Benagil Cave (Algar de Benagil) is the most photographed spot on the Algarve coast: a sea cave with a circular opening in its roof that lets direct sunlight fall onto a small sand beach inside. According to descriptions of the site's geology, it is the only cave along this stretch of coast, between Lagos and Albufeira, that has been eroded both from the sides by the sea and from above, which is what created that natural skylight. The cave sits next to the hamlet of Benagil, in the civil parish of Lagoa e Carvoeiro, municipality of Lagoa — a former fishing settlement of just over 60 permanent residents that has become, especially in summer, one of the most visited spots in the Algarve.
Access to the cave has changed significantly in recent years due to overtourism. Since 2023 it has no longer been possible to visit freely on your own — entry is only allowed as part of an organized tour. In August 2024 the rules were tightened further: swimming to or inside the cave was banned, along with disembarking or standing on the interior beach, and flotation devices were no longer permitted. Kayaks may only enter with a licensed guide, in groups capped at roughly six kayaks per guide, and the time each vessel may spend inside the cave is limited. Operators who break these rules risk fines reported to range from €300 to €216,000. Given the site's popularity, local authorities have also floated further measures, such as paid entry tickets or daily visitor caps, though these have not been officially confirmed to date.
This guided kayak tour runs for 2 hours, with a guide available in four languages, and departs from near Benagil or from nearby beaches such as Praia da Marinha, carved from the same limestone formation and one of the Algarve's most recognizable beaches. A life jacket is mandatory throughout the tour, and it's worth being comfortable in open water and reasonably fit, since paddling the kayak yourself is part of the experience. Along the cliffside route it's common to pass other, smaller caves and rock formations besides Benagil Cave itself.
The best season runs from May to September, when the sea is typically calmer. On windier or rougher days, kayak tours are usually the first to be cancelled for safety, so it's worth checking conditions on the day of booking.
No. Under the rules introduced in August 2024, swimming to or inside the cave, and landing on its interior beach, is banned — for swimmers as well as kayakers and boats.
Yes. Since 2024, kayaks may only enter the cave accompanied by a licensed guide, with groups capped at roughly six kayaks per guide.
This guided tour runs about 2 hours, costs €35, and includes a guide available in four languages.
Between May and September the sea is generally calmer. On windy or rough days, kayak tours are usually the first to be cancelled for safety.
