Benalmádena is a lively seaside town on Spain’s Costa del Sol, famous for its stunning coastline, vibrant marine life, and sunny weather. It’s a natural choice for anyone looking to combine relaxation with some active outdoor adventures. What sets Benalmádena apart is its unique blend of water-based activities—whether you’re interested in spotting dolphins, exploring underwater shipwrecks, or trying your hand at paddle surfing. We especially love the Benalmádena Boat Tour with Snorkeling, Water Slide and Lunch because it offers a full day of fun on the water with multiple activities, including a giant water slide and dolphin spotting. For a more intimate experience, the Kayaking and Snorkeling Tour provides a quick but scenic escape into the Mediterranean, while the Paddle Surf Tour lets you discover the coastline from a different perspective.
Whether you’re traveling with family, friends, or seeking a solo adventure, Benalmádena’s tours deliver authentic experiences worth planning into your trip. The variety ensures there’s something for all—more than just lounging on the beach, you’ll get to explore marine life, enjoy spectacular views, and stay active.
Quick Overview
Benalmádena offers a range of engaging water-based tours, from full-day boat trips with snorkeling and water slides to shorter, focused experiences like kayaking and paddle surfing. These options cater to different interests and time constraints, making it easy to find the perfect activity. To see all the exciting options, check out the full list below, including Benalmádena Boat Tour with Snorkeling, Water Slide and Lunch, Kayaking and Snorkeling Tour, and Paddle Surf Tour.
1. Benalmádena Boat Tour with Snorkeling, Water Slide and Lunch
This full-day boat trip along Benalmádena’s coast combines adventure, relaxation, and stunning scenery. The tour kicks off with hotel pickup and takes you out on the water for 3.5 hours, perfect for those wanting a comprehensive experience. Once aboard, you’ll get to enjoy a giant water slide plunging into the sea, a highlight that makes this trip particularly memorable. The boat is equipped with paddle boards and kayaks, giving you options to explore the calm waters at your own pace.
A key feature is snorkeling, where you can explore a shipwreck from 1855—an eerie relic now resting beneath clear waters. The crew often spots wild dolphins, providing opportunities for unforgettable wildlife encounters. The trip includes a delicious lunch with panoramic sea views, making it ideal for those wanting to combine active fun with good food.
This tour has a high rating of 4.3/5 based on 115 reviews, with travelers praising the friendly crew and the variety of activities. One review highlights how spotting dolphins made the trip extra special, calling it a “blast” for solo travelers and families alike. The trip is best suited for those looking for a lively, all-in-one ocean adventure.
Bottom Line: A lively, well-rounded tour that combines multiple activities, making it perfect for families or groups wanting a full day of sea fun and wildlife viewing.
2. Benalmádena: Kayaking and Snorkeling Tour with Photos
For those seeking a shorter, more relaxed water experience, the Kayaking and Snorkeling Tour is an excellent choice. Lasting around 2 hours, this instructor-led outing takes you into Malapesquera Bay, one of Benalmádena’s most scenic spots. The tour includes all necessary gear and safety instructions, making it accessible for beginners and experienced paddlers alike.
What makes this tour stand out is the opportunity to paddle along the coastline, taking in the sights from the water’s edge. After some basic coaching, you’ll paddle out on a kayak, enjoying the calm Mediterranean waters. The stop for snorkeling offers a peek beneath the surface, with the chance to see small fish and marine life. The included photos and videos, taken with a GoPro, allow you to relive your experience long after the trip ends.
Visitors mention how friendly the guides are and how the tour provides a perfect balance of activity and relaxation. One reviewer noted, “We enjoyed the quick pace and the chance to cool off with a swim,” making it ideal for travelers with limited time or those who prefer a more laid-back adventure.
Bottom Line: A great option for a quick but fulfilling sea adventure, perfect for families or anyone new to paddling and snorkeling.
3. Benalmádena: Paddle Surf Tour Experience with Photos
If you’re curious about paddle surfing, this tour offers a hands-on introduction to the sport in the beautiful Bay of Malapesquera. Lasting about 2 hours, it’s a fun way to learn basic paddle surfing techniques while taking in the stunning coastline views. The guides ensure safety and offer clear instructions, making it suitable even for beginners.
The tour includes providing goggles for snorkeling, so you can explore underwater life while standing on your board. The thrill of balancing on the water combined with the scenic surroundings makes this an active, memorable experience. The tour is also equipped with GoPro cameras, so you’ll receive free photos and videos to document your adventure.
While reviews are slightly more reserved than the other tours, many travelers appreciate the quality instruction and the chance to try something new. It’s especially suited for travelers who want a short, engaging activity that combines water sports with sightseeing.
Bottom Line: A perfect choice for paddle surfing novices or those wanting an active, fun way to explore Benalmádena’s coastline.
How to Choose
Choosing the right water adventure depends on your time, budget, and interests. If you’re after a full-day, action-packed experience, the Benalmádena Boat Tour with Snorkeling, Water Slide and Lunch offers the most variety and value. For a quick, scenic escape, the Kayaking and Snorkeling Tour is ideal—especially if you want to see marine life without a long commitment. Want to try paddle surfing? The Paddle Surf Tour is perfect for a short, active session.
Consider your fitness level, interests, and how much time you want to spend on the water. Booking early is recommended, especially during peak summer months when these tours are popular. Many tours include gear and photos, adding extra value to your experience.
To sum it up, Benalmádena offers diverse water-based tours that cater to different tastes—whether you’re drawn to dolphin sightings, snorkeling over historic shipwrecks, or learning to paddle surf. For a full day of adventure, the boat trip is hard to beat. If you prefer something shorter, kayaking or paddle surfing are excellent choices. Planning ahead and booking early ensures you won’t miss out on these memorable ocean experiences. Dive in, enjoy the sea, and make the most of what Benalmádena has to offer.