Little Blue Cave – Small Blue Cave on the Coast of Zastražišće

The Little Blue Cave is a hidden sea cave located along the rocky northern coast of Hvar, nestled between the bays of Kruševa and Pokrivenik in the Zastražišće area. Unlike the well-known Blue Cave on the island of Biševo, this site lacks a large tourist terminal, entrance fees, or queues of boats – it is a much smaller and simpler natural attraction that can only be accessed by sea.

The most captivating moment occurs upon entering the darker interior. Once your eyes adjust to the dim light, the sea and rocks take on vivid shades of blue and turquoise. This effect is created by sunlight passing through the water and the cave's opening, meaning the appearance of the interior varies depending on the time of day, the sun's position, and the sea conditions.

A Small Cave, but a Unique Experience

The Little Blue Cave is not large enough for extensive exploration by boat. The entrance is relatively small, and the main experience here is a brief swim and exploration of the interior.

From the outside, the opening may appear quite dark and unremarkable. Only after entering does it become clear why the cave has its name – the light coming from the sea illuminates the water and creates a blue glow on the rocky walls.

Its small size is its greatest distinction from more famous sea caves. The visit feels more intimate and is most enjoyable when there are not too many people inside.

How to Reach the Little Blue Cave?

You cannot reach the cave by car. Road access ends at the surrounding bays, and the final part must be traversed by sea.

The most practical way to get there is by small boat, and from the nearby Pokrivenik, it is also possible to set off on a SUP board or kayak when the sea and wind are calm. Local guides recommend Pokrivenik as one of the natural starting points for heading to the cave.

Short excursions by small boats connecting Kruševa, Pokrivenik, and the Little Blue Cave are also organised. One local trip departs from the bay of Milna in the Zastražišće area and includes a stop for swimming in the cave.

Can You Swim There?

Theoretically, it is possible to swim to the cave from a nearby part of the coast, but this is not an option to recommend to the average tourist.

The distance, open sea, passing vessels, wind, and the potential for sudden changes in conditions make this approach significantly less safe than arriving by boat, kayak, or SUP. Local guides also indicate that access without a vessel is suitable primarily for very competent swimmers.

For most visitors, a small boat is by far the simplest and safest choice.

Entering and Swimming in the Cave

The Little Blue Cave is particularly interesting because swimming is allowed inside. Local excursions plan stops for swimming within the cave, and its interior is spacious enough for smaller boats to enter under suitable conditions.

When entering, care should be taken around the rocks, especially if there are waves. Sea caves are not equipped swimming areas – there are no handrails, platforms, or supervision, and the rocks at the edges can be sharp and slippery.

It is best to enter slowly, avoiding climbing on wet rocks and maintaining a safe distance from any vessels that may be entering or exiting.

When is the Cave at its Most Beautiful?

The appearance of the Little Blue Cave is heavily dependent on the sun. A sunny day and relatively calm sea are needed for the pronounced blue effect.

Unlike the Blue Cave on Biševo, which has a specific time of day known for the strongest illumination, there is no universally established 'ideal hour' for this smaller cave. The angle of light changes throughout the season, so it is better to expect varying shades rather than plan a visit for a precise minute.

Calm seas are just as important as sunshine. When the waves are stronger, entering through the small opening becomes less pleasant and potentially unsafe.

Wind Conditions are Important on this Side of Hvar

The Little Blue Cave is located on the northern coast of Hvar, so it is advisable to check the bora and other northern winds before setting out.

Even when the waters in the deeper bays of Pokrivenik or Kruševa are relatively calm, the open stretch of coast between them can be more exposed to waves. This is particularly important for SUP and kayak users, who should only venture out in stable weather.

If the sea is rough, it is better to postpone the visit to the cave for another day.

Little Blue Cave is Not the Blue Cave on Biševo

Due to their names, it is easy to confuse them, but they are entirely different attractions.

The well-known Blue Cave is located on the island of Biševo near Vis and is one of the most visited excursions in central Dalmatia. The Little Blue Cave is situated right along the coast of Hvar and is much smaller, lacking an organised entry system and extensive tourist infrastructure.

The focus here is on swimming and briefly exploring the small natural cave, rather than on organised sightseeing from a tourist boat.

Combine Your Visit with Kruševa and Pokrivenik

The Little Blue Cave does not make much sense to view as a standalone full-day destination. It is much better as part of an exploration of this area along the northern coast of Hvar.

To the west lies the tranquil bay of Kruševa, while to the east is Pokrivenik, one of the largest and most sheltered bays in the Zastražišće area. Local excursions connect these locations into a short sea route.

For guests with their own small boat, kayak, or SUP, this is one of the more interesting parts of the coast to explore, provided the weather conditions are good.

Useful Information

  • Name: Little Blue Cave
  • Croatian Descriptive Name: Mala plava špilja / mala Modra špilja
  • Location: northern coast of Hvar, Zastražišće area
  • Position: between the bays of Kruševa and Pokrivenik
  • Type of Attraction: sea cave
  • Car Access: not possible to the cave itself
  • Easiest Access: by small boat
  • Alternative Access: by kayak or SUP on calm seas
  • Swimming from the Shore: possible only for very competent swimmers and under safe conditions; not recommended as a usual means of access
  • Swimming in the Cave: yes, when sea conditions allow safe entry
  • Entrance Fee: there is no organised entry system or entrance fee for the cave
  • Equipment: a snorkel mask can enhance the experience, and water shoes are useful due to the rocks
  • Wind: due to its location on the northern coast, it is important to check the bora
  • Best Conditions: sunny day and calm sea
  • Nearby: Kruševa and Pokrivenik
  • Important: do not confuse with the Blue Cave on Biševo
  • Special Feature: blue-turquoise reflections of the sea and rocks within the small natural sea cave