Benagil Cave & Algarve Caves Tour by Boat with Beach Stops

Summary

Algarve boat trip to Benagil Cave plus hidden beaches

You’ll feel sea spray on your face as you zip along Algarve’s coast by boat from Benagil Beach, exploring dramatic caves—including Benagil Cave—and quiet beaches with a local skipper. Expect laughter, sunlight pouring through rock ceilings, and a few surprises along the way.

What’s the experience like?

I didn’t expect the sand to be so cool under my feet that early at Benagil Beach. There was this salty breeze—kind of sharp, actually—and a few sleepy gulls yelling overhead. We checked in at the little Taruga Benagil Tours office (it’s right up from the sand, can’t miss it), and our skipper João was already joking about how many caves we’d count today. I tried to say “bom dia” and probably mangled it, but he just grinned and waved us toward the boat.

The boat ride itself is fast—like, you’ll get a splash or two if you’re near the edge. We zipped past these cliffs that look almost fake, orange and white against the blue water. João slowed down at each cave, pointing out shapes in the rocks (“That one looks like a crocodile, see?”) and telling stories about smugglers or fishermen. The main thing everyone wants is the Benagil Cave—when we drifted inside, sunlight poured through that big hole in the ceiling and everything went gold for a minute. It smelled faintly of seaweed and sunscreen. I just sat there staring up like an idiot.

We stopped at a couple of beaches too—one was totally empty except for some footprints (not ours). The sand sticks to your feet in clumps here, not like powdery stuff back home. João let us hop off for quick photos; he even offered to take one for us but I blinked at exactly the wrong time. There were maybe six or eight caves total—I lost track because I was busy trying to pronounce “Praia da Marinha” correctly (he laughed again). The whole thing felt quick but not rushed, if that makes sense.

I still think about that light inside Benagil Cave sometimes. If you do this day trip from Benagil Beach, bring something dry for after—you might get splashed more than you expect. And ask your guide about their favorite cave; they always have one.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Visit Benagil Cave and nearby beaches

• Check in 30 minutes early
• Meet at Benagil beach
• Board boat at Benagil beach
• Visit 6 to 8 caves and beaches
• Disembark at Benagil beach

Top questions

How long is the Benagil Cave boat tour?

The exact duration isn’t listed, but it covers 6-8 caves plus beach stops starting from Benagil Beach.

Where does the tour start and end?

The tour starts and ends at Benagil Beach with boarding and disembarking there.

Are infants allowed on the boat tour?

Yes, infants are allowed but must sit on an adult’s lap during the tour.

Is this tour suitable for pregnant travelers?

No, it’s not recommended for pregnant travelers due to safety reasons.

Is hotel pickup included in this tour?

No hotel pickup is mentioned; check-in is required 30 minutes before departure at Taruga Benagil Tours ticket office.

Are service animals permitted on this tour?

Yes, service animals are allowed on board during the boat trip.

Is this day trip suitable for people with spinal injuries?

No, it’s not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries or poor cardiovascular health.

What’s included

Your day includes all fees and taxes plus safety equipment on board; just check in 30 minutes early at Taruga Benagil Tours’ ticket office before heading out by boat from Benagil Beach to explore multiple caves—including Benagil Cave—and deserted beaches along the Algarve coast.