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Explore the Blue Cave in Biševo | Highlights & More

The Blue Cave (Modra Špilja) on Biševo Island is one of Croatia’s most mesmerizing natural wonders. Sunlight enters through an underwater opening, bouncing off the limestone seabed to illuminate the interior in a glowing blue hue. Accessible only by small boats, the cave feels otherworldly, with silvery reflections that make both the walls and water shimmer. It’s a must-see stop on most Adriatic island-hopping tours from Split, Hvar, or Vis.

Plan Your Visit to the Blue Cave

The Blue Cave is open daily from May to October when sea conditions allow. Entry usually begins around 9:00 AM and closes by 5:00 PM. Visits may be suspended on windy or stormy days for safety reasons.

Closed: November–April (due to sea conditions).

The cave is at its most magical between 11:00 AM and 1:00 PM, when sunlight hits the underwater entrance at the perfect angle. July and August are the busiest months; for fewer crowds, aim for May–June or September–October. Early mornings are calmer, while midday ensures the strongest glow.

Plan your Blue Cave visit

The Blue Cave is located on Biševo Island, about 5 km southwest of Vis in the Dalmatian coast of Croatia.

  • Nearest landmark: Komiža on Vis Island (a 15-minute boat ride away).
  • From Split/Trogir: High-speed boat tours take ~1.5–2 hours.
Getting to Blue Cave

What to do at the Blue Cave?

Corfu day cruise boat near Paxos Antipaxos Blue Caves with Gaios village in view.
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Boat Ride into the Cave

Hop on a small wooden boat operated by licensed guides. The narrow entrance requires visitors to duck as the skipper navigates inside, creating a sense of anticipation before the glow reveals itself.

Experience the Glow

Once inside, you’ll witness the surreal blue light that makes the cave world-famous. The water glows beneath you, and the walls shimmer—an unforgettable natural spectacle lasting around 10–15 minutes.

Combine with Island Hopping

Most tours combine the Blue Cave with stops at Vis, Hvar, Budikovac (Blue Lagoon), or the Pakleni Islands, giving you a full day of swimming, snorkeling, and exploring.

Photography

The ethereal light creates one of the most photogenic spots in Croatia. Wide-angle and low-light settings capture the glow best, but simply soaking in the view is just as memorable.

What to See at the Blue Cave

Corfu day cruise boat near Paxos Antipaxos Blue Caves with Gaios village in view.

The Glow Chamber

The main chamber filled with shimmering blue light.

From happy customers

Loved by 43 million+
Reka Lorinczi
HU

Reka

Hungary
Aug 2025
5/5
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review-image
review-image
Loved the experience, great vibes, great DJ, great weather, awesome promoters. Lucky, the promoter took care of me (as a solo female traveler, sometimes you need an extrovert to hype you up and include you) ! Owner was also there to oversee everything and make sure that everyone is having a good time!
Bertrand Schmied
CH

Bertrand

Switzerland
Jul 2025
5/5
Many thanks for a wonderful day! Despite the guide's absence, the boat's driver calmly and professionally handled both navigation and explanations. His constant attention to the wind and the sometimes turbulent conditions made the tour all the more impressive. An unforgettable experience, combining scenic beauty and boat handling. Well done to him
Mairead Slevin
AU

Mairead

Australia
Sep 2024
5/5
Loved the variety of stops and the swimming opportunities. The small group (11 of us) was the perfect size. Communication with the tour guide prior to the trip was good. Would highly recommend this great day out
Mireia del Mar Álvarez Morcillo

Mireia

May 2023
5/5
Marco was a really friendly guide who was really aware for everyone to have fun, eat and drink well, it was awesome, we did 4 stops and two of them were to snorkel, we did, the points were a bit dirty but it was fun! The music was perfect and the weather joined us! Marco and the sailor were really kind and friendly and the food was really good with the free white wine! The restaurant was perfect! I RECOMEND IT A LOT!
Frank Chitralla

Frank

Sep 2024
5/5
Everything was fine. Only the email from Headout stated a starting location, which was not correct. And it was also written that you had to be there by 7.00am. It was not clear to me that the departure point had been changed and that the time for the meeting point had also been changed to 7.15 am. This made the start very hectic for me! Best regards

History of the Blue Cave in a Nutshell

The Blue Cave was first described in the 19th century by Baron Eugen von Ransonnet, an Austrian explorer who introduced it to the wider world. Originally accessible only to skilled divers, the cave was later widened to allow small boats. Today, it’s a protected natural monument, carefully regulated to balance visitor access with conservation. Its fame grew as artists, poets, and travelers spread word of its unearthly beauty, making it one of Croatia’s most visited natural attractions.

Conservation & Responsible Tourism

The Blue Cave is a fragile ecosystem. Swimming inside is prohibited to protect the water clarity and prevent damage. Visitors are asked to follow skipper instructions, avoid littering, and book with certified operators that comply with local sustainability practices. By respecting these rules, you help preserve the cave for future generations.

Helpful tips for visiting the Blue Cave

  • Book in advance: Tours sell out quickly in peak season (June–August), especially morning slots when the light is best.
  • Go early: Aim for morning departures (10 am–12 pm) when sunlight creates the most vivid blue glow inside the cave.
  • Bring cash: The cave entry fee (€12–€14) is often collected on-site and may not accept cards.
  • Pack essentials: Sunscreen, hat, water shoes, swimwear, and a towel. The rocky beaches and sharp stones can be tough barefoot.
  • Check the weather: Cave access depends on calm seas. Rough waters or high winds can cancel or delay entry.
  • Choose the right tour: Full-day 5-island tours include more highlights; half-day trips are quicker but cover fewer stops.
  • Mind the queues: Expect a wait during peak hours as boats queue to enter the cave. Patience is key.
  • Stay hydrated: Bring water, especially in summer when it gets hot on the boat.
  • Capture the moment: Cameras struggle inside the cave; phones often do better for the glowing blue effect.

Frequently asked questions about Blue Cave Bisevo

How do you get to the Blue Cave on Bisevo Island?

To reach the Blue Cave, you'll need to take a boat tour from islands like Vis, Hvar, or Split. The tours typically include other stops like the Green Cave or Stiniva Bay, making the trip an exciting island-hopping experience.

Is it safe to swim inside the Blue Cave?

Swimming is not allowed inside the Blue Cave to preserve its delicate environment. However, most tours offer other swimming spots nearby, like the Green Cave or secluded bays on nearby islands.

How long should you spend at the Blue Cave?

Most tours offer 15-20 minutes inside the Blue Cave itself, which is enough to admire its stunning blue light effects. However, the overall experience can take several hours if you consider boat transfers and other nearby attractions. A half-day tour is typically ideal, especially if you want to enjoy other nearby spots like Stiniva Cove.

What are the facilities and amenities available at the Blue Cave?

The Blue Cave is located on a small island, so facilities are limited. There are no restrooms or dining options at the cave itself. However, on the nearby island of Vis, you’ll find restaurants, cafes, and restrooms. Be sure to carry essentials like water and snacks, especially if you’re taking a longer tour.

What makes the Blue Cave on Bisevo so unique?

The Blue Cave is famous for the mesmerizing blue light that fills the cave when sunlight reflects off the white seabed. This natural phenomenon creates an otherworldly glow that visitors come from all over the world to witness. The best time to see this effect is around midday when the light is at its strongest.

What are the best times to visit the Blue Cave?

The best time to visit is between 11:00 AM and 1:00 PM when the sunlight creates the brightest blue reflection in the cave. Visiting early in the day can also help avoid larger crowds.

What should I wear when visiting the Blue Cave?

Comfortable, light clothing and swimwear are recommended, as many tours also stop at beaches. Don’t forget sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat, as you’ll be on the water for several hours. A light jacket might be useful as it can get chilly on the boat.

Is the Blue Cave accessible for people with mobility challenges?

Unfortunately, the Blue Cave is not very accessible to those with mobility issues. The boats used are typically small, and the entrance to the cave is low, requiring passengers to duck down as they enter.

What are the nearby attractions to visit along with the Blue Cave?

Many tours combine the Blue Cave visit with other stunning locations such as the Green Cave, Stiniva Cove, and Komiza town on Vis island. These stops offer swimming, snorkeling, and relaxing beach time.

How far in advance should I book Blue Cave tickets during peak season?

During the summer months, especially July and August, it's best to book at least a week in advance to ensure availability. Tours can sell out quickly during this time.

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