Introduction

Benalmádena is going through a drinks bar metamorphosis and mixology is featuring highly on the new wave of bar-goers experience.

Let’s be honest, “cocktails” have always been available at almost every bar you go to in Benalmadena, but no longer is a quick Screwdriver going to cut it in the new wave of cocktail creativity!

The bars of Benalmadena are encouraging their mixologists to show off their innovation and creativity when preparing cocktails … and several of them are constantly challenging themselves to make new cocktails that can’t be found anywhere else on the coast.

Benalmadena has always had a thriving bar scene, and not just among tourists looking for Sex on the Beach in the mid-afternoon sun. More recently there has been a shift towards quality drink offerings rather than just the cheapest and most voluminous alcohol available.

So, if you are looking for something a bit more class and a little less crass, here are some of the Benalmadena cocktail bars that are making waves:

Bar Ole

No Benalmadena blog article discussing cocktail bars can start without first mentioning Bar Ole. Nestled with several other quality bars down from the main Avenida Mare Nostrum in the tranquil Plaza Ole, Bar Ole has been heralded over and over as one of the best cocktail bars in Benalmadena.

With an expansive cocktail list, welcoming hosts and a pleasant and friendly regular clientele, Bar Ole must be on top of your list if you are looking for a cocktail-specific bar in Benalmadena.

Many reviews online mention the attention to detail and the great atmosphere as reasons to visit, however the single most used phrase to describe this bar across the internet, social media and customer review sites is “amazing cocktails” … so that kind of says it all!

Palm 5 Beach Bar

If you are looking for great cocktails and a stunning view, then the area of Las Gaviotas features a number of times in this article.

First up is Palm 5! If you live in Benalmadena or frequent the area, then there is a high probability that you have already visited this wonderful seafront bar. With excellent service and stellar views, it is the ideal place to relax and sip on one of their delicious cocktails.

Not only does Palm 5 make exceptional cocktails, but they are also one with the best prices on the list with numerous customer reviews highlighting the impressive and well-priced cocktails as a must in the area!

Dizzy Donkey

The Dizzy Donkey is a relatively new addition to Benalmadena on the cocktail front, but it is not hard to see why they are quickly becoming one of the most notable bars in this field. On the second level of Las Gaviotas, customers can enjoy stunning sea views and a warm welcome from this excellent Gin and Cocktail bar.

Not only has the bar built up a stellar reputation for its cocktails but it also uses its social media presence to host cocktail masterclasses and help you get better at your own cocktail-making… talk about the gift that keeps giving!

Kaleido

Kaleido is set in a prime position on the Puerto Marina in Benalmadena. It was founded in the 1990’s by the actor Antonio Banderas and his brother. Kaleido is particularly well known in Benalmadena due to its stunning setting, both on its terrace and inside.

The venue offers a full range of delicious cocktails and, in the evening, transforms into a busy club environment offering DJ sets which adds to the amazing atmosphere.

Al Mika

A new addition to Benalmadena, Al Mika has quickly become a popular spot overlooking the beach at Las Gaviotas. As another addition to an area already brimming with cocktail-focused spaces, two others being on this list, Al Mika is pushing itself to carve out its own niche in the cocktail market … and doing a great job at it.

As a venue that is quickly gaining a great cocktail and tapas reputation, you need to head over to try it out.

Marga & Rita

Situated on Palm Tree Avenue, this is another reasonably new addition to Benalmadena. The venue is already well known for its array of modern urban street food and delicious cocktails.

This venue not only creates delicious cocktails that are being raved about by locals and visitors alike but the space, and the drinks themselves, are designed as the ideal addition to your IG feed.

So, pop along, grab a cocktail and get Instagramming!

Maracas Beach Bil Bil

There are just simply some locations that you can’t beat … and Maracas is one of them. Situated on the beach at Castillo Bil Bil, there is no better location for a Benalmadena Beach Bar. You can happily sit, relax, and enjoy your time on the beach at this exceptional bar.

However, despite having a location that will draw in a crowd regardless, Maracas provide excellent service and a great selection of delicious cocktails. With a cool vibe, amazing views and great cocktails, this is one for your list.

Miami Sports Bar & Lounge

Located in the Ibensa area between Benalmadena Costa and Arroyo de la Miel, Miami Sports Bar and Lounge is a must for cocktail lovers, and there is one simple reason why … the owner!

Known for his cocktails throughout Benalmadena, Leonardo has worked at a number of venues increasing their reputation by using his exceptional mixology skills to create drinks that will knock your socks off.

Now with his own venue, Miami Sports Bar & Lounge is a cocktail lover’s dream. You will find his drinks hard to beat!

Salitos Bar

Salitos Bar is a chill-out bar located on the Sunset Beach Club Promenade in Benalmádena. This is a seasonal bar, and they aren’t the best at updating their opening hours online, but their cocktails are absolutely worth the minor inconvenience if you arrive just before they open, usually around 7 pm.

With spectacular views and great drinks, this is a summer must!

Conclusion

Benalmadena’s bar scene is an ever-changing array of diverse offerings, of which, cocktail bars are just one. With a range of Cocktail Bars, Sports Bars, Café Bars, Entertainment Bars and so much more, there is always something for everyone here. So, if cocktails aren’t your thing … Benalmadena has something else ready and waiting for you.

We hope you’ve enjoyed this blog post about Cocktail Bars in Benalmadena. We know there are many more bars that produce great cocktails, and we look forward to hearing about them. If you have any suggestions or comments, please send them our way at fromthepublic@simplybenalmadena.com

Look out for future bar-based articles where we will be discussing other types of bars that can be found in and around Benalmadena.

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