Praia de Benagil Beach Guide and Things to Do Algarve

Praia da Benagil is a stunning beach that has quickly become one of the most popular destinations for those seeking to experience beautiful nature and have fun. The iconic Benagil Cave, also known as "Algar de Benagil," is located near the beach and is one of the main attractions here, drawing visitors from around the world.

This guide packs practical advice to make your trip memorable – an insider's guide to the best things to do in Benagil, ranging from the famous Cave to the lesser-known spots. Buckle up your sun hat and your zest for fun as you explore Praia de Benagil.

Discover the Beauty of Praia de Benagil

Before we explore one of the most stunning natural highlights of the Portuguese Algarve coastline, let us take you to another marvel called Benagil. One of the wonders not to be missed in Portugal, this beautiful location in the Algarve region offers excellent scenic views and geological wonders.

Location and Accessibility

Indeed, Praia de Benagil is situated along the southernmost limit of Europe's Portuguese territory in the beautiful Algarve region. Some of the beaches are relatively unknown and situated at a distance from the region's main centers. This one, for example, is roughly 150 km west of Faro and just 8 km east of Lagoa, which feels more like an undiscovered tropical island.

Indeed, its accessibility contributes to its uniqueness; however, this factor implies that proper planning is required for those who desire to visit.

 How to Reach Praia de Benagil?

Getting to Praia da Benagil is fairly straightforward, whether you’re coming from nearby towns or from the airport.

From Faro Airport

• By Car: Faro Airport is approximately 60 km away from Praia da Benagil, and the drive takes around 45 minutes via the A22 motorway.

• By Public Transport: You can take a bus or train from Faro to Portimão or Lagoa, then take a local bus or taxi to the beach. This might take a bit longer, but it’s an affordable option if you’re on a budget.

  
  

From Albufeira

• By Car: Albufeira is about a 30-minute drive (35 km) from Praia da Benagil, making it an easy and quick trip.

• By Public Transport: Buses and trains to Lagoa or Portimão will bring you close, but a taxi or Uber from these towns to the beach is the most direct option.

4. Boat tours: For tourists who are based in neighboring coastal towns, you can take an aquatic tour using boats to see the beach and this famous Cave.

Still, access to the beach can be rather difficult at times. There are some small drawbacks: the descent to the sand is provided only by a steep staircase, so individuals with special needs may require assistance here. Although rock climbing up the cliffs is not easy, the scenic aesthetic values around these cliffs, especially the top, are a worthwhile experience for the onlookers.

Best Times To Visit

In Praia de Benagil it is nice all year round; however, it is possible to determine certain periods as the most preferable. Here's a breakdown of what to expect throughout the year: Below is the year divided on what to expect:

The best time to go is during what is referred to as the shoulder seasons, specifically in May and early September. In these months, the weather is not very hot, and there are few people around, as it's off-season; however, almost all services offered to tourists are still available.

Depending on when you plan to visit, it is essential to note the tides. It is safer and perhaps easier to tour the beach and the accessible natural coves during low tide as the waters at high tide may always pose some dangers. Remember to consult the local tide tables to fit the swimming into your schedule ideally.

 Things to Do at Praia da Benagil

While Praia da Benagil is a small beach, it’s packed with activities and natural wonders. Here are the top things to do:

Visit Benagil Cave

Without a doubt, the most iconic attraction near Praia da Benagil is the Benagil Cave. This sea cave is renowned for its massive dome and skylight, which allows sunlight to pour in, casting a magical glow on the sandy floor. The cave is only accessible by water, which makes it an exciting adventure.

You can explore it by:

• Kayak or Stand-Up Paddleboard: Rent a kayak or paddleboard and take a guided tour of the cave. Paddling to the cave gives you a chance to see the coastline from a different perspective.

• Boat Tour: Several local companies offer boat tours that take you directly to the cave. These are perfect for those who want to experience the cave without the effort of paddling.

  
  

Kayaking and Stand-Up Paddleboarding

If you enjoy water sports, kayaking and stand-up paddleboarding (SUP) are popular activities in the area. You can rent gear from nearby stores and explore the coastline, which features numerous other caves, grottoes, and hidden beaches. The beautiful views and clear waters make this an experience you'll never forget.

Scenic Boat Tours

A scenic boat tour is the best way to see the beautiful coastline while relaxing. These boat tours typically take you to see the Benagil Cave and other stunning natural sites, including the Alfanzina Lighthouse and the Fisherman's Beach. Some tours even include stops for swimming and snorkeling.

Hiking the Algarvian Coast

If you prefer to stay on land, the Algarve coast offers excellent hiking trails. The trails are easy to follow and offer stunning views of the cliffs and ocean. There are also hidden beaches and caves along the way, so it's a great way to see the area at your own pace.

The Seven Hanging Valleys Trail is one of the most popular trails. It runs along the coast, offering stunning views of the sea, cliffs, and caves.

Unique Geological Features

Praia de Benagil is a well-known beach famous for its Rock formations. One of the most outstanding and stunning features of Benagil is a natural sea arch called the 'eye of God', owing to the hemispherical ceiling that opens to a circular hole in the ceiling of the Cave. The Cave is a den, and the entire structure is a testament to the effects of erosion. The waves and winds were responsible for the formation of the Cave by cutting through the limestone cliffs.

Other notable features include limestone cliffs, piles of sea stacks, natural bridges and arches, coves and caves, and unique rock formations. These geological facts are remarkable because they provide a physical history of the earth, depicting different geological ages and even fossils.

Surrounding Attractions and Activities

Well, Praia de Benagil and its amazing Cave are long gone, but there is much more to see and do in this area. There is much to do in Algarve that will add value to your trip besides visiting here.

1. Seven Hanging Valleys Trail: This 6-km (3. 7 miles) trail is considered to be one of the most used in the Algarve. This one begins from Praia da Marinha, going through Praia de Benagil up to Praia de Vale Containers. The trail offers beautiful scenery of the coastline, rock formations, and small beaches that are rarely seen on regular tours.

2. Percurso dos Sete Vales Suspensos: A longer version of the Seven Hanging Valleys Trail, this 11km trail goes through seven valleys, each named in English. The 4-kilometer (7.

3. Carvoeiro Boardwalk: Carvoeiro Boardwalk: Essentially, the 570-meter wooden Carvoeiro boardwalk to the top of the Carvoeiro cliffs brings splendid views within closer range. For those who enjoy taking in the stunning landscape without having to go on strenuous hikes, it is ideal.

4. Praia da Marinha to Benagil Cave Walk: The coastal trek above Benagil Cave from Praia da Marinha has amazing ocean vistas. You can see the Cave from above.

5. Percurso do Algar Seco: This is a very short but beautiful walk with some interesting rock formations and 'The Doll' rock arch near Carvoeiro.

Nearby Beaches to Explore

Benagil Beach is a stunning beach, but there are so many beautiful seashores lining the nation's coast that you should make sure not to miss. Here are some close by beaches that offer great experiences:

1. Praia da Marinha: Praia do Marinha's fine, golden sand, crystal-clear sea, and limestone cliffs make it one of the world's most stunning beaches. It is appropriate for sunbathing, swimming, and snorkeling.

2. Praia do Carvalho: It is a small and rather isolated beach, the entrance of which can only be reached by a hand-carved passage in the cliff. Regardless of the season, its clear waters and surrounding cliffs make the place ideal for swimming as well as cliff jumping for the extreme.

3. Praia de Albandeira: This is a quiet, little, clean sandy beach with very clear water and some unique stones. So, it is affordable, like some of the popular beaches, which are great for a day out.

4. Praia da Corredoura: This lesser-known beach is more secluded than the previously described ones. One must climb up a steep staircase, and on the other side, there are marvelous rocks and nice clean water.

5. Praia do Vale de Centeanes: It has fine sands stretching for long distances with cliffs in the background. This is popular among water sports enthusiasts and offers services such as sunbeds and an al fresco restaurant on the beach.

6. Praia de Nova: This is a small, beautiful beach surrounded by cliffs. It is more relaxed than some of those overpopulated beach areas and provides a serene environment.

Where to Stay Close to Praia da Benagil

There are no hotels right on Praia da Benagil, but you can find a lot of places to stay in nearby towns like Lagoa, Portimão, and Albufeira. Here are a few suggestions:

Vila Vita Parc Resort & Spa (Alporchinhos) is a five-star luxury resort offering excellent amenities and breathtaking ocean views.

Hotel Baía Cristal Beach & Spa Resort (Albufeira): This hotel is conveniently located just a short drive from the beach and offers excellent amenities, including a spa, outdoor pool, and easy access to Praia da Benagil.

Pac4Portugal Villas (Lagoa): Pac4Portugal offers a curated collection of luxury villas in Carvoeiro, each featuring private or heated pools, spacious terraces, and premium amenities for families, groups, or events.