Kayaking in Portugal: The Best Places to Paddle

Kayaking is one of the best ways to see Portugal’s coastline and rivers up close: paddling into the Algarve’s sea caves, along the turquoise Arrábida coast, or down quiet rivers past vineyards. Here are the best places to kayak in Portugal.

Quick answer: the classic trip is kayaking to the Benagil cave and the grottos of the central Algarve. Also great are Ponta da Piedade in Lagos, the Arrábida coast from Sesimbra, and river trips on the Mira at Vila Nova de Milfontes. Guided tours provide equipment and choose safe conditions. See kayak tours.

The best places

• Benagil and the sea caves: paddle into the famous cave and nearby grottos. See Benagil kayak tours. See the Benagil cave.
• Ponta da Piedade, Lagos: rock arches and hidden coves. See Lagos kayak tours.
• Arrábida and Sesimbra: clear water below green cliffs. See Sesimbra kayak tours.
• The Mira river: a calm paddle upriver from Vila Nova de Milfontes. See Milfontes.
• Odeceixe: the river at the beach. See Odeceixe.
• Lagoons: Óbidos Lagoon and the Ria Formosa. See Foz do Arelho.

Safety

• Go with a guide on the ocean, where swells and currents change quickly.
• Calm mornings: the sea is usually calmer early in the day.
• Benagil rules: landing on the cave beach is not allowed.
• Sun protection: reflections off the water are strong.

More: the best boat trips in Portugal and Algarve boat trips.

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