Things to Do in Malaga with Kids

Family Activities for Every Season

Malaga is one of those ideal destinations to visit with kids at any time of the year. Thanks to its privileged climate, cultural richness, natural landscapes, and fun activities, there’s always something for families to enjoy in the city.

In this article, you’ll find the best things to Do in Malaga with kids, organized by season, so you can make the most of our city with the little ones.

Spring in Malaga (March to May)

La Concepción Historical Botanical Garden

A perfect spring outing in Malaga with kids is visiting this spectacular garden. Located on the outskirts of the city, it’s a century-old space and one of the most important botanical gardens in Spain—a true hidden gem to enjoy with family.

Its origins go back to the 19th century, created by one of Malaga’s most prominent families. It preserves the romantic charm of its original design and features over 50,000 plants and exotic species from all over the world.

For kids, it feels like walking through a magical jungle: shaded trails between tall palm trees, bridges, waterfalls, ponds with lilies, and even a collection of carnivorous plants that spark their curiosity. In spring, the flowers are in full bloom, and the mild weather makes for a very pleasant visit.

In addition to its beautiful scenery, the garden hosts family-friendly activities and workshops throughout the year, including botanical scavenger hunts, educational games, and themed guided tours. There are also rest areas and picnic spots where you can enjoy a snack surrounded by nature.

It’s stroller-friendly, with adapted paths, bathrooms, parking, and easy access by car or taxi from the city center. Ticket prices vary by day and visitor type, with a standard rate of €5.20 per person, and free entry on Sundays after 4:30 p.m. 

It’s an ideal springtime plan to enjoy the outdoors, connect with nature, and learn in a peaceful, enriching environment.

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Teleférico de Benalmádena

Riding the Benalmádena Cable Car is an exciting adventure for families, especially during spring when the skies are clear and temperatures are mild. The journey begins in Arroyo de la Miel and ascends to the summit of Mount Calamorro, offering breathtaking panoramic views of the Costa del Sol, Malaga and even, on clear days you can see Africa on the horizon.

For children, it’s an exhilarating experience—floating above the landscape and watching the city, sea, and mountains stretch out below. Once at the top, families can enjoy short hiking trails, explore the native flora, and attend seasonal bird of prey exhibitions.

The area is well-equipped with rest spots and is stroller-accessible up to the cable car station. Tickets can be purchased online or on-site, and there are often family-friendly promotions.

It’s a perfect plan for spring, when the weather is mild and the sky is usually clear. It’s also very accessible by public transport from Málaga, either by bus or commuter train, and can be combined with a visit to Paloma’s Park or the Butterfly Park, all very close by.

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Paraje Natural El Torcal de Antequera

A highly recommended excursion for adventurous families. This unique karst landscape, part of the UNESCO World Heritage Site “Antequera Dolmens Site,” looks like something out of a science fiction movie and will amaze children with its almost impossible rock formations.

Although it’s located outside the city of Malaga, you can easily reach it by private car or book an organized tour. Among its marked trails, the green route is especially suitable for families and can be done freely and without a guide. The area has a visitor center with bathrooms and a small café, as well as picnic tables to enjoy a snack after the walk.
Don’t forget your camera! Because some rock formations resemble animals or objects and make the walk even more fun for children.

El Torcal is an ideal outdoor plan for spring, when the weather is cooler and hiking is more pleasant. It combines exercise, nature, and geological education in a unique and very entertaining way.

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During Holy Week (which takes place in March or April, depending on the year), the streets of Malaga’s city center come alive with music, color, and activity. For children, it’s a fascinating experience to watch the large processions pass by, filled with drums, trumpets, towering thrones, and hundreds of people marching amid applause.

One of the most popular for families is La Pollinica, which opens Holy Week in a festive atmosphere and includes the participation of many children.

This activity is completely free, as it can be enjoyed from the streets of the historic center. It’s a simple and exciting way to experience local culture as a family—especially if it’s your first time visiting the city during this special time of year.

If you’d like more details about Holy Week, don’t miss our complete guide at Hotel Malaga Premium.

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Summer in Malaga (June to August)

Beaches of the Costa del Sol

Spending a day at the beach is, without a doubt, one of the best things to do in Malaga with kids—especially in summer. Among the many options, we recommend La Malagueta Beach due to its proximity to our apartments, as well as its central location, accessibility, and family-friendly atmosphere.

Just a few minutes’ walk from the historic city center, this urban beach features dark sand, calm waters, and all the necessary amenities for a comfortable family outing: showers, sunbed rentals, children’s play areas, beach bars (chiringuitos), and lifeguard supervision. Its orientation and shallow depth make it a safe place for kids to swim—always under parental supervision.

Along the seaside promenade, you’ll also find shaded areas with palm trees, wide sidewalks perfect for strollers, and kiosks offering ice cream or cold drinks. One of the beach’s biggest advantages for families is its proximity to Muelle Uno, a modern waterfront area with shops, restaurants, and open spaces where kids can run around, watch the boats, and enjoy occasional outdoor activities.

Besides La Malagueta, there are several other highly recommended family beaches in Malaga:

• Palo Beach, a bit farther from La Malagueta, offers a more local vibe and quieter areas.
• Pedregalejo Beach, ideal for trying the famous pescaíto frito in its historic beachfront eateries.
• Misericordia Beach, which has a wider stretch of sand and tends to be less crowded.

Going to the beach isn’t just a refreshing activity—it’s also a chance to experience Malaga from its most natural and Mediterranean side. Building sandcastles, searching for seashells, having a picnic by the sea, or simply watching the sunset together are moments that create lasting family memories.

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Water Parks in Malaga

During the hottest months of the year, few things are as refreshing as a good splash in the water. That’s why water parks near Malaga are one of the top family plans for those visiting with children. Beyond the classic beach day, these parks offer a bit of adrenaline, playful activities, and areas designed to ensure fun for all ages.

The most famous—and also the largest—is Aqualand Torremolinos, located just 20 minutes from Malaga city. It features a wide range of water slides for both young children and adults, a wave pool, lazy rivers for relaxing, and large green areas for resting. It also has a dedicated children’s area called Kidzworld, packed with water games specifically designed for the little ones.

For a full day of fun, we recommend bringing plenty of water and sunscreen, and while optional, hats and non-slip footwear are highly advisable. Keep in mind that most of these parks also rent out floats and lockers for personal items, and many allow you to bring your own food and use designated picnic areas.

All in all, visiting a water park is one of the best family activities in Malaga during the summer. It’s a fun, refreshing, and different kind of plan that guarantees laughter, excitement, and unforgettable memories.

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Malaga Fair

Every August, Malaga dresses up in traditional style to celebrate its grand fair—one of the most important events on the local calendar. During these festive days, the city fills with music, color, tradition, and above all, fun, becoming the perfect setting for a unique family experience!

From our apartments, we recommend especially visiting the Night Fair, which is the one most focused on children. It takes place at the Cortijo de Torres fairgrounds, where you’ll find tents (casetas), amusement rides, and areas specifically designed for kids

There’s a large area of classic fair attractions—locally known as “los cacharritos”—with Ferris wheels, bumper cars, inflatable castles, carousels, and all kinds of games. Many days include special discount hours for children’s rides, making it a great opportunity for them to enjoy an entire afternoon of fun without breaking the bank.

You’ll also find family-friendly “casetas”, where you can dance, try typical local food (like Spanish omelette, montaditos, or churros), and enjoy free shows designed for all ages. The atmosphere is festive yet welcoming, especially for first-time visitors to the fair.

We recommend arriving at dusk, when the temperatures start to drop and the lights come on, creating a magical atmosphere. Be sure to wear comfortable clothes and shoes, as the fairgrounds are quite large, and consider bringing a light jacket just in case the night gets slightly cooler—though that’s rare during this time of year.

Experiencing the Malaga Fair as a family is a wonderful blend of culture, excitement, and joy in a safe and cheerful setting—perfect for creating unforgettable summer memories together.

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Bioparc Fuengirola and Selwo Marina

Bioparc Fuengirola is located just 30 minutes by car from Malaga city, and you can also get there by commuter train. It’s much more than a traditional zoo. This new-generation animal park offers full immersion in recreated natural habitats, where animals live in environments that closely resemble their original ecosystems—without visible cages or harsh barriers.

This more respectful and realistic concept allows both children and adults to observe species like gorillas, tigers, pygmy hippos, and lemurs in a lush jungle setting, complete with dense vegetation, rivers, and hanging bridges. It feels like stepping into a tropical world right in the heart of the Costa del Sol.

Although it’s an activity you can enjoy year-round, it’s especially recommended in the summer, when the park stays open until 11:00 p.m. and hosts special nighttime family visits. These include short guided tours, storytelling sessions, African dance performances, and meet-and-greets with caretakers—an entertaining way to learn about the animals’ habits and curiosities. Visiting Bioparc at night, with flashlights and soft lighting, is a unique and magical experience for children.

As a perfect complement—especially if you’re looking for animal-focused activities that aren’t too hot—we also recommend Selwo Marina in Benalmádena. This smaller park focuses on aquatic animals and exotic birds and features dolphin shows, as well as the chance to see penguins, flamingos, and sea lions up close. It also offers educational activities designed specifically for young visitors.

Selwo Marina is located very close to both Parque de la Paloma and the Butterfly Park, making it a great option for combining several family-friendly activities into one day or short getaway.

Both parks are stroller-friendly, have shaded areas, restrooms, on-site dining, and offer family discounts.

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Autumn in Malaga (September to November)

Caminito del Rey (Ages 8 and Up)

Located in Ardales, the Caminito del Rey is one of the most spectacular hiking trails in Andalusia and an exciting option for families with children over 8 years old. Suspended along the vertical walls of a canyon more than 100 meters above the Guadalhorce River, the route offers breathtaking views that blend nature, engineering, and adventure.

The Caminito has been fully restored with modern walkways, comprehensive safety measures, and strictly controlled access, making it an ideal plan for those traveling with preteens or teenagers. It’s a truly memorable experience. 

The trail begins with a pedestrian-only tunnel and continues through a dramatic landscape that mixes untouched natural areas with 19th-century engineering works from when the area functioned as a hydroelectric dam. Along the way, you’ll spot deep gorges, local wildlife such as vultures or otters, fossils, and the iconic hanging bridge—an adrenaline-inducing but completely safe highlight suspended high above the river.

We especially recommend this activity in the autumn, when the weather is milder and the area less crowded. This makes it easier to enjoy the pleasure of being in nature. The landscape takes on golden and reddish hues, and the hike—which typically lasts between 2.5 to 3 hours—becomes a perfect opportunity to connect with the outdoors and enjoy an active day as a family.

Admission is paid (around €10 per person), and we highly recommend booking well in advance due to limited daily capacity. Be sure to wear comfortable clothing, bring water, and carry a light backpack. The Caminito is easily accessible from Malaga by car, bus, or train to El Chorro, from where shuttle buses take visitors to the trail entrance.

An unforgettable and highly recommended plan for adventurous families looking to combine nature with a touch of adrenaline during their autumn getaway to Malaga.

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Interactive Museum of Music: Touch, Learn, and Have Fun

An ideal option for rainy days and located very close to our apartments—right in the heart of Malaga’s historic center—the Interactive Museum of Music (MIMMA) is one of the most original and family-friendly cultural spaces in the city. Unlike traditional museums, here you’re expressly encouraged to touch, explore, and experiment, making it a true paradise for curious children.

The collection features over 1,000 musical instruments from around the world and from various time periods, ranging from an oriental gong to a modern drum set or electric guitar. But what makes MIMMA truly special isn’t just what you see—it’s what you can do: the museum has interactive rooms where both children and adults can try out instruments, play with sounds, follow rhythms, or create their own improvised melodies. 

The museum also offers themed activities, family-guided tours, and small concerts or educational workshops depending on the season. As the first rainy days of autumn arrive, MIMMA becomes an ideal plan to take shelter, have fun, and learn in a warm and stimulating environment.

A visit to MIMMA is a fantastic way to introduce children to the world of music in a dynamic and playful way—nurturing their creativity, sparking curiosity, and strengthening family bonds through interactive experiences.

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Selwo Aventura: A Wild Safari on the Costa del Sol

For those looking for a different kind of experience during their autumn getaway, Selwo Aventura in Estepona is a fantastic option. This themed park combines nature, wild animals, and adventure activities in an environment that recreates various ecosystems from around the globe. With over 100 hectares of land and nearly 200 animals from all over the world, the visit feels like an African safari—without leaving Malaga.

In autumn, the milder climate makes it much more comfortable to explore the park, avoiding the intense heat of summer. It’s the perfect season to enjoy the different habitats at a relaxed pace and let kids participate in the park’s special activities: from crossing hanging bridges in the jungle to practicing archery, or flying down the Ziwa zipline—all within a safe and well-organized setting.

Visitors can move through the park on foot or aboard all-terrain safari-style trucks, adding excitement to the journey and allowing for close-up encounters with lions, giraffes, rhinos, zebras, and hippos. For families, it’s a day packed with adventure, animal education, and, of course, fun—making it ideal for kids of all ages with a love for exploring.

The park features rest areas, restaurants, bathrooms, and stroller-friendly paths. We recommend wearing comfortable shoes, bringing sunscreen, a light jacket, and a big dose of enthusiasm.

Admission is paid, but there are often family promotions and combo tickets available. It’s a unique way to spend an autumn day outdoors with your loved ones, surrounded by wildlife, nature, and adventure in one of the Costa del Sol’s most original attractions.

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Parque de la Paloma

If you’re looking for a relaxed, free, and nature-filled activity to enjoy with the family during autumn, Parque de la Paloma is the perfect choice. Located in Benalmádena, it’s one of the largest and most beautiful urban parks on the Costa del Sol, with over 200,000 square meters of green areas, walking paths, gentle hills, and lively corners full of charm.

What kids love most is that, besides its large play areas, animals roam freely throughout the park: rabbits, chickens, ducks, swans, peacocks, and other birds coexist with visitors without barriers, turning the park into a sort of open-air “mini zoo”. Children love searching for these animals along the trails and are amazed at how close they can get to them.

The park also features an artificial lake with fish and ducks, shaded picnic areas, cafés, and wide open spaces for running, playing, or simply relaxing. The atmosphere is especially peaceful in autumn, when the temperatures are milder, the foliage turns golden, and the park is less crowded.

It’s stroller-friendly and equipped with restrooms, swings, and slides in its children’s play areas. It’s also located near other family-friendly attractions like Selwo Marina and the Butterfly Park of Benalmádena, making it easy to combine several activities into one family day out.

Parque de la Paloma is one of those places that wins hearts with its simplicity: no need for big attractions, it offers wide green spaces, the freedom to play, and a safe, natural environment where little ones can enjoy themselves at their own pace. A charming, affordable, and highly recommended autumn activity for families.

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Winter Activities in Malaga (December to January)

Malaga’s Christmas Lights: Family Magic with Music and Sparkle

When December arrives, Malaga transforms completely. The streets of the historic city center light up with millions of LED lights, creating a magical atmosphere that turns a simple walk into an unforgettable experience. Without a doubt, the Christmas light display on Calle Larios is one of the highlights of winter in Malaga—and an activity that delights both children and adults alike.

The decorations change every year, but they always impress with their creativity, vibrant colors, and scale. Thousands of lights line Calle Larios in the shape of arches, stars, angels, and festive motifs, while synchronized music-and-light shows take place several times each evening. Watching children’s faces light up the moment the decorations come on is one of those heartwarming images that stays with you forever.

Beyond Calle Larios, other parts of the city also embrace the Christmas spirit: Alameda Principal, Parque de Málaga, and many iconic neighborhoods are beautifully decorated. Even the harbor area (Muelle Uno) features its own light displays—perfect for an evening stroll by the sea.

During this season, Malaga also hosts several Christmas markets, with the one along the Paseo del Parque being among the most traditional. There, you’ll find everything from nativity scene figurines and ornaments to handcrafted goods, toys, and seasonal treats like turrón, buñuelos, or hot chocolate.

It’s a free activity—perfect for a family walk after dark, doing a bit of festive shopping, or simply soaking in the magical holiday atmosphere of Malaga.

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Three Kings Parade: The Most Magical Night of the Year

Every January 5th, Malaga celebrates one of the most beloved traditions for children (and adults too): the Three Kings Parade. This grand procession winds through the main streets of the city center at dusk—just steps away from our apartments—turning the final hours of Christmas into a true celebration of wonder, light, and joy.

For more than two hours, floats decorated with storybook scenes, fantastical characters, and of course our three main stars—Melchior, Gaspar, and Balthazar—parade through the streets, accompanied by music, dancers, drumming troupes, and lively entertainment. The Kings toss thousands of kilos of sweets to the crowd, so don’t forget to bring a big bag to collect them! Children watch in awe from the first float to the last, and adults share in the excitement as they witness their kids’ wide-eyed wonder and joy.

The route usually starts at the City Hall and continues along wide avenues like Alameda Principal and Calle Larios, where hundreds of people gather to see the parade go by. Despite being a large event, the atmosphere is very family-friendly, safe, and well-organized, with extra public transportation and recommended spots for families, especially areas with more space and fewer crowds.

While the main parade is in Malaga city, many neighborhoods and towns across the province host their own smaller versions, an excellent alternative for families with young children or those who prefer a quieter setting.

The Cabalgata is free, outdoors, and deeply moving. It’s the perfect grand finale to a holiday season in Malaga—and one of those magical moments that will stay in your children’s memories forever.

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Principia Science Center

If you happen to get a chilly or rainy day during your stay in Malaga, the Principia Science Center is a fantastic option to keep the kids entertained while they learn and have fun at the same time. This interactive museum, located next to La Rosaleda Stadium, is specially designed to spark scientific curiosity in both children and adults through hands-on experimentation.

Much like the Interactive Music Museum, the core idea here is not just to look, but to touch, test, play, and discover. The center features dozens of interactive modules that explain scientific concepts in a highly visual and easy-to-understand way, perfect for answering the endless questions young minds may have.

How does a boat float? What is an electric current? How does a tornado work? The answers come by physically experimenting and seeing science in action with your own hands.

The center also includes a live experiment room, where demonstrations are conducted with audience participation, and a small planetarium that lets you observe the night sky and learn about planets, stars, and the mysteries of the universe.

This is an ideal visit for school-aged children, as many of the concepts they learn in class are brought to life here in a fun and practical way. Adults will also enjoy it, thanks to its highly participatory format.

Admission is very affordable (between €3 and €5), with discounts available for families and groups. The facility is accessible, has nearby parking, restrooms, and can easily be visited in a morning or afternoon—making it a great addition to your day’s itinerary in the city.

Principia proves that science isn’t just useful—it’s also amazing and fun. A perfect educational option for those cooler days when you want to stay indoors but still enjoy your time as a family.

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Benalmádena Butterfly Park

Located next to the Buddhist Stupa of Benalmádena, the Butterfly Park is an ideal winter activity. It’s a tropical indoor garden with a constant warm temperature all year round—like stepping into a jungle paradise without leaving the Costa del Sol.

Inside, over 1,500 exotic butterflies from countries such as Costa Rica, the Philippines, Thailand, and Kenya fly freely. Children and adults can walk among them as they flutter around the space, landing on plants—and sometimes even on visitors—making the experience truly immersive, colorful, and full of wonder.

In addition to free-flying butterflies, the park also features other species such as wallabies and white-cheeked turacos. One of the children’s favorite areas is the chrysalis corner, where they can watch butterflies emerge in real time. The park provides explanatory signs, staff to answer questions, and an “explorer” booklet for kids to fill out as they identify different species during their visit.

The walk-through is not very long, making it perfect for young children or as part of a day with multiple stops. It can easily be combined with a visit to Parque de la Paloma or a stroll along the Benalmádena seafront promenade.

Entry is around €13 for adults and €11 for children over 3 (free for kids under 3), with family discounts and online deals available. The entire space is stroller-friendly. Most importantly, it offers a peaceful, educational, and cozy plan for escaping the cold or rain—and a chance to connect with nature as a family.

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Malaga with Kids: A Year-Round Family Destination

Now that you know what to do in Malaga with kids for each season, all that’s left is to choose your travel dates and start creating unforgettable family memories.

Make the most of your stay by booking one of our Malaga Premium Apartments, strategically located to make every one of these family adventures easier—whatever the weather.

We hope you enjoy Malaga with your loved ones through these family-friendly plans!