🏖️ Benagil Caves — Algarve, Portugal
The Benagil Caves (Portuguese Gruta de Benagil) are one of the Algarve’s most iconic natural attractions — a series of dramatic sea caves carved into golden cliffs along the southern coast of Portugal near the tiny fishing village of Benagil, in the Lagoa municipality.
🌊 What Makes Benagil Special
🪨 Stunning Sea Cave: The most famous feature is the large dome with a circular skylight (“Eye of Benagil”) that lets natural light pour onto the sandy floor, creating magical photo opportunities.
📍 Location: Near Benagil Beach – about a 10-minute drive from Carvoeiro, 15 minutes from Lagoa, and roughly 40 minutes from Faro Airport.
🌅 Algarve Coastline: The cave is part of an extensive coastline full of sea arches, grottoes, and hidden beaches.
🚤 How to Visit
Because the cave is only accessible from the water, you’ll want to plan how you’ll get there:
1. Guided Boat Tours (Most Popular)
Boat excursions depart from Benagil, Carvoeiro, Albufeira, Portimão, and other Algarve towns.
Tours typically last 1–2 hours and often include views of other sea caves along the coast.
Note: You can’t land inside the cave or step onto the sand from the boats — new regulations prohibit disembarking there.
2. Guided Kayak or SUP Tours
For a more active adventure, book a guided kayak or stand-up paddleboard (SUP) tour — these let you paddle right up to the cave entrance.
Independant kayak or SUP rentals without guides were removed under new rules, so tours are required now.
⚠️ Important: Swimming to the cave or using private kayaks/SUPs without a licensed guide is prohibited and can result in heavy fines.
🗓️ Best Time to Visit
📅 Best Months: Spring (May–June) and early autumn (September–October) offer pleasant weather and fewer crowds.
🕗 Best Time of Day: Early morning (around 8–10 am) tends to have calmer seas, better light through the skylight, and fewer visitors.
📍 How to Get There
🚗 By Car: Driving is easiest — park near Benagil beach and head to tour departure points.
🚶 Walk: Along the coast, scenic cliff paths like the Seven Hanging Valleys Trail offer dramatic views above the cave if you prefer to admire it from land.
🚫 No Foot Access: You cannot walk into the cave itself from land — sea access only.
🧡 Tips Before You Go
📌 Book Tours in Advance: Especially in summer, boat and kayak tours sell out quickly.
🧢 Bring Sun Protection: Sunscreen, hat, and water are essential on sunny days.
🌊 Check Weather & Sea Conditions: Tours can be canceled if the sea is rough.
📸 Photography: The cave’s lighting changes through the day, so mornings often give the best photos.
🌟 Why Visit
Benagil isn’t just a picturesque cave — it’s a once-in-a-lifetime coastal adventure, combining dramatic geology, turquoise Atlantic waters, and the thrill of exploring nature by boat or kayak.