The Benagil Cave, also known as Algar de Benagil, is located along the Algarve coast and is one of the region’s most impressive and sought-after attractions. This natural rock formation, with its open dome and hidden beach inside, draws tourists from all over the world, making it a must-visit destination for anyone traveling to the Algarve. The combination of natural beauty and accessibility makes the cave one of the top attractions on Portugal’s southern coast, alongside Ponta da Piedade.
How to get into Benagil Cave
The Benagil Cave is situated in the small village of Benagil, in the municipality of Lagoa, about a 30-minute drive from Portimão and 45 minutes from Albufeira. Benagil is in the central Algarve, a region famous for its dramatic cliffs, golden beaches, and turquoise waters. The cave is only accessible by sea, adding an adventurous touch to the visit.
Formation and Geology
The Benagil Cave, also known as Algar de Benagil, was formed over thousands of years by the erosive power of wind and sea. Made of limestone, typical of the Algarve coastline, the cave has a natural dome with an opening at the top, allowing sunlight to flood the interior and create a magical contrast between the golden stone and the blue sea.
Inside the cave is a small beach with fine sand, making it even more unique. The top opening, known as the “eye,” creates a spectacular effect as sunlight shines through, illuminating the cave floor and the surrounding sea.
How to Visit Benagil Cave
The Benagil Cave is accessible only by sea, and its entrance is about 100 meters from the left side of Benagil Beach.
Boats departing from Benagil Beach offer quick access to the cave due to its proximity. However, many local companies offer boat tours from various points and marinas across the Algarve. The town of Carvoeiro, for instance, just 6 km from the cave, is another popular departure point. Tours also leave from Albufeira and Portimão.
These tours often include additional points of interest along the coast, featuring other caves and rock formations, with Benagil Cave being the highlight.
Most boat tours do not enter the cave completely, and visitors usually cannot disembark onto the beach inside. However, you can enjoy close-up views and capture amazing photos of the illuminated entrance and interior.
Kayaking and Stand-Up Paddleboarding
For a more active and personal experience, renting a kayak or a stand-up paddleboard is a fantastic option. These methods allow you to get closer to the cave, and in some cases, enter to explore the inner beach. However, in the near future, beach landings will likely be prohibited, and helmets will be required.
Keep in mind that kayak rentals are highly popular during peak season. In the next section, we’ll cover the best time to visit the cave.
Best Time to Visit Benagil Cave
The Benagil Cave can be visited year-round, but summer (June to September) is the most popular time, when warm weather and calm waters make the experience more enjoyable. However, due to the growing popularity, July and August can be quite busy, with many boats and kayaks around the cave. For a quieter experience, consider visiting in May, June, or September.
In winter, the milder Algarve climate still allows for visits to the cave, although sea conditions may be less predictable, and boat tours are less frequent. The water may be cooler, but the calmness of the season offers a more peaceful experience.
See also: Top 10 Best Beaches in Algarve
Is Benagil Cave Closed? What you need to know about environmental protection
The Benagil Cave is a natural gem that requires protection. Increased tourism has brought environmental challenges to the area, including the need to safeguard the cave from potential damage and to minimize the environmental impact of large numbers of visitors.
Starting in 2025, it’s likely that landing inside the cave will be prohibited. This recommendation is part of a report coordinated by the Algarve Regional Coordination and Development Commission (CCDR/Algarve), available on the Participa platform.
About CAP International
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