The Algarve caves are among the most spectacular natural attractions in southern Portugal, carved from limestone cliffs by the Atlantic Ocean over millions of years. Stretching along more than 150 kilometres of coastline, these caves—formed during the Cretaceous period—offer a fascinating look at the region’s geological history.
This guide will help you discover the top caves, how to access them, and practical tips for making the most of your visit.
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Top Caves in Algarve
With over 50 documented sea caves, the Algarve caves Portugal have become a major draw for travellers during their holidays in the Algarve region. Today, visitors can explore these wonders by boat, kayak, or paddleboard, with tours departing from popular towns like Lagos, Portimão, and Carvoeiro.
Algar de Benagil Cave
Algar de Benagil is undoubtedly the most famous of the Algarve caves and a highlight for any visitor to the region. Located just 6 kilometres east of Carvoeiro, near Benagil Beach, this sea cave is instantly recognisable by its enormous dome-shaped ceiling with a perfectly circular skylight, often referred to as “the eye.” The cave’s internal sandy beach is about 20 metres long, and the dome reaches approximately 25 metres in height, creating a spectacular natural amphitheatre.
Currently, the only way to access Benagil Cave is via a boat or guided kayak/SUP tour, as swimming and self-guided kayaking are no longer permitted due to safety regulations. Most tours depart from Portimão, Lagos, or directly from Benagil Beach, with prices typically ranging from €15 to €50 depending on the departure point and type of vessel. Kayak and stand-up paddleboard rentals are popular for those wanting a more active experience, with guided tours usually lasting around 90 minutes and costing about €25–€35.
The best time to visit Benagil Cave is early in the morning, between 8 and 10 AM, when the sunlight streams directly through the skylight, illuminating the cave’s golden walls and turquoise waters. Booking in advance is highly recommended during the busy summer months to avoid disappointment.
Zorreira Cave
Just 800 metres west of Benagil Cave lies Zorreira, a smaller but equally spectacular cave. Unlike Benagil, Zorreira is less crowded and offers a more peaceful atmosphere. It features striking gold-hued mineral deposits on its walls and several 12-metre-tall rock columns that give it a cathedral-like feel. The water inside the cave often takes on a tropical-blue hue, caused by the way sunlight refracts through the limestone and water.
Zorreira is accessible only by boat and is included in the majority of tours that visit Benagil. It is best viewed around midday when the sun is highest, allowing the mineral deposits and clear waters to shine. The cave’s smaller size means visitors can get closer to the rock formations, making it a favourite for photographers and geology enthusiasts.
Arcos de Marinha Cave
The Arcos de Marinha, or Marinha Arches, are some of the Algarve’s most iconic natural landmarks. Located at Praia da Marinha, about 12 kilometres south of Lagoa, these towering limestone arches rise 18 metres above the sea and span 24 metres across at their widest point. The beach itself stretches for 300 metres and is considered one of the most beautiful in Europe, often featured in travel magazines and UNESCO’s list of world’s most beautiful beaches.
Visitors can reach Praia da Marinha by car, with parking available for a fee during summer months, or by hiking the Percurso dos Sete Vales Suspensos (Seven Hanging Valleys Trail), a 6-kilometre coastal path offering stunning cliff-top views of the arches and surrounding coastline. Boat tours departing from Albufeira Marina often include the Arcos de Marinha as a highlight, combining them with visits to nearby caves and grottoes. At low tide, the beach reveals tidal pools rich with marine life, perfect for snorkelling and exploration.
Gruta do Capitão
Gruta do Capitão is a lesser-known cave located between Carvoeiro and Armação de Pêra. This cave is famous for its bioluminescent plankton, which can be seen glowing inside the cave during the warmer months from May to September. The cave itself has a 15-metre-long internal chamber and a small beach area accessible only by boat.
Tours to Gruta do Capitão depart mainly from Albufeira Marina and last around three hours, often combined with dolphin-watching excursions. These combined tours usually cost between €45 and €60 per person. Due to the cave’s sheltered location, calm sea conditions are required, so it’s advisable to check weather and tide forecasts before booking.
Elefante Cave
Elefante Cave is located near Ponta da Piedade, just 2 kilometres south of Lagos. The cave gets its name from a distinctive rock formation resembling an elephant’s trunk, which extends about 8 metres into the sea. The cave itself is approximately 12 metres deep and offers excellent opportunities for photography, especially at sunset when the warm light accentuates the rock’s features.
Visitors can access Elefante Cave either by descending a steep set of 182 cliffside steps from Dona Ana Beach or by joining one of the many boat tours from Lagos Marina. These boat trips usually last 45 minutes and cost around €20 per person. Many local operators combine visits to Elefante with kayaking through nearby grottoes, providing a full day of exploration.
The Benagil Cave – Plan Your Visit
Among all the cave in Algarve Portugal options, Benagil Cave remains the must-see destination. To make the most of your visit, consider booking an early morning kayak or SUP tour from as early as 7:30 AM. This timing helps avoid the midday crowds and allows you to witness the cave’s skylight at its most photogenic.
When planning your trip, remember to pack reef-safe sunscreen, suitable footwear (think Crocs, booties, or waterproof sandals), and a waterproof case for your phone or camera.
And that’s it! With this practical guide, you’ll be well-equipped to discover the region’s coastal wonders safely and comfortably.
Looking for the perfect accommodation? Allure Villas offers a range of luxury properties in Carvoeiro and surrounding areas, placing you within a short drive of Benagil Beach and other key cave sites. Our villas come with private pools, sea views, and modern amenities, ideal for relaxing after a day of coastal exploration.
Book your stay today!