Benidorm is one of Spain's best family holiday destinations. The combination of safe beaches, world-class theme parks, year-round sunshine, family-friendly restaurants, and affordable prices makes it hard to beat. Children of all ages will find something to love here, whether it is building sandcastles on Levante Beach, screaming on water slides at Aqualandia, or exploring marine life at Mundomar. This guide covers everything families need for the perfect Benidorm holiday in 2026.
Best Beaches for Families
The southern end of Playa de Levante is the best beach for families with young children. The water is incredibly shallow for the first 20-30 metres, there are lifeguards on duty, and the sand is soft and golden. Facilities include nearby toilets, showers, and playgrounds. For a quieter alternative, Cala Finestrat (10 minutes south) has very shallow water and fewer crowds. Both beaches have Blue Flag status guaranteeing excellent water quality.
Arrive before 10am in summer to secure a good spot near the water. The southern end of Levante (near Balcon del Mediterraneo) has the shallowest water and is closest to toilets and shade.
Theme Parks: Aqualandia, Mundomar & Terra Natura
Aqualandia is one of Europe's largest and best-rated water parks with slides for all ages - from gentle family pools to the terrifying Big Bang (33m free-fall). Mundomar next door is a marine park where kids can watch dolphin shows and even swim with sea lions. Terra Natura combines a zoo with a water park in a single ticket. All three are within 10 minutes of the centre and offer full-day entertainment for families.
- Aqualandia: From 35 EUR adult / 28 EUR child online (save 20% vs gate price)
- Mundomar: From 28 EUR adult / 22 EUR child, dolphin shows included
- Terra Natura: From 30 EUR combined zoo + water park ticket
- Tip: Buy combo tickets for multiple parks and save up to 30%
- Best time: Weekdays are significantly less crowded than weekends
- Pack: Sunscreen, water shoes, and a picnic to save on park food prices
Boat Trips and Water Activities
Glass-bottom boat trips to Benidorm Island are a hit with kids (15 EUR per person, under-3s free). They can see fish through the transparent hull and spot the island's wildlife. Pedal boats and kayaks on Levante Beach are available for families (from 10 EUR/hour). For older kids, banana boat rides (10 EUR) and paddle boarding are exciting options. The Aqua Natura water park also has a dedicated children's area with mini slides and splash pools.
Other Family Activities
- Mini-golf courses along the Levante strip: 6-8 EUR per round
- Benidorm Karting: Go-karts for kids aged 8+ (from 10 EUR)
- Festilandia fun fair: Rides and attractions near Levante Beach
- Ice cream parlours: Dozens along both beach promenades
- L'Aigueera park: Free concerts and open spaces for running around
- Pirate-themed boat trips: Fun themed excursion for younger kids (20 EUR)
- Fonts de l'Algar waterfalls: Natural pools perfect for swimming (5 EUR entry)
Family Restaurant Tips
Spanish restaurants are extremely family-friendly - children are welcomed everywhere, even late at night. Most restaurants have children's menus (5-8 EUR for main + drink + dessert). The beach chiringuitos are great for casual family meals. For fussier eaters, the Levante strip has pizza, burger, and international restaurants. Meal times: lunch 1-3pm, dinner from 7:30pm (earlier than local Spanish families who eat at 9-10pm).
