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Sea Life Benalmádena: A Family-Friendly Activity in Puerto Marina, Benalmádena

Looking for a kid-friendly activity near Malaga? Discover the wonders under the sea at Sea Life Benalmadena which promises a fun day out for all ages.

By Liza S. | Updated 16 Feb 2024 | Málaga | Places To Go | Login to add to YOUR Favourites Favourites Icon or Read Later

This article has been visited 15,390 times Octopus, Benalmadena Sealife Octopus, Benalmadena Sealife

Octopus, Benalmadena Sealife

Looking for a family-friendly activity on your Costa del Sol trip? Dive into the enchanting underwater world of Sea Life Benalmádena, a captivating marine park in the heart of the Costa del Sol.

Shark at Benalmadena Sealife Shark at Benalmadena Sealife

Shark at Benalmadena Sealife

Perfect for families seeking a splash of adventure, marine enthusiasts eager to deepen their oceanic knowledge, or anyone looking to make a new octopus friend, this aquarium in Benalmadena offers a peek into the aquatic world like no other.

It's not just about ogling at the ocean's inhabitants; it's an invitation to learn about marine conservation and how each of us can make a wave of difference. Whether you're a budding marine biologist, a curious explorer, or looking for a fun day out with the family, Sea Life Benalmádena promises a fun day out for visitors of all ages.

Join us as we explore the depths of Sea Life Benalmádena and buckle up for a fun, fin-tastic journey!

Visiting Sea Life Benalmádena: Practical Information

Bream, Benalmadena Sealife Bream, Benalmadena Sealife

Bream, Benalmadena Sealife

Here’s everything you need to know to ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience at Sea Life Benalmadena.

Getting There

Sea Life Benalmádena is conveniently located in the heart of Benalmádena, in Puerto Marina, and is easily accessible by public transport, car, or even on foot if you’re staying in town.

Several bus lines serve Benalmádena and have stops near Puerto Marina. The M-110 line from Malaga to Benalmádena Costa and the M-120 from Torremolinos to Fuengirola are two convenient options. Alight at the Puerto Marina stop, and Sea Life is just a short walk away.

If you're coming from Malaga, Torremolinos, or Fuengirola, the Cercanías C1 line is a convenient choice. Get off at the Arroyo de la Miel/Benalmádena station. From there, you can take a bus or a taxi to Sea Life, or enjoy a 20-minute walk if you prefer.

If you're driving from Malaga or other parts of the Costa del Sol, you'll find it along the A7 motorway. Exit towards Benalmádena Costa and follow the signs directing you to Puerto Marina, where Sea Life is situated.

Parking is available in the marina area, though it can fill up quickly during peak times.

Seahorse, Benalmadena Sealife Seahorse, Benalmadena Sealife

Seahorse, Benalmadena Sealife

Opening Hours

Sea Life Benalmádena is open year-round, with slight variations in opening times depending on the season. Typically, doors open at 11:00 AM and close around 7:00 PM during the off-season and open at 10.30am and close at up to 11.00pm during the busy summer months.

It’s always best to check the official website for the most current information before your visit.

Ticket Prices

Admission tickets start at €18.50 (adults) and €15 (child)for a standard ticket. You can buy your tickets in advance to skip the line and enter immediately to enjoy Sea Life.

Check the availability for your visit date below.

Facilities

The aquarium is fully accessible to visitors with disabilities, ensuring everyone can enjoy the wonders of the marine world.

While Sea Life Benalmádena does not have a full-service restaurant, there is a cafe on-site, and you're just a short walk away from local eateries.

Sea Life Benalmádena Highlights

Sea Life Benalmádena is a treasure trove of marine wonders, each exhibit and attraction offering a unique window into the ocean's depths.

Each exhibit at Sea Life Benalmádena is designed not just for viewing but for learning, engaging, and inspiring visitors to think more deeply about the marine world and our place within it. Whether you're a seasoned marine enthusiast or discovering the ocean's wonders for the first time, there's something for everyone to explore and enjoy.

Here are the key attractions and exhibits at Sea Life Benalmadena that you can’t miss.

Rockpool Experience

Dip your hands into the interactive rock pools where touching isn't just allowed; it's encouraged! Feel the unique textures of sea stars, urchins, crabs, and other creatures found in rock pools around the coast. You will also see a colourful range of anemones.

The touchy-feely pool is a great attraction for children not least because they have the chance to touch the rays that raise their heads from their pool to gaze curiously at beings in a world outside their own.

It's a tactile experience that brings the marine world right to your fingertips, perfect for curious minds of all ages.

Mediterranean Garden

Discover the vibrant and diverse ecosystem of the Mediterranean Sea without leaving the coast. This exhibit showcases the rich biodiversity found in local waters, from mesmerizing octopuses to sleek moray eels, highlighting the beauty and importance of our local marine life.

Tropical Ocean Tunnel

Take a stroll through the underwater world in the Tropical Ocean Tunnel, an incredible tunnel where you walk seemingly submerged in the ocean whilst sharks cruise above you. Surrounded by 360 degrees of marine life, you'll find yourself face-to-face with graceful rays, sleek sharks, and a kaleidoscope of tropical fish swimming around and above you in this immersive experience.

Jellyfish Discovery

Enter the ethereal realm of jellyfish at the Jellyfish Discovery exhibit. With their delicate forms floating against illuminated backdrops, these mesmerizing creatures offer a peaceful and almost otherworldly viewing experience, showcasing the incredible diversity of marine life.

Seahorse Kingdom

Dedicated to one of the ocean's most enchanting creatures, the Seahorse Kingdom is a glimpse into the mysterious world of seahorses and their relatives. Learn about their unique life cycle, the threats they face in the wild, and the conservation efforts in place to protect these fascinating species.

Feeding Demonstrations

Join in on the excitement of feeding times and watch as sharks, rays, and turtles eagerly await their meals. These demonstrations are not only fascinating to witness but also provide insight into the dietary habits of different marine species.

Check the schedule upon arrival to catch these moments.

Sea at Night

Dive into the mysterious world of the ocean after dark at Sea Life Benalmádena's new "Sea at Night" exhibit. Experience the nocturnal side of marine life, where bioluminescent creatures light up the depths, and discover the secrets of the sea's elusive night inhabitants!

More than Just An Aquarium

Sea Life is much more than just a visitor attraction. At the heart of Sea Life Benalmádena lies a deep commitment to the conservation of marine life and habitats.

Sea Life Benalmádena adheres to a simple yet powerful motto: Breed, Rescue, and Protect. This philosophy guides their conservation activities, focusing on breeding endangered species, rescuing injured marine animals, and protecting natural marine habitats.

Through various initiatives and programs, the aquarium not only educates the public but also actively participates in the preservation of marine biodiversity. For instance, they are committed to working with WDCS, the global voice for the protection of whales and dolphins, and a number of organisations dedicated to protecting endangered species like the seahorse and jellyfish.

The aquarium also organises and participates in beach and underwater cleanups to help minimise the impact of pollution on marine life. These efforts help reduce the amount of litter entering the ocean, protecting countless marine species from harm.

Education is a key component of conservation. Sea Life Benalmádena offers educational programs for schools and visitors, focusing on the importance of marine conservation, the threats facing the ocean, and how individuals can make a difference.

Tips for Visiting Sea Life Benalmádena

  • Buy your tickets in advance to avoid long queues, especially during the summer.
  • Mornings or late afternoons tend to be less crowded, offering a more relaxed experience.
  • Check the schedule for animal feeding times or talks upon arrival, as they offer an opportunity to learn more about the creatures from the knowledgeable staff.
  • Remember to turn off the flash on your camera or phone to avoid startling the marine life and to get the best photos of your visit.
  • While interactive exhibits allow for close encounters, it's important to touch gently and follow staff instructions to ensure the safety and well-being of the creatures.
  • With so much to explore, comfortable footwear is a must for navigating the aquarium's various exhibits and experiences.

Enjoy the Wonders of Sea Life Benalmádena!

As we've journeyed through the highlights of Sea Life Benalmádena, from the mesmerising Tropical Ocean Tunnel to the importance of conservation, it's clear this is more than an aquarium—it's a gateway to understanding and protecting our oceans.

I hope that with these insights and visitor tips in hand, you're well-prepared for a fun day out with the whole family. Enjoy discovering the wonders beneath the waves and the stories they hold. Have a fantastic visit to Sea Life Benalmádena!

More on Benalmádena

Sea Life is not the only reason to visit Benalmadena! Read our Benalmadena guide to learn more about this lovely seaside town along Costa del Sol.

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Visit the Sea Life Benalmadena website


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