Your guide to exploring the Algarve Caves
Algarve is home to some of the most breathtaking sea caves in Europe, with the Benagil Cave being the crown jewel. Other gems like the Arches of Marinha offer equally stunning views.
But do you know how to get to those caves?
Because you can’t just walk into them. The caves sit along dramatic cliffs and have entrances that are only accessible from the ocean.
Not to mention the water levels in these caves, which can fluctuate due to tides.
Therefore, the best (and the only) way to access these caves is by SUP, boat, or kayak, for which you usually have to book tours from guided tour operators.
In this guide, we’ll talk about these magnificent Algarve caves and our trusted tour operators who offer these Algarve cave tours that allow you to admire the beauty from a safe distance.
Here’s the rundown of all the popular caves in the Algarve.
Popular Algarve Caves
The Benagil Cave is a stunning sea cave located along the Algarve coast in Portugal.
This cave is famous for its unique geological features, including a large opening in the ceiling that allows sunlight to filter in, creating a dramatic effect often referred to as "the eye of the cave."
Inside, you can find a small beach and admire the cathedral-like structure of the cave, which is often illuminated by natural light streaming through the opening above.
1. Benagil Cave
By kayaking, stand-up paddle boarding, and boat touring.
Do you get into the Benagil Cave?
What time is best to go to Benagil Cave?
The best time of the day to visit the Benagil cave would be early morning. Not many people are around, the weather is pleasant and you get to experience the magical moments of soft morning light entering through the cave’s opening.
The Arco de Albandeira at Praia da Albandeira, is a natural rock formation that has been sculpted over time by the forces of wind and tide.
2. Arco de Albandeira
The Arches of Marinha or Arco da Marinha, as known in the Algarve are the natural rock formations near Praia da Marinha, another iconic beach in the Algarve.
You can access this notable landmark via hiking trails like the Seven Hanging Valleys Trail.
3. The Arches of Marinha
How to make an Algarve Caves tour?
For adventurers like you, kayaking is a great way to explore the Algarve caves at your own pace.
You can rent a kayak from various locations but we recommend Carvalho Beach as your starting point as it’s a small, secluded beach, and you can kayak with less confusion and fewer people around.
BrotheRootz is one such local tour operator who are based in Carvalho Beach and offers eco-friendly, unconventional, and exclusive Algarve caves kayaking tours. They only take 10 people per tour so it’s more intimate, fun, and safe.
Starting from Carvalho Beach, they’ll guide you for 2 hours along the coastline. Plus, they’ll help you kayak like a pro even if it’s your first time.
You can check out their schedule and different Algarve caves kayaking experiences on their website here.
1. Kayak to the Algarve Caves
Stand-up paddleboarding (SUP) is another more personal way of exploring the Algarve caves. And with SUP, you’re able to reach smaller caves and hidden coves that may be inaccessible by boat.
For SUPing, you’ll need a board, paddle, and a personal flotation device (PFD) and some prior experience.
But if this is your first time to USPing, you might need beginner lessons for which BrotheRootz can help you. They’ll teach you how to balance and coordinate the board after which you’ll be ready to paddle out on your own.
Plus, everything is super organized with safety guidance, so you’ll have a smooth experience.
2. SUP (Stand-up Paddleboard)
The Algarve boat tour is the most popular and convenient option. That’s because it’s safe, accessible, and comfortable. Many tour operators lead you along the coastline of Benagil Caves while giving commentary about the place.
For such Algarve amazing boat tours, we recommend Carvoeiro Tours based in Carvoeiro. Folks living in Carvoeiro can easily join them. But if you’re residing elsewhere, they start tours from several different locations, so you can join from there too.
Depending on the tours, they cover 15-18 Algarve caves. And, since they have been doing this for the past 30 years, they share fascinating stories about ancestors and locals that not many have heard about.
3. Boat tours to the caves
Praia
Beach
Swimsuit
Fato de banho
Towel
Toalha
Some portuguese words
Sand
Areia
Now that you know about some of the Algarve’s most stunning caves, it’s time to experience them firsthand. From the Benagil Cave to other hidden coves, these natural wonders give you the peak of dramatic rock formations, crystal-clear waters, and even some cool sea creatures hiding in the caves.
And while these caves are breathtaking, their unique ocean entrances mean you’ll need a boat, kayak, or SUP to fully explore them. Be sure to book one of our recommended guided tours for a safe and unforgettable adventure into these remarkable sea caves.
