Benal Beach

We visited here March 2010 in a 1 bedroom. At first we were disappointed because the garden pools were dirty, walkways somewhat battered, etc. But it was fix-up week and by the time we left it was beautiful. The gardens are lovely, swimming pools huge, with a number of great slides. Ask about a pass to the spa. There's an indoor pool, sauna, steam room, whirlpools, and the largest gymnasium I've ever seen and includes Squash.

The building is on the main road, but you go out gates a block from the beach. Within walking distance are dozens of shops and restaurants, a huge park, Selwo Marina, and a huge street market on Wednesday. We recommend Red Chillis (Indian) and Sunset Cafe (great tapas) both a block east. Don't eat at the restaurants right on the beach--much too pricey, and mediocre food.

For a change, take the bus in front of the building, route 120 for a Euro plus change into Fuengirola. The zoo there (two blocks from bus station) is worth a visit. More shopping, more restaurants, more beach.