Marbella is a notable destination for families to spend their vacation, as the southern Spanish coast offers virtually endless fun in the sun. Whether you want to enjoy the beach, the park or a more unique kind of adventure, this Spanish town provides for all sorts of tastes and interests.
When you visit Marbella, fun for you and your little ones is always within arm's reach. You just need to know where to reach. Check out some of the best family things to do in Marbella that can make all ages happy.
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Bioparc Fuengirola
Take a trip to the zoo
- Families
Bioparc Fuengirola is a fascinating zoo where a diverse array of 200 animal species live in detailed replicas of their natural habitats. The zoo is split up into 4 different neighborhoods covering Madagascar, Equatorial Africa, the Indo-Pacific and South-East Asia.
Among the population of animals here, you and your little ones can see crocodiles, giant tortoises, servals and even gorillas. Plus, the zoo has a special children's area and events where you can see feedings. It's located in Fuengirola, just a few miles east of the city centre.
Location: C. Camilo José Cela, 6, y 8, 29640 Fuengirola, Málaga, Spain
Open: Daily from 10 am to 7 pm
Phone: +34 952 66 63 01
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Mariposario de Benalmáden
See exotic butterflies
- Families
Mariposario de Benalmáden is a glass-enclosed butterfly garden that you and your family can walk through while surrounded by vibrantly colored butterflies. Generally, you'll find somewhere between 1,500 and 2,000 butterflies here, including some from exotic species originating from tropics around the world.
In total, this garden houses about 150 different species of butterflies, but you'll also find some birds, turtles, fish, chameleons and even a Tammar Wallaby. It's all located just east of the city centre, about halfway to Malaga.
Location: Autovía del Mediterráneo A7, C. Muerdago, s/n, Salida 217, 29639 Benalmádena, Málaga, Spain
Open: Daily from 10 am to 7.30 pm
Phone: +34 951 21 11 96
Map - 3
Parque de la Alameda
Visit the jungle in the city
- Adventure
- Families
- Unusual
Parque de la Alameda is a pristine green space in town that transports visitors into the heart of a jungle without ever having to leave the city. The towering and vibrant greenery blocks the line of sight to surrounding buildings, making you feel like you're in a jungle.
While the jungle ambience is certainly enjoyable and offers a sense of adventure, the paths through the park are well-maintained and safe for everyone, including kids in strollers. Take a look for yourself just a few steps west of the city centre.
Location: Av. Ramón y Cajal, s/n, 29602 Marbella, Málaga, Spain
Open: 24/7
Phone: +34 952 76 11 00
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Selwo Aventura
Find fun with animals and activities
- Adventure
- Families
Selwo Aventura is an animal park and theme park combination in which you and your little ones can see a variety of species and partake in fun activities. More than 1,000 animal species from just about every continent are located here, and you can see them while enjoying a plethora of activities.
One of the most popular activities here is the hanging bridge from which you can get a bird's-eye view of the lynxes below. Additionally, you'll find bungee trampolines and opportunities for a 4WD tour. It's all located on the west side of town around Cancelada.
Location: Autovía del Mediterráneo, Km. 162, 5, 29680 Estepona, Málaga, Spain
Open: Daily from 10 am to 6 pm
Phone: +34 952 57 77 73
Map - 5
Marbella beaches
Take a dip in the water
- Families
Marbella beaches are among the crown jewels of the region, showcasing golden sands and inviting waters by the Mediterranean. Whether you and your family are looking to relax or spend some time in the water, you won't have to go far to find a suitable beach.
Over 18 miles of beaches are available in town, with some specifically family-oriented if you're looking to keep away from the party vibe found at some of the town's beach clubs. You'll find them all along the southern edge of the city.
Location: Marbella, Spain
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Aquamijas
Race down thrilling slides
- Families
Aquamijas is a water park that features slides and water-oriented activities suitable for the whole family whether you want speed or relaxation. The slides here are the star of the show and boast plenty of thrilling slopes to race down, but that's only the start.
In addition to the slides, this park also features sunbeds and 2 lazy river rides for those who want a more laid-back experience. Additionally, you'll find a children's area designed for kids 5 years of age and younger, so don't hesitate to visit if you have small children. The park is located in Las Lagunas, a few miles east of Marbella's city centre.
Location: Autovía del Mediterráneo, Km. 208, 29651 Las Lagunas de Mijas, Málaga, Spain
Open: Daily from 10.30 am to 6 pm
Phone: +34 952 46 04 04
Map - 7
Sould Park Fuengirola
Visit an amusement park designed for young kids
- Adventure
- Families
- Unusual
Sould Park Fuengirola is a theme park and amusement venue with simple rides and attractions that are designed for younger children. If you're traveling with kids who wouldn't enjoy a theme park geared toward adults and older kids, this is the perfect destination to make your kids' vacation truly special.
The rides at this theme park are fairly straightforward and include attractions like teacups, carousels, swings and more. As the name suggests, it's in Fuengirola, which is about halfway between Marbella and Malaga.
Location: Puerto Deportivo, P.º Marítimo Rey de España, 33, Parcela C2, 29640 Fuengirola, Málaga, Spain
Open: Daily from 6 pm to 1 am
Phone: +34 900 37 31 89
Mapphoto by Martin Lewison (CC BY 2.0) modified
- 8
Bahia Park
A water park with rides for kids of all ages
- Families
Bahia Park is a water park with a diverse array of rides, including some for small children and others better suited for older kids looking for high-octane fun. If you have small children in your family, they're sure to enjoy the wave pool and small slides.
Families with older kids who are looking for the thrill of speed can enjoy rides with names like Kamikaze and Grand Niagara. Plus, there's a picnic area where you can have a bite to eat without having to leave the park. You'll find it all in Algeciras, which is about 45 minutes away from Marbella's city centre.
Location: Av. Virgen de la Palma, s/n, 11203 Algeciras, Cádiz, Spain
Phone: +34 956 63 33 30
Map - 9
Parque de la Constitución
Discover a tranquil park with Andalusian architecture
- Families
- Nightlife
Parque de la Constitución is a city park that features plenty of greenery and well-kept walking paths, all a short distance from the beach. This park is a popular destination for travelers looking to spend some time away from the hustle and bustle of the city.
While the park itself is certainly impressive with its trees and well-kept grass, it's also home to an amphitheater that sports iconic Andalusian architecture. Occasionally, live events are held there. It's all located right in the city centre.
Location: Av. Arias Maldonado, 14, 29602 Marbella, Málaga, Spain
Open: Daily 8 am to 10 pm
Phone: +34 952 76 11 43
Map - 10
Aventura Amazonia
Get physical at an adventure park
- Adventure
- Families
Aventura Amazonia is one of the largest adventure parks in all of Andalusia and is home to plenty of obstacles and activities for the whole family to enjoy. 83 different tree challenges are available here, along with 20 different zipper lines.
The park is split up into different sections, including some designed for kids and 1 for particularly young kids. Additionally, 3 training circuits are available. It's located right by the beach, just a couple of miles east of the city centre.
Location: Av. Valeriano Rodríguez, 2, 29604 Marbella, Málaga, Spain
Open: Friday–Sunday from 10 am to 8 pm (closed Monday–Thursday)
Phone: +34 952 83 55 05
Map