Blue Cave Luštica
A breathtaking sea cave on Montenegro's Luštica Peninsula, famous for its electric blue glow and crystal-clear waters.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Softer light, fewer crowds
Blue Cave Luštica
Best Time
Softer light, fewer crowds
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A breathtaking sea cave on Montenegro's Luštica Peninsula, famous for its electric blue glow and crystal-clear waters.
"The Blue Cave is a magical spot where sunlight turns the water a glowing, electric blue, it feels like stepping into another world."
Book a Private Boat
Avoid large crowds by opting for a private speedboat tour. :boat:
Check Sea Conditions
Swimming inside may be restricted due to waves. Ask your tour operator. :wave:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Blue Glow
Inside the cave
Witness the mesmerizing electric blue light created by sunlight reflecting off the sandy bottom.
Cave Swimming
Inside or just outside the cave
Dive into the crystal-clear, cool waters for an unforgettable swimming experience.
Sea Cave Exploration
Luštica Peninsula coastline
Discover the largest of many sea caves, a natural wonder carved by the Adriatic Sea.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Boat Tour Essentials
Timing is Key
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Book a Private Boat
Avoid large crowds by opting for a private speedboat tour. :boat:
Check Sea Conditions
Swimming inside may be restricted due to waves. Ask your tour operator. :wave:
Prepare for Seasickness
The boat ride can be bumpy. Take precautions if you're prone to seasickness. :pill:
Capture the Blue
The light is best in the morning/afternoon. Bring your waterproof camera! :camera:
Tips
from all over the internet
Book a Private Boat
Avoid large crowds by opting for a private speedboat tour. :boat:
Check Sea Conditions
Swimming inside may be restricted due to waves. Ask your tour operator. :wave:
Prepare for Seasickness
The boat ride can be bumpy. Take precautions if you're prone to seasickness. :pill:
Capture the Blue
The light is best in the morning/afternoon. Bring your waterproof camera! :camera:
Swim Outside if Needed
If swimming inside isn't possible, the water outside is still perfect. :ocean:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors are captivated by the Blue Cave's stunning, otherworldly blue luminescence and the refreshing swim in its clear waters. However, many note that the experience can be marred by overwhelming crowds and that swimming inside the cave is often not possible due to sea conditions. The boat journey itself can also be bumpy, leading to seasickness for some.
"If you have never seen a sea cave, and are willing to brave 45+ minutes each way from Kotor for a 5 minute view, go for it. Otherwise it is totally another sea cave with not much special. No swimming and lots of traffic.
Would have opted out with a better understanding of the undertaking to come see it.
If you want to go, just get a private speed boat on your own."
Zeke Dumke IV
"We sailed to Blue Cave on a boat with 50 pax and managed to get inside.
It’s not possible to swim there due to waves so do not get mislead with the add.
You will sail out of the cave and swim just outside. The water is perfect not cold I would say.
Amazing experience."
Shukhrat Usmanov
"The water is as blue as promised.
Far too many boats to enjoy the ambience and weren’t able to swim in the cave however would recommend a must see if you are in kotor.
Was able to swim outside of it. The water was warm and clear."
Gabe K
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Blue Cave is best accessed by boat tour from Kotor. Many companies offer speedboat tours that include stops at the cave and other scenic spots in the Bay of Kotor. The journey typically takes around 45 minutes to an hour each way.
While it's possible to visit the Blue Cave from Split, it's a very long day trip. Most travelers find it more convenient to visit from locations within Montenegro like Kotor or Herceg Novi, as it's closer and less rushed.
Popular departure points for Blue Cave tours include Kotor, Budva, and Herceg Novi. Each offers different tour durations and itineraries, so choose based on your overall travel plans.
Kayaking to the Blue Cave is possible, but it's a more adventurous option and depends heavily on sea conditions. Most visitors opt for boat tours for easier access and to explore multiple sites.
A typical boat trip to the Blue Cave from Kotor can range from 3 to 6 hours, often including stops at other attractions like Our Lady of the Rocks and various bays.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
You don't typically buy separate tickets for the Blue Cave itself. The cost is usually included in the price of a boat tour. Prices can vary depending on the tour operator and duration.
The Blue Cave is a natural attraction and doesn't have set opening hours. Access is dependent on daylight and sea conditions. Boat tours operate throughout the day during the tourist season.
Costs for Blue Cave boat tours can vary significantly. Private tours are more expensive but offer a better experience. Expect prices to range from €30-€100+ per person depending on the boat type and duration.
Swimming inside the Blue Cave is often not possible due to waves and boat traffic. Many tours allow swimming just outside the cave in the clear waters. Always confirm with your tour operator.
There is no direct entrance fee for the Blue Cave itself. The cost is bundled into boat tour packages.
📸 📸 Photography
The most magical blue hues are often seen when sunlight directly hits the water and reflects into the cave. Mid-morning to early afternoon generally offers the best lighting conditions for capturing the vibrant blue. 
A waterproof camera or a phone with a waterproof case is highly recommended, especially if you plan to swim or if there's any spray from the boat.
Generally, there are no specific restrictions on photography inside the Blue Cave, but be mindful of other visitors and the boat's movement.
Try to shoot with the sun behind you, facing the cave entrance. Experiment with different angles to capture the light reflection. Polarizing filters can also enhance the blue tones.
Besides the cave itself, many tours stop at scenic viewpoints along the Luštica Peninsula and the Bay of Kotor, offering stunning coastal and sea views perfect for photos.
🎫 🌊 Onsite Experience
The Blue Cave is a sea cave known for its stunning blue luminescence caused by sunlight reflecting off the sandy seabed. Boat tours take you inside, and sometimes you can swim in the crystal-clear water. +1
Swimming inside the cave is often not permitted due to safety concerns with waves and boat traffic. However, many tours stop nearby for swimming in the beautiful Adriatic Sea.
The Blue Cave can get very crowded, especially during peak season, with many boats visiting simultaneously. Opting for a private tour or visiting during off-peak hours can help mitigate this.
Wear comfortable clothing suitable for a boat trip. Bring swimwear if you plan to swim, a towel, sunscreen, and a hat. A light jacket might be useful for cooler sea breezes. :swim_suit:
While generally safe, the cave can be risky during choppy seas. Boat entry requires skill, and swimmers should be aware of boat movements. Always follow your captain's instructions.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Be mindful of the boat ride duration and potential for seasickness, especially with younger children. Bringing snacks, drinks, and entertainment for the journey can be helpful. If swimming inside the cave isn't possible, there are usually opportunities to swim in calmer, shallower waters nearby, which can be more suitable for kids.
💰 Budget Travelers
While private tours offer more comfort and flexibility, they come at a higher price point. Research different tour operators and compare prices and itineraries. Sometimes, booking directly with local boatmen in smaller ports can yield better deals, but always ensure they are licensed and prioritize safety.
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
+1Bring a waterproof camera or a reliable waterproof case for your phone, as there's a high chance of getting wet from sea spray or during swimming. Be prepared for crowded conditions, which can make it challenging to get unobstructed shots. Patience and creative angles will be your best friends.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Understanding the Blue Cave's Magic
+1The cave itself is one of many sea caves in the area, but it's the largest and most accessible by boat. While the visual spectacle is the main draw, the experience often includes opportunities for swimming in the incredibly clear, cool waters just outside or, conditions permitting, within the cave itself. The vibrant blue is most pronounced when the sun is high in the sky, typically between late morning and early afternoon.
Many travelers describe the experience as otherworldly, feeling like they've stepped into a different dimension due to the intense blue light. However, it's important to manage expectations, as the cave can become very crowded with numerous tour boats. Some visitors have noted that the experience inside can be brief due to traffic, and swimming might be restricted on rougher days.
Navigating Blue Cave Boat Tours
Private tours are frequently recommended by visitors for a more personalized experience, allowing for more flexibility in timing and potentially fewer crowds inside the cave. These tours often include stops at other notable sites in the Bay of Kotor, such as the iconic Our Lady of the Rocks island and secluded beaches accessible only by boat.
+1When booking, it's crucial to clarify what the tour includes. Confirm whether swimming is permitted inside the cave, the duration of the visit, and if any other attractions are part of the itinerary. Be aware that sea conditions can impact the experience; rough seas might prevent entry into the cave or swimming.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit