Swim and Chill at Benagil

Dive into the Unique Experience of Swimming into Benagil Cave

This tour offers a fresh way to explore the iconic Benagil Cave—by swimming right into it rather than just viewing from the outside. For $58.14 per person, participants enjoy an approximately 4.5-hour adventure that begins in Lagos, Portugal. Unlike typical boat trips, this experience takes a more active approach, making it perfect for those who want a memorable, hands-on encounter with the cave.

A key feature is that you swim directly into the cave, which is a rare opportunity. The tour is suitable for moderate level swimmers, with provided safety gear like life jackets, boards, and inflatables. The guides, known for their friendly demeanor and local knowledge, make sure everyone feels comfortable. The experience also includes a delicious lunch, drinks, and music, creating a lively, relaxed atmosphere throughout the day.

Despite the physically active nature of the tour, it balances exercise with comfort—shower towels, shade, sunscreen, and optional stand-up paddleboards or kayaks are available for additional fun. The tour departs from a central meeting point in Lagos, making it accessible for visitors staying in or near town.

Key Points

• Swim into Benagil Cave, not just view it from a boat
• Suitable for moderate swimmers with safety gear provided
• Includes lunch, drinks, music, and beach amenities
• Small group vibe with friendly guides like Brodie
• Flexible options like paddleboarding or kayaking on-site
• Free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance

Starting Point at JAH SHAKA SURF SHOP IN LAGOS

The tour begins at JAH SHAKA SURF SHOP, located at Cândido dos Reis 112 in Lagos. From there, a fun van ride with music, beers, and sangria lasts around 40 minutes to the coast, setting a lively tone for the day. The meeting point is central and convenient, making it easy to join the adventure.

Once at the beach, the guides prepare you for the swim with life jackets, boards, and inflatables. The group then swims approximately 60 meters along the coast to the Benagil Cave, which is a highlight of this tour. After the swim, a well-deserved lunch with vegetarian options is served, followed by a scenic clifftop view of the cave.

The tour ends back at the original meeting point in Lagos around 6:30-7:00 pm, completing a full day of fun, exercise, and discovery.

What Makes the Swim into Benagil Cave Different

The most distinctive feature of this tour is entering the Benagil Cave by swimming rather than by boat or kayak. This approach provides a more immersive experience, allowing participants to feel the sand beneath their toes and enjoy the cave interior up close. The guides emphasize safety and comfort, helping those who are moderate swimmers feel at ease with life jackets and inflatables.

Unlike crowded boat tours or kayak trips, this activity offers a small group setting with personalized attention. The swim itself can be a bit challenging due to waves and water conditions, but with safety gear and a relaxed pace, it remains accessible for most who are comfortable in the water.

The guides are praised for their knowledge and friendly vibe, often making the trip lively and enjoyable. The lunch and drinks served on the beach add a social element, making it a full-day experience rather than just a quick visit.

The Route from Lagos to Benagil Beach and Cave

The journey from Lagos to the coast in a colorful van is part of the fun. Along the way, the guides play music and serve beers and sangria, creating a festive atmosphere. The coastal drive offers scenic views and a chance to learn more about the local area.

Upon arrival at Praia De Benagil, the group sets up for the swim with safety equipment and prepares for the 60-meter trek into the cave. The swim is designed to be manageable for moderate swimmers, but those with less confidence may opt for other water activities like paddleboarding or kayaking, which can be hired on the spot.

The clifftop viewing of the cave after the swim provides a panoramic perspective that complements the interior experience. This combination of swimming, relaxing, and sightseeing makes the tour well-rounded.

Inside the Benagil Cave: What You Can Expect

Swimmers enter the famous Benagil Cave, which is renowned for its natural beauty and impressive rock formations. The interior features sand at the bottom, giving the sensation of stepping into a natural amphitheater. The cave’s roof opening offers a unique view of the sky and sunlight streaming in.

While the water can be slightly rough, safety gear and experienced guides ensure a secure environment. The guides often share insights about the cave’s geology and local context, enriching your understanding of this natural wonder.

Post-swim, the group relaxes on the beach, enjoys the lunch—with vegan, vegetarian, and meat options—and takes in the view from the clifftop. Many reviews highlight that swimming into the cave is a more satisfying experience than just viewing it from afar.

Optional Paddleboard and Kayak Rentals on the Day

For those interested in alternative water activities, stand-up paddleboards and kayaks can be hired during the trip. These options provide a different perspective of the coast and are available for additional fun. Many guides are experienced and help beginners feel comfortable trying these out.

While the main attraction is swimming into the cave, these rentals allow for a more relaxed exploration of the coastline. The availability of these options adds flexibility and personalized fun to the day.

The Food, Drinks, and Beach Amenities

The lunch served on the beach is a major highlight, with plenty of vegan, vegetarian, and meat options such as ham, chouricao, cream cheese, hummus, and fresh veggies. The drinks include Portuguese beer and sangria, which many guests praise for its quality and refreshment.

Towels, beach games, shade, and sunscreen are provided, making it easy to relax and enjoy the day without worrying about gear. The lively music and social vibe foster a festive atmosphere that keeps the energy high throughout the afternoon.

The Guide Brodie: The Heart of the Tour

The tour features Brodie, a guide renowned for his friendly personality, local knowledge, and relaxed attitude. Many reviews describe him as knowledgeable, fun, and approachable, often sharing stories and making sure guests feel safe.

Brodie is also praised for organizing the lunch and drinks, creating a social and welcoming environment. His vibe and energy contribute significantly to the overall enjoyment, making the experience feel less like a formal tour and more like a day out with friends.

Practical Tips for Participants

Participants should have moderate physical fitness and be comfortable in the water. If someone is less confident in swimming, informing the guide allows for extra safety measures like floaties or additional support.

The tour can be more enjoyable during warm months; bringing wetsuit vests is recommended if water feels cold outside peak season. The swim to the cave can be choppy, so towel and sunscreen are essentials.

For a smoother experience, it’s advised to let the guides know your athletic level beforehand. The provided safety gear and support ensure most participants can partake comfortably.

Cancellation Policy and Booking Details

The tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours before the scheduled time, providing flexibility for changing plans. It requires good weather to proceed, and if canceled due to poor conditions, participants are offered a full refund or alternative date.

The activity is booked about 34 days in advance on average, emphasizing its popularity. The mobile ticket makes booking and access straightforward, and the private tour setup ensures an intimate experience.

Who Will Enjoy This Tour?

This swim and chill experience suits travelers who enjoy active water adventures, appreciate friendly guides, and want to avoid crowded boat tours. It’s ideal for moderate swimmers, those seeking a more authentic, personal encounter with Benagil Cave, and anyone interested in combining exercise, sightseeing, and socializing.

The tour balances adventure with comfort, making it especially appealing for groups or small parties looking for a fun, relaxed day exploring Portugal’s stunning coastline.

The Perfect Alternative to Boat and Kayak Tours

Unlike traditional boat trips or kayaking, this tour emphasizes swimming into the cave, which many reviews find more rewarding. The small group size and friendly guide create a personal, engaging atmosphere that enhances the overall experience.

While some water conditions might be challenging, the safety measures and guide support keep the activity accessible for most physically active participants. The lunch, drinks, and beach amenities round out the day, making it a complete package.

Final Thoughts on Swimming and Chilling at Benagil

This 4.5-hour tour offers a unique, active way to see the Benagil Cave, setting it apart from more conventional options. The friendly guide Brodie and the small group environment foster a relaxed yet adventurous atmosphere.

Most guests find this experience well worth the price, combining exercise, sightseeing, and social fun into one memorable day. It’s best suited for those comfortable in the water and seeking a more personal, off-the-beaten-path perspective of Portugal’s coastline.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for non-swimmers?
The tour is designed for moderate swimmers, with safety gear like life jackets and inflatables provided. If less confident, informing the guide allows for extra support such as floaties.

What should I bring for the swim?
Participants should wear swimwear and bring sunscreen, towels, and wetsuit vests if needed, especially outside peak season. The tour provides all necessary safety equipment.

Can I hire paddleboards or kayaks?
Yes, stand-up paddleboards and kayaks are available for hire on the day, offering alternative ways to explore the coast after the swim.

What is the cancellation policy?
Bookings are free to cancel up to 24 hours before the experience. Cancellations due to bad weather are fully refunded or can be rescheduled.

Who is the guide?
The guides, especially Brodie, are known for their friendly, knowledgeable, and relaxed approach, making the day enjoyable and safe for all participants.

Is food and drinks included?
Yes, the tour includes a delicious lunch with vegetarian, vegan, and meat options, along with Portuguese beer and sangria. Beach amenities like shades, towels, and beach games are also provided.

This tour offers a refreshing, active alternative to traditional boat trips, perfect for those wanting a personal touch and a true sense of achievement by swimming into one of Portugal’s most famous caves.