Benagil Sea Cave
Algar de Benagil
A huge sea cave with a round skylight in its roof, through which sunlight falls onto the sandy beach inside. It is Portugal's most photogenic natural sight.
Benagil Sea Cave lies near the village of Benagil, east of Carvoeiro. It is a huge limestone cave hollowed out by the waves, with a round opening in its roof that locals call 'the Eye.' On clear days, columns of light pour in and illuminate a small half-moon beach inside, resembling a cathedral. The only way into the cave is by water. You can take a tour boat from Benagil Beach, Carvoeiro, Albufeira or Portimão (about 30 to 90 minutes; most boats only sightsee and do not stop inside), or join a kayak or stand-up paddleboard group. Note on timing: because of overcrowding and safety concerns, the Portuguese maritime authority has tightened management in recent years. From 2025, visitors are no longer allowed to land on the beach inside the cave, and the boats and time slots permitted to enter are restricted. Check the latest notices. Do not try to swim to the cave from the beach, because the currents and passing boats are very dangerous. You can also hike the Seven Hanging Valleys Trail to the top of the cave and look down from the railing beside the skylight.
Opening hours
Boat trips about 09:00 to sunset (suspended in rough seas)
Nearby sights
- Seven Hanging Valleys Trail & Praia da Marinha
- Nossa Senhora da Rocha
- Carvoeiro Beach & Algar Seco Boardwalk
- Ferragudo
- Castle of Silves
- Praia da Rocha & Fortaleza de Santa Catarina
- Praia dos Três Irmãos
- Alvor & Ria de Alvor Boardwalk