inclusive Family Hotels in Spain
10 Best Budget Family Hotels Spain
10 Best Hotels Spain With Waterparks
14 Best Beachfront Family Friendly Hotels Spain
10 Best Themed Hotels for Families in Spain
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