Swim and Chill at Benagil

If you’re dreaming of a genuinely up-close encounter with the iconic Benagil Cave, this tour from Lagos might just be exactly what you need. Unlike the typical boat rides or kayak excursions that only skim the surface, this experience offers you the chance to swim directly into the cave, feeling the sand beneath your toes and truly enjoying the Algarve’s stunning coastline. It’s a lively, engaging outing that combines activity, natural beauty, and good vibes — perfect for those who want a bit more adventure and authenticity.

What we love most about this tour is the personal touch brought by the knowledgeable guides, especially Brodie, whose friendly attitude and insider tips make all the difference. Plus, the inclusion of a delicious, homemade lunch, refreshing drinks, and music creates a laid-back, enjoyable atmosphere.

One possible consideration is the physical effort involved — while suitable for moderate swimmers, it’s not for everyone, and conditions can be a bit choppy at times. The tour’s small group size and relaxed pace mean it’s ideal for travelers who appreciate a bit of a personal touch, fun company, and an active day on the water. If you’re looking for a memorable, active experience that’s both exhilarating and authentic, this tour checks many boxes.

Key Points

• Active and immersive: Swim directly into the Benagil Cave rather than just viewing from afar
• Excellent guides: Brodie’s fun, friendly approach adds genuine value
• Great value: Includes lunch, drinks, beach gear, and a memorable experience for the price
• Small group vibe: Intimate setting that fosters good energy and personalized attention
• Suitable for moderate swimmers: You’ll need basic swimming confidence
• Unique alternative: No crowded boats, just a personal, active adventure

The Experience in Detail: What to Expect

Starting Point and Transportation

The adventure kicks off at JAH SHAKA SURF SHOP in Lagos, a well-loved spot that makes meeting up straightforward. From here, you’ll hop into a fun van, where the soundtrack is lively, and the vibe is relaxed. The drive to Praia de Benagil takes about 40 minutes, passing by scenic views, with some reviewers mentioning that they enjoyed the music, beers, and sangria en route, which sets a cheerful tone for what’s ahead.

The Beach and the Swim

Once at the beach, the real fun begins. The guides set up everything you need — towels, shade, sunscreen, and beach games — before you venture into the water. The highlight is the 60-meter swim from the beach to the cave entrance, with life jackets, inflatables, and boards provided for support.

From reviews, it’s clear that the swim is manageable for those with moderate swimming skills, but conditions can be choppy, so wearing a wetsuit vest if visiting outside the peak months is advisable. Brodie and his team are attentive, making sure everyone feels safe and comfortable. As one reviewer notes, “If you’re not a great swimmer, just let Brodie know — he’ll hook you up with a floatie or paddleboard to keep you afloat.”

Inside the Cave

Arriving at the cave, you’ll get to feel the sand between your toes and take in the spectacular, natural arch that Portugal’s most famous sea cave is known for. Unlike many tours, this one actually takes you inside the cave, which is a unique and memorable experience. You’ll be swimming in clear waters, surrounded by impressive rock formations, with the guide providing insights along the way.

While some reviewers mentioned that it’s a little crowded among the big boats and kayaks, the small group size and direct entry into the cave make this trip stand out. Plus, for those who prefer a different perspective, you can rent a stand-up paddleboard (SUP) or kayak if you wish.

Lunch and Relaxation

After the swim, everyone gathers on the beach for a hearty, homemade deli-style lunch. The menu includes veggie options, ham, chouricão, cream cheese, hummus, bread, and condiments, with some reviews describing the food as “fantastic,” and Brodie’s homemade hummus receiving special mention. The drinks are equally enjoyable — Portuguese beer and sangria are included, adding to the relaxed, party-at-the-beach atmosphere.

Many reviews highlight how much guests appreciated the laid-back vibe, the good company, and the chance to just unwind in this stunning setting. Some even mentioned that Brodie’s hospitality extended beyond the tour — offering local recommendations for food and drinks afterward that were “some of the best in Portugal.”

Viewing the Cave from Above

If you want a different angle, the tour wraps up with a scenic walk along the cliffs, giving you a panoramic view of the cave from above. This is a perfect photo opportunity and a chance to appreciate the natural beauty from a different perspective.

Return and Reflection

The party van takes you back to Lagos around 6:30-7 pm, often with smiles, new friends, and plenty of stories to tell. The journey back is relaxed, with some reviewers joking about Brodie’s playlist and the good vibes all the way home.

Why This Tour Offers Great Value

At $58.14 per person, this experience packs a punch. It’s not just about seeing the cave — it’s about engaging with the environment, exercising, and sharing a fun day with good company. The tour includes everything you need: life jackets, inflatables, lunch, drinks, towels, and beach gear.

Compared to other options like boat trips or kayak rentals, which often cost more and don’t provide direct access into the cave, this swim-and-chill tour offers unique access, active involvement, and a laid-back atmosphere. It’s especially appealing to those who dislike the crowds often found in larger boat tours, or who prefer a more personal, hands-on approach to adventure.

The Small Group Advantage

With only your group participating, Brodie creates a friendly, inclusive environment. Multiple reviews highlight how this personal touch makes the experience feel special. Guests appreciated the relaxed vibe, the good energy, and Brodie’s genuine enthusiasm, which elevated the trip from just another tour to a memorable adventure.

The Guide’s Role

Many reviews specifically mention Brodie’s friendliness, knowledge, and good humor. His ability to make everyone feel safe and involved really shines through. He’s quick to adapt, offering support to less confident swimmers, and providing insider tips on the local area. His relaxed approach and attention to detail mean you’ll likely feel well taken care of without any overly rigid rules.

Possible Drawbacks and Considerations

While most guests rave about the experience, some reviewers note that conditions can be choppy, especially outside the summer months. Swimmers should have moderate physical fitness and basic confidence in their swimming ability.

The swim from the beach to the cave isn’t overly long, but it can be challenging if the sea is rough. It’s worth mentioning that the water visibility isn’t crystal clear due to potential crowds and waves, and some might find it hard to take photos amid the other swimmers and boats.

A few reviewers also mentioned that the van they traveled in was somewhat run-down, but this seemed a minor issue compared to the overall fun and value.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience is perfect for adventurous travelers who want to actively explore rather than just sit back and cruise. If you’re comfortable swimming in open water, enjoy socializing, and love the idea of swimming into a famous cave, this is a must-do. It’s also suited for those who appreciate small-group tours with personalized attention.

However, if you’re not confident in your swimming skills or prefer a more relaxed, less physically demanding experience, you might find this tour a bit challenging. In that case, a boat or kayak tour might better suit your style, but remember, those options usually only give you a sail-by view of the cave.

The Sum Up

This Swim and Chill at Benagil tour hits a sweet spot between adventure, relaxation, and authentic experience. It’s a lively, engaging way to get close to one of Portugal’s most iconic sights, with the added bonus of a great guide, tasty food, and a fantastic vibe. The small-group format makes it feel personalized and fun, not crowded or rushed.

If you’re after an active day that offers a bit of everything — stunning scenery, a swim into the famous cave, delicious food, and good company — this tour delivers on all fronts. It’s a fantastic choice for travelers who value genuine experiences, enjoy the water, and want a memorable story to tell back home.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for people who aren’t strong swimmers?
While designed for those with moderate swimming skills, you should let the guide know if you’re less confident. Support like life jackets, floaties, or paddleboards are available to ensure you’re comfortable and safe.

What should I bring with me?
The tour provides towels, sunscreen, beach gear, and inflatables. It’s a good idea to wear swimwear, bring a wetsuit vest if visiting outside the peak season, and perhaps a waterproof camera or phone holder to capture the moment.

How physically demanding is the swim?
The swim is about 60 meters from the beach into the cave, which most moderate swimmers can handle. Conditions can be choppy, so being comfortable in open water is important.

What’s included in the price?
You get life jackets, inflatables, a delicious homemade lunch with vegetarian and vegan options, drinks (beer and sangria), towels, shade, beach games, and music.

Are there any age or fitness restrictions?
It’s suitable for those with moderate fitness levels. Reviewers with varied ages have enjoyed it, but children or less active travelers should inform the guide beforehand.

How long does the whole tour last?
The experience lasts approximately 4.5 hours, with about 3 hours on the beach, including the swim, lunch, and walking around the cliffs.

What if the weather is bad?
The tour is weather-dependent. If canceled due to poor conditions, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

In essence, this tour offers a unique, hands-on way to experience the beauty of Benagil. It’s perfect for those who want an active, fun, and authentic adventure in the Algarve, with plenty of opportunities for socializing, enjoying good food, and making the most of Portugal’s stunning coastline.