Can You Swim to Benagil Cave? The Truth from a Local Guide
If you’re planning a visit to the famous Benagil Sea Cave in the Algarve, you might be wondering: can I just swim there from the beach?
As a local guide who works in Benagil every day, here’s the honest answer and the latest official rules you need to know in 2025.
The Short Answer:
Swimming to Benagil Cave is No Longer Allowed
As of recent regulations set by the Harbour Captain of Portimão, swimming to Benagil Cave is officially prohibited.
This includes swimming on your own, with floatation devices like bodyboards, inflatables, or swimming buoys.
Why Is Swimming to the Cave Banned?
The decision was made for your own safety — and for better organization of such a high-traffic natural site.
Here are the main reasons:
⛔ Access to the cave beach is forbidden, so swimming there is no longer allowed or useful.
🌀 Currents and unpredictable waves near the cave
🚤 Heavy boat and kayak traffic, especially in summer
🧭 Lack of visibility from captains or guides approaching the area
🆘 Emergency rescues have become too common in recent years
So What Are Your Legal Options to Visit the Cave?
Currently, there are only three legal ways to enter the cave:
🛶 By kayak – the most eco-friendly and flexible option.
🏄♂️ By stand-up paddleboard – also eco-friendly, but slower and more tiring, especially for beginners who often fall off and slow down the group, affecting the overall experience.
🚤 By licensed boat tour – no paddling required, but you must stay inside the boat at all times.
🚫 Note: Jumping out of a boat and swimming into the cave is not allowed.
The Best Way to Visit Benagil cave? With a Guided Kayak Tour
As a local guide who’s in Benagil every day, I believe that kayak tours offer one of the most authentic ways to experience the cave and its surroundings.
With a small-group kayak experience, you’ll enjoy:
🕶️ Closer and quieter contact with the cave, allowing for beautiful photo perspectives
🌊 A peaceful, eco-friendly journey, guided safely through the sea conditions
📸 Access to stunning rock formations and small caves that boats can’t reach
🤫 A more intimate experience with the coastline — slower, calmer, and more connected to nature
⛔️ Note: Landing inside the Benagil cave is no longer allowed but kayaking lets you get up close to its entrance, enjoy the view from the water, and truly feel the magic of the place.
What Happens if You Try to Swim Anyway?
Besides putting yourself in danger, here’s what could happen:
🚔 You may be fined by maritime authorities
🚑 You risk needing rescue in case of exhaustion or injury
👮♂️ Lifeguards and local patrols will stop you before you get far
Final Advice from a Local
The Benagil Cave is worth the visit — but it’s not worth risking your safety or breaking the law.
Choose a legal, safe, and guided experience, and you’ll enjoy the cave without stress.