by Portugal Getaways Team
July 7, 2025 • 5 min read
From sea-carved cliffs to beaches hidden beneath towering rock formations, the caves in the Algarve, Portugal, are some of the most impressive natural sights in Europe. You can take a boat tour to the famous Benagil Cave, head out from Lagos or Albufeira, or paddle your way in on a relaxed kayak tour, there’s no shortage of ways to explore this stunning coastline.
This article covers the top cave tours, how to visit, what to expect, and a few simple tips to make your trip even better — keep reading to make the most of your cave adventure in southern Portugal.
Why You Should Explore the Caves of the Algarve
It’s not just the sun and sand that make the Algarve coastline so famous, it’s what lies beyond the beaches. Hidden in the cliffs are sea caves, dramatic arches, and tucked-away coves that you can only reach by water. The iconic Benagil Cave gets all the attention, but it’s just the beginning of what this coastline has to offer.
Scattered between Lagos, Portimão, Carvoeiro, and Albufeira, you’ll find dozens of sea caves shaped by thousands of years of ocean waves. Some open into wide, glowing chambers, others wind through tight rock passages, each with its own charm.
Exploring these caves by boat or kayak isn’t just fun, it’s one of the most exciting ways to experience the Algarve’s raw, natural beauty, and a chance to see some of Portugal’s top coastal sights from a whole new perspective.
Best Ways to Visit these Top Attractions
1. Join a Boat Tour (Most Popular)
A Benagil Cave boat tour is the easiest way to explore multiple caves in one trip. Most boat tours depart from Portimão, Carvoeiro, Albufeira, or Lagos marina, covering top sites like Benagil, Praia da Marinha, and Ponta da Piedade. Book your tour here.
2. Take a Kayak Tour
For a quieter, eco-friendly experience, consider a guided kayak tour. You'll paddle into the caves and feel more connected to the cliffs and hidden beaches, a peaceful adventure that lets you truly immerse yourself in nature. Book your Algarve kayak tour here.
3. Stand-Up Paddleboarding (SUP)
SUP is ideal for more experienced adventurers who want to combine exploration and balance. Guided tours typically visit Benagil Cave and other nearby rock formations, offering a unique way to discover the coastline. Book your Algarve SUP tour with a guide here.
Top Algarve Cave Tours & Coastal Stops
The caves in the Algarve, Portugal, aren’t the only highlights on a boat tour, you’ll also cruise past beautiful beaches, dramatic rock formations, and legendary viewpoints. Here are some must-see stops:
Benagil Cave, Lagoa — The Algarve's Most Famous Sea Cave
Also called Algar de Benagil, this huge domed cave with a beach inside is one of the top attractions in Portugal. Only accessible by boat, SUP, or kayak, most tours depart from Portimão, Carvoeiro, or Lagoa.
Marinha Beach, Lagoa — Iconic Cliffs and Hidden Wonders
Often named one of Europe’s most beautiful beaches, Marinha is famous for its golden cliffs and nearby sea caves. Most cave tours pass this scenic gem.
Ponta da Piedade, Lagos — A Coastal Maze
A stretch of limestone arches, stacks, and caves near Lagos Marina. Perfect for boat trips or kayak tours, it’s one of the most photogenic spots on the Algarve coast.
Coelha Beach, Albufeira — A Peaceful Coastal Retreat
Tucked between golden cliffs near Albufeira, this small, secluded beach offers calm waters, scenic rock formations, and a more tranquil atmosphere, perfect for a break before or after exploring the nearby caves.
Zorreira Cave, Carvoeiro — A Narrow Wonder
Often included on Benagil cave tours, this small sea cave has textured walls and a tight entrance, giving it an intimate, off-the-map feel.
Algar Seco, Carvoeiro — Coastal Drama from Land and Sea
Natural blowholes and arched rock formations make this a unique spot. While not a sea cave, many tours sail by for a close-up look.
Algarve Cave Trips & Tips: When to Go and What to Know
The best time to explore the caves in the Algarve, Portugal, is from May to October, when the sea is calm and conditions are ideal for boat tours. Early morning is perfect for good lighting and fewer crowds, while low tide makes cave access easier.
To plan your trip:
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Book your Benagil sea cave tour in advance, especially during peak season.
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Tours typically depart from Lagos, Albufeira, or Portimão.
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Pack sun protection, a waterproof bag for your phone or camera and water for hidration
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Choose a speedboat if you want to see more caves in less time.
FAQs About Visiting the Algarve Caves
Why are the Benagil caves famous?
Benagil Cave is one of the Algarve’s most iconic landmarks, known for its skylight ceiling, sea-carved interior, and hidden beach inside. It’s a must-see on any Algarve cave tour.
Can you walk to Benagil Cave?
No, walking into Benagil Cave from land is not allowed. Access is only permitted from the sea, by boat, kayak, or stand-up paddleboard (SUP), for safety and conservation reasons.
Disembarking inside the cave onto the beach is also prohibited to help protect this fragile natural site.
What's the best way to visit the Algarve caves?
Joining a boat tour is the easiest and most popular option. Kayak and SUP tours offer a more immersive and active experience.
Can you kayak into Benagil Cave?
Yes, you can. Kayak tours are a great way to enter the cave slowly and take your time exploring, though sea conditions may affect availability.
Is Benagil Cave a wonder of the world?
While not officially listed as one of the “Wonders of the World,” it is widely considered one of Europe’s most beautiful sea caves.
Which Algarve Cave Tour Is Right for You?
Starting in Lagos, Albufeira, or Carvoeiro? You’ll find a cave tour that suits your style — from fast-paced Benagil boat trips to slower kayak or SUP adventures. Each route brings you face-to-face with some of the Algarve’s most stunning coastal views.
Want to see it for yourself? Explore our Algarve cave tours below.
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