A day at the marina in Benalmádena
A comprehensive getaway to the Costa del Sol must include sun, beach, gastronomy and leisure... You'll find it all in Benalmádena Costa. Specifically, at its marina, which is one of the most famous in the Province of Malaga and which is known for its accessibility, among many other merits.
Benalmádena's marina is a leisure/residential complex located at the inner harbour, where relaxation and fun coexist in a surprising architectural setting. The style of its constructions and its wide range of leisure options draw thousands of tourists to its facilities every year. The port area, which has received several international awards, such as Best Marina in the World and European Blue Flag given the quality of its waters and services, is committed to accessibility. Let's see how.
Access points
If you are visiting the area in a wheelchair, you should know that access is simple and comfortable as there are no entrance doors and you can move around via a ramp that is duly signposted and which also connects the underground car park with the beach promenade. Once on the ground floor, you can enjoy the sea breeze and, in particular, the wide variety of fashion stores, leisure options and dining locales. However, to enter some establishments you will have to choose the area without different levels, avoiding the entrance staircase.
On the second floor you will find new dining options. You can access these via a lift, which is suitably sized for wheelchair users. Fancy trying the best of Indian cuisine at Cinnamon Club? Maybe a delicious Mexican menu at Tex Mex Gringo's? Or maybe you're more of afan of Asian eateries, such as Sakura? Whatever your preferences, you'll find something here in a diaphanous space with wonderful views of the port.
Inclusive sports
An example of the port's commitment to inclusive sports is the adapted sailing equipment of Asociación 'Paraocio'. Sponsored by the port itself, this association's headquarters are at the facilities and it works year round to include people with physical, mental or sensorial disabilities in water sports. In this regard, you may be interested to know that the Paraocio boat participated in the 40th edition of the Regata Mar de Alborán, with the only adapted Spanish sailing team in the competition.
Adapted leisure and tours
Leisure is guaranteed at Sea Life, an aquarium situated within the port area where, in addition to acquiring knowledge on marine life, you can "walk" among sharks, turtles, jellyfish and sea horses. By visiting you will also have the chance to participate in interesting workshops. Most importantly, its facilities have been adapted to facilitate movement in a wheelchair, and it has disabled toilets available.
The marina is also a starting point if you are looking to discover other tourist attractions on the Costa del Sol. Hop on the City Sightseeing Benalmádena tourist bus, which will take you around the town's main points of interest. After buying your ticket, you can get on and off the bus as many times as you like over 24 hours. Access to the vehicle is adapted to wheelchairs, but the uncovered top floor is not. All users will receive an audio-guide available in multiple languages, thanks to which you can discover more details about the places you visit.
Staying in Benalmádena
Just a few kilometres from the port you can choose from fabulous, high-quality accommodation establishments where the needs of people with reduced mobility have been considered. Examples include Royal Oasis Club at Pueblo Quinta and Sahara Sunset Resort, both of which offer large spaces that facilitate guest movement and accessible swimming pools with lifts. At them you can choose adapted rooms, provided you book in advance.
