Benagil Cave

Where it is & how to get there

• By boat: Boat tours leave from Benagil, Portimão, Armação de Pêra and Carvoeiro.
• Rules: Landing on the beach inside the cave is no longer allowed; tours view it from the water.
• Sea conditions: Tours are cancelled in rough seas.

The story of the Benagil Cave

The Algar de Benagil is a large sea cave carved by waves into the limestone cliffs. A round opening in its roof lets sunlight pour onto the small beach inside, creating one of the most photographed sights in Portugal.

Because of overcrowding and safety concerns, the authorities now restrict access, and visitors admire the cave from boats.

Best time to visit

Tips before you go

• Book a boat tour: entering the cave from the beach is restricted.
• Choose a small-boat tour that visits other caves along the coast.
• Walk the clifftop trail to see the skylight from above.

What's around the Benagil Cave

• Praia da MarinhaBeach nearby.
• Seven Hanging Valleys TrailPasses above the cave.
• Benagil villageSmall fishing village.
• Carvoeiro15 minutes away.

Questions travellers ask