On southern Spain’s Costa del Sol lies the vibrant city of Marbella, a fantastic destination for some family-friendly fun on a budget. In Marbella, there’s no shortage of ways to keep the kids entertained, from splashing around in water parks to building sandcastles on the stunning natural beaches. There are a whopping 24 beaches lining the Andalusian coastline, including the luxurious Las Chapas and the golden sands of Guadalmina. While much of your holiday is bound to be spent frolicking on the beach, if you’re craving something different, there are plenty of other child-friendly activities to get stuck into.
Here are three of the best ways to spend a family holiday in Marbella this summer:
Aventura Amazonia
For a day of high-flying thrills and spills, head to Aventura Amazonia, the largest adventure park in Andalusia, only a 15-minute drive from Marbella. Ideal for little ones with a head for heights, Aventura Amazonia offers a variety of courses designed to cater to different age groups and skill levels. The park features six adventure circuits where you can weave your way through treetop obstacles, whizz down zip lines, and test your agility on rope bridges and swinging logs. Check out the MiniKids circuit, aimed at four to seven-year-olds, to give the little ones a chance to experience the excitement of climbing and ziplining in a safe and controlled environment without having to wear a harness. The kids can challenge themselves with games of skill like archery, scale the climbing wall, and express their creativity by taking part in arts and crafts. There’s also the opportunity to make new friends by participating in team-building activities and visiting the forest of Elviria.
The Kids and Explorador circuits are the next step up and are suitable for children who are new to adventure parks and would like to build their confidence. Both circuits are made up of short, simple challenges at a low height and are set out so that parents can accompany the young ones as they make their way through the circuit. The more experienced adventurers can try out the Aventura circuit. It features 15 challenges, as well as the 250 metre-long “super zip line”, which is the longest in Andalusia. For the grownups, the Deportivo circuit is the ultimate test of skill and bravery. At an average height of nine metres, the challenging crossings in this circuit are designed to push even the most seasoned climbers to their limits. This circuit includes the famous Tarzan Leap and a chance to ride a surfboard in the treetops. With its demanding obstacles and heart-pounding heights, the Deportivo circuit offers an adrenaline-fuelled experience that’ll leave you with unforgettable memories.
Pro tip: For the thrill seekers, check out the new attraction at Aventura Amazonia that involves rock climbing up to a 12-metre high platform and bungee jumping down!
Selwo Aventura
Just a 24-minute drive from Marbella, Selwo Aventura is a must-visit for families who love nature and wildlife. This zoo and safari park gives you and the kids the chance to see over 2,000 animal species from all over the world, from Mississippi alligators to Burmese pythons. If you fancy a bit more structure to your visit, consider booking the Serengeti Safari tour, where you’ll set off in an all-terrain vehicle and get to know the most iconic species native to Africa. You’ll be accompanied by a knowledgeable guide who’ll teach you about the weird and wonderful quirks of the wildlife and how it’s conserved at Selwo Aventura. You’ll also get the chance to feed the zebras and watch from a close but safe distance as the keepers feed the hippopotamuses!
If your family loves animals and hiking, the VIP Experience might be for you. The majority of this tour is conducted on foot, so if you’ve got little ones who tire easily, this may not be the best option. In a small group accompanied by an expert guide, you’ll pass through the Central Village, which is inhabited by elephants, giraffes, and lions, before hopping on a private vehicle and heading to the Lake Reserve to see the rhinos, wildebeests, and antelopes. As well as being introduced to the animals, you’ll also learn about the important work of Selwo Aventura’s dedicated team of zookeepers, veterinarians, and biologists, and the conservation work with endangered species that they’re engaged in. And, if you’re feeling peckish after all that sightseeing, you’ll be pleased to know that lunch is included!
For the most intrepid travellers, try out the 116-metre ziwa (which translates to “flying over the lake” in Swahili) zip line that passes the great lake of Africa. It offers you a bird’s eye view of the suspension bridge that crosses it, and the lush vegetation of the Portico de la Naturaleza, which is home to endangered species including gibbons, cheetahs, red pandas, and hyenas. For the adrenaline junkies of the group, check out the kuruka (translating to “jumping” in Swahili) trampolines where you can launch yourself into the air up to eight metres and experience the thrill of weightlessness as you perform backflips and topsy-turvy twists. There are also numerous bridges to explore, such as the Bird Canyon hanging bridge, which offers you panoramic views of the birds’ majestic flight over the treetops. You can also discover the nests where each year the birds incubate their eggs and raise their chicks as part of Selwo Aventura’s conservation programme.
Sea Life Benalmádena
What do moon jellyfish, clownfish, and blacktip reef sharks have in common? They’re among the 2,000 species of sea creatures that can be found at Sea Life Benalmádena, of course! This aquarium and marine biology research centre is located an hour and 15 minutes’ drive from Marbella. It offers a variety of interactive zones and engaging activities for the kids that are both fun and educational. As you wander through the aquarium, you’ll encounter everything from sea turtles to stingrays. Each exhibit is designed to mimic the natural habitat of the sea creatures, giving you an authentic glimpse into the marine life of the Mediterranean Sea. One of the highlights of Sea Life Benalmádena is the touch pools, where visitors can get up close and personal with starfish, sea anemones, and crabs. The friendly and knowledgeable staff are always on hand to answer any questions you have about these fascinating creatures.
The 180º submarine tunnel is a must-see attraction at Sea Life Benalmádena. This immersive experience gives you the sensation of being underwater (while staying dry!), making it a firm favourite with both children and adults. But Sea Life Benalmádena is not just an aquarium; it’s also a research centre dedicated to the rescue, rehabilitation, and release of injured sea creatures. The centre participates in numerous conservation projects to protect marine biodiversity and hosts daily talks and feeding sessions, making it a brilliant learning experience. Sea Life Benalmádena is designed with families in mind, offering a range of activities to keep the little ones entertained, including the quiz trails where the kids can go on a scavenger hunt through the aquarium by answering questions about the sea creatures.
Where to Stay
Puerto Banús Beach Apartments: This modern apartment complex is located 30 yards from the palm-fringed Nueva Andalucía Beach and 750 yards from the eponymous Puerto Banús Beach, putting you right in the centre of the action. Guests benefit from private parking and complimentary WiFi, as well as amenities that include a fully equipped kitchen. The apartments also have terraces offering sea views, allowing you to dine and relax al fresco.
Puerto Azul Marbella: This beachfront resort is 100 yards from La Fontanilla Beach and 150 yards from El Faro Beach, meaning you won’t have to walk far to enjoy Marbella’s sun, sand, and sea. It’s also a five minute walk from the local marina and old town, giving you the chance to immerse yourself in the rich history and culture of the area. As well as its ideal location, the bedrooms are stylish and spacious, the living room is cosy, and the apartment is fitted with a balcony that provides breathtaking panoramic views of Marbella’s coastline.
Apartamento Centro Sacio I: This luxury apartment is within walking distance of Venus Beach, La Bajadilla Beach, and Parque de Alameda, providing easy access to the main points of interest in the area. The apartment is well-appointed, containing a flat-screen TV with streaming services, soundproof walls, and a dishwasher, oven, and washing machine for your comfort and convenience. The complex has a seasonal outdoor swimming pool and a hot tub, giving you and your family the chance to unwind in style.
How to Get There
The nearest airport to Marbella is Malaga Airport (AGP), which is well-connected to numerous airports across the UK including Heathrow, Gatwick, Luton, and Stansted. Several airlines offer direct flights from London to Malaga Airport including easyJet, British Airways, Ryanair, and TUI, providing plenty of options to suit your schedule and budget. Flights from the UK to Malaga take around 2 hours and 55 minutes, meaning you’ll be on Spanish soil soaking up the sun in no time.
Once you arrive at Malaga Airport, the easiest and most convenient way to get to your accommodation in Marbella is to pre-book a transfer with Shuttle Direct and avoid the hassle of public transport, which can be tricky to navigate, particularly with children in tow! (Child seats are available on request when booking.)
Overview
UK to AGP flight time: 2 hrs 55 minutes
AGP to Marbella distance: 53 kilometres
Shuttle Direct transfer time: 33 minutes
Types of Transfer
There are various kinds of transfers available to suit different types of travellers, budgets, and requirements. Whether you’re looking for convenience, cost-effectiveness, or comfort, you can find a suitable option to make your journey from Malaga Airport to Marbella as stress-free as possible.
For those seeking a quick and convenient solution, you can transfer from Malaga Airport to Marbella by pre-booking a private taxi, saving you time and ensuring a safe and hassle-free journey directly to your accommodation. There’s nothing worse than waiting in a long queue after a tiring flight, but by pre-booking a taxi you can skip the wait and head straight to your destination. The key benefit of taking a Shuttle Direct pre-booked taxi is the flexibility it offers, allowing you to travel at your own pace without any stops along the way.
A Malaga Airport transfer via shuttle bus is ideal for cost-conscious travellers. Shuttle buses follow a fixed schedule and route, making multiple stops along the way to drop off passengers at different locations. This transfer option is suitable for those who don’t mind sharing the ride with other passengers and are looking to save money. While it may take slightly longer than a taxi, the cost savings make it well worth the investment.
With a private transfer, Malaga Airport to Marbella is a seamless journey, getting you to your accommodation in the comfort of your own private vehicle. This service offers a personal driver who’ll meet you at the airport and whisk you off to your destination immediately. It’s ideal for families, groups, or anyone willing to pay a little extra for the added luxury. The main advantage of a private transfer is the convenience of a dedicated vehicle and a door-to-door service that works around your schedule.
If you’re travelling with family and looking for a reliable airport transfer, a minibus is an excellent option that’ll get you from A to B without delay. A minibus transfer ensures that everyone travels together, reducing the hassle of coordinating multiple taxis. Minibus transfers can accommodate a large group, making them perfect for family reunions, corporate trips, or friends travelling together. The option of a larger capacity vehicle also means that there’s plenty of room to transport luggage, ensuring a comfortable journey for everyone.
Choosing the Right Transfer
When it comes to selecting your transfer from Malaga Airport to Marbella, the decision often boils down to cost or convenience. Whether you’re looking to save money or prioritise ease and comfort, there are options available to suit every traveller’s needs.
Cost
For budget-conscious travellers, economical travel is the primary concern. A shared shuttle bus is an affordable airport transfer option that won’t break the bank. While it might take slightly longer due to the multiple stops along the way, it’s ideal for those looking to minimise expenses. Shuttle buses provide a reliable airport transfer from Malaga Airport to Marbella at a fraction of the cost of a private vehicle, making them a popular choice for families, solo travellers, and those on a tight budget.
Convenience
On the other hand, if convenience is your top priority, opting for a private transfer or a taxi is the way to go, as it’ll get you right to the doorstep of your accommodation without any fuss. By pre-booking a private transfer or a taxi, you can avoid waiting in long queues and start your journey to Marbella right away. These options provide a door-to-door service, offering the quickest and most direct route to your destination. This is especially beneficial for families, groups, or anyone with a lot of luggage who values speed and efficiency.
About Shuttle Direct
At Shuttle Direct, we pride ourselves on providing reliable airport transfer services tailored to your needs. Whether you’re looking for a cost-effective shuttle bus, a convenient taxi, or a spacious minibus, we have the perfect solution for you. Our services ensure a smooth and stress-free journey from Malaga Airport to your destination in Marbella. Visit our home page to learn more and start planning your journey today.
