Benagil Cave Boat Tour: Algarve Caves & Beaches from Armação

Summary

Algarve’s wild caves & secret beaches by boat from Armação

You’ll skim across turquoise water with a local captain, duck into sea caves like Benagil, and spot wild Algarve beaches only reachable by boat. Feel the salt spray, hear stories from your guide, and watch sunlight spill through stone arches—this hour goes fast but leaves you wishing you could linger just one more minute inside that echoing cave.

What’s the experience like?

“You’ll want to hold on,” our captain grinned as we pushed off from Armação de Pêra beach. The engine hummed under us and salt spray hit my face right away—colder than I expected, honestly. Our guide, João, pointed out the old fishermen cleaning nets on shore, waving at us with that easy Algarve smile. There was something about the morning light bouncing off those white boats that made it feel like time slowed down for a second. Or maybe I was just nervous about getting splashed again.

We hugged the coast, slipping past golden cliffs and these tiny coves you’d never spot from above. João kept naming each beach—Praia da Marinha, Praia do Barranco—like he was introducing old friends. At one point he cut the engine so we could hear nothing but gulls and the slap of water against rock. I tried to snap a photo of Albandeira’s arch but fumbled my phone (caught it though). The air smelled faintly of seaweed and sunscreen—a weirdly comforting mix.

Then came Benagil cave itself. I’d seen photos but stepping inside by boat felt different; light poured through that round hole in the ceiling and everyone went quiet for a minute. The walls were cool and damp if you reached out (I did), and João told us how locals used to fish here before Instagram made it famous. We drifted through maybe ten caves total—I lost count somewhere after Gruta do Capitão because I got distracted watching a cormorant dive right next to us. So yeah, if you’re thinking about a Benagil cave tour from Armação de Pêra, don’t expect to stay dry or keep your hair in place.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Explore Benagil caves and Algarve beaches

• Meet at Armação de Pêra Beach
• Pass by Alporchinhos golden sandy beach
• Pass by Tremoços beach in sheltered bay
• Pass by rugged coastal fishing beach
• Pass by serene Praia do Barranco
• Visit iconic Praia da Marinha beach
• Pass by Barranquinho Beach sand stretch
• Pass by clear waters of Malhada do Baraço Beach
• Pass by Albandeira Beach with arch formation
• Pass by Praia da Corredoura with sea caves
• Visit famous Benagil sea cave
• Pass by tranquil Benagil Beach cove

Top questions

How long does the Benagil cave tour from Armação de Pêra last?

The tour lasts approximately one hour along the Algarve coast.

Which beaches are visited during this boat tour?

You’ll see Praia da Marinha, Praia da Cova Redonda, Albandeira Beach, Barranquinho Beach, Malhada do Baraço Beach, Praia do Barranco, and more.

Is pickup included for this Benagil cave tour?

No hotel pickup is included; tours depart directly from Armação de Pêra beach.

Are children allowed on this Algarve caves boat tour?

Yes, but children must be accompanied by at least one adult for safety reasons.

What should I bring for the Benagil cave boat trip?

A camera is recommended; life jackets are provided onboard.

Is this tour suitable for all fitness levels?

Yes, it’s suitable for all physical fitness levels as you remain on the boat throughout.

Can infants join the Benagil cave tour?

Infants are welcome but must sit on an adult’s lap during the trip.

Are service animals allowed on board?

Yes, service animals are permitted during the tour.

What’s included

Your experience includes a guided boat ride with an experienced captain and local guide departing from Armação de Pêra beach; life jackets are provided for everyone’s safety throughout the trip; insurance is included so you can just relax and enjoy those wild Algarve caves and beaches without worry.