Visiting Benagil Beach
Benagil Beach is a scenic stretch of sand tucked away near the fishing village of the same name in the Algarve region of southern Portugal. The beach is framed by high, ochre-colored cliffs that define this stretch of the coast. The waterfront here is also known for the various cavities carved into the narrow rock formations by the tides. Coastal erosion is responsible for the dramatic Algar de Benagil, or Benagil Sea Cave, a vast rock formation that resembles a maritime cathedral.
A popular destination in the Algarve
Benagil Beach sits along one of the most picturesque parts of the coast, between Praia do Carvoeiro and Armação de Pêra. The landscape is iconic for this part of southern Portugal, featuring fine sand and turquoise waters set against tall, ochre cliffs.
How to get to the Benagil Cave
The main draw of Benagil Beach is the sea cave, which forms a massive dome over the water. Sunlight filters through a natural hole at the top of the rock, casting mesmerizing blue hues onto the sea below.
While you might be tempted to swim to the cave from the beach, it is not recommended due to strong currents and the high volume of boat traffic. A better option is to rent a kayak or a stand-up paddleboard from the beach. If you want to explore more of the surrounding coastline, consider a boat excursion departing from Lagos, Portimão, or Albufeira. Additionally, the famous Seven Hanging Valleys Trail, which runs along the coast between Praia da Marinha and Praia de Vale Centeanes, offers a view of the cave from the cliff tops above.
This beach, which some people call the Benagil cave, is different from the others. Erosion has carved a cavity into the cliff, and openings in the ceiling eventually appeared. It gives a surreal view of a beach semi-covered by rock. Swimming is particularly pleasant there with water that is clear and warm for the region (contrary to popular belief, the sea is cold, especially on the Atlantic coast).
Be careful, this beach is not accessible on foot. You have to swim for a few minutes from the neighboring beach (a fairly easy route) or take a canoe or kayak.