How to Visit Algar Seco, Boneca Cave and Carvoeiro Boardwalk
Algar Seco is a hidden gem in Carvoeiro that we discovered by chance during our trip to Portugal. Can you believe this incredible place is free to visit? Take a cliff walk and explore the caves, walk through tunnels, and take stunning photos. There is also a place where you can swim or jump off the rocks into the ocean.
This ultimate guide to Algar Seco includes the best time to visit, how to get there, what to expect during your visit, and some inspirational photos.
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Where is Algar Seco?
It is located in the Algarve region of Portugal, in the town of Carvoeiro, between Portimao and Albufeira. You can easily combine your visit with the famous Benagil Cave, which is just a 10-minute drive away.
How to Get to Algar Seco & Parking
Most people arrive by car or scooter from nearby towns or villages. Once you arrive, it is only a short walk from the parking lot. However, if you are staying in Carvoeiro, you can walk from the beach to Algar Seco in approximately 15 minutes via the Carvoeiro Boardwalk.
Parking can be difficult during peak season as the parking lot is small and fills up quickly. Parking was free during our visit.
What to See & Do in Algar Seco
Algar Seco is home to unique rock formations and limestone cliffs that stretch along the coastline and are accessed via steps carved into the rocks. The impressive shapes of the limestones were created by sea erosion.
TIP
In summer, we recommend arriving early in the morning to avoid the midday heat, as there is no shade.
A Boneca (Boneca’s Cave)
From the parking lot, go down the staircase, through the restaurant, and turn right to reach the entrance to the cave. At the end of the cave, there are two large natural windows/openings overlooking the ocean where you can take stunning photos. As space is limited, expect a queue.
The Boneca Cave is open 24 hours a day and is free to visit.
With some imagination, the cave looks like a doll’s head, with the holes serving as eyes when viewed from the sea. That’s where it got its name, “A Boneca”, which means “the doll” in Portuguese.
Algar Seco Caves & Blowhole
From Boneca’s Cave, head back to the parking lot and turn right before you reach it. You can walk down the steps to a natural pool and then walk around the site. Be careful, there is no handrail, and you can easily slip.
There is a place where you can also do cliff jumping if you are brave.
Carvoeiro Boardwalk
After exploring the areas, don’t miss the Carvoeiro Boardwalk, a beautiful promenade along the cliffs overlooking the sea. It doesn’t take long to walk from one end to the other, and there are plenty of benches where you can rest and enjoy the view. It is ideal for families, young children, and the elderly.
Halfway along the promenade, you can walk down a wooden staircase to a rocky area where you can explore various caves and tunnels.
We arrived at sunset and were lucky because we were able to take great pictures due to the magical lights.
Recommended post → Things to Do in the Algarve
Take a boat trip and see the cliffs of Algar Seco
From Carvoeiro, there are many boat trips to the popular Benagil Caves or one of our favorite spots, Praia da Marinha. Along the way, you will pass by Algar Seco, where you can see the cliffs and the two natural windows of the Boneca Cave.
Where to Stay in Carvoeiro
The best places to stay in the town are near the beach. Although these accommodations are a bit expensive, they offer a perfect view.
Hotels like Castelo Guest House are located in a quiet area, within easy walking distance of the town and the beach. However, the Quinta das Andorinhas is an affordable accommodation outside the town, but you will need a car to get to the attractions.
If you are traveling with your family, Tivoli Carvoeiro is the perfect choice. Just steps from the picturesque promenade and the village of Carvoeiro. For the best experience, stay at Algar Seco Parque, located next to the attraction.
Recommended post → Where to Stay in the Algarve
Best Time to Visit Carvoeiro, Algarve
Portugal is the perfect all year round destination, with beautiful and sunny weather. But the best time to visit the Algarve is from May to September. As the Carvoeiro is a popular holiday destination, we recommend booking your accommodation and tours in advance!
Don’t miss the iconic postcard photo of Carvoeiro at the end of the promenade, which offers great views, especially at sunset.
We hope you found our guide to Algar Seco useful and will inspire you to visit Carvoeiro. If you have any questions or thoughts, let us know in the comment below.
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