A dramatic pipe explosion in Benalmadena on Monday, May 26, 2025, turned the Costa del Sol sea brown and sent thousands of litres of water gushing into the air.
The incident, near the Los Patos hotel Castillo Bil Bil, saw a high-pressure water pipe rupture, sending a geyser-like spray of water through the resort and into the Mediterranean. Footage captured by a tourist from a hotel balcony showed a large brown stain spreading across the calm waters, with bubbles rising from the centre, as stunned holidaymakers watched agog.
Lifeguards quickly ushered people away from the murky water, and Benalmadena raised a yellow flag warning around midday. Authorities attributed the discolouration to “clean, drinkable water” dragging mud and sediment into the sea, insisting there was “no contamination” or health risk.
The burst pipe, described as “old and deteriorated”, was part of Acosol’s upstream drinking water network. The leak was stopped promptly, and repairs began, with a green flag raised later that day as conditions normalised.
The same pipe caused significant damage at Hotel Los Patos in 2016, flooding its dining area up to the fifth floor and forcing an evacuation. The municipal water company warned of water cuts across Benalmadena, except in Benalmádena Pueblo, for two to three days, as reserves depleted. The hotel, known for its water park with a pirate galleon and slides, reported no injuries but closed several facilities for repairs.
Locals expressed frustration on social media, questioning the water loss and the council’s decision to disable beach showers for conservation while such incidents occur. One resident speculated the water might contain waste despite official claims.
In recent months Benalmadena has been undergoing major works as the water company attempts to update the ageing water pipe system. There has been no news as to whether the ongoing works had any effect on the accident. However, it has put the council under the spotlight once more for the vulnerability of its utilities. In 2024, summer in Benalmadena saw continued power outages as the antiquated electricity system failed, leaving many without electricity.
