Benidorm, which is located just 20 minutes north of the city of Alicante and 10 minutes south of Calpe on the Costa Blanca coast Spain, is such as action-packed city. Even though it has a beautiful stretch of soft sandy beaches, we should leave this leisure activity for the end because there are so many kinds of tourist parks to visit around Benidorm.

The biggest attraction in Benidorm:
Terra Mitica This park in English is called ´Mythical Land´, because it is a theme park which takes us back to the ancient civilizations of Rome, Egypt and Greece, all of which were Mediterranean civilizations. As we all know,the heroes from those times were very brave, not letting anything or anyone frighten them. Do you think you will be like them after having ridden on the topsy turvy roller coaster? Or controlling your heartbeat after riding on many of the other attractions especially set up for you? Maybe you think you will recover a little after watching one of the gladiator shows? Your adrenalin will be pumping fast with all the professional actors making ancient life comeso close to you. There is also a part of this park for adventurous kids too.Terra Mitica is open all year round; from November to April it is only open at the weekends and on Spanish holidays. The entrance fee is approximately 40 euros but if you go in groups consult prices. Terra Mitica is found just five minutes north of Benidorm, easily accessible by bus or car.

Aqualandia Water Amusement Park So you want to cool down a little but the beach is not your cup of tea? Here at Aqualandia you can enjoy a days outing with the whole family. The childrencan slide down all the water slides as many times as they wish, always being well cared for by the lifeguards on duty. There are water shutes of every size, diving board areas, rapidly moving waters and even a black hole. For the sunbeauties like mum and grandma, you can lay around on comfortable hammocks and enjoy a picnic lunch in the shaded areas. It is open from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. and is located on the north entrance hillside to Benidorm.

Another view on the Costa Blanca at the Terra Natura Park This is not like any other wildlife park. Here, there are four theme areasand a water park. 1.500 animals of over 200 species, 50 of which are in dangerof extinction. What a privilege to be the lucky ones to see these living specimens up close! And not only these animals but their natural habitats and fauna whichmakes their living quarters appropriate for them. As you enter the park, the first area to visit is the Pangea, taking you back in time to when there were rivers petrified from hot burning lava, abundant vegetation hiding gigantic insects and many other surprises. To the left you are carried away to America, discovering an old mine converted into a tropical farm. The colorful macawsare found in the dove cove and later on the old joins the new in the colonial town of Copaltenango. In the center is Asia. As you stroll through the natural reserve of Kaziranga, you are able to see rhinoceros, buffalos and the temple of the wildcats. In this section there is a marvelous park for children to play in. And last, but of course not least, is Europe. In the town of Kalicameni, white-washed and full of comedians and natives singing their local songs. All this may sound tiring, but there are many a new food to be tried and a thirst-quenching drink to be had at any of the fabulous restaurants. And for those who needan extra thrill, in the Mare Nostrum waterway, you are fully equipped to have splash with live sharks! Terra Natura is open all year round, offering special passes for those who know how to appreciate a good opportunity and to take advantage of it as often as possible.

Benidorm and the Doliphins at the Mundomar Marine Animal Park Do you enjoy the water and its interesting animal kingdom but prefer to be on land? Then Mundomar (Seaworld) Marine Animal park is your best bet. All of us have read adventure stories about dolphins and feel that they are our friends, well it’s time to visit them. Here we can see the silly antics of these adorable sea creatures close up. Or chat up a conversation with the colourful parrots. The elegance and grace is personified with the exhibition of flamingos, so pink! Who has not had a turtle in their home as a pet, but to see ones that you could probably ride is another surprise. But, are you still even more curious and want to see what the marine world is like under the water. Well, we can all become Ariel, or Sebastian as in the Little Mermaid book and go down into a ship and have a look around the sea bottom. Refreshments and resting places are abundant. It is open at 10:00 a.m., adults are 18 euros, children 3-12 years old 12 euros and under 3 are free. The entrance is nearthe cross roads of Avenue Mediterranean and Avenue Europe. Do not miss this amazing experience!

Between Calpe Pego and Oliva: The Vergel Park If your travels have taken you along the coast heading towards Valencia,then it would be well worth making a stop off highway A-7 exit no. 61 passing Calpe, which indicates the towns of Pego and Oliva and just follow the signs to this safari park, found near Ondara. There are all kinds of wild animals to be touched, fed and observed. For a little extra fun time activity, the kids can let their hair fly in the wind when riding a go kart, mini train or ponies. There are even some marine animals like dolphins and sea lions. It is a relaxing and educational day excursion for the whole family. It is only open in the summer from 10:00 in the morning til 7:00 in the evening.

Looking at this huge selection of theme parks and tourist attractions around Benidorm and the Costa Blanca, you certainly will find your favourite one on your next holidays around the spanish coast. Make your stay in Benidorm a complete one and visit each and every one, all unique.

About the Author
With his spanish wife and daughter, the writer Robert Carlton lives in a suburb of Alicante. You can contact him via his web site at http://www.alicante-spain.com/benidorm.html