Can you swim inside Benagil Cave?

Yes if you arrive by kayak or SUP. Boat tours typically circle the entrance and don't allow disembarking. Kayak tours generally land for 10-15 minutes inside the cave.

Best base in the Algarve?

Albufeira for nightlife and family resorts; Lagos for the most scenic beaches; Tavira for traditional Portuguese feel; Sagres for surfers and end-of-the-world views.

Are dolphin watching tours suitable for kids?

Most are, especially the catamaran options. Smaller speedboat tours can be choppy. Sightings are typically guaranteed May-October.

🇵🇹

Algarve

Portugal · 3 tours available

This page contains affiliate links. If you book through our links, we earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. Learn more

The Algarve is Portugal's golden coast: 200km of dramatic cliffs, hidden coves, and beaches the colour of caramel. Benagil Cave — the iconic sea grotto with a hole-in-the-ceiling — is the most-photographed spot in the country and only reachable by boat or kayak. Boat tours from Albufeira, Lagos, and Portimão all stop here; kayak tours offer the rare chance to actually land inside. Beyond Benagil, the western Algarve (Sagres, Cabo de São Vicente) feels wilder and less developed. The central section (Albufeira, Lagos) is the family beach hub with the largest concentration of tours. East of Faro, the Ria Formosa lagoon hides quiet beaches reachable only by ferry. Dolphin sightings are reliable from May to October across the whole coast. The Algarve's tourist season runs April to early November. July-August is peak European holiday season; book accommodation and popular tours well ahead. May, June, September, and October offer 22-26°C and far fewer crowds.