Sdragonato Sea Cave
Discover Zmajevo Oko, a mesmerizing sea cave on Dugi Otok, Croatia, famed for its dragon-eye shape and stunning sunset light beams.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
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From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Magical light beams appear
Sdragonato Sea Cave
Best Time
Magical light beams appear
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Discover Zmajevo Oko, a mesmerizing sea cave on Dugi Otok, Croatia, famed for its dragon-eye shape and stunning sunset light beams.
"A suggestive place formed by erosion, offering beautiful light beams at sunset for a magical atmosphere."
Book Boat Tours in Advance
Popular tours fill up quickly, especially for sunset. Book ahead to secure your spot! :ticket:
Check Photography Rules
Photography is sometimes restricted inside the cave. Confirm with your tour operator beforehand. :camerawithflash:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Dragon's Eye Formation
Dugi Otok Island, Croatia
A unique natural phenomenon where the sea has carved a hole in the rock, resembling a dragon's eye.
Magical Sunset Light Beams
Inside the cave
Witness stunning light beams pierce the water at sunset, creating an ethereal and photographic spectacle.
Cave Exploration by Boat
Coastal waters near Dugi Otok
Experience the thrill of entering the cave by boat, marveling at the sculpted rock formations and clear waters.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Accessing the Dragon's Eye
Best Light for Photos
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Book Boat Tours in Advance
Popular tours fill up quickly, especially for sunset. Book ahead to secure your spot! :ticket:
Check Photography Rules
Photography is sometimes restricted inside the cave. Confirm with your tour operator beforehand. :camerawithflash:
Consider a Swim
Some tours allow swimming in the cave. Bring your swimwear if you want to take a dip! :swimmer:
Combine with Other Caves
Many tours include visits to other beautiful sea caves in the area. :world_map:
Tips
from all over the internet
Book Boat Tours in Advance
Popular tours fill up quickly, especially for sunset. Book ahead to secure your spot! :ticket:
Check Photography Rules
Photography is sometimes restricted inside the cave. Confirm with your tour operator beforehand. :camerawithflash:
Consider a Swim
Some tours allow swimming in the cave. Bring your swimwear if you want to take a dip! :swimmer:
Combine with Other Caves
Many tours include visits to other beautiful sea caves in the area. :world_map:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about the Dragon's Eye Sea Cave, calling it a 'suggestive place' and a 'superb discovery.' The unique rock formations and the magical light beams, especially at sunset, are consistently praised. While some tours are brief, the visual spectacle and the opportunity for a refreshing swim make it a highly recommended stop.
"Very suggestive place that was formed thanks to the erosion of the rock by the action of water. We visited the small caves in about ten minutes thanks to the ferry tour returning from Lavezzi Island. When the sun begins to set you can see beautiful light beams that create a magical atmosphere."
Cristina
"Superb caves, well highlighted by the play of light. Beautiful structures. Guides who spoke French quite well. Photography is theoretically prohibited."
Daniel Audin
"Superb discovery and visit with boat entry"
Thierry Marlin
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Dragon's Eye (Zmajevo Oko) is located on Dugi Otok island in Croatia. The most common way to visit is by taking a boat tour from nearby towns like Zadar or from Dugi Otok itself. These tours often depart from bays like Brbinjšćica Bay. 
Direct car access to the cave is not possible. It's a sea cave, so boat access is required. Some tours might involve a short walk from a drop-off point, but the primary access is by water.
Yes, ferries operate to Dugi Otok from Zadar. Once on the island, you'll likely need to join a local boat tour to reach the Dragon's Eye.
Tours often depart from Zadar or directly from Dugi Otok, particularly from areas near Brbinjšćica Bay. Check with local tour operators for specific departure points and schedules.
Travel time varies depending on your departure point and the tour itinerary. Boat trips to Dugi Otok and its caves can range from a few hours to a full day.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
You'll need to purchase a ticket for a boat tour that includes the Dragon's Eye. Individual entry tickets to the cave itself are not typically sold as it's accessed by sea.
Prices vary depending on the tour operator, duration, and inclusions. Expect to pay anywhere from €30-€100+ per person for a half-day or full-day boat excursion.
Many boat tours offer the opportunity to swim in the cave or nearby waters. It's advisable to confirm this with your chosen tour provider when booking.
Generally, there are no strict age restrictions for boat tours, but it's always best to check with the tour operator, especially for very young children or if the sea conditions are rough.
It's highly unlikely and not recommended. The cave is best accessed by boat, and tours provide the necessary equipment and expertise for a safe and enjoyable visit.
📸 📸 Photography
Photography is often permitted, but some tours may have restrictions. It's crucial to ask your guide before taking photos, especially if using flash or drones.
Sunset is highly recommended for the most dramatic lighting, with sunbeams creating a magical atmosphere.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the cave's scale. If visiting at sunset, a camera with good low-light performance or a tripod can be beneficial.
Drone usage might be restricted due to local regulations or tour policies. Always check in advance if you plan to fly a drone.
The unique circular opening, the play of light and shadow, and the vibrant blue water make it incredibly photogenic. The rock formations are also stunning.
🎫 💡 Onsite Experience
The Dragon's Eye (Zmajevo Oko) is a natural sea cave on Dugi Otok, Croatia, formed by the erosion of limestone. Its distinctive hole resembles a dragon's eye when viewed from above.
A visit to the Dragon's Eye is usually part of a longer boat tour. The time spent at the cave itself might be around 15-30 minutes, allowing for photos and potentially a swim.
Wear comfortable clothing and swimwear if you plan to swim. A light jacket might be useful as it can be breezy on the boat. Water shoes can be helpful for navigating rocky areas. :athletic_shoe:
There are no facilities directly at the cave itself, as it's a natural formation. Restrooms and amenities are typically available on the tour boats.
Local legends sometimes associate the cave with mythical creatures or special properties for those who swim in its waters.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
+1Consider booking a tour that isn't too long to keep younger children engaged. Some tours might offer snacks or have onboard facilities. The sheer wonder of seeing a cave that looks like a dragon's eye can spark imagination and create lasting memories for the whole family.
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
+1To make the most of your photography, consider bringing a wide-angle lens to capture the scale of the cave. If you're aiming for sunset shots, a camera with good low-light capabilities or a tripod can be very useful. Remember to check any photography restrictions with your tour operator beforehand, as some areas might have limitations.
🌊 Adventure Seekers & Swimmers
+1If you're an avid swimmer, look for tours that specifically highlight swimming opportunities. Bringing your snorkeling gear can enhance the experience, allowing you to see the marine life in this pristine environment. The sensation of swimming within a natural sea cave is truly exhilarating.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Geology and Legend of Zmajevo Oko
+1Beyond its geological significance, the Dragon's Eye is steeped in local lore. While specific legends vary, some tales suggest that swimming in its waters can bring good fortune or possess mystical qualities. These stories add an extra layer of enchantment to the already breathtaking natural beauty of the site, making it a place of both wonder and intrigue for travelers.
Experiencing the Dragon's Eye by Boat
+1During the tour, the boat will navigate close to the cave, allowing passengers to marvel at its structure from the water. Many tours provide opportunities for swimming and snorkeling in the crystal-clear turquoise waters surrounding the cave, offering a refreshing break and a chance to truly immerse yourself in the environment. The experience is often described as serene and invigorating, with the vibrant blues of the sea being a major highlight.
+1For the most dramatic visual impact, sunset tours are highly recommended. As the sun dips below the horizon, light beams penetrate the cave's opening, illuminating the water with an ethereal glow. This phenomenon creates a truly magical atmosphere, making it an unforgettable photographic opportunity and a highlight for many visitors.
Social
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