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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

Boats anchored in a clear bay with lush greenery on Biševo Island, Adriatic Sea.

The Blue Cave is open daily from May to October when sea conditions allow. Entry usually begins around 9am and closes by 5pm. 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 11am and 1pm, 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
Bisevo Island surrounded by the Adriatic Sea, viewed from a distance.

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.
Boat entering the illuminated Blue Cave with rocky walls.
Aerial view of Pakleni Islands, Croatia, with boats navigating the clear blue waters.
Visitors in a small boat explore the Blue Cave near Split.
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Boat ride into the cave

Hop aboard a small wooden boat guided by licensed skippers. The entrance to the cave is narrow, so you may need to duck slightly to enter.

Experience the glow

Witness the surreal blue glow that makes this cave world-famous. The water glimmers beneath you as the walls shimmer in ethereal light. You’ll spend about 10–15 minutes inside, so keep your camera ready and soak in this natural spectacle.

Combine with island hopping

Most tours combine the Blue Cave with a 5 island visit that includes stops at Vis, Hvar, Budikovac (Blue Lagoon), and 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

Swimming in the vibrant waters of a blue cave.

The glow chamber

The main chamber filled with shimmering blue light.

Boat entering Blue Cave on Adriatic Sea, Croatia.
Tourists approaching Blue Cave by boat on Bisevo Island, Croatia.

History of the Blue Cave in a nutshell

  • Pre-1884: Known locally to fishermen for centuries.
  • 1884: Austrian explorer Baron Eugen von Ransonnet-Villez introduces the cave to the world and creates an artificial entrance for boats.
  • Late 19th – mid 20th Century: The Blue Cave gains popularity as one of Dalmatia’s first major tourist attractions.
  • 1951: Declared a geomorphological monument of nature by the Yugoslav government.
  • 2019: Included in the Vis Archipelago UNESCO Global Geopark, recognizing its geological and ecological significance.
  • Present day: Welcomes about 150,000 visitors annually under strict conservation measures.

Conservation measures at the Blue Cave

To protect its fragile ecosystem and preserve its blue glow, several conservation measures have been implemented at the Blue Cave. Since 2019, swimming inside the cave has been strictly prohibited to prevent damage to the limestone surfaces and protect marine life, as previous swimming activity had affected water clarity and the cave’s luminous effect. Visits are now limited to about 15 minutes per boat group, reducing overcrowding and minimizing the impact of boat exhaust and human presence. Daily visitor numbers are also regulated through official tours that follow designated routes, ensuring controlled, environmentally responsible access.

In addition to visitor management, ongoing conservation efforts focus on education, research, and community engagement. Local authorities and tour operators run awareness programs encouraging responsible behavior.

Since being included in the UNESCO Global Geopark network in 2019, the site benefits from international support for sustainable management. Continuous environmental monitoring and scientific research track water quality, biodiversity, and geological stability, while local residents play an active role in enforcing conservation measures and promoting sustainable tourism.

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 11am and 1pm 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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