×













Top Things To Do Costa Tropical - Kids
Things To Do - Costa Tropical

The "Top 10"
Costa Tropical with Kids

Things to do with Kids in the Costa Tropical - Kayaking in the Caves

💡 Affiliate Disclosure:  Please be aware that some links on this site are affiliate links, which means that we might receive a small commission ☕ if you click a link and make a booking. This helps us to keep the site running and will NOT affect the price you pay in any way... ❤️ 🙏 🙏 ➜ How does this work?


10 Fun Things to Do in the Costa Tropical with your Kids

The Costa Tropical was made for kids! There is an endless number of things for your kids to do while on vacation here. From waterparks, bouncy aquatic parks, an aquarium and bird park... to outdoor sporty adventures like hiking, kayaking, paddle board and just hanging on the beach.

Here is a list of the top 10 things for kids to do in the Costa Tropical. Have fun!!!

1. Fútbol Game

Things to do with Kids in the Costa Tropical - Futobol

Ahhhhh, Fútbol... Spain's favorite past time! If you're kids are into soccer (or fútbol as they say in Spain) there are some great opportunities for seeing some of Spain's best players. I'm speaking of Ronaldo Cristiano and Lionel Messi.

The stadium in Malaga (45 min away) hosts games quite often and some are between Malaga and Madrid or Malaga and Barcelona.

Take a look at the schedule before you come and see what games will be on... The atmosphere at a Spanish Fútbol game is electrifying!

Official Malaga Fútbol Stadium and Team Site.


2. Feed the Fish in Marina del Este

Things to do with Kids in the Costa Tropical - Futobol

Who doesn't love a stroll through a beautiful, tranquil marina in the afternoon? The Marina del Este in La Herradura is an upscale marina with lots of nice shops and restaurants right on the water. The kids will enjoying seeing the boats.

Take some bread with you and they can feed the fish while you're there. There are thousands of huge carp that live in the marina that would just love a snack!

Head over to Playa Berenegueles when you're done and let the kids run on the beach.


TOP ACTIVITIES - MARINA DEL ESTE

Rent a motorboat in the Marina del Este and take the kids to explore the coast on your own.

Rent a Boat
Rent A Boat (No License Needed) and Explore the Costa Tropical Coastline - Enjoy with family and friends an unforgettable trip through the Cerro Gordo National Park past the La Herradura caves, Maro waterfall and Nerja's Balcon de Europa. Read More...

3. Visit Some Castles

Things to do with Kids in the Costa Tropical - Almuñécar Loro Sexi Bird Park

There are numerous castles in the Costa Tropical that despite their age are still in fantastic condition. Times were tough during the Roman and Muslim periods and the castles were the towns first line of defense.

Almuñécar, Salobreña and La Herradura all have castles you can visit. Going down the coast to the east you will find other castles, watchtowers and other strategic fortresses built for coastal defense.

Almuñécar Castle - San Miguel Castle
La Herradura Castle
Salobreña Castle
Castillo de Baños


4. Hike to the Top of Cerro Gordo

Things to do with Kids in the Costa Tropical - Hiking in Cerro Gordo

We all know that kids like to climb things. Well, there's no more perfect place in the Costa Tropical than the Cerro Gordo point to climb.

Making up the western arm of the La Herradura bay is the Maro / Cerro Gordo National Park. You can drive up to the top, then get out and follow the path to the tip of the point --- behind the Cerro Gordo Watchtower.

The views are fantastic and if the kids are quiet and pay attention, they might spot one of the wild Ibex that live there...


5. Spend a Day on the Beach

Things to do with Kids in the Costa Tropical - La Herradura Beach

This really goes without saying, but we're going to say it anyway, one of the best things to do with your kids in the Costa Tropical is spend the day on the beach. Luckily for them there are dozens to choose from, and all offer something special.

Most of the beaches have tons of fun activities for the kids, such as kayaking, paddle board, water-bikes, snorkeling, diving and more.

Almuñécar Beaches
La Herradura Beaches
Salobreña Beaches
Top 10 Best Beaches of the Costa Tropical


TOP ACTIVITIES - COSTA TROPICAL BEACHES

A lot of people book online. We recommend booking ahead if you can because kayaks & jets skis are limited.

Costa Tropical Beaches -  Tours
Jet Ski Tours - Jet Ski rentals in the Marina del Este. There are 4 jet skis available, each with two seats. Explore the Spanish coastline on your own for up to 30 min.

Read More...


Costa Tropical Beaches -  Tours
Kayaking & Snorkeling Tours - Experience the natural beauty and explore the caves of the Cliffs of Maro-Cerro Gordo while getting a good snorkeling and kayaking workout with this tour.

Read More...


6. Bounce on the Aqua Marina

Things to do with Kids in the Costa Tropical - Aqua Arena

From July thru September the kids can enjoy another type of waterpark, the inflatables. These inflatable parks are all the rage along the coast right now and open in each of the larger Costa Tropical towns. Almuñécar, La Herradura and Salobreña all have one, and the kids love them!

Bouncing is booked by the hour and by the end, they will all be exhausted... a plus for the adults as well!

Full-Day Pass: 25€ Euros
Hourly Rate: 10€ Euros
Times: 11am - 8pm (June & Sept)
11am - 9pm (July & Aug)
Locations: La Herradura, Almuñécar, Salobreña and Torre del Mar
Tel: +34 902 504 885
Email: info@aquaarena.com


Tours & Tickets in Spain
tour logo
Ready for Some Adventure?  We Recommend GetYourGuide & VIATOR for the BEST Selection of Tours & Activities, AND Tiqets.com for GREAT Deals on Museums, Shows, Parks, and More.


7. Spend the Day at the Aquatropic Water Park

Things to do with Kids in the Costa Tropical - Aquatropic Waterpark

The Aquatropic Waterpark will keep your kids entertained all day long. It opens in the morning and stays open all day. You can drop your kids off or stay and relax under the olive trees and enjoy a good book.

The park is great for all ages, it has play areas for toddlers and young children and high octane, adrenalin inducing, super-fast slides for the older ones.

Read our full review of the Aquatropic Waterpark here.


TOP ACTIVITIES - AQUA TROPIC WATER PARK

If you are planning on going to the water park for the day... buy tickets in advance! The lines are LONG and VERY SLOW!!

Aqua Tropic Entrance Ticket
Aquatropic Water Park Entrance Ticket - Avoid waiting in line at ticket booths by pre-booking your admission ticket to the Aquatropic Water Park in Almuñecar. Save yourself the hassle of printing the tickets and simply show them on your mobile.

Read More...


8. Hike to the Waterfalls of the Junta de los Rios

Things to do with Kids in the Costa Tropical - Junta de los Rios

If your kids are a little older and enjoy hiking, they will love the Junta de los Rios Natural Reserve in Otivar. You can keep things slow and easy and stop at the first large pools for a picnic --- and rock jumping, or you can make a day of it and hike all the way to the waterfalls. Either way your kids will have a blast!

Read our full review of the Junta de los Rios here.


TOP ACTIVITIES - REALLY SPORTY!

Canyoning Tour
Rio Verde Canyoning Adventure Tour - The Río Verde X-pro is an amazing third level canyon activity. This adventurous canyoning trip is ideal for those looking for an exciting and active experience. This is VERY Popular and takes place in the Junta de los Rios! - tour stars 105 Reviews

9. Visit the Aquarium

Things to do with Kids in the Costa Tropical - Almuñécar Aquarium

!! Unfortunately, the Almuñécar Aquarium has closed for business !!

Head over to Almuñécar and visit the Aquarium. It's located just opposite the local daily mercado (or marketplace). The Aquarium is one level below ground and full of interesting fish and other aquatic species.

There is also an underwater tunnel where the kids can experience sharks and sting-rays swimming all around them.

More information on the Almuñécar Aquarium


10. Squawk at the Parrots at the Loro Sexi Bird Park

Things to do with Kids in the Costa Tropical - Almuñécar Loro Sexi Bird Park

Just under the Almuñécar Castle is this quaint little bird park that the kids will love. The Loro Sexi Bird Park specializes in parrots, but there are numerous other interesting bird species from all over the world, as well as other types of small fuzzy mammals like lemurs and prairie dogs for them to enjoy.

More information on the Loro Sexi Bird Park

11. Explore the Caves by Kayak

Things to do with Kids in the Costa Tropical - Kayaking in the Caves

A favorite activity for kids that visit the Costa Tropical, and for the adults too, is renting kayak's in La Herradura and paddling around the Cerro Gordo point. Once you've rounded the point there are several small caves and one larger one that you can paddle into.

Kayaking & Snorkeling Tours leave daily from both La Herradura and neighboring Nerja. Experience the natural beauty of the Costa Tropical coastline and explore the caves of the Maro-Cerro Gordo Nature Reserve by kayak. If leaving from Nerja you will also have the opportunity to visit the waterfall.

Bring your snorkel, Calaiza Beach is on the way and it's a great place to stop off for a swim.


12. Take the Almuñécar Train

Kids love a train! During the summer months the Almuñécar Tourist Train makes hourly loops around the town in the afternoons. It's a great way to see a city and get your bearings.

If you save your ticket, sometimes they will allow you to hop on and off too, so you can see a few of the sites along the way.

13. Take a Break in the Majuelo Gardens

Things to do with Kids in the Costa Tropical - Majuelo Gardens

Majuelo Gardens is a great place to take the kids. Not only can they see the ancient ruins from the Phoenician Fish Salting Factory (which sit right at its center), but they can also try identifying the different exotic trees and palms that are brought in from countries all over the world.

There are also cool statues placed throughout the park and the 'Province Houses' (local craft shops) where they can buy a souvenir or two.

More information on the Majuelo Botanical Gardens



14. Take the Kids to an ADVENTURE PARK!!

Things to do with Kids in the Costa Tropical - Majuelo Gardens

Just down the coast from the Costa Tropical area are loads of different types of adventure parks your kids will LOVE. There are zoos, aquariums, amusement parks with roller coasters and water slides, a butterfly park, dolphin adventures and more...

These are the parks we take our kids to every summer and they are a HIT without fail:
(just over an hour from La Herradura)


Bio Park
Bioparc (Zoo) Fuengirola Entrance Ticket - SKIP THE LINES - MOBILE FRIENDLY TICKET - Visit the Bioparc in Fuengirola on your own terms with this pre-bookable ticket. You'll have the chance to see over 200 species, many endangered.

This is an ALL TIME favorite!... but has long lines to get in! Buy BEFORE you go! Mobile tickets are accepted. Read More...

Costa Tropical - Things to do - Sea Life
Sea Life Benalmadena Entrance Ticket - SKIP THE LINES - MOBILE FRIENDLY TICKET - Explore the marine displays and watch feeding demonstrations. See a variety of sharks and the Costa del Sol's largest collection of seahorses.

Read More...

Costa Tropical - Things to do - Butterfly tour
Butterfly Tour - SKIP THE LINES!! See colorful butterflies from around the world with your admission ticket to the Butterfly Park of Benalmadena.
Read More...

Country Western Tours
MINI-HOLLYWOOD - Theme Park & Zoo - SKIP THE LINES!! Experience the Wild West without having to leave Spain with a day at Oasys (formerly known as Mini Hollywood). Along with cowboy-themed performances and beautiful desert landscapes.

Going in the other direction towards Almeria... This one is also a favorite!!

Read More...


15. A Few More TOURS and ACTIVITES Your Kids Will LOVE!!

And, last but not least... There are other fun activities you can do with your kids in some of the nearby towns (within an hour's drive).

If you are visiting the area, we HIGHLY recommend that you spend some time visiting Malaga and Granada, if you have kids you might want to include some of these fun things to do while you're there...


This can be done in Malaga, Granada or even in Nerja...

Costa Tropical - Things to do with Kids - Segway
Granada Segway Tour (Also Available in Nerja or Malaga) - Make easy work of Granada’s hills and zip around the sights on this 2-hour guided Segway tour. Explore the atmospheric Albayzín and Sacromonte neighborhoods.

Segway Tours also available in Nerja and Malaga...

Costa Tropical - Things to do with Kids - Car Museum
Malaga Car Museum Entrance Ticket - SKIP THE LINES - MOBILE FRIENDLY TICKET - An extraordinary private collection with almost a hundred cars, restored to the highest level as well as 200 haute couture pieces that complement the time.

Read More...

Costa Tropical - Things to do with Kids - Buggy Tour
Buggy Adventure Tour - Have a fantastic day out and see the real Andalucian countryside with spectacular views of the La Herradura bay and Malaga coastline. Picnic included!!

Read More...

Costa Tropical - Things to do with Kids - Skiing
Skiing the Sierra Nevada - From December to April... Escuela Andaluza de Esqui offers private and group classes in the Sierra Nevada Mountain Ski Resort. English Spoken.

Snowshoe tours are also available and are fun for the kids!

Read More...

Costa Tropical - Things to do with Kids - Dolphin Trip
Dolphin Trip - Cruise alongside pods of splashing wild dolphins on this 75-minute water safari in the Straits of Gibraltar. Get an up-close encounter with these playful marine mammals on specially designed viewing boats.

This is in Gibraltar (2 hr 30 min away) --- But would be a great day trip...

Read More...

Costa Tropical - Things to do with Kids - Malaga Bus
Malaga Hop Off & On Bus - SKIP THE LINES!! Relax atop a sightseeing tour bus and admire some of the most notable destinations, including the Cathedral of Malaga and Beaches.

A great way to see a city with kids... Read More...


16. Spend the Day at the Las Palomas Swim Club!!

In the Las Palomas urbanization, the point on the western end of La Herradura, there is a large private pool and club. If you are staying somewhere that doesn't have a pool this is a great place to take the kids. It's very rustic, but clean and well maintained. There is a larger pool and smaller ones for the little kids. There is also a lifeguard on duty at all times, so the parents can relax.

Read more about it here...

Costa Tropical - Things to do with Kids - Swimming Club
Las Palomas Swim Club - Piscina Las Palomas is a 25 meter swimming pool with a bar and restaurant, nestled in the hills above La Herradura. Also: children's pool, play area, regular kids club activities, live music and Paella Sundays.

Read More...


How to Arrive - Costa Tropical

From Granada: Drive south on the A-44 for 45-50 minutes to reach the Costa Tropical.

From Málaga: Head east on the A-7 for 50 minutes to reach the Costa Tropical.

photo of Darsey and Izzy

Who are we? An American expat with over 20 years of experience living and traveling in Spain, specifically in Malaga and Granada. Darsey is a seasoned explorer of Andalucia. Drawing from decades of immersive experience, she offers deep insights into this enchanting region of Spain, including off-the-beaten path destinations, the best places to stay, and the top bucket list activities to try! More...

Want to Save on your Next Trip?

Save money on your next trip with our favorite travel websites!

Find the Cheapest Hotels:
The Largest Selection of Villas & Apartments:
Cheapest, Most Reliable Car Rentals:
Best Bus & Train Fares:
Huge Selection of the BEST Tours & Activities
Discount Tickets to Museums & Attractions

See our Full List of Travel Deals & Site Recommendations.

We hope that you have a wonderful vacation and take advantage of all the super-fun and KID-FRIENDLY activities that can be found here!! ;-)

If You Liked It.. Please, pin me!
Click for full size...

Top Things To Do with KIDS - Costa Tropical- Andalucía - Spain

Did you Enjoy this article?
facebook-icon twitter-icon mail-icon pinterest-icon

POPULAR ARTICLES

 
THE BEACHES
The 10 Best Beaches in the Costa Tropical. Explore Them All Here...

 
THE VILLAGES
Top 7 Costa Tropical Villages that You Will Never Forget!

 
TOP THINGS TO DO
15 Experiences You Must Have in the Costa Tropical!

 
FREE THINGS TO DO
10 Things You Can Do For FREE While in the Costa Tropical!

Recommended Books

Ads