Split: Blue Cave and 5 Islands Tour

If you’re planning a day trip from Split to explore the Dalmatian coast, the Blue Cave and 5 Islands tour offers a compelling mix of natural beauty, lively local culture, and stunning scenery. This tour, rated 4.6 out of 5 by over 200 travelers, combines the thrill of speedboat rides with visits to iconic sites like the Blue Cave, Stiniva Cove, Budikovac Island, the Pakleni Islands, and Hvar town. It’s designed to give you a taste of the area’s most photogenic and enjoyable spots, all in a single day.

What really draws us in about this experience is the opportunity to see the famous Blue Cave with its shimmering waters and shifting light, along with the chance to snorkel in crystal-clear waters at Budikovac. Plus, the tour includes time for relaxing at beach bars and exploring a lively, historic town—perfect for those wanting a mix of adventure and culture. One thing to consider is that the trip can be quite fast-paced, especially with multiple stops, so it’s best suited for energetic travelers who want to see as much as possible.

This tour is ideal for active travelers who love boat rides, snorkeling, and scenic sightseeing. If you enjoy a good balance of nature and local flavor, and don’t mind a busy schedule, this trip promises a memorable, Instagram-worthy day. However, if you prefer a more relaxed pace or are traveling with very young children or those with mobility issues, you might want to consider other options.

Key Points

• Natural Wonders: The Blue Cave and Stiniva Cove are unforgettable highlights, with vibrant waters and dramatic cliffs.
• Snorkeling & Swimming: Budikovac Island offers excellent opportunities to cool off and explore underwater life.
• Lively Towns: Hvar’s historic sights, lively restaurants, and bars make for a fun cultural experience.
• Expert Guides: Well-reviewed guides like Petra, Sanja, and Kristian are praised for their friendliness, knowledge, and ability to keep the day engaging.
• Value for Money: At $141 per person, the tour offers a comprehensive look at multiple sites, with many reviewers considering it very good value.
• Flexible & Well-Organized: The tour is managed smoothly, with options to reschedule or cancel if weather conditions aren’t favorable.

The Itinerary: A Day Packed with Adventure and Beauty

The adventure begins at the Booker Travel Agency, where you check in, meet your guides, and get ready for an exciting speedboat ride. The boat itself is comfortable, with a capacity for 12 people, and comes equipped with snorkel goggles, safety gear, and plenty of shade—important details that enhance comfort and safety on the water.

The Blue Cave Experience

Your first stop is the Blue Cave on Bievo Island. This is the star of the trip—an attraction that often exceeds expectations. Thanks to reviews, we know the cave can be quite crowded, so the guides like Sanja and Kristian are praised for their resourcefulness. If the cave is busy, they’ll take you to a nearby island for a quick relax and swim or snorkel session while you wait your turn. Inside the cave, you’ll spend about 15 minutes on a wooden boat, with a guide explaining the cave’s formation and the magical light effects caused by sunlight reflecting through the white floor.

Many reviewers say the blue glow is “unforgettable” and that the experience matches the hype. The shimmering aquamarine water, which makes objects appear silver, is a sight that stays with travelers long after the trip ends. It’s a short but special moment—worth the early wake-up.

Stiniva Cove: Europe’s Best Beach

Next, you’ll visit Stiniva Cove, awarded the best beach in Europe back in 2016. Known for its tricky approach, only small boats can access its narrow entrance, which adds to the adventure. The transparent water and dramatic cliffs create a perfect backdrop for sunbathing or swimming.

Guests report spending around 40 minutes here, enough time for a swim and some photos. The cove’s popularity means it can get busy, but the guides tend to manage the schedule well. As one reviewer noted, the experience of swimming in such a unique setting is truly worth it, with plenty of space to relax on the rocks or on the boat.

Budikovac Island: a Snorkeler’s Paradise

From Stiniva, the tour proceeds to Budikovac Island, famous for its lagoon-like, blue waters. The shallow sea here is perfect for snorkeling—many say the underwater scenery is stunning. The calm, clear water invites you to float and explore the marine life.

If swimming isn’t your thing, you can opt to have a drink at the beach bar instead, which is a bonus for those wanting a laid-back vibe. Reviewers frequently mention their delight at the beauty of the lagoon, with one noting that “the blue lagoon-like beach captures your attention from the moment you enter it.”

The Pakleni Islands & Hvar Town

After the sea fun, it’s time to head to the Pakleni Islands, a collection of lush islands that are home to some of the best seafood restaurants and beach clubs in the area. Here, travelers can indulge in delicious local cuisine or simply enjoy the stunning views.

The final stop is Hvar, arguably Croatia’s most glamorous island city. Walking through its narrow streets, you’ll find historic sites like the fortress and the main square, plus St. Stephens Cathedral. Many reviews highlight the lively atmosphere, with guides recommending top spots for tapas and local drinks. The way guides like Petra and Sanja share their knowledge and enthusiasm makes exploring Hvar both fun and informative.

Sunset & Return

As the day winds down, you’ll experience a beautiful sunset while heading back to Split—a perfect end to a busy, rewarding day. The boat ride back offers scenic views and, often, a lively soundtrack thanks to the music provided on board, as many guests have appreciated.

What’s Included & What to Know

The tour includes Blue Cave entry tickets (if you select that option), your group’s skipper and sailor, snorkeling gear, and safety equipment. Food and drinks are not included, so packing a light lunch and some drinks is advisable. The tour is suitable for those aged 5 and up, but not for pregnant women, people with mobility issues, or children under 5.

Weather conditions can impact the trip—if it’s windy, the ride may be bumpy, and the Blue Cave visit might be postponed or canceled. As one reviewer put it, “If the weather is windy, the ride might be a little bumpy,” and cancellations are fully refunded or rescheduled.

Practical Tips for Travelers

• Bring sunglasses, sun hat, swimwear, towel, sunscreen, and comfortable clothes. Packing a light jacket is also recommended, especially if it’s windy.
• Make a joint reservation if traveling in a group to ensure everyone is on the same boat.
• Be prepared for a fast-paced day with multiple stops—great for adventure lovers but perhaps less ideal for those seeking a relaxed experience.
• Cash is king in many places, so plan accordingly, even though card payments are becoming more common elsewhere.
• Expect a lively, fun atmosphere with good music and knowledgeable guides who are praised for their friendliness and professionalism.

Authentic Voices: What Tour Participants Say

Reviews consistently mention how guides like Petra, Sanja, and Kristian make the experience memorable. One traveler said, “Sanja and Brane were brilliant guides who showed us the most incredible places,” while another appreciated the guides’ “good vibes and helpfulness.” Guests also highlight the stunning views, excellent snorkeling, and delicious local food as core parts of the experience.

The Blue Cave, in particular, seems to deliver on its promise of a magical moment. Multiple reviews describe it as “worth the wait” and “unforgettable,” with many noting the cave’s luminous blue water as one of the trip’s top highlights.

The Sum Up

This Split Blue Cave and 5 Islands tour packs a lot into a single day, offering a fantastic mix of natural wonders, cultural sights, and lively social moments. It’s priced reasonably for the extensive itinerary and is especially suited for travelers who want to see a variety of sites without sacrificing adventure or comfort.

If you’re after a well-organized, fun-filled day with knowledgeable guides and opportunities for swimming, snorkeling, and exploring vibrant towns, this tour ticks all the boxes. Keep in mind the fast pace and the weather dependency, but overall, it’s a great way to experience the best of Dalmatia’s coastal beauty.

For those who love the combination of scenic boat rides, stunning caves, and lively island life, this tour offers an authentic taste of Croatia’s coast with plenty of photo-worthy moments and memorable experiences.

FAQ

Is the Blue Cave visit included in the tour price?
It depends on the option you select. If you choose the “Blue Cave Entry Tickets” add-on, it’s included; otherwise, you’ll need to buy tickets separately.

How long do we spend at each stop?
Typically, around 15 minutes inside the Blue Cave, 40 minutes at Stiniva Cove, and an hour at Budikovac Island for swimming and relaxing.

What should I bring?
Sunglasses, sun hat, swimwear, towel, sunscreen, comfortable clothes, and a packed lunch. A light jacket is recommended if it’s windy.

Is the tour suitable for children?
It’s suitable for children over 5 years old but not recommended for very young children or those with mobility issues.

What happens if the weather is windy?
If weather conditions are poor, the tour may be canceled or rescheduled, with a full refund offered.

Are food and drinks included?
No, meals and drinks are not included; you might want to bring your own or plan to buy at the islands.

How large are the boats?
The boats fit up to 12 people, providing a comfortable and intimate experience.

Can I go snorkeling?
Yes, snorkeling equipment is provided, and the waters around Budikovac are ideal for exploring underwater.

Are there any restrictions on entering the Blue Cave?
Swimming in the Blue Cave is not permitted. You will spend about 15 minutes on a wooden boat, with safety and informational guidance.

What is the best time to do this tour?
The Blue Cave’s lighting is best when the sun is high, usually midday, but the schedule is flexible depending on the season.

This comprehensive tour offers an engaging way to experience Croatia’s stunning coast, combining adventure, culture, and natural beauty in one very memorable day.