Table of Contents
So you’ve heard about the magical beauty of the Blue Cave in Croatia and now you’re wondering about its exact location. You’re not the only one! Each year, tourists and adventurers from around the world come to Croatia wanting to experience the otherworldly glow of the cave. But it’s not exactly that easy to get to. So where is Blue Cave in Croatia?
This guide will provide you with all the essential information about its location so you can better plan for your visit. Let’s embark on this journey to discover the Blue Cave!
1. The Blue Cave – basic information
Before we dive deeper into the question at hand, let’s get you acquainted with the basic information about The Blue Cave, locally known as Modra Špilja.
It’s a natural sea cave located on the secluded island of Biševo. Known for its memorable blue light, the cave was discovered in the late 19th century and has since become a must-see natural wonder for tourists. Its characteristic blue glow is created naturally, when sunlight passes through an underwater opening and reflects off the cave’s white limestone floor. The effect even makes underwater objects look silver!
Many describe it as a truly magical sight that leaves visitors in awe.
2. Where is Blue Cave in Croatia?
If you want to visit the cave, it’s important to know that it’s not that close to the mainland. So some planning will be necessary!
The Blue Cave is situated on the eastern side of Biševo, a small secluded island in the Adriatic Sea. The island is so small that there are no roads or cars and it can only be accessed by a boat. Biševo is part of Croatia’s Dalmatian Coast and is located southwest of the larger island of Vis – the nearest inhabited island with some infrastructure.
Even though the Blue Cave is not the only cave on Biševo, it surely is the most impressive one.
The cave is approximately 5 nautical miles from Komiža, a charming town on Vis. But for those starting in Split, the Blue Cave is about 40 nautical miles away and depending on the mode of transfer you choose it can take you up to 3+ hours to get there!
3. How to get to the Blue Cave
Getting to the Blue Cave involves a bit of planning, but the journey is part of the adventure! Of course, it all depends on your starting point but you’ll need to go by boat.
If you’re staying in Split, you can take a ferry (the most time-consuming option) or join a boat tour that includes a stop at the Blue Cave (recommended). These tours often depart early in the morning and offer a full day of exploration – this way you get to experience multiple attractions in a single day!
Bear in mind that a boat ride from Split to Biševo can take 1.5 to 2 hours, depending on the weather conditions and a number of stops along the way. Ferries will take even longer since they’re slower. And they can only take you to Vis and not Biševo.
You can also join boat tours from Hvar, Trogir or Vis, depending on where you’re staying.
If you’re staying on Vis, you can skip classic boat tours and catch a local boat from Komiža directly to Biševo. Once there, you’ll have to wait in line and pay an entrance fee, and take another small boat that can take you directly into the cave.
For a more personalized experience, consider booking a private boat transfer.
4. What to expect upon arrival
Once you arrive at the Blue Cave, you’ll be transferred to a smaller boat to enter the cave. The entrance is quite narrow, so only small boats can pass through. You might have to pay an entrance fee if it wasn’t included in the price of your boat tour. And no, you can’t enter with your own boat because a) it’s probably too big, and b) there are rules in place to protect and preserve the cave so not any vehicle can simply enter at will.
Once inside, you’ll be greeted by the stunning blue light that illuminates the cave’s interior. The visit inside the cave usually lasts up to 15 minutes, so make it count! Take in the beauty and snap some photos, but don’t get stuck behind the camera. Let yourself enjoy the magic without any lenses or filters in front of you.
It’s a short but unforgettable experience!
5. Nearby attractions and islands
While the Blue Cave is a highlight, the surrounding area also has much to offer. While in Biševo, you can also visit the Monk Seal Cave, another intriguing sea cave. The nearby island of Vis boasts beautiful beaches, historic sites, and charming towns like Komiža and Vis Town. Don’t miss Stiniva Cove, a secluded breathtaking beach that’s often a part of Blue Cave tours.
For a complete island-hopping experience, consider extending your trip to Hvar, known for its vibrant nightlife and stunning landscapes.
6. Tips for visiting the Blue Cave
To make the most of your visit, here are some tips.
The best time to see the Blue Cave’s magical light is between 11 am and 2 pm when the sun is at its highest point. Book your tour in advance, especially during peak season, to secure your spot.
Bring essentials like sunscreen, a hat, some water, and a waterproof camera to capture the beauty. Lastly, be mindful of the weather and sea conditions, as tours can be affected, and even canceled, by rough seas.
Time to start planning your visit to the Blue Cave!
Now that you know everything about its location, you can start planning your trip to this magical cave of wonders. Located on the charming little island of Biševo, not far from Vis island, it offers a unique tourist experience. Whether you’re drawn by the stunning blue hue or the adventure of getting there, the Blue Cave is worth the visit. Especially if you take a boat tour that will let you discover many other Adriatic gems along the way!
We hope this guide helps you plan your trip and makes your journey to the Blue Cave a memorable one.