Benalmadena holidays

If you fancy a view with a difference, head to the impressive Buddhist stūpa on the edge of town. The largest stūpa in Europe, the 33m-high (108ft) monument has a panorama of the coastline and a weekly programme of peaceful events. Another spot to find serenity is Benalmádena’s old town. Here, whitewashed houses decorated with colourful flowers line narrow streets.

When it is time for a night out, start at the glitzy marina, where you can admire luxurious yachts before choosing a waterside restaurant for dinner. When the sun drops, the marina becomes one of the Costa del Sol’s best party destinations. From Irish pubs and karaoke to a chilly ice bar and pumping clubs with DJs and packed dancefloors, there’s something for every taste.

If you want to beat the biggest crowds and potentially score a cheap holiday deal, consider visiting in May or September. You’ll still get plenty of sun-filled days and average temperatures will be around 20C.

Even in winter, there are highs of 17C in December and 16C in January. You’ll find less going on in town (theme parks are closed, for example), but you may score some cheap accommodation outside high season. The other compromise? There’s more chance of rain at this time of year.

Benalmádena’s coastline has more than 9km (6 miles) of beaches including the popular Playa Malapesquera. Located near the marina, it’s ideal if you want to hire a boat or try a watersport.

Another popular choice for families is Carvajal Beach, a little further down the coast. It’s great for sunbathing and has plenty to do between the chiringuitos, shops and restaurants nearby.

For something quieter, head for the coves of Torremuelle. Note that nudists are welcome here.

Amusement parks

Two amusement parks are within a 15-minute drive of Benalmádena. Tivoli World, a fairground-style theme park, has more than 30 attractions. Hop on the Ferris wheel for an impressive view of the coast or take on the 60-metre tower drop to get your heart pumping.

Aqualand Torremolinos, meanwhile, is the Costa del Sol’s biggest waterpark. Here, you’re invited to plunge down (and up) the huge half pipe or try the vertigo-inducing Kamikaze drop (it’s 22m high!). There are more sedate slides, ideal for younger swimmers, at Kidzworld.

Animal encounters

Head to the marina’s Sea Life Aquarium to check out everything from sharks and colourful clownfish to octopuses and sea turtles. You’ll be able to stroke a starfish or crab, watch otters having their lunch and have a go at feeding rays yourself.

Next to the Buddhist stūpa, Mariposario de Benalmádena is a butterfly park in spectacular grounds. Colourful butterflies fly freely around the lush surrounds that include big-leaved plants, ponds and waterfalls.

Colomares Castle

This unusual castle is an elaborate monument to explorer Christopher Columbus. It was the dream of US surgeon Dr Esteban Martín Martín, who designed and funded the project’s seven-year build.

The castle has towers more than 30m (nearly 100ft) high in a mix of Moorish, Gothic and Byzantine architectural styles. The design references Columbus’s travels, and inside the complex, a large book details his voyages. Also worth a look is the tiny church, said to be one of the world’s smallest.

Paloma Park

In the heart of Benalmádena, Paloma Park is a plant-filled sanctuary by the coast. The constructed green space is perfect for a stroll along paths around its lake and surrounded by the park’s residents – ducks, rabbits, peacocks and emus.

The park is a great spot for a run, or you can hire a four-seater quadricycle for a bit of family fun. Look out for the 2,000-plus cacti planted here.