Lagoa e Carvoeiro

Grotte e cavità a Lagoa e Carvoeiro

Coastal Caves and Sinkholes

The Algarve coastline near Benagil is defined by its karst topography, where millennia of erosion have carved intricate sea caves and vertical sinkholes, known locally as "algars," into the golden limestone cliffs. This selection features the iconic Gruta de Benagil with its natural skylight and sandy beach, alongside numerous lesser-known fissures and hollows. These geological formations are primarily accessible by water via boat, kayak, or paddleboard, offering a direct view of the region's unique coastal geology and maritime erosion patterns.

Coastal Caves and Sinkholes — Mappa

Luis Caprichoso / CC BY 3.0

A

Gruta de Benagil

Large sea cave featuring a natural skylight and a small interior beach. It is accessible only by water, typically via boat, kayak, or stand-up paddleboard from nearby Benagil Beach.

Sygic Travel User / CC-BY-SA

B

Algar de Benagil

The upper opening of the Benagil cave, this sinkhole provides a view into the cavern from the cliffside trail. The area is fenced for safety.

Trolez Stephanie / CC-BY-SA

C

Algar

Coastal limestone cave formation.

D

A Boneca

Located within the Algar Seco rock formations, this cave features two natural openings facing the ocean that resemble the eyes of a doll.

E

Algar

Natural vertical sinkhole formed by limestone erosion along the coastal cliffs.

F

Algar

Vertical sinkhole located along the clifftop hiking routes between Benagil and Marinha beaches.

G

Algar

Limestone sinkhole characteristic of the Algarve's karst landscape.

H

Algar

Sea cave hollowed out of the golden limestone cliffs.

I

Algar

Vertical opening in the cliff plateau near Praia da Albandeira.

J

Algar

Natural sinkhole formation resulting from chemical weathering of the limestone.

K

Algar Albandeira

Large sinkhole situated near the Albandeira natural arch, showcasing the region's advanced coastal erosion.