Alagarve Attractions: Benagil Cave Tour
Benagil is a small fishing village on the southern coast of the Algarve which has gained fame in recent years thanks to its incredible sea cave. Benagil cave, also known as Algar de Benagil, is one of the most famous and beautiful sea caves in the whole of the Algarve. Getting to the cave has become easier than ever thanks to its popularity and increase in the number of Benagil cave tour excursions, not only from Benagil itself, but also from other areas. Here’s everything you need to know for your Benagil cave tour.
Why you should book a Benagil cave tour
Although the cave doesn’t look very far from the main Benagil beach in the village, it is strongly advised not to swim to the cave to see it. The currents in this area can be extremely strong and tides change quickly and unpredictably which means that if you want to enjoy the cave safely, then it is best to book onto a Benagil cave tour.
Boat Trips
There are regular boats that take you to the caves which can be boarded directly on Benagil beach, however the trips are extremely popular during the summer months and you may find yourself in for a very long wait if you choose to visit from here. To avoid the long waits, there are many different boat companies operating from other local beaches including Armacao de Pera and Carvoeiro to take you into the caves.
Longer boat trips are also available to see the Benagil cave, including trips from Albufeira, Portimao, Vilamoura and Lagos taking in more of the sights as well as including sufficient time to see the cave.
Trips from other beaches have the benefits of being able to include other spectacular caves along the way, as well as the opportunity to view the spectacular rock formations along the stretch of the coast. You also avoid the struggles of trying to find parking and waiting in long queues in Benagil village.
Avoid visiting the caves at peak times as it will be overcrowded, and you are less likely to be able to explore as there will be too many boats trying the enter the caves. Book your tour for early morning to avoid the crowds and make the most out of your trip.
Benagil cave tour with the kids
There is no age limit for children on the Benagil cave tours which makes it a fun activity for the whole family to enjoy together. Most Benagil cave tours take 2 to 3 hours and are around 30-40 Euros each so if you think your child may tire easily or get bored then it may not be the activity for you.
If you or your child suffer from sea sickness, it is advised that you book onto a smaller boat tour. These boat tours hold fewer people and the boat is much faster, so you are less likely to get sea-sickness. Another advantage of the smaller boat tours is that they are able to enter the caves easier.
Summer tours always offer an option to swim so you may want to wear your swimsuit and take a towel. If your child requires armbands, be sure to pack some, although the tour may offer life jackets also.
Where to Eat
While Benagil is a very small village in the Algarve, it has a fantastic selection of restaurants that are open throughout the year which offer spectacular views over the beach and cliff tops.
Visit O Litoral restaurant which is located at the top of the hill on the western side of the beach. This amazing restaurant serves up traditional Portuguese cuisine and is open for lunch and dinner, perfect for before or after your Benagil cave tour.
