How long does it take to get from Lagos to Benagil by boat?

Benagil is well east of Lagos along the coast, which is why our Benagil Caves Day is a five-hour private charter. That leaves time for stops at beaches and coves on the way rather than just the run there and back.

Can you swim into Benagil cave?

No. Since July 2024 the Portimão harbour authority has banned swimming to the cave and landing on the beach inside it. You can see the cave from a licensed boat, or with a licensed guided kayak or paddle board tour.

Is a private boat to Benagil suitable for children?

Yes. Families of all ages sail with us and there are life jackets on board for every guest. On a private boat you can stop whenever the children need a break or a swim.

Where does the trip start?

At Gate ABCD in Marina de Lagos, just outside Artesão, 8600-315 Lagos. We send directions with your booking.

Benagil cave by private boat from Lagos

Benagil is the most photographed sea cave in Portugal, and it is a long way along the coast from Lagos. Here is how to see it properly, on your own boat, without the crowds of the big group tours.

The short answer

From Lagos the best way to see Benagil is a full-coast private charter that leaves Lagos Marina, runs east along the cliffs and comes back the same day. Ours is a five-hour trip, which leaves time to stop at the beaches and coves in between instead of racing there and back.

Can you still go inside Benagil cave?

Yes, by boat, but the rules changed in 2024. The harbour authority in Portimão (Capitania do Porto de Portimão), which covers Benagil, issued an order that took effect at the end of July 2024. In short:

Licensed tour boats may enter the cave briefly to let you see it. Visits inside are kept short so boats can take turns.
Nobody may land on the small beach inside the cave, whatever way they arrive.
Swimming to the cave from Benagil beach is not allowed, and neither are inflatables or other floats.
Kayak and paddle board visits are only allowed with a licensed guide.

So the photos you may have seen of people standing on the sand under the hole in the roof are from before 2024. Today you see the cave from the water. Your skipper will know the current rules on the day and will position the boat for the best view of the opening and the light.

What you see on the way

The coast between Lagos and Benagil is the Algarve at its most dramatic: honey-coloured limestone cliffs, sea stacks, arches and small beaches you can only reach from the water. Because the boat is private, you decide where to stop. Typical choices are a swim in a sheltered cove, a go on the paddle boards, or simply lying on the sunbed at the bow while the cliffs go by.

On the way out of Lagos you also pass Ponta da Piedade, the headland of grottos and rock pillars right next to the marina, so a Benagil day covers both of the Algarve's best-known coastal sights.

Private charter or group tour?

Large group boats to Benagil usually leave from towns much closer to the cave, such as Portimão, Carvoeiro or Armação de Pêra, and work to a fixed timetable. A private charter from Lagos suits you if you are staying in or near Lagos and want:

only your own group on board, from 2 people up to 8 on our larger boat;
a route and pace that you choose, with time to swim and snorkel;
a skipper and host who can explain what you are seeing;
drinks, snacks, towels, paddle boards and snorkel gear without paying extra on board.

When to go

The sea decides everything with Benagil. The trip runs well on calm days, which are most common from late spring to early autumn. Mornings are often calmer and quieter at the cave than the middle of the day. If the forecast is poor, we will suggest a better day rather than take you out in a swell that would spoil it.

What to bring

Swimwear, sunscreen, sunglasses, a hat and a light layer for the ride back. Towels, snorkels and paddle boards are on board. A waterproof phone pouch is useful for photos at the cave.