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Green Cave Croatia | How to visit this coastal wonder

Just a short ride away from the Blue Cave, the Green Cave is another unique stop that’s just as memorable. Located on the islet of Ravnik, it’s known for the surreal green glow that lights up the water when sunlight pours through a hole in the cave’s ceiling. In this guide, you’ll find everything you need to know about visiting the Green Cave in Croatia.

What is the Green Cave?

Nature’s own light show

Set into the cliffs of Ravnik Island, just off the coast of Vis, this sea cave is famous for the striking emerald glow that fills its waters. The magic happens when a beam of sunlight streams through a hole in the cave’s ceiling and bounces off the sandy seafloor.

A peaceful contrast

While the nearby Blue Cave tends to draw the crowds, the Green Cave offers a calmer, more intimate atmosphere. And the best part is you can swim right into the cave, surrounded by the shimmering green light and the soft echoes of water against stone. It’s quiet, cool, and surprisingly meditative.

A hidden gem to add on

The Green Cave is often included as a short stop on tours heading to the Blue Cave, making it an easy and enriching add-on. There’s no need to choose between the two. Unlike the Blue Cave, which you can only enter by small boat at low tide, the Green Cave is large enough to swim into.

Highlights of the Green Cave

A cave you can swim into

You can actually swim inside it. Unlike other sea caves with narrow entrances, this one has a wide, arching mouth that lets in both boats and swimmers. As you paddle in, the water suddenly feels cooler, quieter. The stone ceiling rises above you like the dome of a natural cathedral, echoing the faint sound of waves and dripping water.

The Emerald light beneath you

The striking green glow of the Blue Cave isn’t an illusion, it’s a natural phenomenon caused by sunlight entering through an underwater opening and reflecting off the white limestone seabed. This filtered light mixes with the sea’s natural tones, creating an emerald shimmer that seems to light the cave from below.

Raw, unspoiled nature

The Green Cave is set into the rugged coastline of Ravnik Island, a place that still feels wild and untouched. The cliffs around the entrance are rough and dramatic, dotted with patches of scrub and limestone ledges where seabirds perch. There are no docks, no crowds, no buildings—just raw rock, open sky, and the turquoise sea stretching out in every direction.

How to visit the Green Cave

  • Green Cave is part of many half-day or full-day boat tours departing from Vis, Komiža, or even Split.
  • These tours often combine multiple highlights in the area, such as the Blue Cave, Stiniva Cove, and Budikovac Island.
  • Tour durations typically range from 4 to 8 hours, depending on the starting point and number of stops.
  • Snorkeling gear is usually provided on board, allowing you to explore inside the Green Cave if weather and time permit.
  • Private speedboat charters are a popular choice for travelers who want to set their own pace.
  • They’re ideal for couples, families, or small groups who want to avoid crowds and spend more time at each stop.
  • Depending on the size and type of boat, prices generally start around €300–€600 for a half-day trip, with pickup options from Vis, Komiža, or Hvar.
  • Most private skippers are flexible. If you want to linger in the Green Cave or swim inside, they’ll tailor the itinerary accordingly.

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  • If you're experienced and adventurous, it’s possible to kayak to the Green Cave from the southern shores of Vis Island.
  • This option is best suited for strong paddlers who are familiar with open-water conditions and have checked weather forecasts.
  • The waters around Ravnik can be unpredictable, sudden winds or currents may make the return trip challenging.
  • Always wear a life jacket, carry water, and avoid visiting during midday heat or windy afternoons.

Best time to visit the Green Cave

The best time to visit the Green Cave is between late May and early October, when the Adriatic offers reliably warm weather, calm seas, and the clearest underwater visibility. If your goal is to see the cave’s signature emerald glow, plan your visit between 11am and 2pm. That’s when the sun is high enough in the sky to shine directly through the natural hole in the cave’s ceiling and illuminate the water below. This light effect is entirely dependent on direct sunlight, so clear skies are key.

Tides in this part of the Adriatic don’t vary dramatically, so you can swim or boat into the cave comfortably throughout the day. However, morning tours tend to offer calmer sea conditions, especially in the peak summer months when afternoon winds can pick up. For fewer crowds and a more peaceful experience, early June and late September strike the perfect balance: the weather is still ideal, but the main tourist rush has either not yet begun or just passed.

Tips for visiting the Green Cave

  • Visit between 11am and 2pm to catch the sunlight streaming through the cave’s ceiling. This is when the green glow is most vivid.
  • Bring snorkel gear and waterproof shoes if your tour allows swimming; the seabed is rocky and the underwater view is worth it.
  • Avoid visiting on overcast days if your main goal is to see the green light effect. Clouds diminish the cave’s glow significantly.
  • Don’t dive or jump from boats near the cave entrance. The depth can be misleading and there may be submerged rocks.
  • Pack a dry bag for electronics if you plan to swim into the cave, especially since some tours stop just outside the entrance.
  • Use reef-safe sunscreen to avoid damaging the delicate marine ecosystem inside and around the cave.

Frequently asked questions about the Green Cave

Is it safe to swim in the Green Cave?

Yes, it’s generally safe, but always stay within the designated swim areas. The cave’s interior can be slippery, and lighting conditions shift quickly. Follow your guide’s instructions closely, especially when entering from the water.

How do I reach the Green Cave from Vis town?

You can join a boat tour from Vis or Komiža, with trips typically taking 20–30 minutes. These tours often include other stops like Blue Cave or Stiniva Cove, making Green Cave a seamless part of a half- or full-day excursion.

Can I visit the Green Cave and Blue Cave in one day?

Absolutely. Many local operators offer combo tours that include both caves, along with time for swimming, snorkeling, and sightseeing around the Vis archipelago. These are perfect for day-trippers from Split or Hvar.

Is the Green Cave child-friendly?

Yes but with some precautions. The waters are usually calm and boats can enter the cave directly, but it’s still essential to supervise children closely, especially if they plan to swim inside.

What’s the best time of year to visit the Green Cave?

Plan your visit between May and September for the warmest weather and best water clarity. This is when the cave’s green light phenomenon is most striking, and sea conditions are ideal for swimming or boating.

Do I need a permit or ticket to enter the Green Cave?

You don’t need a special permit if you’re visiting on a guided tour, but some boat operators include a small entrance fee in the ticket price.

Can boats go inside the Green Cave?

Yes, smaller tour boats can enter the cave directly, especially during calm sea conditions. If your boat doesn’t go in, you’ll likely have a chance to swim in while the boat anchors just outside.

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