The Benagil Caves in Portugal are truly one of the most unique and beautiful places to visit. Located on the Algarve coast near the small fishing village of Benagil, these sea caves are famous for their striking natural dome and a large circular opening at the top, often called “the eye.” Early in the morning, watching the sunrise through this opening is an unforgettable experience. The light streams in and fills the cave with a golden glow, making the beach inside look magical.
The caves were formed over thousands of years as the ocean waves slowly carved out the soft limestone cliffs. This natural process created the amazing shapes, patterns, and the incredibly smooth and round dome. Inside, you will find a calm little beach and sparkling blue water. The only way to reach the cave is by boat, kayak, or paddleboard, which adds to its special charm.
Visiting at sunrise is perfect for enjoying peace and quiet before the crowds arrive. The Benagil Caves are a wonderful example of nature’s beauty and power, and they are a must-see for anyone coming to Portugal. It’s a place that will stay in your...
Read moreJust like you see in pictures.
Benagil Cave is one of the most famous sea caves in Portugal. It’s a massive cave right on the coast that has a big hole in the middle of its roof, which is sometimes called “the eye.” Light streams into the cave through the hole in its roof, creating a beautiful effect inside the cave.
You have to park at the top of hill and make your way down to the cove where you have option of renting kayaks or doing a boat tour. From the parking lot you can also walk along the cliff side and looked down into the cave from above. Worth doing both.
We opted for the boat ride which was worth it. Unfortunately it was too rough to pull up on shore in the cave but still were able to get inside and get some amazing pictures and also enjoyed the ride along the coast and see some more beaches we wanted to visit along our road trip.
The cove offers a small restaurant you can get some drinks and food and also use the washroom. The beach itself is small but still very beautiful but can be overwhelmed...
Read moreInteresting cave, but lifeguards are stopping you from swimming due to “rock fall hazard”, that’s despite you being able to pay for a tour and get off the boat to swim in the cave. Seems very suspicious. There is a sign saying swimming is permitted when the red light is off. The lifeguards said the light is no good. Lifeguards spent most of their time away from the beach chatting with the tour staff. Kayaks and SUPs are also banned at the moment (at least there are signs saying that!). Asking the tour staff why, they said there were too many accidents with kayaks, SUPs and boats. The boat tour from the beach itself was fun, guide and skipper informative and great to be able to enter the cave for a brief period (2-5 mins). We weren’t able to swim due to there being only one appropriate tour that day. Just frustrating there is now a monopoly on...
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