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Europe , Experiences , Portugal · August 14, 2022

How to Visit Benagil Cave in Algarve, Portugal

Benagil Cave in the Algarve region of Portugal is an amazing natural sea cave, with a hole in the ceiling, and two entry ways opening up right to the ocean. This is an idyllic spot in the Algarve that at first glance looks like it should be extremely remote. However, the Benagil Cave is actually shockingly easy to get to.

Also to my surprise, when we reached the cave is was quiet, calm, and only a few others inside at the time. This experience definitely exceeded my expectations, and actually lived up to the epic photos I saw beforehand.

You should definitely add this spot to your Algarve itinerary, no matter what activity or comfort level you have with the water. I’m going to share my recommendation for visiting the cave as well as break down all the different ways that you can reach the Benagil Cave based on your comfort level!

In this post I’m going to break down the different ways to get to the Benagil Cave, and the pros and cons of each!

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Where is the Benagil Cave?

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When I first saw pictures of the Benagil Cave, I imagined that it was remote and really hard to get to. To my surprise, it is very EASY to reach the cave. The Benagil Cave is located 200 meters from Benagil Beach along the Algarve Coast between the towns of Carvoeiro and Lagoa.

On the map, I have starred for you the Benagil Beach, the Benagil Cave, approximately where the free parking area for the beach is, and the tour company that we used. You can simply star this map, and the locations will be added to your google Maps!

How to Get to the Benagil Cave in Algarve?

There are multiple different ways to see the inside of the Benagil Cave, including swimming, kayaking, stand up paddling (SUP) or by boat. However, the only way to walk around inside the Algar de Benagil Cave is to enter by paddling, SUP or swimming.

Fortunately or unfortunately, the boat tours are no longer allowed to dock and let people off of the boat tours inside of the cave. The tour boats will enter one of the cave openings for about 30 second – 1 minute and then need to leave.

Below I have detailed my personal experience getting to the Benagil Caves, and provided alternative options based on different preferences.

To get to the Benagil Cave we rented a double-kayak from Taruga Tours and self-paddled to the cave. We walked right up to the Benagil Beach at 10am to the Taruga Tours stand where you can rent kayaks on the spot (based on availability). You can also reserve a single/double kayak, SUP, or a boat tour with Targua in advance on their website – Taruga Tours .

Taruga Tours charged 15 EUR per person for a 90 minute kayak rental. This gives you enough time to paddle out to Benagil Cave, explore the Benagil Cave for about 30 minutes, and then paddle further down the coast to see the smaller caves before returning back to Benagil Beach.

We had an amazing experience renting from Taruga and from doing some research, they are also the cheapest (and closest) option in the area. They are by far my recommendation on THE rental company to use in Algarve!

How Long Does it Take to Kayak to Benagil Cave?

We reached the Benagil Cave in about 5 minutes kayaking from Benagil Beach. We went in the morning on a very calm and sunny day so we did not encounter any waves or rough water.

The best time to self-kayak to the Benagil Cave would be right at 10am when the kayak companies start operating.

Was it Easy to Kayak to Benagil Cave without a Tour?

Yes! The location is extremely easy to get to starting from Benagil Beach, and on a calm morning, paddling was easy to moderate in effort. Once you depart from Benagil Beach, head towards the East and hug the coast line and you will reach the cave in 200 meters or about 5 minutes.

I would say that the hardest part was getting back into your kayak after you have explored the cave and not tipping over!

Even though we didn’t take a guided tour, I would suggest taking a kayaking tour if you want the extra knowledge that a guide can provide about the caves history and other interesting facts you wouldn’t otherwise get.

In addition, having a tour guide would be an advantage when you’re trying to get back into your kayak and start paddling again. They can help with the little extra push that we needed getting back started!

Below are some of the highest rated tours, ranging from $20 – $50 per person, and all have a 24-hour cancellation policy for a full refund!

Benagil: Benagil Caves Kayaking Experience – This is one of the most popular and highly rated kayaking tours available. Beginning at Benagil Beach, this tour lasts about 2 hours and takes you through not only Benagil Cave, but other smaller caves along the Algarve coast as well.

From Albufeira: Benagil Hidden Caves Tour by Kayak or SUP – If you are staying in Albufeira during your time in the Algarve, then this highly-rated tour would be a great option for you as the tour includes a 40-min boat ride to the kayaking spot.

Algarve: Benagil Sea Cave Sunrise or Sunset Kayak Experience – If you want to be the first in the cave to beat the crowds, why not book a sunrise kayaking tour to the Benagil Cave? I will caution that since it will be sunrise, there won’t be a lot of light coming through the hole in the ceiling. This will make taking pictures in the already dark cave a little tricker.

Portimão: Kayak Tour of Benagil Caves – If you are staying in Portimão during your time in the Algarve, then this highly-rated tour would be a great option for you as the tour includes boat transportation to Albandeira Beach where you will start paddling to the caves.

If you prefer to join a stand up paddling (SUP) tour, I have included some highly-rated tour options below!

Benagil: 2.5-Hour Stand-up Paddle Boarding Tour – This tour includes a SUP-certified instructor that will give you all the basic techniques before you head into the ocean. Your knowledgeable tour guide will also take you to some hidden areas which will provide you a new vision of the Algarve Coast you wouldn’t otherwise get.

Benagil Beach: Kayak or SUP Coastline Caves Tour – another highly-rate SUP tour that not only guides you to the Benagil Cave with local knowledge from the guide, but also hidden gems along the coast of Algarve.

If you do not feel comfortable in a kayak or SUP, I would suggest you to book a boat tour to see the Benagil Cave. This way you get the advantages of a local guide with knowledge, and you don’t have to do any of the rowing!

The biggest downside of this option is that you are not allowed out of the boat inside the cave. Your boat will only drive into the entrance for less than a minute and need to leave.

Albufeira: 2.5-Hour Caves & Dolphin Watching Boat Tour – This boat tour leaves from Albufeira, and takes you on a 2 and a half hour ride looking for dolphins and hidden caves on a cruise of the Algarve coast. The boat even stops to let you out for a swim, so bring your swimsuit!

Algarve 3-Hour Caves and Coastline Boat Trip – This tour departs from the Albufeira marina towards Carvoeiro area on a catamaran. You will see some caves, including the Benagil Cave and other rock formations. There is a swimming stop during the cruise, so make sure to bring you suit.

Portimão: Benagil Caves and Praia de Marinha Boat Tour – This boat tour starts at Cais Vacco da Gama in Portimão and passes by Fort of Santa Catarina, the Ferragudo Castle, and the small fishing village of Ferragudo before reaching the Benagil Cave. You will also make a stop at the world’s most exotic beaches, Praia da Marinha, to go swimming.

From Lagos: 2-Hour Boat Trip to the Benagil Caves – If you are staying near Lagos, you might enjoy this 2 hour boat tour to the Benagil Caves and other sea caves that can only be accessed by boat.

Yes! From Benagil Beach , you can reach the Benagil Cave by swimming 200 meters (about 5 minutes) East along the coast. Swimming does not require a fee, booking a tour, or renting any gear to reach the Benagil Cave.

However, I would suggest that you are a pretty experienced swimmer and don’t attempt the swim with rough waves as you could get nocked around towards the rocks.

The best time to swim to the cave would be in the early morning before the rental companies and boat tours have begun for the day!

You will not be able to visit the inside of the Benagil Cave by foot, however, if you want to view the cave from the top, you can hike to the roof of the cave! There are walking/hiking paths all along the Coast of Algarve.

From here, you can access the top dome of the Benagil Cave and carefully peek through the hole. We did not hike to the top since we already saw the inside, however I have heard there is a fence around the hole to ensure you don’t get too close.

We visited the Benagil Cave on our trip to Algarve in November. The temperature of the water is consistent all year round (ranging between 60 – 70 degrees), so you can access the cave all year round.

We visited the cave around 10:15AM and found that it was extremely peaceful and not yet crowded. However, when we were returning to our car around noon, we saw large lines at the rental companies indicating that the cave was getting more and more crowded.

In order to get to the cave prior to 10am (when all the rental companies open for the day), you can book one of the sunrise kayak tours discussed above, swim, or rent a kayak for multiple days.

I do caution that visiting really early in the morning, you will experience low light levels inside the cave which will make photography more of a challenge.

Here are some quick tips for visiting the Benagil Cave in Algarve Portugal.

What is the best way to visit the Benagil Cave?

The best way to visit the caves depends on your personal situation or comfort level, however in my opinion self-kayaking to the cave was the best option. By renting a kayak, we were able to visit the Benagil Cave on our own timeline, spend as much or as little time as we wanted at the cave, and go whenever fit our itinerary best.

Can you visit the Benagil Cave without a tour?

Yes! You can either swim to the Benagil Cave from the Benagil Beach, or rent a kayak or SUP board to self-paddle to the cave. Rental are usually for a 90 minute time frame which is enough time to visit the Benagil Cave and a couple smaller caves along the Algarve Coast.

When is the best time to go to the Benagil Cave?

The best time to visit the Benagil Cave is when the waves are calm enough to get there safely. Otherwise the cave can be visited all year round.

When is the Benagil Cave open?

The Benagil Cave is open 24-hours every day and there is no fee to enter the cave.

Is Visiting the Benagil Caves worth it?

The Benagil Cave is absolutely worth adding to your Algarve Portugal itinerary!

How long should you spend in the Benagil Cave?

People typically spend 30 – 45 minutes in the cave looking around and taking photos from different angles.

Final Thoughts!

I hope that you now have all the tools you need to plan the perfect adventure to the Benagil Caves. If you are currently planning a trip to Portugal and have any questions, drop them in the comments below. For more travel inspiration and tips, follow me on Instagram for current updates.

Looking for more Portugal inspiration? You may also enjoy my other Portugal related posts:

• The Perfect 3-Day Lisbon Itinerary
• Sintra Day Trip from Lisbon
• The Ultimate 3 Days in Porto Itinerary
• 8 Best Day Trips from Porto, Portugal
• 7 Best Viewpoints in Porto, Portugal

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About Rebecca

Rebecca is a photographer, travel blogger, and founder of That One Point of View -- a resource for the modern traveler dreamed up after a cross-cultural move abroad to Germany. She's now traveled to over 50+ countries with her husband (and sometimes golden retriever) and creates thoughtful itineraries for you to plan similar trips with ease. She's on a mission to take the intimidation out of traveling to new places and inspire you to finally book that dream trip!

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August 7, 2022 at 7:39 am

Hi ! Im writing from Argentina. Thanks a lot for all the information. I’m bothering you to ask how did you get from Ferragudo to Benagil ? Im not planing to rent a car, just train or bus. I’ll be staying in ferragudo so it’s extremely helpful all the tips you gave. Thanks again.

August 7, 2022 at 10:16 am

Great choice to stay in Ferragudo! That’s where we stayed and loved it! We had a car with us, so we drove to Benagil, however there is a great bus system in the Algarve. Bus 52 should get you in between Ferragudo and Benagil Beach.

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How to Reach Benagil Cave in Algarve, Portugal (Tours + Kayaking + tips)

by Drifter Planet | Jul 14, 2022 | Portugal , Most Popular Blog Posts

Information about how to reach Benagil Cave, Tips, and Practical Travel Info. I have visited the Benagil Cave twice and had a different experience each time.

Imagine a beach that’s hidden from the rest of the world because it is in a cave. A perfect beach with soft golden sand that’s partially lit because of the hole on the top of the cave. That’s Benagil Cave in the Algarve .

Beaches are special but hidden beaches are more than just extra special. I am happy to say that I have visited quite a few because I always try to find one such beach when I visit a beach destination. When I do, I feel like a character out of The Beach movie.

Algarve’s Benagil Cave beach is one of those extra special ones. The only way in is by kayaking or paddle boating, which obviously adds a more elusive touch to this already amazing place.

If you didn’t know already, the Algarve region is in the South of Portugal and is a lovely coastal area. The thing that makes the Algarve coastline unique is the stunning rock formations.

There rock formations are everywhere in the Algarve and are mindblowing. I spent a week in Lagos and then a week in Carvoeiro – both these places are in the Algarve and are stunning.

In Portuguese, the Benagil Cave is called Algar de Benagil. The holes in the rock formations are called  algares  (or holes) and there are many of them. I did mention in my Seven Hanging Valleys post that there’s a hike that goes on top of the cliff inside which this cave is situated. You can see the holes in these cliffs from the top.

This post is about the best way of getting inside the cave from the water. Actually, there are many caves in this short stretch and they are collectively called the Benagil Caves, but in this post, we will mostly talk about the most famous Benagil Cave one with a hidden sandy beach. This one (below).

Benagil Cave has a hidden beach, where a little light falls dramatically because it has a hole on the top. Most of the cave is dark but gets lit up as the sun rises.

The shape and the direction of the light that falls from above keep changing as the day passes. It is like a natural skylight within a natural wonder adding to the wow effect of this already beautiful cave.

Where is Benagil Cave?

Benagil Cave is near Carvoeiro , which is a cute little resort town in Portugal’s Algarve region . It is between Portimão & Albufeira. It is 55 km away from Faro , which is the Algarve’s entry point because of the airport.

As mentioned before, Benagil Beach is a part of the Seven Hanging Valleys trail of the Algarve , which is a famous hiking trail that ends at Marinha Beach .

Benagil Beach comes just about in the middle of this hiking trail. Benagil Beach is the main beach of the Benagil village, and shouldn’t be confused with the Benagil Cave Beach. The cave beach is obviously the one that’s inside the cave!

Where to Stay to Visit the Benagil Cave

If you visit Algarve, then most likely you will set up your base in Albufeira, Lagos , Tavira, Sagres, or Portimão.

In order to visit the Benagil Cave, the best nearby destination to stay is Carvoeiro , where I stayed in June 2023. Another option would be the Benagil village. It is a small fishing village but I found it to be very boring because the main Benagil Beach is tiny and was full of seaweed.

Whereas Carvoeiro has amazing beaches, rock formations, and Algar Seco caves and it isn’t as touristy as other destinations of the Algarve.

So that’s why I suggest Carvoeiro because it is next to Benagil village and you can easily move between the two using Uber. From Carvoeiro to Benagil was EUR 7 on Uber for us, and it was just a 10-15 minute drive.

My first time in the Algarve was in 2022 and I picked Lagos because it is seriously stunning, has a low-key vibe, and historical old town. These three should be included in every Algarve itinerary .

If you want to be close to the Benagil cave, then you should pick Carvoeiro for your base. It is a little upscale in terms of hotels but I did find an amazing resort with an affordable apartment, it was at Rocha Brava Village Resort .

I did not want to stay in Carvoeiro in 2022 because I wasn’t looking for a resort destination but a place that had a bit of everything – beaches, hiking, viewpoints, restaurants, history, and a certain vibe, and Lagos is a bit solo traveler friendly.

In 2023 I visited the Algarve with a friend so for us Carvoeiro made total sense. Carvoiero is pretty and also has the stunning Algar Seco caves, which reminded me of Cappadocia .

If you don’t want to stay in Carvoeiro too, then you can easily make a day trip to see the Benagil Cave with a rental car or a tour.

Starting Point for Reaching Benagil Caves

Drive to Benagil Beach, or arrive here on a bus. Car rental is cheaper in Portugal as compared to the other nearby European countries as I mentioned already in my Portugal road trip post .

Based on my experience with how busy it gets here, arrive on Benagil Beach by 8:45 am to start the next step mentioned in the point below.

How to Get into Benagil Cave?

Let’s finally talk about how you get into Benagil Cave. As mentioned before, there are only two ways:

• Kayaking (I did this in 2022)
• Paddleboarding (I did this in 2023)

Do not swim to the Benagil Cave or the nearby caves that are collectively called Benagil Caves.

The swim looks easy but it is surprisingly difficult so there are often accidents. Each year at least two tourists die while attempting to swim to Benagil Caves. Please visit with a kayak instead.

Kayaking to the Benagil Caves is not only the most popular way to reach inside but also the easiest way. Stand-up paddleboarding is fun but it isn’t the easiest. I kept on falling from my SUP because of the waves but kayaking was a breeze.

Boats bigger than paddle boats and kayaks aren’t allowed to offload people near the cave anymore, so if you visit these caves on a big tour boat, then you won’t be able to swim to the cave and walk on the beach.

In order to reach the Benagil Cave beach, you will either need to pick a tour or drive to Benagil Beach and try to find a way to rent a kayak from there. I will talk about these options in detail below.

Can you reach the Benagil Cave with a Boat Tour?

Yes and no. Yes, you can reach the Benagil Cave on a boat but no you won’t be able to walk on the beach. The boats are not allowed to bring people on the beach – this is something a tour operator in Lagos told me. She mentioned that the only way to go inside is by getting on a kayaking or a SUP trip.

That’s true for even tours on small boats – they aren’t allowed to let people out of the boat to walk on the small beach inside the Benagil cave.

How to Pick Your Benagil Cave Tour?

Depending on where you will stay in the Algarve, you should pick a tour based on the departure point.

When you arrive in any part of the Algarve – be it Albufeira or Lagos or Portimão, you will see lots of shops in the main center or near the train or bus stations or in the Marina where they try to sell you a tour to see the Benagil cave.

The thing is, 95% of those tours will take you on a big boat, and big boats can only see the Benagil cave from outside. So, you will technically not visit the beach. You can’t leave the big boat so you won’t get to walk on the beach.

The only way you can go on the beach is if you pick a tour with kayaks, paddle boats, or SUP. After a lot of research and reading reviews on hundreds of sites that we found on the internet, we found this perfect tour for us . It wasn’t from Lagos but from Portimão. During my second visit, I did Benagil Cave Stand-Up Paddleboard (SUP) tour instead.

We were staying in Lagos but we reached Portimão in just 20 minutes with our bus. Portimão is easy to reach from anywhere in Algarve by bus or train.

This tour was excellent. Not only did we visit the Benagil cave, but we also visited some of the other caves around and they were all good. We also saw the famous Praia da Marinha , which is supposed to be one of the most beautiful beaches in Europe.

We had a very comfortable catamaran with a toilet. We had a staff of four people with us on the board who were our guides and kayaking lifeguards.

Other Benagil Cave Kayak tour options

If the above tour is booked out or if you’re not going to be in Portimao, then I have handpicked a few more tours for you:

• Benagil Cave Guided tour:  It is a 2-hour kayaking tour that leaves from Benagil Beach.
• Benagil Kayak Rental : If you have enough kayaking experience, then you can rent the kayak and do it yourself. But be careful of the rocks at the entry of the cave.
• Benagil Cave Stand-Up Paddleboard (SUP) : For me entering the Benagil Cave on a paddleboard was a lot of fun. Try it.
• Benagil Cave Sunrise or Sunset Kayaking : It is different from the others because it has super early or late start times so that you can avoid crowds. This also costs EUR 35 per person and starts from Benagil Beach.
• Algarve: Benagil Caves Guided Kayaking Tour: This is pretty similar to the first one on this list and costs the same – EUR 35. But they have 5 different time slots so that you can start super early or late to avoid crowds. It also leaves Benagil Beach.

Is it difficult to kayak to Benagil Cave?

Kayaking isn’t difficult because it is intuitive. You don’t need to know if from before to do it. I normally hate watersports but for me, kayaking is actually fun.

During my first visit in 2022, I did a kayaking tour with a bigger number. There were many kayaking newbies on the tour and they did pretty well when they kayaked the first time. And some of them didn’t even know how to swim! Yes, they all had life jackets on – whether you are a pro or a newbie, a life jacket is a must.

But I understand if you are nervous about it, I can sometimes be too. In 2023, my friend took a kayak and I took a paddleboard. She isn’t very experienced with kayaks but she did a good job.

If you do a tour then they will already give you instructions for kayaking. They will help you arrive on the beach by kayak, which in my experience is the moment when most people fall. Falling in the water isn’t something you should be scared of by the way.

The entry area of the Benagil cave is rocky (of course), so the only thing you should be scared of is falling out of your kayak and hurting yourself with the rocks. But, don’t let fear mess up your experience. A little bit of fear is okay for awareness so that you can keep yourself safe.

Kayaking vs Stand-Up Paddleboarding (SUP)

Honestly, I prefer SUP over kayak because I find it much more fun to balance while standing. Kayaking is easier and is something I have done many times.

The only reason I booked a kayaking tour and not SUP is that I didn’t find a tour that started from Lagos or Portimão. Also, SUP tours are more expensive. But if I didn’t have any money or commute restrictions, I would have picked up this below tour.

If you’d like to do stand-up paddleboarding to visit the Benagil cave, then check out this tour . This is a 2-hour tour that starts from Benagil beach and you can find one as early as 7:30 am, which is way before most people start to arrive here.

Not into Kayaking or Stand-Up Paddleboarding? Try a Boat Tour

Ok, I get it. You don’t want to kayak or go on a SUP or even swim to the cave. You would rather experience the beauty of the cave from the water and the comfort of your boat.

No worries, I get you and I can help you with a few boat trips where you can do just that:

• Benagil Cave on a boat from Portimão : This costs EUR 26 and starts from Portimão on a boat.
• Benagil Cave on a boat from Carvoeir o: This costs EUR 30 and starts from Carvoeiro. It also includes the famous Praia da Marinha.
• Benagil Cave Boat Tour & Dolphin Watching on a Speed Boat from Albufeira : This tour starts from Albufeira and costs EUR 34.

Please note: that you won’t be able to leave the boat, make swimming stops or enter the beach inside the Benagil cave. If you want to go to the beach or swim, then book a kayaking or SUP tour.

The Best time to do the Benagil Cave Tour

As a person who has done a morning tour and an afternoon tour, I’d say do the morning one. We started at 9 am from Benagil Beach and we were inside the cave pretty early before anyone else was there. And it was the high season – June.

Most of the tours leave in the morning at 10 am and 2 pm in the evening. Of course, most people opt for the 2 p.m. one. I did too the first time because I was all the way away in Lagos . The 2 p.m. tour that I did was also in the month of June.

Now that I have done both a morning tour and an afternoon tour, I’d say that the experience is completely different and a hundred times better when it is early.

The month of August is even busier so you should definitely pick a morning tour if you are visiting during the high season. Personally, I’d say that early summer is the best time to visit the Algarve .

Can You Visit the Benagil Cave without a Tour?

This is something that isn’t advertised but is definitely possible. Why should it be? After all, if you are an experienced kayaker or SUPer, you can enter the cave on a kayak or a paddle boat without a guide. Just arrive at Benagil Beach and rent a kayak or a paddleboard.

When in doubt, carry your own inflatable paddleboard – they aren’t expensive anymore and are around EUR 100 – 150.

Actually, I didn’t want to do it because I wanted a guide to be around me in case there was a danger of me smashing my head against the rocks.

This option may make sense if you are already going to rent a car to travel within Portugal. So get a rental car , drive to Benagil Beach super early, and rent a few kayaks or a stand-up paddleboard.

But if you rent a car just to visit the Benagil Cave, then do check the weather conditions in advance and the timings of high tide and low tide.

Pro tip: If you are doing this without a guide, then notice the people on a tour and which cave entrance they are taking. There are two cave entrances. The tour guides do this every day and know which entrance to take.

The cost of our tour from Portimao was 40 euros but the cost of the tour from Benagil Beach was 35 euros. So the difference is just 5 euros and if you rent a car just for this, then you will probably pay a minimum of EUR 30 per day and add EUR 35 for a kayak tour from Benagil Beach per person.

If you are driving to Benagil Beach and doing this tour on your own, then the advantage is that you get to spend a longer time inside the Benagil Cave and can also explore the other nearby beaches at your own pace. There’s of course the famous Marinha Beach nearby which is worth all the hype but also Carvalho Beach which is also on the Seven Hanging Valleys hiking trail.

Can You Swim to Benagil Cave?

Even if you are a strong swimmer, please don’t swim to Benagil Cave. As mentioned above, the swim is surprisingly difficult even though it appears to be easy.

Each year minimum of two travelers die while they attempt to swim to Benagil Cave. That’s why I feel it is my duty to inform you about the risks and discourage you from risking your life.

Where to Rent a Kayak for Benagil Cave?

I did a tour but you can rent a kayak from Praia de Benagil to reach Benagil Cave. The rental stand is right there on the beach and it opens up at 8:30 am during the peak season. They will give you life jackets too and some also have an optional add-on rental “dry bag”, which comes in handy while kayaking or SUPing.

If you aren’t confident about kayaking to Benagil Caves on your own, then here’s one of the tours that you can look at . For more tour options, look at the section above that’s named “Benagil Cave tour options”.

Final Thoughts on Visiting the Benagil Cave in Algarve Portugal

Visiting Benagil Cave may sound complicated but it isn’t. If you want to visit it then you shouldn’t let anything stop you. After all, there aren’t so many such places in the world. If you visit Portugal’s Algarve region then you should definitely do everything you can to visit the Benagil cave for a once-in-a-lifetime experience.

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Hello Travelers!

Namaste, Guten Tag! I'm Sonal from India, living in Germany and exploring Europe. I've been writing about my travels since 2015. I often travel alone (and sometimes with family of 3).

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Last Updated on March 29, 2024 by Drifter Planet

How To Visit Benagil Cave – Everything You Need To Know! (Best Tours, How To Get There, Top Tips & More!)

Posted on Last updated: June 10, 2023

Benagil Cave is possibly one of the most famous places in Portugal, and for good reason.

It was made famous from a photo that went viral on social media, and it quickly became one of the most visited natural attractions of the Algarve.

We incorporated our Benagil Cave tour from Lagos with exploring other beaches in the area, and it was easily the best day of our Algarve itinerary.

I was afraid Benagil Cave would be an Instagram vs reality moment, where it looks stunning in photos but it wouldn’t be in person. I’m glad that I was proved wrong.

Benagil Caves in the Algarve is a huge sea cave with a hole in the ceiling and doors that open up directly in the sea. It’s a gorgeous natural formation, which deserves a place in your Portugal bucket list.

In this guide I put together everything you need to know about visiting Benagil Cave. Including how to get to Benagil Cave, the best Benagil Cave tours, the best time to visit, tips from my experience and more!

We visited Benagil Cave on a sunrise kayak tour, and it was the best decision we could have made. If you want to know everything about visiting Benagil Cave, read on!

• 1 What is Benagil Cave?
• 2 How to get to Benagil sea cave
• 3 Best time to visit Benagil Cave
• 4.1 Benagil Cave Kayak Tour
• 4.2 Benagil Cave Boat Trips
• 4.3 SUP tour to Benagil Cave
• 5 How much does a Benagil Cave tour cost?
• 6 Our experience visiting Benagil Cave
• 7 Where to stay to visit Benagil Cave
• 8 Visiting Benagil Cave FAQs

Me in Benagil Cave at 7:30AM

What is Benagil Cave?

Benagil Cave is a huge sea cave located on the southern coast of Portugal, in the Algarve region. It’s often described also as Benagil Cathedral, because of its huge size and imposing natural formation.

Benagil sea cave is characterised by two entrances facing the sea and a giant hole on its ceiling. Inside the cave there is also a small beach where you can walk around, dip your feet in the sea and enjoy this stunning sea cave.

From inside the cave you can see all the different shades of gold and amber rock that line the cave walls, telling the history of thousands of years of sea and wind erosion. It’s a sight of incredible natural beauty.

Kayaking into Benagil Cave from one of the grotto entrances on the sea

How to get to Benagil sea cave

You can only reach Benagil Cave by the sea. Despite being located along the Algarve coast on mainland Portugal, the entrances of Benagil Cave face directly into the sea.

If you walk along the coast you will be able to look into the distinctive hole of Benagil Cave, but you won’t be able to access the cave from there.

When I visited in summer 2021 they had placed a security fence around the hole, meaning you could look into Benagil Cave but without getting too close.

Our kayaks inside Benagil Cave

Benagil Cave is just 200 metres from Benagil Beach, which is considered one of the best beaches in the Algarve .

You can only get to the Benagil Cave location by sea with a kayak, SUP or boat. Some people also swim to Benagil sea caves, as the distance is fairly short.

However this isn’t recommended unless you know the location and tides really well, and unless you’re a confident and strong swimmer. Joining a kayak , SUP or boat tour is the easiest and safest way to get to Benagil Cave.

The tours to Benagil Cave usually start directly in Benagil Beach, unless you book one specifically with a transfer. Since the town around it is fairly small, most people usually stay in either Lagos , Albufeira or Portimao to then visit Benagil.

These popular Algarve destinations are all within a 25 to 40 minute drive from Benagil. If you’re driving your own car to Benagil Cave, you can find a big free parking area here .

Click here to see prices and availability for your Benagil Cave tour, or check out the most popular Benagil Cave tours below!

Exploring Benagil Cave in the Algarve, Portugal

Best time to visit Benagil Cave

The best time to visit Benagil Cave is as early as possible in the morning. I’m not joking when I say that the time of visit could make or break your Benagil Cave tour.

We did a 7AM kayak tour to Benagil Cave and our group was the only one there. We spent half an hour wandering around the cave and taking photos, sharing this gorgeous natural rock formation with only 10 other people.

When we walked past the cave entrance later in the afternoon and peaked in, we were shocked by the amount of people and kayaks stacked inside the cave, to say nothing of the chaos that was Benagil Beach.

You should also check the tide times. We visited during low tide so there was a lot of sandy beach to sit and walk on. In the afternoon the tide had gone up, so besides there being more people, it also felt more crowded as the beach was smaller.

Me and my friend Martina on our Benagil Cave sunrise kayak tour

The best Benagil Cave tours

Being one of the most popular attractions in Portugal, it’s only natural that there would be hundreds of tours dedicated to visiting this one sea cave in the Algarve.

I always recommend booking your tour online beforehand, especially if you’re travelling in high season, as it will ensure you can do the tour you want and on your preferred date and time.

One of the cool things about doing a Benagil Cave tour is that there are loads of options to choose from. I have listed below some of the most popular tours to Benagil Cave.

Kayaking to Praia da Marinha during our Benagil Cave kayak tour

Benagil Cave Kayak Tour

We visited Benagil Cave on a kayak tour and loved it. The tour lasted 1.5 hours, of which around 30 minutes were spent inside Benagil Cave, taking photos and generally just admiring this gorgeous natural formation.

Besides Benagil Cave, we loved exploring this part of the Algarve coast by kayak, as it allows you to get really close to the huge staggering cliffs while also being close to the crystal clear sea.

There are lots of Benagil Cave kayak tours, so I have listed below some of the ones with the best reviews online.

Algarve: Benagil Caves 2-Hour Guided Kayaking Tour – The classic Benagil Cave kayak tour, starting in Benagil Beach for those who want to drive there alone and then explore the surroundings once the tour ends 

Click here to book your Benagil Cave kayak tour!

Kayaks ready for a sunrise tour to Benagil Cave

Algarve: Benagil Sea Cave Sunrise or Sunset Kayak Experience – As I already mentioned the best time to visit Benagil Cave is as early as possible in the morning. Join this sunrise kayak tour for the opportunity to see Benagil Cave without the crowds!

Portimao: Kayak Tour of Benagil Caves – If you’re staying in Portimao and don’t have a car, this tour is a great way to visit Benagil, as it includes also the boat cruise there.

From Albufeira: Benagil Hidden Caves Tour by Kayak or SUP – Same thing for those who are staying in Albufeira, join this tour if you want both the boat cruise and kayak experience!

Check out prices & availability for your Benagil Cave kayak tour in the calendar below!

Getting ready for our kayak sunrise tour to Benagil Cave from Benagil Beach

One of the other sea caves we explored during our Benagil Cave kayak tour

Benagil Cave Boat Trips

If kayaking isn’t your thing, worry not! As there are also plenty of boat tours that can take you to Benagil Cave. I have listed below some of the most popular ones.

Portimao: Benagil Caves 2-Hour Speed Boat Tour – If you’re looking for a Benagil Cave tour from Portimao, this speed boat tour is a great choice! Besides Benagil Cave you will be able to explore also a large part of Portugese coast. 

Albufeira: Benagil Caves & Dolphin Watching Speed Boat Tour – For those who want a Benagil Cave tour from Albufeira, this boat tour also includes a dolphin watching experience! It’s like getting a 2-for-1 tour! 

Lagos: Benagil Sea Cave Tour – Last but not least, if you want to visit Benagil Cave from Lagos, this scenic cruise will allow you to do just that. 

Click here to book your boat tour to Benagil Cave,   or check out prices & availability in the calendar below!

Join a Benagil Cave boat tour

SUP tour to Benagil Cave

If you don’t fancy kayaking and you don’t want to be on a boat, you can also join a Benagil Caves SUP tour!

Algarve: Benagil Caves Stand-Up Paddle Board Tour – Discover the gorgeous Benagil sea cave, and the gorgeous coastline of the Algarve, by paddling out on your very own SUP! 

Click here to book your Benagil Cave SUP tour, or check out prices & availability in the calendar below!

Exploring the Algarve coast by SUP

How much does a Benagil Cave tour cost?

Generally speaking, the tours to Benagil Caves range from 20 EUR to 50 EUR depending on what transport mode you choose and whether they include other services or attractions.

You should visit the page of the exact Benagil Cave tour you want to do to see their latest prices and availability.

If you want to save money you could try renting a kayak or SUP at Benagil Beach and making your own way to Benagil Cave, as it’s fairly close. However you would then miss out on the other sea caves the tours take you to visit.

Check out prices and availability for your Benagil sea cave tour here!

Benagil Beach – where most of the Benagil Cave tours start from

Our experience visiting Benagil Cave

I’ll be honest and say that before visiting Benagil Cave, I was convinced it would be one of those overhyped locations that became famous on social media but which is actually disappointing in real life.

I was very happy to be proved wrong. Benagil Cave in Portugal is a place of truly stunning natural beauty, which I believe should feature on everyone’s Europe bucket list .

Walking on the small beach inside the cave, looking up at the hole in the cave ceiling and admiring the layers of rock and erosion that brought it to look like that over millions of years, really has a way of making you feel small.

I also really enjoyed kayaking along the rest of the coast, exploring other sea caves and admiring the golden cliffs of Praia da Marinha. I thought it would be a lot of hype just for one cave, but there was actually more to it.

We did the 7AM sunrise kayak tour and were not disappointed. I heard from others who visited during the day that they hated it because huge number of kayaks, boats and people crowded into the cave.

Benagil Cave is a truly unique natural rock formation, which deserves its place on every Portugal itinerary . If you want to fully enjoy it, make the effort to wake up early and give it the attention it deserves.

Exploring Benagil Cave in the Algarve

Where to stay to visit Benagil Cave

The town surrounding Benagil Cave and Benagil Beach is fairly small and quiet. This is the reason why most travellers visiting Benagil Cave stay in other towns of the Algarve .

We stayed in Lagos and loved it, although it is the town furthest away. The drive from Lagos to Benagil Cave is around 40 minutes, but the town itself is very cute, as well as being close to Ponta da Piedade and other awesome Algarve beaches.

Albufeira is closer, only a 30-minute drive to Benagil, and a great place to stay for young travellers looking to party. The town has a beautiful beach right in front of it, and a reputation for being a party destination.

Portimao is also around a 30-minute drive from Benagil. It’s a great starting point for many of the boat and kayak tours to Benagil that I’ve listed above.

Some people try to visit Benagil Cave on a day trip from Lisbon but that’s not worth it in my opinion. You would spend longer driving back and forth than enjoying Benagil.

You should plan your Portugal itinerary to visit cities like Lisbon , Sintra and Porto on separate days from Benagil. 

Exploring the old town centre of Lagos in Portugal

Praia dos Pescadores in front of Albufeira city centre, with Albufeira old town behind it

Here are some great accommodation options for every budget in each of these towns.

Budget in Lagos – Topcity Hostel & Suites :  This is the hostel we stayed at for two nights and a great choice for budget travellers. They have a rooftop pool, spacious terraces for every dorm and a fun sociable atmosphere.

Click here to see prices and availability at Topcity Hostel & Suites!

Mid-range in Albufeira – Casa dos Arcos :  This charming guest house is the perfect place to stay for those who want to treat themselves without breaking the bank. You can relax in their lovely courtyard after a long day of exploring the Algarve.

Check out prices and availability at Casa dos Arcos here!

Luxury in Portimao – Jupiter Marina Hotel : With its infinity pool with sea views, spacious rooms and spa, it’s the perfect place to treat yourself after an early morning kayaking to Benagil Cave!

Click here to book your stay at Jupiter Marina Hotel in Portimao here!

The rooftop pool at Topcity Hostel & Suites in Lagos

Visiting Benagil Cave FAQs

Conscious this article has become quite long, so I wanted to summarise the key points here!

How do I get to Benagil Cave? Benagil Cave is located 200 metres away from Benagil Beach, on the coast of mainland Portugal. You can only access the cave from the sea with a kayak, SUP or boat tour.

What is the best time to visit Benagil Cave? If you’re visiting in summer, the best time to see Benagil is at 7AM before the huge tourist crowds arrive. If you’re in Portugal in winter you can go also later during the day, although many tours won’t be running in low season so make sure to plan accordingly and book online beforehand.

Can you go to Benagil Cave without a tour? Technically yes. You could swim to Benagil Cave but it’s not recommended. You could also rent a kayak, SUP or boat and make your own way there, but you would miss on the explanation of how Benagil Cave was formed and the tour to the other nearby sea caves.

Is visiting Benagil Cave worth it? In my opinion yes. There is a reason this stunning natural cave became so famous in the first place, just make sure to visit early in the morning to avoid the crowds and have a pleasant experience at Benagil.

Where do I book a Benagil Cave tour?  I always recommend GetYourGuide as an online platform for tours. They offers loads of tours where you can read reviews, plus they have a very flexible cancellation policy.

Click here to book your Benagil Cave kayak tour, or check out prices & availability in the calendar below!

One of the entrances and the famous roof on the ceiling of Benagil Cave

Final thoughts on the best Benagil sea caves tours

There you have it, the ultimate guide to visiting Benagil Cave in the Algarve! I hope my article answers all the questions you might have about Benagil sea caves, and it will help plan your time there.

Whether you were wondering how to get to Benagil, whether it’s actually worth visiting or paying for a Benagil Cave tour, I tried to answer all your Benagil questions here.

While the enthusiasm around Benagil Cave is without a doubt a bit overhyped, this sea cave is truly beautiful and worth a visit. It was one of the highlights of our time in the Algarve.

We visited other seaside towns during our Portugal trip, such as Ericeira and Nazaré , but Benagil was special.

The Algarve is also a popular European winter destination . If you’re looking for a bit of winter sun , you can strike two birds with one stone and also get to enjoy Benagil Cave without the summer crowds.

If you have any questions about visiting Benagil Cave let me know in the comments below! Have you already been to Benagil Caves in Portugal? How did you find it? Tell me about your experiences in the comments below!

Looking for more Portugal travel tips? Check out my other Portugal travel guides!

• The perfect Azores 10-day itinerary
• Hiking in the Azores – Best trails, top tips & more!
• Sao Miguel, Azores – 10 best things to do
• Terceira Island, Azores – 11 amazing things to do
• How to see whales in the Azores

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• 8 Tips on How to Kayak to Benagil Cave in Algarve, Portugal

by Nichole | Last updated Jul 27, 2023 | Outdoor , Portugal

Going to the Algarve? It won’t take you long to see everyone recommends a visit to one of Portugal’s most stunning natural wonders, Benagil Cave. Its massive limestone walls will envelop you as you stand on the golden sands looking up at the light coming from the “eye” of the dome-shaped cave. Planning goes a long way to maximize your experience. Here are our top 8 tips on how to kayak to Benagil Cave and have it all to yourself.

* Some of the links in this post contain affiliate links. If you make a purchase through these links, we may receive a small commission at no extra cost to you. All recommendations are from first-hand experience that I feel will deliver value to you! Thank you for your continued support.

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01- Rent a Kayak from Ocean4Fun

02- benagil cave map, 03- enter and exit from the 2nd cave entrance, 04- know where to park, 05- go early to avoid the crowds, 06- prepare to get wet, water shoes, waterproof phone case, 07- bring a change of clothes, 08- bring a wide-angle camera, alternate ways to access benagil cave , guided kayak tour, stand-up paddleboard (sup), final thoughts on benagil cave , related content .

How to kayak to Benagil Cave before the crowds

We rented our 2-person kayak from Ocean4Fun for 7 am. The reason we chose to kayak without a tour guide at 7 am is we wanted to beat all the tour groups into the Benagil Cave and have it to ourselves.

Booking online was easy and we had instant rental confirmation prior to our arrival. We met Eduardo, the owner of the shop, promptly at 7 am.

Ocean4Fun shop at Benagil Beach

My husband and I love the outdoors. We hike, bike, snorkel, kayak, and canoe (but only in a river). Kayaking in the ocean by ourselves? No problem. We’ve got this.

Oh, no. Kayaking in an ocean is MUCH different than kayaking in a river.

The kayaking part itself is not difficult. What is difficult is getting the kayak out into the ocean from the beach and then maneuvering it back onto the beach by yourself without the crashing waves flipping you over.

Eduardo was super nice. Our kayaks were already waiting for us at Benagil Beach. We made the short walk down to the launching point. 

Walking down to Benagil Beach (* By the way, those were NOT our kayaks in this photo. Our kayaks were already on the beach)

We grabbed our life vests and paddles and walked to the edge of Benagil Beach. After several attempts trying to steady the kayak against the crashing waves, we were off!

Benagil Beach: launching point for taking a kayak to Benagil Cave

There was a tour group getting ready to head out shortly behind us. We paddled away quickly.

The ocean was a little choppy but manageable. It didn’t take us long to get from Benagil Beach to Benagil Cave. Maybe 10 minutes if that.

See the map below for orientation.

As we rounded the corner, we saw two large arched openings in the cave.

Take the second entrance for smoother access. As we paddled towards the beach, we had our kayaks perfectly positioned and let the waves bring us in.

Coming in for a landing via kayak to Benagil Cave

Before we knew it though, the front of our kayak abruptly hit the beach. Then the waves swung the kayak to the side and dumped us out.

In mere seconds the kayak flew up over my head almost knocking me out.

We stumbled onto the beach inside the cave looking like drowned rats. The water was freezing when we were there at the end of May. I was so thankful no one else was around to see our rather ungraceful dismount.

Luckily, my Ugo swimming pouch kept all my valuables dry. 

Alright, now to the good part. We arrived at 7:19 am and had the place all to ourselves for an amazing 8 minutes before the group kayak tour arrived!

Our self guided kayak to Benagil Cave in Algarve, Portugal

It was incredible spinning around in the soft sand and staring up at this light-filled dome. We have done a few sea cave kayak experiences like Phang Nga Bay in Thailand.

This was quite different though since you are actually able to land inside the sea cave and walk around.

A very unique experience!

Alone in Benagil Cave

We stayed for about 40 minutes. The group kayak tour group came and went. Once they left, it was just my husband and I and two other tourists who had a private guide with them.

I was freezing from our tumble into the ocean and dreading getting the kayak back into the water, but it was time to move on.

As we struggled to steady the 2-person kayak against the crashing waves, the private guide ran over to help. He steadied the kayak, which made jumping in a breeze. We took off effortlessly.  

Our exit from the cave was much different than our entrance!

I was super thankful for this stranger’s kindness.

I really love the Portuguese. My husband and I have traveled extensively, and I must say the Portuguese are some of the kindest, friendliest people we have ever encountered.

Benagil Cave map

Courtesy of Shutterstock: Enter into the second cave entrance

If you are kayaking or doing stand-up paddle boarding on your own, this little nugget of information is so important.

Enter the second arched entrance to Benagil Cave.

The first entrance is much more rough compared to the second. I was thankful the owner of the shop told us this before we embarked on our adventure.

Free parking on top of the hill from Benagil Beach 

Benagil Beach is tight and does not really offer any parking right near the beach. However, there is a huge parking lot on top of the hill near O’Pescador restaurant with plenty of spaces.

We parked there, walked to the kayaking shop to retrieve our life jackets and paddles, and made the short walk downhill on the road to the beach.

Refer back to the map for orientation.

No one else was out on the water when we left Benagil Beach at 7 am to head over to the cave.

When we got back around 8:30 am, crowds were starting to pick up. By mid-day, it was packed. We went at the end of May, so I’m sure the time of the year plays a role as well.

The ONE downside of visiting Benagil Cave that early in the morning is the lighting inside the cave is not great.

I have read the best lighting for photography is between 12-2 pm when the sun is over the dome of the cave and shines through the top like a spotlight.

However, if you go in the summer mid-day, prepare to share this special moment with many other tourists.

Courtesy of Shutterstock: Benagil Cave during mid-day

Make sure whatever you take with you can get wet. I left my sunglasses and hat in the car, which I’m glad I did because I would have lost them after my ungraceful tumble into the ocean.

What I did bring:

Fast drying. Protects your feet against any rocks. I wear my trusty Speedo water shoes for all my water activities. 

Takes great footage, and it can get wet. Love my GoPro ! I use it for all of my water activities, especially snorkeling.

Don’t risk damaging your phone. LOVE my  Ugo .

I don’t do any water activity without my sun shirt . Keep that beautiful skin protected. Say no to wrinkles and skin cancer.  

I was FREEZING since I took an unexpected swim. The water is cold.

Hopefully, you don’t fall into the water as I did. But if you do, you will be thankful if you think ahead and bring a change of dry clothes to leave in the car just in case.

Benagil Cave is much bigger than you think. I strongly suggest you bring your phone if it has a wide-angle camera or a GoPro with its wide-angle lens to capture all of its beauty.

Photo was taken from my wide-angle camera on my iPhone

Unless you are a master of ocean kayaking, I would strongly suggest joining a guided kayak tour. Having someone who will steady your kayak as you enter and exit the beach against the crashing waves is invaluable.

There is a highly-rated company that leaves BEFORE the other tour groups and AFTER the other tour groups have left.

The company is called Secret Algarve, and they offer a tour called “Alone in Benagil Caves.” The tour leaves at 7 am and 4:30 pm daily to beat the crowds. They are located right next to Benagil Beach adjacent to the shop we used, Ocean4Fun.

Alternatively, we found out later you can book a guided kayak tour through Airbnb Experiences.

Remember that extremely kind private guide that came to our rescue to help us out of the cave?

He runs a guided kayak tour of up to 12 people. Now, when we were there he only had 2 people, so I’m guessing you can make the tour private for an extra cost.

If we could do it again, I would have booked a private tour with him.

You can also explore Benagil Cave via SUP. I have only done stand-up paddle boarding twice. Once on a lake and once in the lagoon in Bora Bora, so always in calm water.

I can’t imagine doing it on a wavy ocean. This option would be another great choice to explore Benagil Cave if you are experienced in ocean conditions.

The highly-rated company Blue Xperiences offers SUP tours and is located right on Benagil Beach. 

Boat Tour into Benagil Cave in Portugal

You can also access Benagil Cave by boat tour. However, if you choose this option you cannot actually get off the boat to stand inside the cave due to local restrictions.

If you have mobility issues or small kids, the boat tour is the best option for exploring Benagil Caves. Otherwise, go by guided kayak.

Boat tours leave from Albufeira, Portimao, and Lagos. Or leave right from Benagil Beach. Taruga Benagil Tours is located right on Benagil Beach and is rated a 5 on TripAdvisor with over 4,000+ reviews.

Can you swim to it? Yes.

Would I suggest it? Heck, no.

Those waves are no joke and can easily crash you into the sides of the rock as you enter the cave. Plus, boats and kayaks are constantly flowing in and out. Not a good idea.

Eye or Hole of Benagil Cave as viewed from the top

We hiked the Seven Hanging Valleys Trail . You walk past the hole or “eye” on top of Benagil Cave on this trail. They have a fence around the hole for extra safety, so it’s difficult to peer down inside.

Not too impressive from the designated viewpoint from the top.

You MUST visit Benagil Caves especially if you are a first-timer to the Algarve. It is a stunning and incredibly unique experience. A little planning though will make your experience exceptional. Get up early (it will be worth it!) and get out by 7 am.

Learn from our mistakes and choose a private guided kayak tour if you want the place to yourself. It will make your trip so much more enjoyable to have that extra set of hands to get you going.

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Best Benagil cave tours and tips: How to visit in 2024

By: Author Sylvia

Posted on Last updated: February 20, 2024

The Benagil cave is probably the top tourist attraction along the impressive Algarve coast.

The coast is known for its rocky coastline with dramatic gold-colored cliffs.  The ocean has pounded these rock walls for decades and in doing so nature has created some unique sights. 

Without a doubt, the Benagil cave is the pinnacle of that.

Until recently, as an experienced swimmer you could swim to the cave, but to manage the influx of tourists, the government has recently introduced some new measures. These measures are temporary and will be reevaluated at a later time.

We’ll provide more details on what’s changed later in this post. In any case, the bottom line is that you can currently only visit the cave with a guided tour . 

That’s why we wrote this post to give you an overview of the best Benagil cave tours. 

There are many different tours that take you to the Benagil caves ( The Grotte de Benagil as the Portuguese say ).

We have always opted for a regular boat tour.  If you visit the Algarve in summer you will find that the range of tours is much larger,  you can then also join a kayak tour or paddle to the cave on a SUP .

Which leads to the question: what is the best way to see the Benagil caves?

Below we share everything you need to know about the Benagil sea cave.

T his post contains affiliate links. If you click one of them, we may receive a small commission (for which we are deeply grateful) at no extra cost to you.

In a hurry? Here you will find the most important information about visiting the Benagil cave

• The Benagil cave is not closed, you can still visit the Benagil cave all year round.
• The easiest way to visit the Benagil is by boat.
• There are both smaller and larger boats. 
• Zodiac boat trip departing from Vilamoura.
• Zodiac Benagil cave tour departing from Portimão.
• Zodiac Benagil sea cave tour from Lagos
• Large boat Benagil sea cave tour from Vilamoura.
• Algarve large boat tour to Benagil Cave from Portimão
• An alternative is a cruise with this pirate ship You can enjoy the Algarve coastline from the pirate ship and then transfer on a smaller boat to see the Benagil cave.
• To combine the Benagil Cave with one of the most beautiful beaches in the Algarve, check out this tour.
• You can also visit the Benagil cave with a catamaran.
• You can also kayak or paddle to the cave on a SUP. These tours are still going but follow a different itinerary now that it is no longer allowed to enter the cave.
• The 7 Hanging Valleys Trail passes past the Benagil Cave but you will be disappointed if you hike this trail to see the cave. You can stand at the top of the cave, and try to see inside the hole at the top, but fences stop you from getting too close to the edge so that you can’t really see anything. (except a big hole)

Table of Contents

The Best Benagil Cave Tours

This is our hand-picked selection of tours based on the tours we did and thousands of reviews from other travelers.

Since September it is no longer allowed to go into the cave by swimming, kayaking, or SUPs. The kayak and SUP tours below are still being conducted, but you will not get close to the Benagil cave. Currently, the best way to see the cave is with a boat trip.

The Top Benagil Cave Tours

How to Choose The Best Benagil Cave Tour

Above are our top picks but there are much more tours you can choose from. Here is a more extensive selection of tours including catamaran and pirate cruises.

We start with the boat tours and end with alternative tours such as kayak and SUPtours.

Benagil boat tour s

A Benagil boat tour remains the most popular way to visit the Benagil cave. 

The main reason why boat tours are so popular is that they’re accessible to everyone, young and old. You will see a continuous stream of boats going to the cave during the high season.

Fortunately, it is all regulated. This way, there will never be several boats in the cave at the same time.

Tours leave from various locations and we have decided to group them by point of departure so that you can easily find one that leaves near your location.

Small boat tours vs a catamaran

• Small boats usually offer shorter tours of 2 to 2.5 hours
• On a small boat you have a better chance of entering the cave (but it is not guaranteed)
• Smaller boats offer more of a thrill ride, catamarans offer a more relaxed/romantic experience but the ride can also be impetuous when it is windy.
• See the FAQ below for a more detailed comparison.

Boat tours from Benagil beach

Benagil beach is located right next to the Benagil cave. This tour is the shortest tour available.

You may be tempted to go for the closest and cheapest option but other tours are preferred in our opinion.

If you leave from the beach of Benagil you only make a small trip where you really only visit the Benegal cave itself. Despite the fact that this is, of course, the highlight, you will miss the many other beautiful cliffs and caves.

The entire coast of the Algarve is a feast for the eyes.

There are a number of other reasons why we would advise against a trip from Benagil:

In high season this is by far the most popular option. As a result, there are long queues. Therefore, if you want to make the Benagil cave tour from Benagil beach, we advise you to get to the beach early.

These tours cannot be booked online.  You will have to join a possibly long queue for a short boat trip.

While other tours might be slightly cheaper they are really a better deal as you see more of the beautiful Algarve coast.

Read on to see some alternative tours leaving from other ports.

Portimão and Albufeira are by far the most popular cities in the Algarve to leave from.

Portimão Benagil Cave tour

Benagil caves speed boat tour (with sunset option).

Rating: 4.9/5 (2500+ reviews) / Duration: 2 hours

We already did this zodiac boat trip with a departure from Portimão.

We sailed the amazing coastline between Portimão and Benagil Beach and saw a lot of caves.   We don’t remember exactly how many caves we passed but I still remember that we were surprised by the number.

In addition to the caves, we enjoyed the impressive view of the cliffs.

We took the tour around sunset, an hour that we absolutely recommend, as the setting sun then embraces everything with a beautiful golden glow.  The golden glow makes the steep cliffs even more beautiful.

The skipper also acted as a guide and he explained in an entertaining way what there was to see.

He pushed the pedal to the metal when we returned.  We flew over the water and we even did some donuts when he showed his steering skills, this to the great delight of all present.

We did this tour in January so we did not stop to swim.  The idea of swimming in water of 14 degrees Celcius does not really appeal to us…

It was a super nice trip.  We took loads of pictures of the impressive coastline and spend quite some time at the Benagil cave, which we saw from both entrances.

The return trip was fast. Provide a warm coat, gloves, and a hat during winter.

Read reviews and book: Benagil cave tour from Portimão

Catamaran Boat tour with BBQ from Portimão

Rating: 4.7/5 (200+ reviews) / Duration: 6 hours

This full-day cave tour departs from Portimão and passes by the charming fishing village of Ferragudo.

Admire the amazing coastline on the way to the cave.

After your visit to the Benagil cave, you can enjoy a delicious BBQ lunch on the beach.

You can even borrow some paddleboards.

• Wi-Fi on board
• Open bar with water, orange drink, white and red wine
• Use of paddleboards

• Not suitable if you are pregnant.
• Less suitable if you have back problems

This tour gets excellent reviews, some travelers have even done the tour several times.

Thanks to the captain’s excellent sailing skills, you can still see the caves up close, even though this is a relatively large boat. Afterwards it is pleasant to relax on the beach with the barbecue.

Check prices and availability: Catamaran Cruise with BBQ from Portimão

Albufeira Benagil Cave tour

Benagil cave tour with a catamaran from albufeira.

Rating: 4.6/5 (950+ reviews) / Duration: 3 hours

A third alternative is to make this Benagil cave trip with a catamaran.

You then exchange the adrenaline that you experience with the speedboat for the comfort and peace of a slow-moving boat. 

This tour lasts for 3 hours. From the Albufeira marina, you set sail westwards to the Benagil cave.

The boat is moving slowly so you have plenty of time to enjoy the picturesque scenery and you can take heaps of pictures.

If you’re lucky you might even see some dolphins. 

You will stop for a swim if the weather allows it and the sea conditions are safe.    

At the end of this beautiful tour, you’re offered a glass of champagne to toast this wonderful experience.

• Very friendly crew.
• You will get information in English, French, Spanish, and Portuguese.
• You are offered a glass of champagne on the way back. Extra drinks can be bought with cash.
• There is WiFi onboard.
• Less suitable if you are pregnant.
• Less suitable for people with back problems.
• Not wheelchair accessible.

This Benagil trip is a completely different experience than the other boat tours we described above. 

Romantics will almost certainly prefer this tour but if you are more adventurous, the aforementioned boat tours are more for you.

This catamaran tour might be better for you if you’re prone to seasickness.  A catamaran is usually less subject to the swells of the sea.  Speaking from experience, however, if you get seasick quickly, I would always take precautions and take something against seasickness.

This way you are sure that you will be able to enjoy this tour and the beautiful landscape.

The crew is very friendly and try their best to answer every question. 

The catamaran will go inside the Benagil cave if it is safe to do so but it’s too big to enter the other caves.

More information and booking: Benagil cave catamaran tour from Albufeira

Vilamoura Benagil Cave tour

Benagil cave boat tour from vilamoura.

Rating: 4.3/5 (500+ reviews) / Duration: 2.5 hours

This tour uses custom-built boats specifically designed to enter the Benagil cave.

The tour leaves from Vilamoura and you can enjoy a long stretch of the beautiful Algarve coast as you make your way to the Benagil cave.

If you’re lucky you will be joined by some playful dolphins along the way. Your guide will certainly point them out if he sees them.

• Very friendly and informative guide.
• A comfortable boat with individual seats
• The trip from Vilamoura to Benagil takes about 1 hour so you don’t have that much time to spent at Benagil and other places along the way

This is a good option for a short and fun trip to Benagil from Vilamoura. You will get to see a long stretch of the beautiful coastline and the Benagil cave is the icing on the cake.

More information and booking: Benagil cave boat tour from Vilamoura

Catamaran Boat tour with BBQ from Vilamoura

Rating: 5/5 (30 reviews) / Duration: 7 hours

This boat tour leaves from the Marina at Vilamoura.

You will first set sail for the Benagil cave. On the way there you will pass many beautiful stretches of coastline.

While you’re enjoying the cave part of the team is preparing a delicious BBQ at Praia da Galé. After you’ve seen

Once you have seen the cave the boat will depart for the beach for lunch. After lunch you have free time on the beach. There are paddle boards, snorkels, and kayaks that you can use to explore the area.

• Excellent Lunch included
• Free cancellation up to 24 hours before the start of the trip.
• Stroller and wheelchair accessible

A BBQ on a beach is not something that you do every day and some reviewers say that this meal was the best they had their entire vacation.

The staff also get high grades for their superb service and helpfulness.

Read reviews and book: Benagil Cave tour with BBQ from Vilamoura

Benagil cave kayak tour s

Since September it is no longer allowed to go into the cave by swimming, kayaking, or SUPs. The kayak tours below are still being conducted, but you will not get close to the Benagil cave. Currently, the best way to see the cave is with a boat trip .

You can also choose to visit the Benagil caves with a kayak. 

It’s possible to rent a kayak and go independently but if you’re not an experienced kayaker we advise you to join a guided tour instead.

Benagil Cave Kayak Tour from Benagil Beach

Rating: 4.8/5 (1500+ reviews) / Duration: 2 hours

The Benagil cave kayak tour takes about 2 hours and starts from Benagil beach. 

After a brief explanation of the kayaks and safety regulations, you get your own kayak, life jacket, and paddles and can start your kayak adventure along the Algarve coast.

The highlight of your kayak expedition is, of course, the visit to the Benagil cave, but you will also visit some other interesting caves along the way.

Once you are in the Benagil cave, you will have time to go ashore, spend some time on the beach, and take pictures. 

If you want to have the caves almost to yourself, you can choose to make the tour at sunrise or sunset. Keep in mind that during these times there is slightly less light in the cave.

• The guide speaks English, German, Spanish, and Portuguese.
• Free cancellation up to 24 hours before the start of the kayak trip.
• For an extra supplement, you can choose to be picked up from your hotel.
• To join this tour you must be able to swim.
• Not suitable for wheelchair users.

Most people are very enthusiastic about this kayak tour. With a kayak, you can get to places where you don’t come with a boat, but the biggest advantage of this kayak trip is that you can get out in the Benagil cave to take your photos.

Read reviews and book: Benagil caves kayak tour

Benagil Cave Kayak/SUP tour from Albufeira

Rating: 4.7/5 (850+ reviews) / Duration: 3.5 hours

This trip starts from the Albufeira Marina with a 40-minute boat ride along the impressive Algarve coast.

Then you will transfer to the SUPs or kayaks. Both single and double kayaks are available. You can mention your preference when you board the boat so that it can be reserved.

Previous experience is not necessary and the guide will start with a short safety briefing before he starts the tour.

He will show different caves where boats cannot enter and you have plenty of time to take pictures of the magnificent rock formations.

• The guide speaks English, French, Spanish, and Portuguese.
• Free cancellation up to 24 hours before the start
• Drinks/Snacks available for purchase
• WiFi on board

A great combination of a boat + kayak/SUP trip. You get to see a stretch of the coastline from the boat before you transfer to the kayak or SUP and are able to get really close to the caves.

You can get to private secluded beaches and get right into the caves.

Definitely a unique experience.

Check reviews, prices and book: Benagil Hidden Caves Tour by Kayak or SUP

Benagil Cave SUP tour

Since September it is no longer allowed to go into the cave by swimming, kayaking, or SUPs. The SUP tour below is still being conducted, but you will not get close to the Benagil cave. Currently, the best way to see the cave is with a boat trip .

Rating: 4.9/5 (150+ reviews) / Duration: 2 hours

If you’re slightly more sportive or adventurous and want to discover the Benagil cave in a different way, this guided SUP paddle tour is for you.

You do not need any experience to participate in this tour.

At the start of the tour, the guide will explain to you the basic techniques of supping. He will also tell you the safety requirements and other things you have to pay attention to.

The tour lasts approximately 2 hours. You enter different caves along the way to the Benagil cave and you will receive the necessary explanation from the guide.

Board, paddle, life jacket, wet suit, and insurance are included. You also get a dry bag for your phone so that you can take it with you to take pictures.

Lockers are available to store all your other belongings. 

Be sure to bring a towel, sunscreen, swimming gear,  your ID card, and a set of dry clothes.

• This is an original way to discover the Algarve coastline and the Benagil cave.
• A friendly guide who speaks English, French, Spanish, Germen, and Portuguese.
• The guide will take pictures of you.
• Small group tour of max 10 people
• Free cancellation up to 24 hours before the start of the activity.
• To participate in this SUP tour you must be at least 12 years old.
• Less suitable if you have back or heart problems.
• Less suitable if you suffer from claustrophobia.
• If you can’t swim, you can’t participate.

The SUP paddle tour gets positive reviews. People say they enjoyed the ride. They are also very satisfied with the guide. Not only does he know a lot about the history of the caves, but apparently he is also really good at taking pictures.

Read reviews and book: SUP tour

Swimming to Benagil cave

Since September it is no longer allowed to go into the cave by swimming, kayaking, or SUPs. Currently, the best way to see the cave is with a boat trip .

The Benagil cave lies only about 150-200 meters from the beach of Benagil.

So, in theory, it is easy to swim to it.

What makes it more difficult are the currents that can sometimes be treacherous.

You also have to take into account the water temperature. 20 degrees is not cold but a lot colder than the average pool where the temperature is usually around 26 degrees.

Those who count on warming up inside the cave will be disappointed.  Inside the cave, it is rather chilly, if you come out of the water hypothermic you will not be able to warm up there.

Good swimmers will be able to swim to the cave but don’t make this decision light-minded, it is not something we would recommend doing.

In July and August, the many boats create extra danger.

If you want to swim to the cave during these months it is best to do so early or late before the boats arrive.  Better yet is to do so in June or September when there are fewer tourist boats. 

The water is still somewhere between 19 and 21 degrees in this period.

Be sure to check the tides in advance . When the tide is out, the beach in the cave is at its largest. When the tides rise, it is very difficult to get out of the cave swimming.

A life jacket, wetsuit, flippers, and goggles are really recommended if you absolutely want to do this adventure.

Unless you are really an experienced swimmer, we would definitely not recommend swimming to the cave.

Swim group tour with Lunch (from Lagos)

Since September it is no longer allowed to go into the cave by swimming, kayaking, or SUPs. The below tour can still be booked but will probably be cancelled by the activity provider. Currently, the best way to see the cave is with a boat trip .

Rating: 4.5/5 (94 reviews) / Duration: 4.5 hours

If you want to swim to the cave but prefer doing so in the presence of an experienced swimmer, and with the necessary safety equipment, then this group swim tour is for you.

This is a fun tour where lunch, alcoholic drinks including beer and Sangria, and a good atmosphere are all included.

You meet the group in Lagos and drive in a party van to Benagil where you will head into the ocean for a 60-minute swim to the cave. Life jackets as well as boards and inflatables are provided to ensure that everybody is safe.

Afterward you have lunch at the beach and right before you head back you do a quick hike to see the cave from above.

• A unique way to get to the Benagil Cave
• Transfer from Lagos is includeded
• Towels, beach gear and even sun screen is all included
• Lunch is included
• This is a private tour
• To participate in this tour a moderate physical fitness level is required
• Not for people with heart problems, back problems or other serious medical conditions
• Not wheelchair accessible

This is a cool experience if you want to experience the cave in a different way. The advantage of this group tour is that you don’t need to take care of anything, the guide takes care of all your belongings and you can change into your gear at the meeting point.

All participants mention that they felt safe in the water, even when there were some heavier waves.

Check prices and availability: Swim and Chill at Benagil

Benagil Cave – all you need to know

What’s the benagil cave .

The Benagil cave , also known as Algar de Benagil in Portuguese is one of the most famous and beautiful caves in the Algarve, Portugal.

The origin of this cave dates back to more than 20 million years ago.

Erosion has created a huge natural cavity in the limestone.  The cave is so big that it even houses a small sandy beach. 

Part of the cave has collapsed, resulting in a wide-open hole in the center known as ‘the eye’.  Natural light enters the cave through this hole, it creates an almost otherworldly spectacle, especially at sunrise and sunset.

Seeing the cave from the inside is definitely impressive and easily one of the highlights of a visit to the Algarve in Portugal. 

You can only get inside the cave by sea. 

This can be with a boat, a kayak, a SUP, or if you are brave and adventurous you can swim to the cave.

It’s also possible to hike to the top of the cave.  The hike takes you to the hole from where you can try to peek inside.  It’s just a short hike and it’s free but it is not nearly as impressive as getting inside the cave. 

But let’s start by explaining where you can find this beautiful cave. 

What’s the Benagil sea cave location ?

The Benagil cave sometimes referred to as Grutas de Benagil by the locals, is located near the small fishing village of Benagil.

You will find the cave about 150 meters east of Benagil beach (Praia de Benagil in Portuguese). 

This pleasant sandy beach attracts many visitors on summer days. If you are looking for more beautiful beaches in the Algarve, click here. 

Fishermen also still use the beach to land their catch.

With a bit of luck, you can see them unload the fish from their boats and transfer it to the trucks which will take it to restaurants where you can taste these delicacies in the evening. Now that’s what I call a catch-of-the-day! 😀

The closest cities to the Benagil cave are Lagoa, Albufeira, Portimao one of the best towns in the Algarve , and Carvoeiro. 

From Lagoa and Carvoeiro you drive in about 15 minutes to the village of Benagil. From Albufeira and Portimão it is a 30-minute drive to Benagil.

Daily many boat tours depart from the above-mentioned cities to the Benagil cave. We will share more information about these Benagil cave boat trips further in this post.

How far is Benagil Cave from Lisbon? 

The Benagil cave lies 191 km from Lisbon. It’s a 2h30 minute drive by car. 

If you don’t have a car, you could take one of the buses that connect Lisbon with the Algarve or ride the train.

If you are looking for a Lisbon itinerary, click here. 

Both the bus as well as the train takes between 3-4 hours. Buses cost around € 6 – € 25, depending on the time of the day, the train is slightly more expensive. 

TAP also offers domestic flights between Lisbon Airport and Faro Airport.

Here’s the train and bus schedule .

What has changed in September 2023?

The local government found that the crowds of boats, kayakers, SUPs, and swimmers led to dangerous situations at the Benagil cave. It has therefore been decided to develop guidelines to ensure that everybody can visit the cave safely and responsibly.

Pending these final guidelines, it has been decided to no longer allow kayakers, SUPs, and swimmers into the cave.

Boat tours can still visit the cave and can still get very close to the cave, like they’ve always done. (depending on the weather conditions)

Here you can read the official publication .

Is Benagil cave closed?

Benagil cave is not closed and can still be visited with a boat tour .

The boats are also still allowed to get close to the cave so that you can look inside.

What has changed is that it is currently no longer allowed to use the beach inside the cave. You may also no longer kayak, SUP, or swim to the cave. Regardless of whether you do this independently or with a tour.

All this is pending final regulations. (which we expect at the end of 2023 if the proposed timing is adhered to)

Best time to visit the Benagil cave

Here we share the best month and time of the day to visit Benagil cave.

What’s the best month to visit the Benagil cave ?

There are tours going to the Benagil cave all year round but the choices are limited in the colder winter months.

Summer months

During summer Algarve’s impressive beaches attract many tourists who want to work on their tan. The climate makes it an ideal beach destination.

In summer the temperatures rise to 30 degrees and the ocean water warms up to around 20 degrees.  This allows those who are not afraid of a little cold water to even take an occasional dip to cool down.

July and August are high season. 

The beaches can become crowded, the parking lots quickly fill up and all the tourist sights are usually packed.

If you plan on visiting the Benagil cave during these months it’s best to book your tour in advance to avoid disappointment.  By booking in advance you are sure, you can go on your preferred date and time.

I would argue that the best seasons to visit the Benagil Cave are spring or fall.

The temperature is slightly cooler but there will be fewer crowds and you still can enjoy nice weather. 

Spring and Fall

We recommend visiting the Benagil cave during spring or fall if you can.

You will be able to enjoy this beautiful area more because there are fewer people.  

The Algarve is one of the sunniest regions in Europe.

Starting in May there will be 10 hours of sunshine every day and rainfall will be only a slight inconvenience.  Temperatures easily surpass 20 degrees Celsius.

It might not exactly be ideal to spend entire days at the beach and the ocean water is still cold at around 16 degrees.  It is though an ideal period for activity holidays.

The climate in Autumn is comparable.  The temperatures don’t drop below 20 degrees Celcius until December.  Nights are considerably chiller though with nighttime temperatures around 14 degrees Celcius. 

The ocean water temperature gradually decreases, October still knows temperatures around 19 degrees Celcius, by the end of November, this has decreased to 17 degrees Celcius.

Spring and Summer offer the best of both worlds.  The weather is pleasant, the huge crowds are gone but there is still a lot going on.

We visited the Algarve in winter , winter is the low season along Portugal’s south coast, and many places are closed and only a fraction of the tours are going. 

The ocean is a bit rougher and less predictable during these months.  This increases the chances that your trip will get canceled due to the weather.

Therefore we recommend booking your trip online in advance for one of the first days of your vacation so that you can push your plans forward by a day in case the tour is canceled due to weather.

We often book through  GetYourGuide.  This way, you can secure your spot, but, might your plans suddenly change, you can usually cancel for free up to 24 hours before the trip.

Now that you know the best season to visit the Benagil caves, we are happy to give you the best time of day for your Benagil tour.

What’s the best time of the day to visit the caves of Benagil?

The best time of the day to visit the Benagil cave depends on your interests. 

If you want to feel the sand of the cave’s beach between your toes you’re best to pick a time slot around noon.  The cave is relatively dark early in the morning and late in the afternoon, midday will allow you to take some good pictures as a memory of your excursion to the cave.

Most light enters the cave through the hole on the top, the so-called ‘eye of the cave’.  The sun is best between noon and 2 pm when it is vertically above the cave at its highest point.  

If you plan to take Instagram-worthy pictures from the beach in the cave we would advise you to avoid any time before 10 am or after 2 pm.

Tours to the cave are limited to ensure that it never becomes over-crowded but this doesn’t mean that you will have the cave to yourself if you go there around noon.  There’s a constant flow of tours arriving at the cave from 10 in the morning till sunset.

If you want to quietly swim or paddle to the cave, it is best to do this as early as possible before the continuous flow of tourist boats starts.

To avoid the crowds, it is best that you make sure that you are ready to leave the beach at sunrise.

We did our boat trip during the golden hour, the last hour before sunset. The sun then casts really beautiful warm golden colors on the majestic cliffs.

This makes for an unforgettable experience.

As said before, tours leave for the cave all day long, but especially during the high season, we would advise you not to wait too long before booking.

Which boat is best for a Benagil Cave Boat Tour?

Some tours use small zodiac-like boats while others use catamarans. Not sure which one to choose. Here’s what to expect from both.

Small Benagil Cave Boat Tours

The boat trips with small boats usually last 2 to 2.30 hours and cover a relatively large part of the beautiful Algarve coastline. Along the way,  you will see no less than 20 caves, including of course the famous Benagil cave.

Small boats are of the zodiac type. They are fast and very navigable, but they cannot always enter all caves.  The skippers are very experienced but don’t take any risks. If they think the sea is wild they do not enter the caves, including  Benagil cave.

When we did our tour the sea was relatively calm.  Our skipper did his utmost to bring us as close as possible to all the caves and we safely entered the Benagil cave and one other large cave.

Along the way, you should also keep your eyes open for dolphins that are swimming along with your boat.

If the weather and conditions allow, the boats also stop so you can have a swim. 

Don’t forget your swimsuit, towel, and sun cream.

Also, don’t forget to bring some warmer clothes. It is always colder on the water than on land and when the boats speed up it makes it feel even colder.

Life jackets are included with all tours.

• A small boat allows you to see the caves up close.
• Smaller groups.
• More opportunities than with a large boat to enter the caves.
• English, French, Portuguese, or Spanish-speaking guide.
• Free cancellation up to 24 hours before the boat trip.
• The tour that departs from Albufeira is wheelchair accessible.
• Less suitable for small children. Tours from certain ports do not allow children under 5 years old. Read the terms and conditions carefully before you book.
• Since the boat is going quite fast the ride can be bumpy, this makes the tour less suitable for you if you have back problems.
• Not wheelchair accessible ( except for the departure from Albufeira).

Small boat Benagil Cave trips are offered from different places in the Algarve and although the tours are organized by different companies, the tour itself is, except for a few minor differences, largely the same.

As all tours are similar our advice would be to pick the port most convenient for you . 

Catamaran Benagil boat tours

The “bigger” boats take at least two to three times as many people compared to the ones on zodiacs.     Depending on which company you go with it can be a catamaran for about 25 people or a bigger one that can take up to 40 people.

Catamaran tours are also available from various ports but there are fewer options than the small boat tours. The tours also last longer, so there are fewer departures in a day (often only 1)

Despite being bigger, these boats are still not really big. 

Just like the smaller boats, they will try to enter the Benagil cave. The larger the boat, the more difficult this becomes of course.    This means that with these boats you are less likely to enter the caves, especially when the sea conditions are rough. 

These boats feel a little less adventurous than the smaller ones and offer a more blissful experience. It is recommended for couples looking for a romantic experience.

Just know that if the see is rough, you will also feel it on a catamaran.

• Catamarans offer a more relaxed, romantic experience
• Some of the larger boats are wheelchair accessible.
• Less opportunities than with a small boat to enter the caves.
• Even though the ride will normally be smoother than on a zodiac there can be unexpected bumps and it may not be suitable if you are pregnant or have back problems

Visiting the Benagil cave will be truly one of the highlights of your Algarve holiday.

On foot, you can only see the top of the cave which is not nearly as spectacular as the inside.  The inside can only be reached over water.  It’s theoretically possible to swim to the cave but that is something that we only recommend for really experienced swimmers. (and it is currently not allowed)

Therefore our advice is to join an organized tour.

The most popular tour is a boat trip.  There’re daily boat tours to the cave, you can choose from small and fast boats, or slightly larger boats, and romantics should definitely opt for the catamaran.

The small boats are fast, agile, and adventurous. The catamaran sails stately through the water and is a blissful and peaceful experience.

Kayak and SUP tours used to be alternatives to a boat trip but have unfortunately been suspended for the time being. While the tours are still going you don’t get as close to the cave as with a boat tour.

The boat trips are available all year round, the other tours only in high season.

Here you will find more beautiful places in Portugal. For an overview of the best spots in the Algarve, click here.  If you are looking for a complete Algarve itinerary, click here. Wondering where to stay in the Algarve, click here. 

• Destinations
• Travel Guides

Benagil Cave, Portugal: the otherworldly cathedral by the sea

Jo Williams

• Visiting Benagil Cave

Planning a visit to Benagil Cave? You can book boat tours from Albufeira , Portimão , Vilamoura and Lagos . Alternatively, take a kayaking tour from beautiful Praia da Marinha.

Collectively known as the Benagil Caves, the formations of the sandstone cliffs in the Algarve region of Portugal have one cave that outshines all others. The famous hollow is known by many names: Algar de Benagil in Portuguese, Gruta de Benagil in Spanish, or Benagil Cathedral, due to the church-like beauty of its natural chamber. 

But everyone that visits can agree on one thing: Benagil Cave is considered to be one of the most beautiful caves in the world. In fact, Huffington Post, Conde Nast Traveler and Thrillllist have all named it as such. Benagil is one of those caves you have to visit at least once in your lifetime. 

It may not have the mysterious ancient ruins of ATM Cave in Belize , or the colourful grandeur of Batu Caves in Malaysia, but there’s just something about this little grotto, perfectly whittled out by the waves, that makes it stand out from the crowd. 

Is Benagil Cave worth visiting?

In the right conditions, sunlight streams through the natural apertures and openings in the dome giving the cave an almost heavenly appearance. The orange, yellow and white striations in the rock give a nod to the thousands of years of history that make up this land, all slowly eroding away back into the sea. It’s a magical place best visited with a local guide who is passionate about the area's heritage and natural history.

Not only is Benagil Cave a photographer's dream, it is also part of a much larger set of natural wonders that make up this part of the coastline. This scenic stretch of coastline is easy to visit from all major destinations in southern Portugal. Benagil is 40 minutes from Lagos, an hour's drive from Faro or just 30 minutes from Albufeira.

Other sites along the coast which are worth visiting include the two large sea arches at Arco Natural, Algar Seco, the pristine Cão Raivoso Beach, Marinha Beach, the ‘Yellow Submarine’ rock formation, and Farol de Alfanzina - an unmissable red-domed beacon atop a sea cave. You will see these sights and many more on a boat tour of the area.

Boat trips to Benagil Cave

The easiest way to visit Benagil Cave is by getting an organised boat trip, either from Benagil or a nearby town. Regular boat trips to Benagil leave from Albufeira , Portimão , Vilamoura and Lagos . They vary in length and price depending on which tour company you choose to go with.

Tours also leave from Benagil, however, parking is very limited and the boat tours often have long queues and wait times in peak season. By visiting from another town, you will get to see a lot more than just the cave itself; there are lots of other sights along the way.

The prices are slightly lower from Benagil, as the boat rides are shorter, however by going from elsewhere, you will save yourself the time and stress of finding a parking spot on the very steep road leading into Benagil.

It’s good to know that you’re not allowed to disembark from the boat when you are inside the cave, so you cannot explore the beach inside unless you make your own way there (by kayak/SUP etc). But you can get beautiful photos from the boat trips, and they always allow plenty of time to get the perfect shot.

Kayaking to Benagil Cave

If you want to get to Benagil Cave without a tour, you can rent a paddleboard or kayak from a nearby beach like Praia da Marinha. This is also the only safe way to access the small beach inside (without renting a private boat), as it is now illegal to disembark tour boats from inside the cave - a recently introduced safety precaution.

Although it isn’t far, there are a lot of boats using the area, making the swim from Praia de Benagil quite hazardous. Swimming to the caves is not advisable as the currents are strong around this area, and swimmers can easily be pulled out to sea by the tide.

Walking to Benagil Cave

The cave is around 150 metres east of the tiny fishing hamlet of Benagil, and it is possible to see the cave from above, but you may ruin several peoples' photos in the process! There is a road to the top of the cave where you can walk up to the hole in the ceiling and look into the cave from above. The view is nowhere near as good as actually being inside the cave, and there is no way to get inside the Benagil Cave itself on foot as it is cut off by the ocean.

Costs and pricing

There are many options when it comes to getting a boat tour to Benagil Cave. Prices start from around €20 per person and can be more than double that for longer tours. It really depends on what you want to see. Many tours include other sights along the coast, dolphin-watching opportunities or food.

You can choose between comfortable catamarans with catering, guided kayaking tours , and speedy ribs that allow you to get a close-up of the cliff edges. Opt for a smaller tour boat as the larger ones cannot enter into the cave, but check with the company as some larger vessels will change to smaller boats when they get to Benagil for this reason.

When to visit Benagil Cave

The amount of light entering through the openings will affect the photos you will get of the cave. If you really want to get the best possible picture, speak to your skipper or tour company beforehand to work out the best time to visit Benagil Cave.

You can also book tours at sunrise or sunset to avoid the crowds and get the ‘golden hour’ of light on the cliffs.

Summer is the peak season for tourists in southern Portugal and it can be busy, with trips running throughout the day. Tours to Benagil Cave are available year-round, although they can be weather dependent.

Where to stay near Benagil Cave

You could choose to base yourself in Albufeira, Portimao, Vilamoura or any several other small towns along this stretch of coastline.

A safe bet is Lagos, with its global cuisine, old town charm and a fantastic range of accommodation. Try Nah Nah Bah for locally sourced, organic burgers, or grab homestyle food on the laid back terrace at The Garden. For dessert, Pastelaria Algarve has some particularly delightful local sweet treats.

There are also lots of fantastic street art murals and independent shops around Lagos. It’s the perfect place to base yourself in for a trip to southern Portugal.

For accommodation, Porto de Mos Golf & Beach B&B has sea views and a pool, or if you want to be in the heart of town Old School Guest House has everything you need, with free bicycles included to get around on.

• Where to next

Of course, there are countless beaches and viewpoints along this stretch of coast. No trip is complete without a stop at Porches Pottery, the brainchild of an Irish and a Portuguese artist, with the aim of keeping Portuguese traditions alive with contemporary designs.

Head further inland to Silves to explore the magnificent Moorish-style sandstone castle ‘Castelo de Silves’, built between the 8th and 13th centuries. Further north, the whitewashed town of Alte is home to Queda do Vigário, a hidden waterfall and swim spot popular with locals.

Near Faro, you'll find the Roman Ruins of Milreu, an ancient Roman villa once inhabited by prominent families of the area. Highlights are the beautiful marine-themed mosaics, painted stucco and ornate sculptures.

West of Lagos is the Lighthouse of Cabo de São Vicente, the most south-western point of mainland Portugal and Europe. Make a stop at Retiro do Pescador in Sagres for some of the best seafood in the area, as well as a chance to explore the cliffside fortifications at Sagres Fortress.

Another slightly more out-of-the-way option is the beautiful town of Monchique. From there, you can explore the scenic trails around Fóia Mountain.

The area is popular for hiking, birdwatching and, more recently, ATV and quad bike tours. A great place to spend an afternoon nearby is the non-profit Happy-Donkeys Sanctuary ; exactly as described, it provides a loving home for retired or injured donkeys.

• Introduction
• Getting there
• When to visit
• Where to stay

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Author - Jo Williams

Jo Williams is a freelance writer with 10 years' experience working in travel and tourism. A Brit who got fed up with the 9 to 5 corporate life, she sold everything to become a full-time wanderer.

Jo has travelled to over 70 countries and worked throughout Europe for a major tour operator. She hopes to inspire you to work less and travel more.

Last Updated 15 December 2023

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The ultimate guide to benagil cave, algarve (+ the best benagil cave tours).

The beguiling Benagil Sea Cave (Algar de Benagil) hides majestically in the rugged cliffs of Portugal’s Algarve coast.

The inside is elegantly decorated with natural brushstrokes of yellow and orange shades while the beach is lit up by the spotlight of natural sunlight shining through a large sinkhole in the cave ceiling, also recognized as “The Eye”.

No arguing one of the prettiest places in Portugal and one of the absolute bucket list places in the Algarve, Benagil Cave mesmerizes millions of travelers every year. If you need to add one place to your Algarve itinerary , let it be Benagil Cave.

The huge sinkhole gives you the opportunity to get a glance of the cave’s inside from the cliffs above. But once you enter the cave by kayak or paddleboard from the glittering Atlantic, you’ll be left in awe by the grandeur of this natural treasure.

If you’re wondering how to explore the much sought-after Benagil Cave too, you’re in the right place. In this guide, I’ll go through everything you need to know to explore this natural wonder by kayak, paddleboard, and boat.

Disclosure: This post may contain affiliate links. That means that if you make a purchase through one of those links, I will get a small commission at no extra cost to you.

Table of Contents

Where is Benagil Cave, Portugal

Benagil Cave is situated in the Algarve in Portugal’s southern region. It’s only 7 kilometers south of Lagoa where most public transport reaches and 60 kilometers west of Algarve’s capital city, Faro.

The closest towns to Benagil are Carvoeiro and Lagoa.

How to get to Benagil Cave in Algarve, Portugal

The best way to get to Benagil Cave by public transport is from Lagoa. The town is well connected to other towns on the Algarve by bus and train. From Terminal Rodoviário in Lagoa, take the 107 bus to Carvalho beach.

From there, you have to walk 15 minutes to Benagil beach to get to the caves.

Finally, the easiest way to get to Benagil Cave is by car. Once you pass Lagoa or Carvoeiro, there are brown signs pointing you to Benagil. I usually just plot in Benagil beach on the GPS and it leads me straight to it.

Distance by car to Benagil from other Algarve destinations:

• Faro to Benagil: 55 min
• Albufeira to Benagil: 35 min
• Armação de Pêra to Benagil: 20 min
• Carvoeiro to Benagil: 15 min
• Lagoa to Benagil: 15 min
• Lagos to Benagil: 40 min
• Portimão to Benagil: 25 min

If you don’t drive, the best option for you might be to book a tour straight from where you’re based . You can check out tours from different destinations further down in this post.

If you’re going from Lisbon to Benagil Caves, the bus ride takes around 3 hours to Lagoa. Driving directly from Lisbon to Benagil Caves takes 2 hours and 40 minutes.

READ: How to spend 3 days on the Algarve

Benagil caves parking

Benagil beach is situated at the bottom of a steep U-turn. On top of the hill, there is a large parking space where you can leave your car free of charge. In the summer months, you should get there early so that you avoid getting to a filled-up parking lot and having to park on the steep, narrow road.

The walk down to the beach from Benagil caves parking is steep but short. You pass a couple of shops where you can rent kayaks and paddleboards on the way down, but there is also a tiny booth on the top of the beach.

Boat tours can be booked at the beach too.

Best time to go to Benagil Caves

The best time to visit Benagil Caves is spring and autumn. Though the caves can be visited all year round, the water is cold in winter and the crowds can be intense in summer.

If you visit Algarve in winter and want to see the caves, I suggest wearing a wetsuit if you go kayaking or paddleboarding – otherwise, the best alternative is to take a boat trip to stay dry. Keep in mind that boats don’t run if the waves are furious.

With that in mind, I always try to go there as early as possible in the morning to avoid the daytime crowds. It surely gets busier throughout the day.

Especially in summer, I recommend booking a tour in advance so you avoid long waiting time or that there are no available ways to get there.

Best way to visit Benagil Cave

There are three ways to explore this Portuguese treasure and I’ll list them all with their pros and cons here so that you can decide what is the best way to visit Benagil Cave for you.

Going on a Benagil Cave kayak tour is no arguing one of the most rewarding ways to see the cave. Going by kayak also means you can enter the cave and walk on the sand, getting epic pictures from inside the sea cave.

I highly recommend going as early as possible in the morning so that you avoid the crowds. As one of the most popular tourist attractions in the Algarve, I’m sure you can imagine how crowded it can get later on in the day.

Another thing to keep in mind is the boat traffic to the mouth of the cave that gets busier and busier throughout the day. You will also discover more of the breathtaking Benagil caves kayaking along the coastline.

You find Benagil Cave kayak rental at Benagil beach – either when entering the beach or along the road between the parking and the beach.

You have the option to go on your own or join a guided tour, which I recommend if you’re not used to kayaking. If you’ve done a lot of sea kayaking before and are not fond of going in large groups, you’ll have a blast going solo!

You can book a kayak tour here.

Standup paddleboard

Discovering the Benagil Cave by standup paddleboard gives you all the same benefits of visiting it by kayak. Yet, it’s a different adventure, and some like it more than kayaking (read: me). What I love about this, is that you get time inside the cave and can truly feel the magic and grandeur of the cave.

Paddleboards can be rented at all the same places as kayaks along the road from the parking to the beach.

If you haven’t tried standup paddleboarding (SUP) before and are curious about it, don’t worry. You can go on a guided SUP tour where the guide will give you a mini-lesson on how to use the board before getting in the water. It’s also easy to stand on your knees if you struggle to keep balance on your feet.

Book your Benagil Cave standup paddleboard experience here.

The last way to see Benagil Cave is by boat. This is a great way to see the cave if you don’t want to get in the water, don’t want to make the effort of paddling, or don’t feel comfortable on a kayak or paddleboard.

It’s also the only way to go if you’re not a strong swimmer as it’s not recommended to do either previous activities if you’re not comfortable in the water.

The con about going by boat is that you’ll only be able to see the cave from the outside. It’s not permitted to let tourists get off the boat and enter the cave.

That said, it’s an exceptionally comfortable way to see the most bewildering cave of the Algarve.

Benagil boat tours leave from Benagil beach and can be booked directly on the beach, but you can also find loads of boat tours from other towns in Algarve .

Many of these include dolphin watching which is a great opportunity!

Can you swim to Benagil Cave?

While it’s not far from the beach to Benagil Cave, there are strong underwater currents in this area of the Algarve. The tides also shift quickly.

For this reason, it can be extremely dangerous to try to swim from Benagil beach to Benagil sea cave.

I don’t recommend attempting to swim there as it’s a huge risk that can be fatal. It’s not that expensive to rent a paddleboard or a kayak to stay safe.

Find the best Benagil cave tour for you

There are numerous Benagil caves tours from all over Algarve. Here are a few options including tips so you can find the best Benagil Cave tour for you. All tours include a safety brief and life vests. Swimming will always depend on the water conditions – satefy first.

As for dolphin spotting, remember that they are wild animals and might or might not be spotted. The boat crew on the dolphin-watching boats are trained to look for them and will know the right spots, but there is still no guarantee.

Benagil Caves tour from Portimão

Portimão: benagil sea caves speedboat adventure tour.

If you’re looking for an action-filled Benagil Caves tour from Portimão, board a speedboat adventure tour and you’re guaranteed to fly across the waves.

Along the way, you can be lucky and see packs of dolphins playing in the waves and you’re sure to dart past an incredible coastline of cliffs, sea caves, and hidden beaches.

This tour is for you if:

• You’re an adrenaline junkie
• You love high-speed boats

This tour is not for you if:

• You’re pregnant
• You have back problems or other disabilities
• You’re not comfortable around boats and water

Portimão: Pirate Ship Cave Cruise

If you want to float along the coast in a slower pace with a bar and toilets included, this unique pirate ship cruise is a great adventure.

This tour takes you on a relaxing journey where you might spot dolphins and have the opportunity to go swimming in front of the breathtaking Marinha beach .

A small boat will take you from the ship to see the caves, including Benagil Cave, so you can see it close-up.

• You like relaxing boat trips
• You want to have a cold drink onboard
• You want a varied adventure including swimming
• You travel with kids
• You’re not comfortable changing boats
• You get easily bored on large boats and want high speed

Portimão: Kayak Tour of Benagil Caves

This tour takes you by catamaran from Portimão to where you’ll transfer to the kayaks. The local guide will take you inside Benagil Cave as well as to see other known sea caves and hidden beaches along the way.

It will of course be time for a dip if you want to go for a swim – so don’t forget your swimsuit and reef-safe sunscreen.

If you’re traveling with friends or family and not all of you want to kayak, there is the opportunity to stay on the catamaran and sunbathe while the rest go kayaking.

But keep in mind that they will miss out on seeing Benagil Cave, so I’d rather recommend a boat tour where everyone can get a good glimpse of the cave.

• You love physical activity
• You want to see Benagil Cave from the inside
• You want to swim in the crystal clear water
• You can’t swim
• You use a wheelchair

Benagil Cave tour from Albufeira

Albufeira: 2.5-hour caves & dolphin watching boat tour.

This tour is exceptional for animal lovers as you’ll be on board with a marine biologist that will teach you everything you want to know about the wild dolphins in the area. If you’re lucky, you might even spot a flock of these incredible creatures playing in the waves.

This speedboat tour also stops along the way so you can jump into the crystal clear water for a refreshing dip. But don’t forget your sunscreen as it will be 2.5 hours on the water.

• You want to learn about dolphins
• You love wildlife
• You’re an adventure-seeker
• You want to go swimming as part of your cave tour
• You have backproblems or other physical disabilities

Catamaran Cruise: Caves and Coastline to Benagil

If you’re a lover of catamarans and the luxury of a glass of bubbles on board, this is the tour for you. This tour takes you along the coast, with music on the boat and a friendly atmosphere.

You can go for a swim on this tour and the catamaran is small enough to enter the mouth of Benagil Cave to get a peek inside.

• You love catamarans
• You want to enjoy a glass of bubbles on the boat
• You want to go for a swim
• You want high speed

From Albufeira: Benagil Hidden Caves Tour by Kayak or SUP

This tour is excellent for those who want to explore the Benagil caves and hidden beaches by kayak or paddleboard. You’ll get picked up in Albufeira by boat which takes you the first 40 minutes along the coast until you transfer to the kayaks or SUPs.

This tour offers free pictures and you get to enter the caves and explore the hidden beaches first-hand. So bring reef-safe sunscreen and swimwear!

• You want to enter Benagil Cave and get pictures from the inside
• You want to swim in the crystal-clear water
• You travel with kids under 4 years of age

See the top kayak tours from Albufeira

Benagil Cave tour from Lagos

From lagos: 2-hour boat trip to the benagil caves.

This Benagil Caves boat tour from Lagos takes you to several caves and secluded beaches along the coast. The local guide will tell you all about the history of this rugged coastline that’s so full of hidden treasures.

This thrilling boat tour from Lagos is a fun adventure for adventure-seeking travelers wanting to see the amazing caves Benagil, Algarve hide.

• You want to learn more about the history of Algarve’s sea caves
• You want an action-filled boat tour
• You travel with children under 8 years
• You have mobility impairments

Benagil tour from Vilamoura

From vilamoura: 2.5-hour benagil cave and dolphins boat tour.

This action-filled speedboat tour is perfect for anyone wanting to combine dolphin watching with an unforgettable view of the most famous cave beach Portugal has seen. This tour promises a thrilling adventure.

• You love to look for wild dolphins
• You want to learn more about the secluded beaches and caves of Benagil
• Love a thrilling adventure
• You travel with children under 2 years
• You have back/neck problems

What to expect from a Benagil Cave tour

You can expect quite a different experience of Benagil Cave depending on how you visit and when you go. In August, it will get crowded and boats queue outside the cave entrance to let tourists get a peek inside the cave.

Also, be aware that the bigger boats don’t get that far into the cave so you should go on a smaller boat to actually see the cave. The smaller boats can also mean a bumpy ride as they speed more and water can splash into the boat.

But the smaller boats also enter more of the Benagil caves along the rugged coastline. Depending on the tides, boats take you far inside hidden caves where you can touch the cave ceiling and almost feel as there’s no space for the boat.

Most boat tours visit 10-20 caves and last 1-2 hours.

Going by kayak or paddleboard gives you a more hands-on experience. Whether you rent individually or go in a guided group, you can visit more of the caves and beaches along the coast.

Personally, being close to the water and feeling nature up close, getting off at hidden beaches, and feeling the caves right there is a much more exciting experience. Yet I know, it’s not for everyone.

Going on a guided tour gives you the safety of the guide knowing the tide and safety of entering the different caves and I highly recommend it if you plan on visiting more caves than Benagil Cave.

Where to stay near Benagil Cave

The best place to stay near Benagil Caves is the enchanting seaside town of Carvoeiro . From there, you can walk a coastal walk to get to Benagil beach.

Here are a few options of where to stay in Carvoeiro for different budgets.

For a luxury high-end stay in Carvoeiro, check in at the astounding Villa Welwitshia . At this luxury resort, you’ll have access to a big outside pool and can indulge in a mouthwatering breakfast.

See availability here.

A wonderful mid-range option is the Vale d’El Rei Hotel & Villas in Carvoeiro. Go for a dip in the outside pool, read a book at one of the sunbeds, or enjoy a nice meal at the poolside terrace with a sea view.

A budget option that is excellent with nice, light rooms, and an outdoor pool for guests is the O Quintal Guesthouse . Close to Carvoeiro beach, this is a perfect place to stay for active travelers wanting to hike to Benagil.

Explore places around Benagil Cave Algarve Portugal

Things to do in Albufeira

A guide to Carvoeiro boardwalk

A guide to Carvoeiro beach

A guide to Algar Seco

Things to do in Faro

Things to do in Lagos

Reflections on visiting the Cave of Benagil

After visiting the mesmerizing Cave of Benagil for the first time, I was in no doubt why Huffington Post listed it as one of the top 10 coolest caves in the world.

Before I went, I was personally not sure if Benagil cave was worth visiting and if it would feel totally overrated. Truth is, once I entered the cave and set foot on the beach, I was completely overwhelmed!

I’ve traveled extensively in the country and can say that this is the coolest sea cave Portugal has to showcase. If you have the chance to include one cave in Algarve, Portugal on your itinerary , make sure it’s a Benagil Cave tour.

Full Guide to Benagil Beach & Cave – How to Get there, Tours & Tips

Benagil Cave (Gruta de Benagil) is one of the most emblematic and famous places in the Algarve.

Algar de Benagil has gained popularity over recent years, especially because of social media. Now, nature lovers and Instagrammers from all over the world come to marvel at one of the most incredible and unique places in the world.

This remarkable cave has been listed in several travel guides and is considered one of the most beautiful caves in the world by Condé Nast Traveller magazine. Huffington Post has also recognised it as one of the top 10 coolest caves around the world.

I wanted to visit Benagil since the first time I saw a picture of it. In 2018, I finally had the opportunity to see it. When I entered the cave, I was completely amazed!

Since then, I’ve returned several times and it’s the reason I decided to write this guide with all the information you need to plan your visit.

How to get there and choose the best Benagil Cave tour for you. Prices, how to see it by yourself, other attractions in the area, the best time to visit it, and many other tips.

Table of Contents

Benagil Beach and its Iconic Cave

Praia de Benagil is a small beach surrounded by ochre limestone cliffs, with golden soft sand and crystalline blue-green water.

It would be just one more hidden beach in Algarve if it wasn’t for Algar de Benagil, a stunning cave just around the corner to the left side of Benagil Beach.

What makes Benagil Beach Sea Cave special is the perfect combination of golden-coloured walls with a round skylight in the ceiling and two beautiful archways.

Inside this spectacular cave, you’ll see the sunlight streaming through the roof and reflecting off the golden sand and the blue water that enters the cave through the arches.

You can walk inside the “Cathedral Cave”, swim in its crystal-clear water, take impressive pictures for your social accounts and sunbathe.

The cave is as beautiful as you see in pictures and a natural wonder of nature that shouldn’t be missed while visiting the Algarve.

I’ve been to Benagil numerous times, and it doesn’t cease to amaze me.

Tip: There are several sea caves and grottoes along the stunning Algarvian coast and the greatest way to see some of them is by booking a tour. Here are some of the top-rated ones.

Benagil Sea Cave Location

Benagil Sea Cave is located in the fishing village of Benagil, Lagoa’s municipality, along the Atlantic coast between Albufeira and Portimão, in the Algarve, Portugal.

It’s 30min walk from Praia da Marinha , an acclaimed Algarvian beach, and an approximately 50min drive from Faro Airport.

How to Get to Benagil Cave

You can get to the cave from any city that offers a Benagil Cave Tour. Tours are departing from Vilamoura, Albufeira, Armação de Pêra, Carvoeiro, Ferragudo, Portimão and Lagos.

But you can only get inside the cave by small boat, kayak, SUP or swimming for around 200m. Although, I don’t recommend that you go swimming to Benagil Cave because of the marine traffic and current.

If you want to go to Benagil Beach, from where you can also join a tour or rent a kayak / SUP to visit the cave by yourself, you can get there by car, bus, train and even on foot.

From Lisbon

Benagil Cave is 270Km (169 mi) away from Lisbon and takes a 2h30min drive to get there. Alternatively, you can take a train or bus to Lagoa, it’s between 3-4h and costs approximately €20.

From Lagoa, you need to take a bus from Lagoa Bus Terminal, #77, or a taxi/Uber to Benagil Beach (€7).

Within the Algarve – By Car

From albufeira.

You can drive from Albufeira to Benagil Beach Parking, 25Km (16mi), via the N395, followed by the A22 (Algarve’s principal motorway) until Via do Infante de Sagres in the village of Porches (around a 17min drive).

If you don’t want to pay the A22 toll, you can take the M526-1 towards Guia (15min drive).

From there, you need to take the N125, and then the M1154 (Estrada da Caramujeira) until you get to Estrada de Benagil. The parking is just before the end of this road and a 5min walk from the beach.

Both options take the same time, 30min, in normal traffic conditions, and once you arrive in Caramujeira you’ll see several signs to Benagil.

From Portimão

Praia de Benagil is 16Km (10mi) from Portimão and it should not take more than 25min drive.

The fastest way is to leave the city through the Old Bridge and drive on the N125 until Lagoa (around 17min), followed by Rua do Parque Empresarial do Algarve, Estrada da Caramujeira and Estrada de Benagil.

Lagos is 43.7Km (27mi) away from Benagil Beach Parking, and the fastest way to get there is via the M535-1 followed by the A22 until Via do Infante de Sagres. From there, you can follow the steps mentioned above.

If you don’t want to pay the A22 toll, you can drive to Portimão via N125.

Algarve’s capital is located 60Km (37mi) from Benagil Beach, and the best way to get there is via the A22 until Porches, followed by the N125, M1154 (Estrada da Caramujeira) and Estrada de Benagil.

To get to Praia de Benagil by bus you need to take a bus to Lagoa Bus Terminal and then another, #77, to Benagil. From the terminal to the beach takes 25min.

You can check the timetables and current prices on the bus company website .

To get to Benagil Beach by train, you need to get off at Estombar-Lagoa station, then take a bus towards Albufeira, #13, until the Bus Terminal, and change to bus #77 to Benagil.

You can check the timetables and current prices on the Comboios Portugal website .

PS.: The public transport in the Algarve isn’t good, and I do suggest that you hire a car .

You can walk from the nearby beaches, Carvalho and Marinha, to Praia de Benagil following an oceanfront path. It takes approximately 11min and 35min, respectively.

Can You Walk to Benagil Cave?

You can walk to Benagil Cave from Benagil Beach Parking or via the trail that connects Praia da Marinha to Benagil. But you cannot get inside the cave on foot, only see it from above.

Best Time to Visit Benagil

You can visit Algar de Benagil all year round, but the best time to visit it is from May to June and Mid-September to October.

Praia de Benagil gets overcrowded in August and the traffic is heavy, on the roads and the water, there are queues to hire a kayak/SUP, order food at the restaurants, book a tour, and the parking gets filled quickly.

Facilities at Praia de Benagil

• Parking lot
• Restaurants with outdoor seating area
• Changing rooms
• Lifeguards on duty
• Kayak and SUP Rentals
• Tour agencies

Other nearby restaurants are: A Lota, O Pescador, Mar e Sol, O Algar, Casa Lamy and O Litoral.

Where to Stay in Benagil?

If you want to stay in the village of Benagil, here are some of the hotels that I recommend:

Carvoeiro Hotel – Situated in Carvoeiro, less than 0.6 miles from Paradise Beach.

This 4-star hotel features rooms with garden views, a restaurant, free private parking, a seasonal outdoor swimming pool and a bar.

Middle range

Hotel Baia Cristal Beach & Spa Resort – A great hotel for families, located on a cliff-top overlooking the Atlantic Ocean, 350 yards from Vale de Centeanes Beach.

It offers an indoor and outdoor pool, a spa and a tennis court and provides modern amenities, including a balcony with panoramic sea views.

Tivoli Carvoeiro – one of the best hotels in the Algarve, situated in the picturesque town of Carvoeiro, atop a sea cliff overlooking the beautiful Vale Covo.

This recently renovated 5-star hotel offers high standards of quality, refurbished spacious rooms elegantly designed, a swimming pool and restaurant with stunning views, an indoor pool, fitness centre, steam room and sauna.

Benagil Cave Facts

Before seeing the cave in person, let me give you insights into its formation and some curious facts.

• Benagil Cave, and the Algarve coast in general, is made up of Miocene limestone sitting on rocks created in the Mesozoic era (the age of the dinosaurs).
• Over time, the limestone built up with the layers and Benagil Sea Cave has formed about 20 million years ago.
• The cliffs surrounding Benagil have been subjected to a series of erosions from rain, waves, and wind.
• Eventually, caves like Benagil will possibly collapse completely, as the Earth continues to evolve geologically.
• Benagil is also known as the “Cathedral Cave” because of the round ceiling, which viewed from the inside resembles a cathedral dome .
• Benagil is the most famous sea cave in Portugal.

How to Visit Benagil Cave – Group Tour x DIY Tour

Benagil Cave in the Algarve Portugal is one of the most striking places on Earth. And this is just one of the reasons that you shouldn’t miss it.

There are plenty of boat tours departing from different Algarvian cities that take you to see the cave. You can also rent a kayak/SUP and make a DIY tour.

But before deciding how to visit Algar de Benagil, here are some things to consider:

• Are you an active person?
• Are you travelling with kids?
• Do you prefer to join a tour group with a guide or visit the cave by yourself?
• Do you want to spend some time inside the cave?
• Do you have any heart/back problems or sea sickness?

After having visited Benagil several times, by kayak and boat, here are some vantages and disadvantages of both:

Paddling your way to the cave, on a kayak/SUP, is fun and also a bit tiring, but you can spend as much time as you want inside the cave.

Some of the disadvantages of a DIY tour are that you might miss other fascinating places along the Algarve coast, you must carry and bring the Kayak/SUP to/from the beach, and during the summer there are long queues.

If you haven’t done SUP before, it can be challenging to join a SUP tour. So, I don’t recommend that.

If you join a group tour there will be a knowledgeable guide telling curious facts, and information about landmarks, scenery and wildlife, which makes everything much more interesting.

Boats can be a bit bumpy (especially the fast ones), spend a short time inside the cave, and aren’t suitable for pregnant women, people with back/heart problems and children under 5 years (depending on the vessel).

New regulations don’t allow boats to disembark passengers into the cave , so on a Benagil Cave boat trip, you won’t be able to walk in the cave .

How to Choose Your Benagil Cave Tour

If you’re considering taking a tour, there are plenty of options to choose from, but there are also things to take into consideration:

• Are you an adventurous person?
• Do you also want to see dolphins/whales swimming freely in the wild?
• Do you want to get inside hidden caves and grottoes?
• Do you prefer to seat comfortably on a boat or get some exercise while going to Benagil?

Answering these questions is the key to choosing the right tour for you. Here are some other important ones.

What kind of tour is available?

You can choose from a kayak tour to SUP, Dolphin Watching & Caves, Catamaran cruise & BBQ and also a combination of Speed boat & kayak/SUP to Benagil .

Where can I take the tour?

Tours are departing from

• Armação de Pêra

What to expect from a Benagil Cave Tour?

The boat tours depart in general from the marina, you sail along the rugged coastline in the Benagil area, visit intricate caves and beaches, and have the chance to admire the Algarve coast from a unique perspective.

Algar de Benagil is just one of the more than 10, or even 20, caves that you’ll visit.

Some of the differences are that big boats just stop at the entrance for pictures and the duration, which varies from 30min to 6h (average is between 2-3h).

When you take a tour on a small boat, 10 – 20 people, it can go further inside the cave for pictures and enter other hidden ones that big boats can’t access.

You do get some adrenaline rush because some of the caves are tiny, and you think that the boat can’t squeeze inside.

Some of the tours also include a stop to swim.

On a Dolphin Watching tour, you’ll search for dolphins, visit Benagil and pass by other caves and beaches.

These speed boats are bumpy, can be uncomfortable with wind and water bashing into people’s faces, especially when returning to the marina at high speed, and can’t get inside small caves.

While on a catamaran with BBQ , the boat just make a very quick stop at Benagil’s entrance, because of its size, current and depth of the water. Although, some companies also take the passengers on a small boat to see the other caves , while the crew is preparing a BBQ on a deserted beach.

If you book a kayak/SUP tour, you’ll paddle along the coast and encounter caves, cliffs, tunnels, and hidden beaches, many of which are only accessible by sea.

It can be tiring, especially under rough sea conditions and strong sun. But if you’re an adventurer, this is your tour.

Tours are offered in Portuguese, English, Germany, Spanish and French, depending on the tour company.

How much does the tour cost?

The tour costs from €15 to €80 per person. The average price is between €20-30.

Final Considerations

Bear in mind that you won’t have the cave for yourself, unless you go early in the morning, preferably before 10, or for sunset .

If you want to take Instagram-worthy pictures, the best light is between noon and 2:00 PM, when the sun is right above the cave’s eye (the hole in the ceiling).

The tours are subject to weather and sea conditions. It may not be possible to enter some caves, particularly at high tide.

Benagil Cave Tour with Kids

If you’re visiting the Algarve with family , you should take a Dolphin watching & Caves Tour.

Kids love dolphins and they will be very happy seeing these adorable and playful creatures in their natural habitat, swimming and jumping in front of them.

I’ve done it with my 11-year-old niece and we loved it.

We took this Dolphin Watching and Caves Cruise Tour in Albufeira and apart from spotting many dolphins, we went exploring some caves, including Benagil and passed by famous Algarvian beaches.

Dolphin tours are offered from March to November, although the best months to spot dolphins in the Algarve are from June to September.

It costs an average of €35 and takes between 1 and 3 hours. Children pay a lower price.

You can also take a Dolphin watching and Benagil Cave Tour from Vilamoura .

I recommend that you book in advance because it’s one of the most popular Algarve tours .

My Experiences Visiting Gruta de Benagil by Boat Tour & Kayak

I’ve been to Benagil five times and the experiences were very different.

For the first two, I rented a kayak for one hour at Praia da Marinha with friends and family, and we went to Benagil.

It took longer than we thought to get there because of the current. In the end, we didn’t have too much time to enjoy the cave.

We did take some pictures and were impressed by Benagil’s beauty though!

For the following two, I was on boat tours. This Dolphin Watching & Caves tour from Albufeira, and this Small Boat Tour from Armação de Pêra .

I can tell that a small boat tour is completely different. We went inside hidden grottoes and small caves that big boats can’t access, I was delighted while entering the caves, could hear the explanations clearly, took good pictures and the ride was very smooth.

These are the two tours that I took and highly recommend!

The last time I went only to Benagil Beach and admired Benagil Cave from above.

Other Things to Do in Benagil

The climax of a visit to the village of Benagil is undoubtedly seeing the cave of Benagil. But there are other attractions and fun things to do in the area. Below are my five favourite ones.

1 – Go hiking

There is a 5.7Km scenic oceanfront path that goes from Praia do Vale de Centeanes, in Carvoeiro, passes through Benagil, until Praia da Marinha, in Caramujeira.

The route provides striking vistas and it’s one of the best hikes in the Algarve . I recommend doing the part between Benagil and Marinha because it’s shorter and as beautiful as the other one.

2 – Spend some time at Praia da Marinha, one of Europe’s best beaches

Even if you see Marinha Beach during your tour, you shouldn’t miss the opportunity to visit it.

This award-winning beach has been featured in many Portuguese guidebooks, advertising campaigns and is considered one of the 10 most beautiful European beaches by the Michelin Guide .

Praia da Marinha’s one of the best beaches in Algarve and the view from the viewpoints are breathtaking.

3 – Visit the nearby beaches

If you want to go to another beach, you can go to Carvalho, the nearest one, which in general isn’t as busy as Benagil.

Alternatively, you can visit Praia da Albandeira, which has a remarkable arch, or Praia de Nossa Senhora da Rocha and its historic chapel.

4 – Sunbathing

The Algarve is known for being one of the sunniest places in Europe, with over 300 sunny days a year and up to 12 hours of sunshine per day during the summer.

Naturally, one of the best things to do in the Algarve is to lie on the beach and soak up the sun.

5 – Rest & Relax

If you’re a bit tired after paddle boarding, kayaking or hiking, just get some R&R time.

After all, what’s better than relaxing on the beach feeling the onshore breeze and hearing the waves crashing against the sand?

• Before booking the tours, read the descriptions, and reviews and make sure that the tour is suitable for you.
• If you’re making a DYT tour, be careful and pay close attention to tide times, the weather forecast and local advice.
• At high tide, the area inside the cave becomes smaller.
• Don’t forget to bring sunscreen, hats, towels and plenty of water.
• The sea is generally very calm but sometimes the water isn’t as clear as you see in this post.
• Don’t expect warm water because it’s not warm at all.
• For more information about the Algarve visit the page:  Visit Algarve .

Safe travels and have fun in the Algarve.

You may also be interested in:

• 12 Cool and Unusual Things to Do in Algarve
• 10 Best Adventurous Things in Algarve
• Ziplining from Spain to Portugal: The Only Zip Line Across Time Zones
• First Time Flyboarding – FLYBOARD ALGARVE EXPERIENCE

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• Protect Your Trip Don’t forget travel insurance! I always use World Nomads  for short-term trips and SafetyWing for long-term ones. Find out why Travel Insurance: Much More Than a Precaution, a Necessity .
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• Book Ground Transportation BookaWay offers a stress-free experience with secure payments and no hidden fees. You pay online and receive your itinerary by email.
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Is Benagil Cave Really Closed? (2024 Update)

By Author Jurga

Posted on Last updated: January 7, 2024

Visiting the Benagil Cave is the most popular excursion in the Algarve region in Southern Portugal.

However, this impressive sea cave became so popular that it got absolutely overcrowded. At any given moment in the summer season, you could see dozens of boats, kayaks, standup paddleboards, and even swimmers trying inside the cave at the same time…

Recently, the situation has gotten increasingly unsafe and there have been multiple incidents that have led to dangerous situations for visitors, marine life, but also the fragile coastal landscape.

At the end of August 2023, the government created a work group with the purpose of defining new rules and regulations for visiting Benagil Cave in a safe and responsible manner (you can find the official publication in Portuguese here ). In the meantime, local authorities decided to take measures and have announced certain restrictions on visiting Benagil Cave effective 10 September 2023.

This has immediately led to lots of questions… Is Benagil Cave open or closed? Is it closed for everyone and every type of boat? Can you still enter Benagil Cave and see it from the inside or is it no longer possible? Can you still kayak in the area? Is it still allowed to swim to and inside the cave?

I saw so many conflicting answers to these questions online that I decided it was time to investigate it. And what better way to find out than simply to try and visit Benagil Cave, right? Since we were in the Algarve after the new rules were announced, we decided to go and check it out.

So here it goes – an update on the current situation as we experienced it.

Is Benagil Cave closed?

No, Benagil Cave is not closed. It’s open year-round, and sea conditions and weather permitting , you can still enter Benagil Cave by boat.

However, there are a few restrictions at the moment – see below.

Can you visit Benagil Cave by boat?

Yes, at the moment, it is possible to visit Benagil Cave – and enter inside the cave – by boat .

If the sea is too rough or it’s too windy, this may not always be possible, but that’s just common sense, and it’s always been like that.

Most boat tours from the nearby towns run as usual and – among other sights – bring you inside Benagil Cave.

We visited Benagil Cave just recently by speedboat from Albufeira and could enter the cave without any problems. There were several other boats there at the same moment and they all went inside.

Can you swim inside Benagil Cave?

Swimming inside Benagil Cave is no longer allowed. It is also forbidden to disembark on the little beach inside the cave.

Can you kayak or SUP inside Benagil Cave?

Kayaks, canoes, SUPs, bodyboards, etc. are in principle no longer allowed inside Benagil Cave at the moment. However, we saw quite a few kayaks at Benagil Cave recently and some of them were going inside, so it seems that the rules are again somewhat more flexible.

Several companies run kayak tours in the area and it’s still a great way to explore the stunning coastline. The main difference from the past is that you can no longer disembark inside Benagil Cave. You can still see the spectacular coastline and it’s still totally worth it.

When the restrictions were first imposed, the official statement read that it’s forbidden to launch kayaks from Benagil Beach ( Praia de Benagil ), Marinha Beach ( Praia da Marinha ), and Albandeira Beach ( Praia de Albandeira ). However, when we visited Benagil Cave most recently, there were kayak tours running from all these beaches. So it seems that the restrictions have been lifted again.

TIP: Ponta da Piedade near Lagos is another amazing kayaking location in Algarve. The coastline west of Albufeira is also absolutely stunning and can be explored by kayak. So if you want to go kayaking in the area, there are quite a few great alternatives to Benagil. You can find more information via the link below.

READ ALSO: Best Kayaking Spots in Algarve & Kayaking at Ponta da Piedade

Why are there entry restrictions to Benagil Cave?

As already mentioned, there have been numerous incidents in and near Benagil Cave. Most of them involve kayaks, SUPs, and similar. But there were also several occasions when small boats overturned inside the cave… Luckily, without any casualties…

Furthermore, the area was visited by so many kayaks (sometimes several dozen or even more at once) that the little beach inside Benagil Cave was absolutely crowded. People would disembark inside the cave, drag kayaks over sand, climb on rocks, etc. Some people would also try to swim to the cave from the nearby Benagil Beach. For a few years, this was indeed allowed…

As you can imagine, this not only led to many dangerous situations but also had a significant impact on the fragile ecosystem.

The combination of safety concerns for people and marine life, but also the preservation of the natural beauty of Benagil Cave are the main reasons why entry to Benagil Cave has been restricted.

But are these measures temporary?

Are the Benagil Cave entry restrictions permanent?

The official statement seems to imply that these measures are temporary, in order to give the marine authorities time to come up with a sustainable solution for visits to Benagil Cave.

However, at the moment, no official date was announced as to when, if, or how the rules will change in the future.

The good thing is that you can still see the stunning Benagil Cave – by boat from the inside and also on foot from above.

TIP: If you want to increase your chances of seeing the sea caves from inside, opt for speedboat tours . The smaller the boat, the easier it can enter the caves (not just Benagil).

For more information about Benagil Cave and the best ways to visit it, please see our detailed guide via the link below.

LEARN MORE: Benagil Cave: Complete Guide

More travel inspiration for the Algarve:

• Best Things to Do in Algarve
• Best Beaches in Algarve
• Best Towns to Visit in Algarve
• Algarve Travel Tips
• Best Things to Do in Sagres
• Best Things to Do in Lagos
• Best Ways to Visit Ponta da Piedade
• Best Things to Do in Albufeira
• Best Things to Do in Tavira
• Best Things to Do in Faro
• Most Beautiful Beaches in Albufeira
• Where to Stay in Albufeira
• Best Restaurants in Albufeira
• Algarve with Kids
• Best Water Parks in Algarve
• Slide & Splash
• Algarve in April
• Algarve in November

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Wednesday 21st of February 2024

Tour companies are awaiting new rules that were supposed to come out today, Feb. 21. Truth is that Feb 21. is only a deadline for new suggestions from the public. After that it will take a while, so tour operators are at the moment taking everything they can.

Swimming into the cave: It's by now forbidden and also not safe at all!!! Too many boats going in and out. So you have to be a very good swimmer, navigating between propellers of boat engines and the rocks inside. The boats cause waves and you end up at the rocks, or in a propeller.

Boat companies were fined in the last days and weeks for taking their boats with tourists into the caves, despite the sea warnings and closure of the cave through authorities. This means that some boat owners take the risk taking tourists into the cave.

Friday 23rd of February 2024

Hi Peter, sounds like there is still a lot of uncertainty which is never good. Hopefully, local authorities will soon provide clear guidelines of what exactly is or not allowed.

Sunday 29th of October 2023

You can take a kayak tour launching from Praia da Marinha (did so last week) but you can't go to Benagil

Friday 3rd of November 2023

Strange taking into account that this was explicitly forbidden, but good to know. It's such a beautiful area for kayaking, isn't it!

Red White Adventures

3 ways to visit the benagil caves by kayak.

If there’s one place to visit and go on an adventure along the Algarve Coast it’s Benagil. The Benagil cave kayak tours are one of the only ways you can actually get inside and see the caves with your own two eyes. 

This specific sea cave is hands down the most famous sea cave in the Algarve due to its sheer size and beauty. The fact you can actually go on a Benagil cave kayak tour and get out and explore all the different caves up close is incredible. 

Benagil is a stunning place with awesome coastal trails, beaches, boat tours, and of course kayak tours. Even if you’re in Benagil just for the day you can easily still experience most of the things but a kayak tour of the sea caves should be on the top of your list when it comes to Benagil. 

Disclosure: This post contains affiliate links which means if you decide to use the links and make a valid purchase, we will receive a small commission at no additional cost to you. Thank you <3

Table of Contents

3 Fun Benagil kayak tours to explore the famous sea caves

Know before you go:

• 🛶 Book your Benagil kayak tour on GetYourGuide or Viator
• 👩🏼‍⚕️ Insurance: Make sure your adventures are insured with SafetyWing
• ☀️ Wear waterproof & eco-friendly sunscreen
• 📸 Bring your camera and get Insta ready
• 💦 Stay hydrated with a LifeStraw water bottle

⚠️ Note: Most kayak tours book out during the summer months so we recommend booking your tour in advance!

#1 Benagil Caves kayaking experience

⛵️ Book: your Benagil Caves kayaking experience here ⏰ Time: Roughly 2 hours 💸 Cost: €35

This kayak tour in Benagil is full on and for two hours you’re going to experience and see the best sea caves in the area including the famous Benagil Cave. The awesome thing about this specific tour is that you will actually have the chance to get out of your kayak and hang out in the cave. 

The cave itself is quite big and there is a good amount of room for boats and kayaks. However, this tour company plans it so you actually have time to explore the caves when it’s not too busy which we love. 

There’s a nice little beach inside the main Benagil Cave where you’ll get out of your kayak and get a chance to take pictures and hang out inside this natural beauty made by Mother Nature.

The rest of the trip you’ll explore other smaller caves along the Algarve and see some other beaches near Benagil. Once you see all this firsthand you’ll see why this is one of the most beautiful areas of Portugal.

Book your Benagil Caves kayaking experience here.

#2 Benagil Beach Double Kayak Rental

⛵️ Book: your Benagil beach double kayak rental here ⏰ Time: Roughly 2 hours 💸 Cost: €25

If you want the freedom of going at your own pace and explore on your own around Benagil by kayak then this is the trip for you. You can rent kayaks and go on your own for a minimum of 2 hours. You can easily book it for longer though and kayak to some private beaches near Benagil and hang out there. 

The nice thing about going on your own is that you can pick and choose how long you want to stay at each spot. Feel like hanging inside the Benagil Cave for an hour? Then do it! 

This Benagil Kayak trip is also slightly cheaper since there is no guide. It’s a really fun way to explore the Algarve Coast on a budget if you don’t mind cruising on a kayak without a guide nearby.

This kayak tour is awesome because you have the freedom to do what you want to do. So if that’s something you like then maybe just book this kayak rental and go at your own pace around Benagil

Book your Benagil Beach double kayak rental here.

#3 Benagil Cave Kayak and SUP tour

⛵️ Book: your Benagil Caves Kayak/SUP tour here ⏰ Time: Roughly 2 hours 💸 Cost: €35

Yes, you can see the Benagil cave by stand up paddleboard! One of the reasons we recommend this tour is because the company has both kayaks and stand up paddleboards. This way if you’re a big group of people not everyone may want a kayak or a SUP. Everyone’s happy and can decide what they want. 

The kayak and SUP tour of Benagil Cave is similar to the other tours where you’ll cruise along the Algarve Coast and explore the beaches where most people don’t get a chance to visit if they go on a boat tour of the Benagil Caves. Also, you get to check out all the caves that you can only get to by boat tour, kayak, or SUP! 

It’s really nice that in 2 hours you can actually see so much and have a solid workout while doing it. The kayaking isn’t too challenging since there’s two of you in a kayak and there are a few breaks. The SUP is a different story though since it’ll be on your own paddling!

At the end of the day, this tour is nice because you have the option between the kayak and the SUP and the rest is very similar to the other tours or rentals mentioned above. 

Book your Benagil Caves kayak/sup tour here.

Other related questions about Benagil Caves

How do you get to Benagil Cave?

The best way to get to Benagil cave is by kayak tour from Benagil Beach. There’s parking nearby, all the tour companies are there, and there’s a nice big beach to depart on your kayak trip. 

There are plenty of other ways to get to the Benagil Cave like a boat tour from Lagos or a kayak trip from Portimão but a kayak trip from Benagil Beach is the best way to get to the cave.

Can you walk to Benagil Cave?

Yes, you can walk and see Benagil Cave from above. The viewpoint of the cave is near the parking lot and you can see directly into the cave from the eroded hole at the top. 

To actually go inside the Benagil Cave and get to the beach spot, though, you need to go by kayak or SUP to actually stop and hang out inside the cave. 

You can’t actually walk from the beach inside the Benagil Cave because there is no direct access.

Can I swim to Benagil Cave?

Yes, you can totally swim to Benagil Cave if you’re a good swimmer. If you start at Praia de Benagil and go east (left looking out at the ocean) you will have roughly 300 meters of swimming until you reach the sand section inside Benagil Cave.

If you’re a good swimmer, 300 meters shouldn’t be too challenging for you. The only thing you have to remember is that you also have to swim 300 meters back to Praia de Benagil once you’re ready to leave the cave.

Don’t go if you feel like you aren’t fit for this. We recommend swimming next to the kayakers or SUPs if you absolutely want to swim. Please also check the tide before you go. At high-tide it can be more risky.

You may also like…

• 5 Awesome Boat Tours to Do in Lagos, Portugal
• Top 20 Things to Do in Lagos, Portugal
• Hiking The Lagos Coastal Walk to Ponta da Piedade
• 8 Beautiful Beaches in Lagos You Need to Visit
• 5 Epic Portimao Boat Tours to Do

Recap of 3 kayak tours that visit the Benagil Caves

There ya have it! 3 kayak trips to the Benagil Caves. We absolutely love this part of the Algarve and it’s totally worth a visit. Even if you’re in Portimão or Lagos there are boat and kayak trips that go from there too.

This is one of the highlight destinations in the Algarve so make sure to take the time and go. The beaches in Benagil are incredible too so make sure to make a full day out of it.

Experience a kayak tour to Benagil Caves in the morning, hike a coastal trail, hang out by the beach, and then try some yummy local food and you have the recipe for a perfect day in the Algarve.

We hope you have the best time in Benagil and get to explore the awesome sea caves in the area. If you have any questions about getting to Benagil or booking a trip then please reach out on Instagram or leave a comment below. 

Have an awesome trip and hopefully hear back from you on your experience and travels in the Algarve!

Dom & Jo Red White Adventures

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Wow this looks like so much fun! I think I would definitely want to get double kayaks and visit there with Dylan. I definitely need to go back to Portugal, what a gorgeous country!

Yeah the Benagil Caves are awesome and by kayak is probably the best way to see them! If you get a chance to go back to Portugal make sure to check out the Algarve!

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10 Top Benagil Cave Tours for the Best Algarve Adventure

LOOKING FOR THE BEST BENAGIL CAVES IN ALGARVE TOUR?

You are in the right place as this article highlight the top 10 best Benagil Cave tours that you can go on — regardless of where you are staying in the Algarve.

As someone who has been in to the Benagil Caves (twice, once by myself and once with a tour), I know how magical the experience can be. But, I also know how hectic and crazy it can become if you come without a tour. Parking, walking down, renting a kayak — it can quickly become a headache.

Don’t have time to read the whole article?

The best Benagil Cave tour is Catamaran BBQ on the Beach: Cruise to Benagil Caves (from Albufeira) , with a perfect ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ rating 😊 ❤️

That’s why I recommend Benagil Caves Tours —the trick is finding the right one for your needs. Be aware that if you want to spend some time in the cave itself, MOST boat tours will not let you get off the boat (unless you book a private caves Benagil Portugal tour ).

Are you ready for a list of the best Bengail boat trips and Algarve cave tours? Let’s dive in.

First, Choose your Departure Point

As you may or may not know, the Algarve is a region filled with different types of towns and cities, the most popular of which are Lagos, Portimao, and Albufeira. Most boat tours will depart from these major cities, however if you are looking for a kayak or SUP tour, you’ll need to hear to towns closer to the caves, like Cavoeiro.

Top 3 Best Benagil Cave Tours

Catamaran bbq on the beach (albufeira).

→ Barbecue on a private beach → A glass of champagne 🥂

Private Eco Paddle Board Tour (Carvoeiro)

→ Personalized private experience → Time to take 📸 in Benagil

Private Tour – Benagil & Marinha Beach (from Portimão)

→ Completely customizable → Snorkel and paddleboard included

10 Best Benagil Cave Tours

1. catamaran bbq on the beach: cruise to benagil caves (from albufeira).

⭐️ Rating: 5 out of 5 Stars | ⏰ Tour time: 6.15 hours |  ⛵️ Check rates and availability

Step onto the deck of a luxury catamaran yacht and embark on an enchanting journey with this Benagil Caves Tour from Albufeira . This full-day cruise combines the grandeur of the rugged Algarve coast with the comfort and stability of a catamaran yacht.

So amazing from start to finish, the boat, the staff, the food & especially the coastline, highly recommend. Beautiful beach & great value. — GEMMA (READ MORE  REVIEWS )

As you glide along the water, gaze in awe at the towering rock formations and coastal caves. A highlight of the trip is a visit to the mesmerizing Algarve Benagil Cave. Back on board, savor a beach barbecue featuring a bounty of fish, meat, sausages, and more.

During your leisure time, feel the sun on your skin and the sand between your toes on a beautiful secluded beach. As the tour draws to a close, raise a glass of champagne in toast, commemorating this incredibly Benagil Boat Tour . Here’s to an unforgettable day at sea!

Best benagil Cave Tours

2. private eco paddle board tour: discover benagil cave (from carvoeiro).

⭐️ Rating: 5 out of 5 Stars | ⏰ Tour time: 2.5 hours |  🏄‍♂️ Check rates and availability

Immerse yourself in the serenity of the Algarve coast with this Private Eco Paddle Board Tour . Designed for those seeking a more intimate, personalized adventure, this tour lets you explore Portugal’s beautiful caves, cliffs, and beaches at your own rhythm.

Your journey begins at Carvalho Beach, a hidden gem nestled amidst limestone cliffs. From there, you’ll paddle towards the awe-inspiring Benagil Cave in Portugal. With your guide leading the way, discover breathtaking caves and secret beaches along a unique route that avoids the typical tourist congestion.

Unforgettable experience! Caio is an incredible guide. As a trained geologist he offered us a vast amount of information about the rock formations. — ELISABETH (READ MORE  REVIEWS )

Capture memorable photos and rejuvenate your energy within the heart of the famous Benagil Caves Algarve Portugal, which forms the centerpiece of your tour.

Enjoy the tranquility as you paddle back to Carvalho Beach, completing a truly unforgettable journey through Benagil Carvoeiro Portugal. With this private tour, experience a slice of paradise that’s reserved just for you.

3. Private Tour – Benagil & Marinha Beach (from Portimão)

⭐️ Rating: 5 out of 5 Stars | ⏰ Tour time: 3 hours |  ⛵️ Check rates and availability

Unveil the hidden gems of Portugal’s southern coast on this Private Tour – Benagil & Marinha Beach (Max 8PAX) . Exclusively designed for your group of family or friends, this experience lets you discover the stunning locales at your own pace.

Embark on your Benagil Caves Tour from Portimao to explore the alluring Benagil Cave Algarve. Marvel at the beauty of these caves and pristine beaches. Your private tour ensures you get ample time for snorkeling and paddleboarding, with all equipment provided for your convenience.

An amazing experience with a fantastic crew . They made us feel so welcome and spent just enough time pointing out important things to see. — Dharmesh (READ MORE  REVIEWS )

Enjoy the flexibility of exploring multiple beaches and lighthouses as you sail along the coastline. Immerse yourself in the tranquil beauty of Marinha Beach and capture the moments that will make your Portimao Benagil Cave Tour unforgettable.

With approximately three hours of adventure, you’ll experience the best that Benagil Tours has to offer. Relish in this unique and personalized coastal journey – an adventure made just for you.

4. Benagil Cave Portugal & Beach BBQ (from Vilamoura )

⭐️ Rating: 5 out of 5 Stars | ⏰ Tour time: 7 hours |  🍖 Check rates and availability

Discover the breathtaking Algarve coast and indulge in a mouthwatering barbecue on a secluded beach on this boat trip to Benagil Cave that combines the best of both worlds.

While you journey along the picturesque coastline , marvel at the stunning beaches and prepare for a visit to the iconic Benagil Cave, one of the region’s top attractions.

I had so much fun on this trip. The beach bbq was one of the best meals that I had in Portugal. — CARISSA   (READ MORE  REVIEWS )

After exploring the cave, savor a delicious barbecue at Praia da Galé , prepared with fresh local produce. Vegetarian options are available upon request.

Keep the excitement going with kayaks, paddleboards, and snorkels provided to explore nearby beaches and crystal-clear waters. You might even catch a glimpse of playful dolphins during your adventure!

5. Benagil Cave Tour + Hiking Adventure (from Faro)

⭐️ Rating: 5 out of 5 Stars | ⏰ Tour time: 7 hours |  ☀️ Check rates and availability

Experience the unique beauty of the Algarve coast on this Benagil Cave Tour , a full-day exploration of the renowned Benagil Caves Portugal. This private tour guarantees a day of memorable experiences, from caving and swimming to hiking and sunbathing.

Your journey begins at Benagil Beach, where you’ll marvel at the cave’s famed skylight and the surrounding limestone formations. Guided by a private guide, you’ll enjoy the thrill of swimming in these ancient caverns.

Best tour into the caves by far . Sebastião’s professionalism and charisma speak for himself. 100% worth it 💪🏽 — CARLOS   (READ MORE  REVIEWS )

The adventure continues with a hike through the Seven Suspended Valleys, offering a captivating blend of natural beauty and exhilaration. Conclude your day by basking in the sun on Marinha Beach, one of the world’s most beautiful beaches.

With snorkeling gear provided, explore the underwater wonders of the Benagil Algarve. This bespoke Benagil Boat Tours experience is tailored just for you, offering a remarkable journey through some of the Algarve’s most impressive sights.

6. Algarve with Benagil Caves Cruise included (Private tour from Lisbon)

⭐️ Rating: 5 out of 5 Stars | ⏰ Tour time: 12 hours |  ☀️ Check rates and availability

Embark on a full-day journey on this Algarve with Benagil Caves – Private tour from Lisbon experience. Venture beyond the city limits of Lisbon and delve into the rich culture and history of the stunning Algarve region.

Your adventure begins with a convenient pick-up from your Lisbon location . From there, explore iconic Algarve destinations, including Silves, Lagos, and Carvoeiro, each brimming with historical significance and charm.

Excellent tour of Algarve! Our tour guide Susanna was friendly and extremely knowledgable. Would 100% recommend this tour! — GEOFFRY   (READ MORE  REVIEWS )

The highlight of your Lisbon to Benagil Cave journey is a mesmerizing boat cruise to the famous Benagil Caves. Stand in awe of these natural wonders, a truly unique spectacle that brings you face-to-face with the impressive forces of nature.

This private tour not only takes you on a Benagil Cave Tour from Lisbon but offers a comprehensive experience of the Algarve’s most beloved sights. Discover the magic of Portugal’s southern coast on this tailor-made adventure, combining the best of land and sea explorations.

7. Benagil Sea Cave Tour Seafari (from Lagos)

⭐️ Rating: 4.5 out of 5 Stars | ⏰ Tour time: 2 hours |  🛥️ Check rates and availability

Immerse yourself in the spectacular beauty of Portugal’s southern coast on this Benagil Sea Cave Tour Seafari . This Benagil Caves Tour from Lagos takes you on a thrilling journey aboard an inflatable RIB.

As you navigate past towering limestone cliffs, hidden beaches, and rugged coastlines, your knowledgeable guide will provide you with intriguing insights into the geological history of this remarkable region.

Amazing seeing the cliffs from the ocean but then to actually go in them! We loved every moment ❤️ — JODIE   (READ MORE  REVIEWS )

The highlight of your Lagos to Benagil Caves adventure is undoubtedly your arrival at the iconic Benagil Caves. Watch in awe as your skilled skipper maneuvers your vessel into the cave.

Your tour Benagil Cave is designed with flexibility in mind, offering two convenient tour times to suit your schedule. Prepare for an intimate and unforgettable exploration of the Algarve’s most captivating natural wonders, on this Benagil Sea Cave Tour Seafari .

8. Caves & Dolphin Watching Boat Tour to Benagil Cave ( Albufeira )

⭐️ Rating: 4.4 out of 5 Stars | ⏰ Tour time: 2.5 hours |  🐬 Check rates and availability

Embark on a thrilling half-day dolphin watching cruise from Albufeira and uncover the Algarve’s hidden caves, while basking in the region’s stunning coastal beauty.

Don’t forget to pack your swimsuit and towel, as you’ll have the opportunity to take a refreshing swim in the azure waters.

It was really cool seeing the coastline from the perspective from a boat. The staff was super friendly and accommodating. — GREG   (READ MORE  REVIEWS )

As you glide along the picturesque south coast of Portugal, keep an eye out for playful dolphins, guided by the expertise of an onboard marine biologist. They’ll share fascinating insights into these magnificent creatures, enriching your experience.

The journey takes you past the dramatic rocky coastlines and popular resorts of Albufeira and Carvoeiro. Discover secluded areas only accessible to smaller boats, offering a truly unique perspective of the region’s natural wonders.

9. Benagil Cave Boat Tour  With Sunset Option (from Portimão)

⭐️ Rating:  4.9 out of 5 Stars |  ⏰ Tour time:  2 hours |  🌅  Check rates and availability

Join  an unforgettable journey  along the Algarve coast, where you’ll explore dramatic caves, admire impressive cliffs, and maybe even spot playful dolphins.

Begin your adventure at the pier in Portimão, where you’ll meet your guide and receive a safety briefing before  boarding the RIB speed boat . As you cruise along the coast, listen to fascinating stories about the Arade River and the Algarve region while taking in views of the Fort of Santa Catarina, Ferragudo Castle, and charming fishing villages.

This experience was better than any of us imagined. The scenes of the coast and the caves were breathtaking, truly magical — KHADIJAH   (READ MORE  REVIEWS )

Your journey will take you inside Benagil Cave, where you can marvel at the sunlight streaming through the natural hole above, illuminating the sandy beach below.

On your return trip , enjoy a brief swimming stop at the picturesque Corredoura beach . If you choose the sunset option, you’ll be captivated by the vibrant colors painting the horizon as the sun sets, concluding a truly magical day on the water.

Best Benagil Cave Tours

10. kayaking in secret algarve benagil caves (from carvoeiro).

⭐️ Rating: 5 out of 5 Stars | ⏰ Tour time: 2 hours |  🛶 Check rates and availability

Experience the Algarve in a thrilling new way with this Kayaking in Secret Algarve Benagil Caves tour. Unlike traditional boat tours, this Benagil Caves Kayaking tour takes you inside cave of Benagil for a firsthand exploration of these captivating natural wonders.

Amazing experience! The guides are very nice and interesting. Well organized and we felt very safe. — ISABELLE (READ MORE  REVIEWS )

As part of your Benagil Cave Kayak Tour , you’ll paddle your way inside these stunning formations. Once inside, you’ll have the unique opportunity to step out of your kayak and snap photos of the magnificent natural skylight – an experience that can’t be enjoyed on a standard boat tour.

Glide past the picturesque Praia da Marinha and the rugged Algarve coastline, making your Benagil Kayak Tours a memory to cherish. Choose from multiple tour times to best suit your schedule and prepare for an unforgettable Kayaking Benagil Caves experience.

Where are The Benagil Caves Portugal?

Wondering how to get to benagil caves? The famous Benagil cave, also known as Algar de Benagil , is located in the Algarve region of southern Portugal along the Atlantic coast. The caves are close to several popular Algarve destinations, including Lagos (45 minutes away), Albufeira (30 minutes away), and Portimão (45 minutes away). 

The Algarve caves themselves are situated on Portugal’s southern coastline . The nearby towns of Carvoeiro, Lagos, and Armação de Pêra are also worth visiting, as they offer a range of dining, shopping, and entertainment options, as well as access to some of the Algarve’s most beautiful beaches.

In addition to the nearby towns and cities, the Benagil Caves are located near several other natural attractions, including the Seven Hanging Valleys Trail , Ria Formosa Natural Park , Praia da Rocha , Praia da Marinha (Marina Beach), and the Algar Seco rock formations , making the area a popular destination for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts

⭐️ If you want to learn more about the Benagil Caves, including how to get there, and some tips on surviving your experience, I’ll written a whole guide about it, which you can find here: Benagil Caves Portugal, The Ultimate Guide .

Benagil Cave History

Formed over millions of years, the cave is the result of the relentless waves of the Atlantic Ocean against the soft limestone cliffs — a testament to the raw power of natural erosion. The cave’s unique skylight, created by this continual erosion, allows sunlight to illuminate the small beach inside, creating a mesmerizing scene.

Located near the small fishing village of Benagil in Portugal, the cave’s significance stretches beyond its stunning visual appeal. Historically, it was part of a series of grottos and caves along the Algarve coast, often used by local fishermen for shelter during inclement weather.

An important aspect of Benagil Cave fact s is its biodiversity . The cave and its surrounding areas are home to various marine species. A combination of warm currents, abundant sunlight, and the cave’s sheltered environment create ideal conditions for a rich diversity of marine life.

Finally, despite its remote location and challenging access, the Benagil Cave has become a key highlight on any Algarve cave tour. Its natural beauty and fascinating history continue to draw visitors from around the globe, underlining the universal allure of the Cave Benagil.

Benagil Cave Portugal: FAQs

Are Benagil Caves Worth It?

Absolutely! The Benagil Caves are a must-visit destination on the Algarve coast of Portugal. This breathtaking natural wonder features stunning rock formations, turquoise waters, and a hidden beach that will leave you in awe.

A Benagil boat tripto the caves offers a unique and memorable experience, whether you opt for a guided boat tour , kayak, or paddleboard adventure. It’s an incredible sight that showcases the beauty of nature and should not be missed during your trip to the region.

Why Is The Benagil Cave Famous?

Benagil Cave is famous for its remarkable beauty and unique features.

Known as Algar de Benagil, t his striking sea cave boasts a captivating dome-shaped chamber with a skylight, allowing sunlight to pour in and illuminate the golden sandy beach within . The intricate patterns and textures of the limestone walls, combined with the turquoise waters, make it a breathtaking sight.

Can You Walk Into The Benagil Cave?

Technically, it is not possible to walk into the Benagil Cave directly from the mainland, as the cave entrance faces the sea and is surrounded by water

The most popular ways to access the cave are by joining a guided boat tour , renting a kayak/SUP or swimming to the cave from the main beach.

What is the best time to visit benagil caves?

The best time to visit the Benagil Caves is during the early morning or late afternoon hours in the spring or fall seasons, as these periods typically offer pleasant weather, less crowded tours, and an enhanced opportunity to witness the cave’s mesmerizing light displays.

Is it safe to kayak to the Benagil cave?

Kayaking can be a safe and enjoyable experience when done responsibly. Keep a few precautions in mind: check weather and sea conditions beforehand, ensure you’re familiar with kayaking, wear a life jacket, and follow local guidelines.

If you’re inexperienced or uncertain , it’s best to join a guided kayak tour, where professionals can provide the necessary equipment and guidance to make your adventure to the Benagil Cave both safe and memorable.

Can you swim To Benagil cave?

Yes, it is possible to swim into the Benagil Cave, as the entrance is accessible from the sea. However, swimming is not recommended for most visitors due to potential risks, such as changing sea conditions, rough seas, strong currents, and boat traffic near the cave.

If you’re an experienced swimmer and still choose to swim, exercise extreme caution and follow local guidelines to ensure your safety.

Final Thoughts: Best Benagil Cave Tour

Ready for a boat trip to Benagil Caves? Exploring the captivating Benagil Caves is a must-do experience for anyone visiting Portugal’s Algarve region. Whether you choose to embark on a cave kayak tour or opt for the thrill of a boat tour Benagil , you are sure to be captivated by the region’s raw natural beauty.

Still Don’t Know Which Tour to Book?

For those seeking a more personal experience, the Benagil Cave kayak rental service allows you to explore at your own pace. From paddling beneath the cave’s iconic skylight to uncovering hidden corners, it’s an adventure that promises freedom and unforgettable sights.

And for visitors starting their journey from Portugal’s capital, the trip from Lisbon to Benagil Caves is not only convenient but also a scenic journey that showcases the country’s diverse landscapes. So, whether you’re a seasoned adventurer or a casual traveler, these tours offer a wealth of options to explore and discover, making your visit to the Benagil Caves a memory that you’re sure to treasure.

Yvonne Ivanescu is the founder of Now in Portugal and Now in Rio Swim, an ethical and sustainable swimwear company. She is a writer, editor and marketer with over 10 years of experience.

Storytelling is her second nature and she wants to share the magic of Portugal with the rest of the world.

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The Benagil Cave in Portugal: The Secret to Getting it All to Yourself!

Blog , Portugal / November 13, 2021 by David & Cayleigh / 2 Comments

The Benagil Cave, located on Portugals south shore, is one of the most photographed places in the entire country. the turquoise blue waters and light rays beaming into this miraculous ocean cave are pure magic. If you are dying to visit but want to ditch the crowds, you have come to the right place! Keep reading for everything you need to know about visiting the Benagil Cave and the secret to getting it all to yourself.

The Benagil Cave is located along the Algarve Coast, near the town of Carvoeiro. Only accessible by water, there are several tours that bring hundreds of people inside the cave daily. The remarkable natural landmark features two dome-shaped entry points and a skylightesque hole in the roof, which allow a great deal of light in. These unique features paired with the textured limestone rock and clear blue waves rolling in make it one of the most beautiful caves in the world, without a doubt.

Before we dive into what we did to avoid the crowds and having it all to ourselves for 2 whole hours, let’s cover the different options for accessing The Benagil Cave.

How to Get There

There are countless daily boat tours leaving from Benagil Beach, Carvoeiro, Lagos, Albuferia, and Portimao. Depending on the distance and the tour operator you choose, they typically range from 2 to 4 hours.

From what we understand, the boats are not actually allowed to dock in the cave, which means you cannot get onto the beach. This is not the end of the world if you want to see the Benagil Cave without spending a ton of time there. A boat tour would be a great option for families with small children or people with mobility issues.

By Kayak/Stand up paddleboard

This is by far our preferred method for entering the cave as it offers an excellent combination of flexibility and safety. You can choose to either take a guided tour or rent your own equipment at one of the many rental shops in the area. We will go over the best time to rent a kayak or SUP and our favourite rental shop in the next section.

By Swimming

Before visiting, we read quite a few blogs that stated you could swim over to the cave. Although the Benagil Cave is only about 600 meters off the shore of Benagil Beach, we would not recommend swimming .

The undertow can be strong and the waves along this coast can get quite large. Add that to the jagged rock arch you use to enter the cave and the swarm of boats in the area? Swimming to this cave can get dangerous in a hurry and it’s just not worth the risk. The possibilities of getting knocked in the head by an amateur kayaker or paddle boarder are also quite high.

Avoiding the Crowds

With so much popularity, especially in recent years, it’s no surprise that the Benagil Cave can get extremely crowded. There are constantly tours coming and going with lineups to get that “perfect Instagram shot”.

I don’t know about you, but even the thought of that stresses me the heck out! You all know that David and I will do pretty much anything to avoid a crowd.

So what if I told you that we were able to get this magnificent place all to ourselves for not one but two whole hours? That we were able to experience the incredible natural wonder without boats and people and noise and distraction.

Sounds too good to be true, doesn’t it? Great news! In reality, it is not an overly difficult thing to do, but it does take a bit of planning and an early morning wake-up call. Let me explain…

Daily tours of the Benagil Cave, no matter if they are by boat, kayak, or standup paddle board, typically start between 9 and 10 am. This means that by the time they collect all of their passengers, do their safety spiel, and get to the cave; it is at least 9:30 am. From this time on, tours will be running constantly until 5 or 6 pm and the cave will be busy.

If you just got excited about the morning window without tours (as we did!) this is where things get a little bit complicated. The earliest you can pick up a kayak or SUP at any rental store in the area is also 9 am. Now, this does not mean you can’t have access to one earlier, it just means you have to get creative.

Our Experience

David and I picked up a deflated SUP, a pump, a paddle, and lifejackets from COAST supplies in Lagos the evening before we planned to visit the cave. They were absolutely wonderful to rent from, charging only 33 euros for 24 hours. From there, we headed to a parking lot near Benagil Beach and spent the night in our campervan.

In the morning, we woke up about 30 minutes before sunrise, in September that’s around 6:45 am, and made our way to Benagil Beach. We pumped up our paddle board and took the short 3-minute walk down to the ocean. There was no one around at this time of the morning, it was so calm and peaceful.

Putting the paddle board into the water, however, was anything but calm and peaceful…

The waves were powerful and the strong undertow made it tough to keep the board steady. I ended up helping David get on the paddle board with the dry bag and swimming out to meet him past the wave break. Once we were out in the water the paddling was a breeze.

We arrived inside the Benagil Cave around 7:30 am and were pleasantly surprised to find no one else there. David and I spent the next two hours completely mesmerized by the light slowly filling the cave. We took photos, played in the waves, and laid on the sand staring up through the skylight. I am still blown away that we got to enjoy this spectacular place for so long, all by ourselves.

If you get the chance, we would highly recommend visiting the cave before 9 am, I can promise you that it will be one thousand percent worth the extra effort.

We hope you enjoy your time in Portugal! Please feel free to reach out with any questions or comment below with your experience in the Benagil Cave. We would love to hear from you!

Reader Interactions

Michele Lentini

May 21, 2022 at 8:55 AM

Hi, your blog is beautiful! I kindly ask you some information about benagil cave. Can you suggest me where you rented a deflated SUP? Thanks in advance.

David & Cayleigh

May 27, 2022 at 9:11 PM

Hey Michele,

Thanks for being here! We rented our SUP from COAST supplies in Lagos, they were great!

Hope that helps!

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How To Get To Benagil Cave From Lagos in 2024

If you’re visiting Lagos then you might be considering traveling to the mesmerizing Benagil Cave.

I know I was! When I started researching it, I couldn’t find much information on how to get there so that’s why I’ve put together this handy guide.

In this post I explain exactly how to get to Benagil Cave from Lagos including several different options, timetables, helpful tips and links to the best sightseeing tours.

Table of Contents

Where Is Benagil Cave?

Benagil Cave is located in a small fishing village called Benagil which is located in Lagoa. This town lies 43 km east of Lagos which is a 40-minute drive.

The cave itself is situated right next to the Praia de Benagil beach and is actually called ‘Algar de Benagil’ on Google Maps.

The main thing to know is that Benagil Cave and Algar de Benagil are the exact same thing.

It’s definitely worth visiting Bengail Caves if you have the chance and it makes the perfect day trip from Lagos .

This epic cave was formed around 20 million years ago naturally via erosion and it has a characteristic hole in the roof. It’s pretty impressive and worth making the effort for.

How To Get To Benagil Cave From Lagos

There are a few different ways to get to Benagil Sea Cave from Lagos .

Here’s an overview of the options:

• 🏅 Best Benagil Cave Boat Tour From Lagos
• Train/bus : not recommended (more details below)
• Taxi/Uber : 40 minutes each way, €88 total
• Rental car : 40 minutes each way, ~€33.60 total

I personally think that the best way to visit Benagil Cave from Lagos is by boat tour.

This is by far the easiest and most relaxing way to get there (and you’re on vacation after all!).

This boat tour is super highly rated and includes all your transport to and from the cave, a tour of the cave itself and you’ll get the chance to spot dolphins.

The best part is that it features small group sizes so you’ll get a great view of the cave.

If you’d rather make your own way there then you can do so by either a taxi/uber or a rental car.

There is also an option to travel by train/bus but it’s pretty long so I wouldn’t recommend it (more on that later).

In the rest of this post, I’ll go over each option giving you all the information you need.

Benagil Cave Boat Tour From Lagos

As I said, taking a boat trip from Lagos to Benagil Cave is by far the easiest, most relaxing way to get there.

Joining a tour allows you to completely relax as you don’t have to worry about directions, driving or which bus to take.

There are various different boat tours available that will take you from Lagos to the cave and back.

The key thing to know about these tours is that you’re not allowed to get off the boat .

I spent hours searching for tours that let you get off the boat and swim around the cave but it looks like they don’t exist. 

I think it might be something to do with the boats not being able to park up inside the cave.

If you’d like to explore the cave by putting your feet on the sand or going for a swim in the water then these tours aren’t for you.

Instead you’d want to book onto a tour like this one which takes you from Lagos to Benagil by van.

You’ll then swim, kayak or paddleboard into the cave itself where you can swim around or chill.

• Boat tour to Benagil from Lagos (if you don’t want to get in the water)
• Van + swim, paddleboard or kayak to the cave (if you do want to get in the water)

Best Benagil Boat Tour From Lagos

This boat tour is one of the most highly rated tours from Lagos so I’d highly recommend it.

This tour doesn’t allow you to get off the boat so it’s great if you don’t fancy getting wet and just want to see the cave and enjoy the views.

You’ll cruise up and down the Algarve coastline admiring the sights whilst looking out for dolphins and other marine life.

You’ll also get a tour of the cave itself with a knowledgeable guide and as this tour features small groups, you’ll get an amazing view from the boat.

Some other boat tours try to pack 50+ people into one tiny boat making it difficult to see the cave.

Here’s what one traveler had to say about it:

Boat tours from Lagos to Benagil Cave tend to cost between €40 and €45 per person and they last around 2 hours.

That’s actually a pretty decent price when you consider everything that’s included – round trip transportation, boat tour around the cave and a knowledgeable guide.

Benagil Cave Kayak Tour From Lagos 

As I said, the boat tours don’t allow you to get off the boat and explore the cave for yourself which can be a bit of a deal breaker for some people.

Don’t worry if this is you because there are ways to explore the cave besides the boat tours and these other options will allow you to swim in the cave or lounge around on the sand.

This swim and chill tour is one of the best rated tours that actually allows you to explore the cave for yourself.

It includes round-trip transportation from Lagos by van and the chance to either swim, kayak or paddleboard into the cave to see it for yourself.

You’ll also get a knowledgeable guide that knows everything there is to know about the cave, lunch, drinks and music to make the day even more enjoyable. 

They even provide towels and sunscreen too so you can leave your heavy bags at home.

Swim & Chill Benagil Cave Tour From Lagos

If you’re planning on making your own way to Benagil Cave then you can also join a kayaking tour when you get there.

This kayaking tour is one of the best and it departs from Benagil Beach which is located right next to the cave.

Your expert guide will take you into the cave, giving you the chance to explore it for yourself, rest on the beach or take a dip in the water.

The whole thing lasts around 2 hours which is more than enough time to see the cave. 

I actually went kayaking when I visited the Algarve, so trust me 2 hours is more than enough and you’ll be ready for a rest afterwards.

Prices for these kinds of kayaking tours are usually around €35 per person so it’s not much cheaper than the tours which include transport from Lagos.

Kayaking Tour At Benagil Cave (no transport from Lagos)

By Train & Bus

Ok so it is technically possible to get to Benagil Cave from Lagos by train/bus but I definitely wouldn’t recommend it.

Even though Benagil Cave is just 43 km from Lagos, there’s no direct train or bus. 

The only way to get there is by taking one train and two buses. Another difficulty is that there are very few departures each day so making the timings add up is near impossible.

If you’re some sort of crazy person and want to give it a go for some reason, then I will run through the details but personally I don’t think it’s worth it.

Additionally I used public transport a few times whilst I was in the Algarve and it was pretty awful. I found it to be very slow and unreliable.

As I said, there is no direct train or bus from Lagos to Benagil Cave .

This means that you’ll need to take a train from Lagos to Lagoa then 2 separate buses down to Benagil Cave.

Here’s the exact steps:

• Take the train from Lagos Train Station to Estômbar-Lagoa Railway Station .
• Take the bus from Estômbar-Lagoa Railway Station to Lagoa Central Bus Station .
• Take the bus from Lagoa Central Bus Station to Benagil Cave .

It sounds simple enough but there are only a few departures to choose from for each of these trains/buses each day. I found getting the timings to add up near impossible.

The train from Lagos to Estômbar-Lagoa is pretty easy as you can pre-book your ticket online. It takes around 30 minutes and costs just €3 one-way.

You can book this train ticket on Omio which is where I book all of my Portugal buses and trains as it’s super easy to use and always offers the best prices.

The trains depart from the main train station in Lagos and arrive into the Estômbar-Lagoa Railway Station which is located on the edge of town.

You will then need to take the local EVA bus into the center of town to the Lagoa Central Bus Station (Lagoa Terminal Rodoviário). 

Schedules are available here but the website is pretty confusing to be honest.

Next you need to take another bus from the Lagoa Central Bus Station to Benagil Cave.

EVA does run a regular bus however it only has two departures each day. One at 9:45 AM and one at 2:45 PM. The bus takes 27 minutes to get to Benagil. 

You can check the schedule for the EVA bus here .

As I said, their website is really confusing and difficult to use. It took me around half an hour to figure it out plus it’s in Portuguese which makes it harder.  

To be honest I just don’t think this option is even worth trying as it will take forever and there’s little information online about the buses.

But hey, if you decide to brave it and make it work then please let me know how!!!

By Taxi/Uber

Taking a taxi or Uber is one of the fastest ways to get to Benagil Cave from Lagos as it takes just 40 minutes.

I personally prefer to use ride-sharing apps like Uber or Bolt over traditional taxis as they’re more convenient and offer better prices. 

You definitely won’t have to haggle with a driver who tried to charge you 3 times the normal rate.

I’ve traveled extensively across Portugal and generally find that Bolt is the best one.

I checked the app to get a price for this journey and it quoted me €43.85 one-way.

After checking with a regular taxi, they quoted me €67 so Bolt will give you a decent saving of around €23 each way.

Bear in mind that these prices are for a one-way journey. For a round-trip, you’ll be looking at double the cost.

Considering this, it’s actually much cheaper to book onto a boat tour that includes transport to and from Lagos as these cost around €40 each.

By Rental Car

Taxis are pretty expensive and it’s actually cheaper to hire a rental car and drive there yourself.

Going by car is the fastest way to get there as it takes just 40 minutes each way. 

Driving there yourself also gives you the extra convenience of choosing your exact departure times and being able to stop along the way if you need to.

The best place to hire a car in Portugal is on rentalcars.com as it’s super easy to use and they offer the best prices.

Hiring a car in Lagos is actually really cheap . Prices do vary a bit depending on how long you rent the car for, the driver’s age and if you want to pick-up and drop-off the car in the same location.

Assuming you just want the car for one day and you’ll be picking it up and dropping it off in Lagos, then a rental car will cost just €28 for the day.

Of course, you also need to factor in the cost of gas. For a round-trip journey, this will cost approximately €5.60 .

For this estimation, I used the Citroen C1 car as an example and used this fuel cost calculator .

This brings the total cost up to around €33.60 which isn’t bad at all especially if you’re in a group as this cost will be shared.

Can You Swim Inside Benagil Cave?

Yes, it is possible to swim to Benagil Cave however I wouldn’t really recommend doing it on your own as the seas can be rough.

Swimming there by yourself could be dangerous so if you really want to do it then go with an experienced guide.

This swim & chill tour is ideal as you can choose to either swim, kayak or paddleboard to the cave and you’ll go with an expert guide that knows the area well so you’ll be super safe.

Not many people know this but you can actually only enter Benagil Cave by sea. It’s not possible to get inside by foot.

You can drive to the cave and see it from above but you will only be able to see through the roof of the cave.

It isn’t possible to get inside the cave by land. This means that if you want to go inside, you’ll have to join a swimming/kayaking tour or a boat tour.

Luckily there are plenty of Benagil cave tours from Lagos.

And that’s it!

Thanks for reading this post on how to get to Benagil Cave from Lagos, Portugal.

If you’re planning a trip to Lagos then you might also find my post on the best places to stay in Lagos useful as it covers all the different areas of Lagos and the best hotels.

Related Posts:

Megan Jones is a travel expert and founder of Traveller's Elixir who has been travelling the world full time since 2021. Megan's travel tips been featured in numerous media outlets including Metro, Timeout, Thrillist and more.

2.5 Hour Sunrise/ Sunset Benagil Caves Kayaking Tour

From: € 55

Get the best pictures inside the Benagil Cave without too many people that fill up the cave every day!

About this activity

Sunrise/ Sunset in Benagil Caves

• Duration: 2.5 Hour
• FREE cancellation with full refund up to 72 hours before the start of the activity
• Get inside and step on the sand of Banagil cave for around 30 min
• Mobile ticket
• Live tour guide: English, Spanish, Portuguese

Select available date:

Adult 55€/person::

Child 50€/person:: (4-6 y.o.)

**Choose your departure time**

Adult 55€/person:: € 55

Child 50€/person:: € 0

Optional activities: € 0

Subtotal: € 0

Alone in Benagil Caves!

• Get the best pictures inside the Benagil Cave without too many boats and lots of tourists
• Enjoy the sunrise or sunset inside of Benagil Cave
• This tour is the only way and the best way to land inside of Benagil cave in Portugal
• Professional guide and safety briefing are included

Know Before You Go

• Please arrive at the meeting point 30 min before . If not, the guide will not wait for you and there will be no refund or reschedule
• We will refund you 100%, if the tour is cancelled due to bad weather
• More availability, please check HERE
• Bring sunscreen and water
• Bring your camera to take beautiful pictures
• We recommend to book in advance in order to avoid fully booked, especially in peak season
• Detailed operator information, including local phone number and address, are included on your confirmation email

Full Description

Get the best pictures inside the Benagil Cave without all the boats and the hundreds of tourists that fill up the cave every day!

We meet at the Praia de Benagil , where we take our kayaks and go inside the Benagil Cave , where the only access is by water. We spend around 30 min . inside the cave, where you can walk around, take pictures or swim inside the cave.

Afterward, we can see some more caves depending on the sea conditions.

Meeting Point

Kayak Algarve - Secret Algarve, Lagoa, Portugal

19 reviews for 2.5 Hour Sunrise/ Sunset Benagil Caves Kayaking Tour

See what other people say

It was indeed very quiet with almost no one inside of the cave.

WE took some amazing pictures, thanks

Awesome trip, nice guides.

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€ 55 /person

Free Cancellation

Nearby Activities

from € 35

2 hour Benagil Caves & Marinha Beach Boat Tour from Portimão

from € 40

2 hour Boat Tour to Benagil from Lagos Small Group

2.5 Hour Benagil Caves And Dolphin Watching From Albufeira

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8 Best Benagil Cave Tours: From Lagos, Portimao, Albufeira (2024)

If you’re ready to book a Benagil cave tour, you’ve come to the right place because I hand-picked the best Benagil Cave tours for every type of traveler! 

A visit to Benagil cave is one of the most popular activities in the Algarve, with so many tours available – but they aren’t all created equal!

Since Benagil caves are not easily accessible by public transport , you will either need a car to reach the Benagil beach or join a tour that includes transportation if you are visiting the Algarve without a car. 

You can explore Benagil Caves throughout the year, as many tours operate both in the winter and summer, departing from every major city along the stunning Algarve coast.

Ready to discover the best Benagil Cave tours? Let’s get started!

Disclaimer: This post may contain affiliate links, which means I may receive a commission, at no extra cost to you, if you make a purchase through a link. I hope you find the information here helpful!

TOP PICKS: Benagil Caves Tours

Don’t have time to read the whole article? Here are the best Benagil Caves Tours:

✔️  Many time slots to choose from ✔️  2 hours

Best Benagil Cave Kayak Tour

If your accommodation in the Algarve is close to Benagil, or you don’t mind getting to Benagil on your own, you can join one of the Benagil Cave Kayak tours starting from Benagil Beach.

Kayaking Benagil Caves is the best way to explore these unique landscapes.

UPDATE: Since September 2023, kayaks are no longer allowed to disembark in the cave!

1. Kayaking in Secret Algarve Benagil Caves (Best-rated Benagil Cave Kayak Tour)

⭐ RATING : 5/5 | 🕒 TOUR LENGTH : 2 hours | 🚌 TRANSPORT : No  BOOK NOW

Kayaking in Secret Algarve Benagil Caves is an unforgettable experience that will be one of the highlights of your Algarve trip! Kayaking Benagil Caves is the most eco-friendly way to explore this stunning landscape and get some exercise.

Why choose this tour?

• one of the highest-rated Benagil Caves tours,
• budget-friendly, with many departures throughout the day,
• awarded a Badge of excellence for constantly receiving top reviews. 

It is a budget-friendly way to discover the caves and the perfect activity if you’re backpacking Europe in the summer !

Tours run multiple times a day . You can pick the time that suits you the best: from 8:30 am to 2:30 pm. 

Groups are small , so you receive personalized attention from the tour guides – guests highlight how they’re super friendly!

The tour provides all the necessary kayaking equipment – including vests and waterproof cylinders so you can safely take your phone with you!

This is the best-rated Benagil Cave Kayaking tour, and it tends to sell out quickly, so book on time!

Check Prices and Availability Here!

Best Benagil Cave Boat tour

2. superb private cave tour.

⭐ RATING: 5/5 | 🕒 TOUR LENGTH: 1.5 hours | 🚌 TRANSPORT: No  BOOK NOW

The Superb private cave tour is the perfect way to discover Benagil caves for smaller groups of friends or family. 

As it is a private tour, it is just for you and your group, and when divided between the parties, it is as affordable as paying for individual spots on some other tours!

Why choose this tour?  

• This private boat tour of Benagil Caves is for you if you are a group of up to 10 people and want a private experience for an affordable price.

A private tour for up to 10 people ensures you and your group will have a great time with your amusing and highly knowledgeable guide . 

Unlike other group boat tours, it is possible to swim on this tour ! Depending on the weather conditions, there is time allocated for swimming during the tour.

This is the best-rated affordable private Benagil Caves boat tour , and it tends to sell out quickly, so book on time!

Best Benagil Cave SUP Tour

2. Benagil Cave SUP Tour

⭐ RATING: 5/5 | 🕒 TOUR LENGTH: 2  hours | 🚌 TRANSPORT: Possible  BOOK NOW

This Benagil Cave SUP Tou r is a fun and unique way to discover Benagil Caves on a small group paddle board tour. 

Why choose this tour? This intimate small-group Stand-Up Paddle tour is awarded a Badge of excellence for consistently receiving 5-star ratings. 

You will discover multiple caves and hidden coves accessible only from the sea while trying out a new activity.

Small groups are perfect for getting acquainted with SUP if you’ve never tried it before.

Multiple daily departures, so you can join the tour that suits your itinerary the best.

Go Pro photos and videos of your SUP experience are included in the tour! That way, you don’t have to worry about getting a waterproof bag for your phone, and you can just focus on the experience.

You can book a pick-up from Carvoeiro for a small fee, perfect for travellers backpacking Algarve without a car!

4. Boat Tour to Benagil Caves from Armacao de Pera

⭐ RATING: 5/5 | 🕒 TOUR LENGTH: 1 hour | 🚌 TRANSPORT: No BOOK NOW

If you’re looking for the best speed boat tour to join to discover Benagil Caves, look no further than this Boat Tour to Benagil Caves from Armacao de Pera .

• You want to see the Benagil caves but don’t have lots of free time in your itinerary.
• You’re looking for an affordable boat tour with flexible departure times.

This tour is designed for a small group , so you get to learn a lot about the rock formations and caves from your guide.

Multiple departure times are available, so you can easily fit it into a busy itinerary. 

Unfortunately, you can’t swim on this tour . 

Boat tours generally don’t include swimming, so something to keep in mind if you visit in the summer. 

Best Benagil Cave Tour From Lagos

5. 2-Hour Boat Trip to Benagil Caves From Lagos

⭐ RATING: 4.6/5 | 🕒 TOUR LENGTH: 2 hours | 🚌 TRANSPORT: Yes  BOOK NOW

If you are staying in Lagos and looking for a fun activity to add to your Lagos itinerary , this 2-Hour Boat trip to Benagil Caves from Lagos is ideal.

 Why choose this tour?

• You don’t have a car or a lot of time to organize a trip to Benagil caves yourself.
• The tour departs from the city center of Lagos and takes you on a tour of the Benagil coast and back.

If you don’t have lots of time to spare, joining a boat tour to Benagil Caves is the fastest way to cover all the must-see spots .

One of the advantages of this tour is small groups , the speed boat does not accommodate a lot of people.

The guides are informative, and you can learn more about the history of this intriguing area, as you discover old pirate hideouts in the remote caves. 

Lagos itself is a great sport for kayaking, and if you’re staying there you should look into joining a kayak tour in Lagos as well!

Best Benagil Cave Tour From Faro

6. Tour to the Benagil Cave from Faro or Tavira

⭐ RATING: 5/5 | 🕒 TOUR LENGTH: 6.5 hours | 🚌 TRANSPORT: Yes BOOK NOW

This full-day Tour to the Benagil Cave from Faro or Tavira is one of a kind, with a full day of activities planned!

• This tour is awarded a badge of excellence for consistently receiving 5-star reviews.
• It is perfect if you’re staying on the east coast of the Algarve and want to combine swimming, hiking, and sightseeing in one tour.

The tour starts with a pickup in front of Faro train station or Tavira city hall and ends back at the meeting point.

This tour includes three main activities : Benagil Cave, Praia da Marinha, and the 7 Hanging Valleys trek. 

The Tour company provides a bodyboard, as you will be bodyboarding from Benagil beach to Benagil Cave . 

They also provide snorkel gear and wet suites , so you can discover the underwater world as well!

Next, you will spend time at one of the best beaches of the Algarve – Praia da Marinha and you don’t have to worry about the sun as they supply you with sun umbrellas.

Best Benagil Cave Tour From Albufeira

7. Albufeira Dreamer Boat Trip

⭐ RATING: 4.5/5 | 🕒 TOUR LENGTH: 2.5 hours | 🚌 TRANSPORT: Yes  BOOK NOW

The Albufeira Dreamer Boat Trip is perfect if you are staying in Albufeira and want to combine Benagil Caves and a dolphin-watching tour!

An excursion to Benagil caves and a dolphin-watching tour are the most popular day trips from Albufeira , and this tour combines both of them in one trip.

• You don’t have a car and want to see the best the Algarve has to offer – stunning coastline and lively marine life. 

This tour starts from Albufeira Marina and takes you along the coastline to Carvoeiro.

You will see Benagil Cave, Praia da Marinha , and many other hidden coves and caves along the way. Possible swim break – depending on the weather!

Your tour guide is a marine biologist , so you will learn everything you need to know about the wildlife of the region.

If you are lucky, you will see the dolphins ! However, they are wild animals, and seeing them can’t be guaranteed. 

Also, many kayaking tours in Albufeira go to Benagil cave if you prefer a more active day trip!

Best Benagil Cave Tour From Portimão

8. boat tour benagil caves from portimão marina.

⭐ RATING: 5/5 | 🕒 TOUR LENGTH: 2 hours | 🚌 TRANSPORT: Yes  BOOK NOW

Portimao or Albufeira are the two largest cities close to the Benagil Cave, so they are a good place to stay if you don’t have a car.

If you are staying in Portimão, this 2-hour Benagil Cave tour is the best-rated tour starting from Portimão Marina.

• You’re staying in Portimao and want to explore Benagil Cave with a swimming stop at Praia da Marinha.

Small boat for a more personal approach from the staff, and a possibility to see dolphins along the way!

The tour is led by knowledgeable guides who want you to learn and have as much fun as possible on this trip. 

Best Benagil Caves Tour: FAQ

Benagil Caves are one of the most iconic landscapes in Portugal and one of the most famous sea caves in the world. For the best experience, consider a kayak or a SUP tour, as boats usually don’t allow you to step inside the cave.

You can easily drive to Benagil Caves if you get a rental car. The distance from Lagos to Benagil is about 40km, and Albufeira to Benagil is about 30km. Once you reach the parking lot of Benagil Beach, the cave is just a short walk away and there will be signs pointing you towards it. You can observe the cave from above, or head down to the beach to rent a kayak or SUP to get inside the cave.

You can only access Benagil caves from the sea. You can admire it from the above trail, but to enter the cave, you’ll need to get to the sea.  A popular way to visit is by kayak, SUP, boat tour, or swimming!

No, there isn’t an entrance fee to access Benagil caves. Benagil caves are free to enter, but they are only accessible by sea. Since September 2023, kayak tours are no longer allowed inside the cave.

Yes. You can swim to the Benagil caves from Benagil beach if you don’t want to join a tour. The distance is about 150m, and it takes about 5-10 minutes to swim. However, it will largely depend on the weather conditions. A traffic light on the beach indicates if swimming is allowed or not. I did not personally try swimming this route! Either way, I do not recommend swimming to Benagil Caves if you’re not a good swimmer.

No, you can only access the beach inside the Benagil cave from the sea. However, you can walk to the top opening of the cave and admire it from above. The famous ceiling hole is just a short walk from the parking lot. 

What to wear on the Benagil cave tour depends on what type of tour you take. If you’re kayaking Benagil caves, wear a swimsuit and clothes you don’t mind getting wet. Remember to put on sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses to protect yourself from the sun.  If you take a Benagil cave speedboat tour, bring a hoodie or a light windbreaker, as it can get cold in the wind.

Most tours don’t provide meals, so it is up to you to organize your lunch and snacks. There are currently no fully vegan restaurants around Benagil, but check the available options on the Happy Cow app , as new restaurants open every season!

Final thoughts: Best Benagil Caves Tours 

When planning your Algarve holidays, you’ll want to include a Benagil Cave Tour in your itinerary!

The Algarve is just about 155km long, so you can easily visit even if you stay in Lagos or Faro .

The Algarve coast is rich in stunning rock formations, hidden coves, and caves that can only be accessed by sea.

If you’re still working on your Portugal itinerary, read should you visit Lagos or Albufeira next!

Kayaking in Secret Algarve Benagil Caves is my top pick for a Benagil kayak tour!

Natali is the founder of She's Abroad Again. She is a solo female travel and backpacking expert who traveled to more than 30 country over 3 continents, mostly solo and on a budget! She is a lawyer turned travel blogger as she traded long office hours in Croatia for a digital nomad life and currenly calls France her home.

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Benagil Cliff Walk A Must Do in the Algarve

Introduction.

Part of the the Seven Hanging Valleys Trail , the Benagil Cliff Walk is your best chance of seeing some of the Algarve’s most stunning scenery at a leisurely pace.

Like the Benagil Cave sealed inside its own world; a breathtaking perspective from the marked trail.

Join us for a sneak peek of what to expect on your Benagil Cliff Walk without breaking a sweat.

Where and What is the Benagil Cliff Walk?

It’s an eastern section of the longer Seven Hanging Valleys Trail , otherwise known as “Sete Vales Suspenso” in Portuguese.

It’s one of the Algarve’s more popular areas for its notable coastal landmarks.

In less than one hour, you’ll march above a hollow landscape carved by fresh water and saltwater forces, with some paths zigzagging down to the beautiful beaches.

How Long is it Compared to the Seven Hanging Valleys Trail

It’s one section of the linear hike that is the Seven Hanging Valleys Trail.

Whilst it takes three hours to complete, the Cliff Walk is only 40 minutes long .

It’s the perfect compromise for people who want to take a million photos without fretting about the time.

See the Algarve Coastline's Best Sites on the Trail

On your expedition, there are five gorgeous sites that might slow you down.

1. Algar Seco

A Swiss-cheesed landscape carved by natural forces, Algar Seco is made up of a labyrinth of walkways overlooking the Atlantic.

Its most famous feature is Boneca’s Cave, a tiny tunnel leading up to a keyhole-like window.

Only those who’ve visited know its stunning view, and some have even glimpsed dolphins and whales!

It’s from here where many tourists start their shortened coastal walk.

2. Benagil Beach

The closest sandy beach to the sea cave, Benagil’s connection with the ocean began in a time when the only boats you’d see belonged to fisherfolk and their nets .

Once discovered, it became a honeypot for tour boats taking tourists to visit the famous Benagil Cave, and then boards and kayaks joined too.

Nowadays, both are banned from entering the cave .

3. Benagil Cave

Only seen from the path, the Benagil Cave is a phenomenon resulting from years of endless coastal erosion .

Though you can’t enter the sea cave, you can appreciate its aquamarine beauty from a safe distance above.

4. Praia da Corredoura

Praia da Corredoura is an exclusive beach accessible only by sea transport.

For this reason, it’s the perfect beach on which to escape the summer crowds.

In autumn, you’ll have a paradise to yourself.

5. Marinha Beach

Voted one of 100 most beautiful beaches in the world because of its jewel seas and striped rock formations, Marinha Beach is the crowning glory on a trail with so much to see.

The so-called “M Rock” draws crowds seeking its secret symbolism : will you see a letter, an elephant or a heart?

Whilst it’s impossible to ignore a swim as blue-green as the tropics.

Are You Looking For A Tour To Benagil?

In Comparison with Other Algarve Locations

You can get to the Benagil Cliff Walk from multiple locations in the Algarve. Let’s look at your two best options.

A popular holiday destination for holidaymakers in the Algarve, Lagos is a 40-minute drive away from the Benagil Cliff Walk .

Travel By Bus

For those who want to save on the cab fare, you can take the 56 or 57 bus from Lagos to Lagoa and from there, hop on a 107 to Carvoeiro (Amoreiras).

From here, the trail is less than ten minutes by walking.

You can also check out our Lagos to Benagil Cave travel planner here .

Travel By Uber

You’ll pay between 20-26 euros one-way with an Uber ride.

Though it’s easy to pick up an uber from Lagos, you might be waiting for much longer on your return journey back to town after walking the Seven Hanging Valleys Trail.

It gives your day trip a stressful edge, with less time to enjoy the trail.

Travel By Foot

Start treading the trail from Carvoeiro Beach along its boardwalk, and you’ll reach the Benagil area.

It’s an extra 25-minute walk prior to starting your Benagil Cliff Walk.

But if you’re a keen hiker, exploring the beautiful coastline shouldn’t be a problem.

If you don’t want to overdo your exercise, you can still enjoy some of the Seven Hanging Valleys by choosing a quicker route from the popular holiday destination, Faro.

In an Uber taxi from Faro, you’re looking at a single journey that costs between 45-90 euros depending on the size of your group doing the Seven Hanging Valleys hike.

With public transport combinations taking you anywhere between 2-3 hours to reach the Hanging Valley, we recommend skipping this option altogether in favour of a tour from Faro.

Travel By Tour

The ease of leaving from Faro is Algarve Beauties’ speciality, offering a specific Coast Adventure that covers the best parts of the Benagil Cliff Walk.

So instead of feeling cheated by the bill, you’ll pay an affordable price of 51 euros for two journeys and a guided tour with spectacular views. Such as discovering Boneca’s Cave, admiring the Benagil Cave from above, and plunging into the sea at Marinha Beach.

Benagil Cliff Walk From Faro

Can you visit the Benagil Cave?

In past times, you could swim inside the Benagil Cave but since September, it’s forbidden to enter inside on a kayak or board of any kind.

A New Kind of Benagil Cave Experience

Now you can only take a boat tour to the Benagil Cave from popular locations, such as Lagos , Carvoeiro , and the Benagil Beach , where you must stay onboard at all times.

Weather conditions affect whether boats can sail, or not.

Or, you can visit the cave freely by enjoying the untouched cave beach from the Benagil Cliff Walk.

This change of rules is to safeguard visitors from potential accidents.

You can read more about the Benagil Cave closure in our latest blog.

What You Can Actually See When on the Benagil Cliff Walk

Get ready for loads of stunning scenery that is typical of Portugal’s Mediterranean climate.

Besides blonde beaches round every corner, you’ll spy everything that comes with the landscape .

Like the colourful, traditional fishing boats just waiting to be papped, and the glowing Miocene rock formations, like scattered arches, hidden caves and limestone islets, pointing to a long-lost coastline.

While the trail – a mecca for bird watchers – sees swooping swallows, birds of prey, drifting seagulls, and the red-eyed Sardinian warbler.

Come Prepared for a Coastal Walk

Get the most out of your hike by bringing the right gear.

Comfortable walking shoes, such as hiking boots or trainers, are essential for enjoying the coastal cliff and its gems – leave your flip flops at home!

Beat the fierce Mediterranean sun with sunscreen and a hat. While a swimsuit and a towel are must-haves for the Algarve coast. And of course, pack snacks or cash for refreshments so you don’t starve.

As with everything, surrender to your sense of adventure for the best experience.

Conclusion On The Benagil Cliff Walk - A Must Do in the Algarve

With loads to squeeze into one day, an Algarve Beauties tour from Faro is the tried and trusted option for an epic Benagil Cliff Walk.

Whether you prefer to go with a group of friends, a group of strangers, or want to tailor your own tour, we’ve got you covered. Ready for an adventure like no other?

Disclaimer : This article contains affiliate links from GetYourGuide. When you click on an affiliate link and make a purchase, we receive a small commission at no extra cost to you. This helps us support the blog area of our website and to continue providing you with free content.

At Algarve Beauties we only recommend products and services that we believe in and that we think you will find helpful. 

If you have any questions about the affiliate links in this article, please feel free to contact us . We are always happy to answer your questions.

• October 16, 2023

THE 10 BEST Benagil Tours & Excursions

Benagil tours.

• Sightseeing Tours
• Walking Tours
• Ports of Call Tours
• Private Tours
• Cultural Tours
• Photography Tours
• Wine Tours & Tastings
• Historical & Heritage Tours
• Shopping Tours
• Multi-day Tours
• Self-Guided Tours & Rentals
• Hop-On Hop-Off Tours
• Skip-the-Line Tours
• Up to 1 hour
• 1 to 4 hours
• 4 hours to 1 day
• 5.0 of 5 bubbles
• 4.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• 3.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• 2.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• Likely to Sell Out
• Special Offers
• The ranking of tours, activities, and experiences available on Tripadvisor is determined by several factors including the revenue generated by Tripadvisor from these bookings, the frequency of user clicks, and the volume and quality of customer reviews. Occasionally, newly listed offerings may be prioritized and appear higher in the list. The specific placement of these new listings may vary.

1. Kayak Benagil Cave Access Open Again (small group)

2. Benagil Cave Guided Kayaking Tour Caves & Secret Spots

3. Benagil Cave Marinha Carvoeiro From Faro Full day Tour

4. Dolphins and Caves Albufeira Marina Tour

5. Caves and Coastline Cruise from Albufeira to Benagil

6. Lagos - Benagil Sea Cave Tour Seafaris

7. Benagil Caves Tour from Portimao

8. 2-Hour Kayak through the Sea Caves of Benagil

9. Portimão:Embark on Nature•Benagil and Dolphins•Biologist on board

10. Kayak Tour with local guide in Benagil

11. Boat trip to the caves of Benagil

12. BENAGIL CAVE Kayak Tour from Carvalho beach SMALL Group 4KPHOTOS

13. Benagil Cave Tour From Faro - Discover The Algarve Coast

14. First Inside Benagil Cave - Sunrise or Sunset

15. Portimão to Benagil: Adrenaline Wave - 90Mins Cave Tour

16. Private Benagil Caves Tour - the BEST way to visit the caves!!

17. Albufeira Dreamer Boat Trip

18. Discover Sagres & Lagos & Portimao ( Full Day Private Van Tour )

19. Caves and Dolphin Watching Cruise from Albufeira

20. Algarve Landscapes & Winery

21. Albufeira Beach BBQ with Caves and Coastline Cruise

22. Boat Trip Through the 15 Caves of Benagil

23. Boat tour to the Benagil Caves from Armação de Pêra

24. Algar de Benagil from Lagos

25. Benagil Kayak Tour On Board a Fantastic Catamaran

26. Benagil And Dolphins Tour

27. Albufeira: Adventure Benagil Cave Tour, Algar Seco & More

28. Dolphins and Caves Albufeira Marina Private Tour.

29. Private Tour - Benagil & Marinha Beach (Max 8PAX)

30. Half Day Sailing Cruise by Catamaran to Benagil and Carvoeiro

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BENAGIL CAVE TOURS IN THE ALGARVE

2.5 hour cruise along the Algarve coastline from Vilamoura Marina to Carvoeiro Praia Da Marinha

Leaving Vilamoura and heading westwards, always staying close along the beautiful coastline whilst travelling between Vilamoura Marina and the famous Benagil Caves Tours, also known as ”Algar de Benagil”, a must do is to visit the Benagil Sea Cave Tour whilst in the Algarve. During this cruise on Benagil Cave Boat Tour in Algarve, you will discover the mysterious Algarve sea caves and enjoy the majestic rock formations. The scenic coastline is recognized worldwide for its uniqueness and often on our visit to see the Benagil Cave we encounter Dolphins in the wild, making this an unforgettable experience.

♦ Check-in 15 min before departure

Go to the check-in desk at our office and present your e-ticket to the assistant.

Follow the instructions given at check-in and present your boarding pass to the Majestic Adventure crew.

♦ Sail along the Algarve coast

Enjoy the scenery and relax onboard the new Majestic Adventure. You will be sure not to miss any of the amazing sights, such as the famous Nossa Senhora da Rocha chapel, Captains cave, Submarine rock, Arco do triunfo and many more.

♦ Praia da Marinha

Known as one of the most beautiful beaches in the world, its cliffs are breathtaking it is by far the nicest beach in Portugal, Algarve. 

♦ Visit to the Benagil Caves

This natural wonder features an iconic light-filled dome that encloses an intimate beach within its layered walls. A wide open hole at the top of the expansive sea cave reveals the bright blue sky from above and a sandy beach below.

♦ Swimming Stop

Depending on the maritime conditions and if favorable weather conditions are met there is opportunity to swim.

♦ Return to Vilamoura Marina

The return trip allows you to sit back, relax and enjoy the best scenery in the Algarve.

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Tour Highlights

More Information On Benagil Cave Tours

Explore our majestic benagil cave tour in portugal.

We invite you and your friends and family to come along and visit the famous Caves at Marinha beach in Portugal it is one of the best and absolute must-see holiday attractions for any travelers looking to explore the hot spots of Europe. It is located in the Algarve region near Carvoeiro, and this stunning geological rock formation has been carved by millions of years of ocean waves, the Benagil cave is filled with majestic rock formations and crystal clear waters.

The only way and the best way to access Tthe Benagil Cave is by boat

Algarve Cave Tours invite you on an unmissable opportunity to experience this awe-inspiring destination up close. Our experienced guide and crew will guide you through incredible sea caves, sharing valuable information about its history and geology, as well as providing interesting facts throughout your boat trip.

On our Majestic Benagil Cave Tour, you can expect a boat trip unlike any other, we will show you unique sights that can not be seen from land. Get ready to have your breath taken away as your boat makes it way inside the cave, experience the beautiful sunlight that illuminates its walls and allows you to see the picturesque rock formations. If you’re feeling brave enough, take a plunge into the rather cold water of the Atlantic Ocean!

For those who want to capture some photos of the secret beaches during their trip to Benagil Cave, there are countless opportunities to snap away at this incredible natural wonder and spectacular caves– it’s no wonder why it’s one of the most popular tourist destinations in Portugal today!

Algarve Cave Tours strives to provide an unforgettable boat experience when visiting Benagil Cave.

We guarantee an enjoyable tour with knowledgeable staff who will accompany you every step of the way on your voyage into this mysterious sea cave. Don’t miss out on exploring one of Portugal’s greatest natural wonders at Armação de Pêra.

Praia de Benagil shows such natural beauty – absolute holiday must to visit the Benagil beach and the surrounding beautiful beaches.

Book your Majestic Benagil Cave Tour with us today!

Join us and experience the beauty of Portugal with a visit to the famous Benagil Cave. Book a tour with us today and you can and discover the hidden treasures of the Algarve coast.

The Benagil Cave is located in the Algarve region of Portugal, and it is by far one of the most popular tourist destinations in the country. This unique and breathtaking cave is an absolute must see for anyone traveling to Portugal. Let me tell you a little more about the Benagil Caves and what makes it so special and what you can expect to see on your visit.

Benagil Sea Cave Boat Trip – An Amazing Cave

The Benagil Cave is a natural sea cave that has been carved out over millions of years by the constant action of the waves. The cave has a large, open hole in the top that allows natural light to flood in, lighting up the stunning interior. This is what has made the beautiful Cave one of the most popular photo locations in the Algarve, Portugal and it’s not hard to see why.

What Makes Our Benagil Cave Tour So Unique?

The Benagil Cave Tour is a must-do for anyone visiting the Algarve. The unique geology of the cave, combined with the crystal-clear waters of the Atlantic Ocean, make for a truly awe-inspiring boat experience its estimated this is a 20 million year old cave 

Let us at Algarve Cave Tours take you on a Majestic guided tour to see stunning sea caves

Your Benagil Cave Tour will be led by our experienced skipper and crew who are also expert guides, they will provide you with information about the history and geology of the cave, as well as sharing some interesting facts and stories about Carvalho beach and all the coastal caves and make this an awesome experience.

• The boat tour: The only way to access the Benagil Cave is by boat, and we will take you on a boat ride through the crystal-clear waters of the Atlantic Ocean inside the benagil cave.
• Stop for a swim in the crystal-clear waters: If you are feeling brave, and the sea conditions permit you can take a refreshing swim in the crystal-clear waters.
• A chance to take stunning photos: The natural light that floods into the Benagil Cave makes it one of the most photogenic locations in the Algarve Portugal, so don’t forget your camera!