Benagil Caves SUP Tour: Secret Beaches & Sea Arches

Summary

Benagil caves by SUP to secret beaches, arches and tunnels

You’ll paddleboard along Benagil’s coastline with a certified guide, learning SUP basics before gliding into sea caves and arches only reachable by water. Expect small group energy, time to pause inside magical grottoes, and even a visit to a hidden sandy beach — plus photos to remember those salty smiles.

What’s the experience like?

I nearly lost my balance right at the start — turns out standing on a paddleboard off Benagil is trickier than it looks on Instagram. Our instructor João grinned and told me to “relax my toes,” which somehow helped. The ocean was cool against my feet, and the early sun made the cliffs almost glow. I’d seen so many photos of the famous Algar de Benagil cave, but I didn’t expect how quiet it would feel gliding up to it, just our small group and the slap of paddles on water.

João showed us tunnels carved by centuries of waves — he pointed out one arch that looked like a sleeping dragon (I couldn’t unsee it after that). We ducked into a cave where the light came down through a hole in the ceiling, dusting everything gold. There was this salty smell mixed with wet stone, and for a minute we just floated there, listening to our own voices echo. It’s weirdly peaceful inside those caves, like you’re cut off from the rest of the Algarve for a while.

We stopped at a tiny beach I never knew existed — João called it Praia do Coração because of its shape from above (he tried teaching me how to say it in Portuguese; I definitely butchered it). He handed out bottled water and snapped some photos while we all tried not to look too wobbly. Heading back, arms sore but happy, I kept thinking about that moment inside the cave when everyone went quiet. Still feels close somehow.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Explore Benagil caves by SUP

• Receive safety briefing and instructions
• Start SUP tour along coastline
• Visit multiple sea caves and arches
• Stop inside some caves briefly
• See hidden beaches and rock formations
• Enjoy photos taken during tour

Top questions

How long does the Benagil SUP tour last?

The experience lasts approximately 2 hours from start to finish.

Is instruction included for beginners?

Yes, there’s a free lesson before heading into the ocean covering basic techniques and safety.

Are there stops inside any caves or beaches?

Yes, you’ll stop inside some caves and at least one hidden beach during the tour.

What equipment is provided on this Benagil paddleboard tour?

Paddleboard, rowing paddle, leash, life jacket, bottled water, disinfectant gel and insurance are all included.

Is hotel pickup included?

No hotel pickup is mentioned; public transportation options are available nearby.

Are pets allowed on this tour?

Yes, pets are welcome on this experience.

Is this suitable for all fitness levels?

The tour is suitable for all physical fitness levels except those with spinal injuries or poor cardiovascular health.

Are photos included in the experience?

Yes, photos are taken during the tour so you have memories to take home.

What’s included

Your day includes a free stand-up paddleboarding lesson with all equipment provided—paddleboard, life jacket, leash—plus bottled water and disinfectant gel. A certified instructor guides you through sea caves and secret beaches along Benagil’s coast. Photos are taken throughout so you can relive your adventure later.