Guide 2025: Official Rules for Visiting Benagil Cave. What You Need to Know

Benagil Cave is one of the Algarve's most iconic natural wonders — a sea-cave with a skylight, golden sands, and dramatic cliffs. But as of August 2024, new regulations came into force that change how visitors can access and explore the cave. Whether you plan to arrive by boat, kayak, or paddleboard, it's crucial to know the rules before you go.

What's the New Regulation & Why It Exists

The regulation is established by Edital 019/2024 – Navigation in the maritime area of the Benagil Caves, published by the National Maritime Authority (Autoridade Marítima Nacional, AMN), Port Captain of Portimão, in coordination with Lagoa Municipality, CCDR Algarve, ICNF, I.P., and other entities.

These rules entered into effect on 13 August 2024, after a public consultation process.

Purpose: to order the traffic of tour vessels, private boats, kayaks, and paddleboards; reduce risk; limit overcrowding; ensure safety; protect the marine environment (including the Parque Natural Marinho do Recife do Algarve – Pedra do Valado).

Key Rules You Must Know (From 2024 Onwards)

Prohibited:

• Disembarking (landing) on the sand inside the cave — for both private individuals and operators
• Anchoring or stopping inside the cave for extended periods
• Entering the cave with motorized vessels above a certain size
• Free swimming without a guide in high-risk conditions

What You Can Do (With Restrictions):

• Visit by guided kayak or SUP tour with a certified operator
• Enter by licensed boat tour (with time limits)
• Swim to the cave only under specific safe conditions and with proper supervision

Safety Tips for Visiting Benagil Cave

1. 1Always go with a guide. Local guides know the tides, currents, and safe windows for entry.
2. 2Check sea conditions. The cave can be dangerous in swells above 1.5m.
3. 3Book in advance. Operators are now limited in the number of groups they can take per day.
4. 4Respect wildlife. The area is part of a protected marine park — no touching rocks, corals, or marine animals.
5. 5Early morning is best. Calmer seas and fewer crowds before 10am.

How to Visit Benagil Cave with BlueXperiences

At BlueXperiences, all our guides are certified and fully compliant with the 2024 regulations. We run guided Kayak and SUP tours departing from Armação de Pêra, giving you a safe, legal, and unforgettable experience of this natural wonder.

Our tours include all equipment, GoPro footage of your adventure, and expert local knowledge about the cave's geology, history, and marine life.

Book your Benagil Cave tour today and experience one of Portugal's greatest natural wonders the right way.