Benagil Caves Boat Tour from Lagos: Algarve Coastline & Grotto Views

Summary

Algarve caves boat trip from Lagos with coastal stops and Benagil views

You’ll ride a comfortable boat from Lagos Marina along the Algarve coast with a local guide, passing Alvor and Carvoeiro before reaching Benagil cave’s famous skylight. Expect salty breezes, laughter over lost hats, stories from your guide, and those shifting colors of water under sunlit cliffs—a trip that lingers long after you’re back on land.

What’s the experience like?

I didn’t expect the wind to hit so sharp when we left Lagos Marina—my hair immediately did its own thing, and I just gave up trying to fix it. Our guide, Tiago, grinned at us as he handed out the life jackets (“just in case,” he winked). The boat was newer than I’d pictured—those padded benches actually made a difference once we picked up speed past Alvor. There’s something about that salt smell mixed with sunscreen and engine oil that always reminds me I’m really traveling.

We skimmed along the Algarve coastline, and every so often Tiago would slow down near these little coves or point out a fisherman waving from the rocks. He told us about Carvoeiro’s old stories—apparently there’s a cave shaped like an elephant but honestly, I couldn’t see it (maybe if you squint?). The water changed color under the cliffs—sometimes glassy green, sometimes almost navy—and you could hear seabirds echoing inside the smaller grottos. At one point my friend tried to snap a photo and nearly lost her hat; everyone just laughed. It felt like we were all in on some secret stretch of coast together.

Then came Benagil cave itself—the “Algar de Benagil.” You can’t get off the boat or swim here (they’re strict about it), but drifting under that huge round opening in the ceiling was kind of surreal. Sunlight poured through and lit up the sand inside like someone switched on a lamp. We all went quiet for a second—I still think about that light sometimes when I close my eyes at night. On the way back, Tiago pointed out another tiny beach only locals use in winter. He said if you come early enough, you might see dolphins near Portimão—but no promises, he shrugged.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Boat trip to Benagil caves

• Depart from Lagos Marina
• Pass by Alvor, Portimão, Carvoeiro
• Enjoy Algarve coastline and beaches
• Visit Carvoeiro caves
• Visit Algar de Benagil caves
• Experience clear water and rock formations
• Travel on 18-seater rigid inflatable boat

Top questions

How long does the Benagil caves boat tour from Lagos take?

The exact duration isn’t specified but expect around 2 hours for this type of tour along the Algarve coast.

Can you swim or get off the boat at Benagil cave?

No, it’s not possible to get off the boat or swim during this trip due to safety regulations.

Is pickup included for this Benagil caves tour?

No hotel pickup is included; tours depart from Lagos Marina.

Are children allowed on this Algarve caves boat trip?

Children under 6 years old are not recommended for this tour.

What should I bring on the Benagil caves day trip?

Bring a jacket or windbreaker and something to drink (no open containers). Sunscreen is also suggested.

Is this boat tour suitable for people with health issues?

This trip is not recommended for pregnant travelers or those with spinal injuries or poor cardiovascular health.

Are life jackets provided on board?

Yes, life jackets are included for all passengers during the tour.

What’s included

Your day includes a seat on a modern rigid inflatable boat departing from Lagos Marina, with padded benches for comfort and life jackets provided by your local guide as you cruise past Alvor, Portimão, Carvoeiro, and into Benagil cave before returning along the Algarve coastline.