Blue Grotto - After the storm...
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Blue Grotto

4.7
·12k reviews·, Malta

A natural sea cave famous for its luminous blue waters, accessible only by small rowboats through a low, thrilling entrance.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Morning (9 AM - 1 PM)

Sunlight creates stunning colors

CrowdMedium
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Blue Grotto - After the storm...

Blue Grotto

Best Time

Morning (9 AM - 1 PM)

Sunlight creates stunning colors

CrowdMedium
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A natural sea cave famous for its luminous blue waters, accessible only by small rowboats through a low, thrilling entrance.

4.7
(12k reviews)

"The water is an incredible turquoise, and the cliffs and arches look truly impressive."

Vertical photo
TIP

🎯 Lay Flat for Entry!

You MUST lie flat in the boat to enter. It's a tight squeeze but worth it!

⏳ Arrive Early

Beat the crowds by arriving before opening. Lines can get long quickly.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

The Entrance

The Entrance

Sea Cave Entrance

The thrilling, low-ceilinged entry into the cave is an unforgettable adventure. Hold on tight!

Unreal Blue Water

Unreal Blue Water

Inside the Grotto

Witness the magical, luminous blue water that gives the grotto its name. It's truly breathtaking.

Coastal Views

Coastal Views

From the Boat

Enjoy stunning views of the rugged coastline and sea caves from your unique vantage point.

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Planning Your Visit

Prepare for a Tight Squeeze!

Entering the Blue Grotto requires visitors to lie flat in small rowboats as the skipper navigates a very low cave entrance. It's an exhilarating but potentially startling experience, especially if you're claustrophobic. Be ready to duck and hold on tight! TikTok+2

Weather is Key

The Blue Grotto's opening is highly dependent on sea conditions. High winds can cause it to close unexpectedly, sometimes for the entire day. Have a backup plan or be prepared to view it from above if tours are cancelled. TikTokReddit

Best Times

When
Morning (9 AM - 1 PM)
Why
Sunlight creates stunning colors
Crowd
Medium
When
Afternoon (after 1 PM)
Why
Fewer tour groups
Crowd
Low

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Getting into the Blue Grotto is not for the faint hearted!! #realitybluegrotto #bluegrotto #bluegrottocapri #bluegrottoitaly #travelcouple #travel #traveltiktok #travellife #therojos #bluegrottoreality
@the.rojos
2.4M likes • 39.5M views

🎯 Lay Flat for Entry!

You MUST lie flat in the boat to enter. It's a tight squeeze but worth it! TikTok+1

⏳ Arrive Early

Beat the crowds by arriving before opening. Lines can get long quickly. Instagram

While on vacation in Capri Italy. @Italy #italytravel #capri #bluegrotto #island @Barstool Sports #italy @Caprisun @Travel Expert and Travel Tips @Italia’s Got Talent
@ronniehannosh
865.6K likes • 27M views
이탈리아 남부 [아나카프리] 아나카프리는 현지인들이 많이사는 동네로 한적하고 평화로워요 카프리가 아말피같다면 아나카프리는 라벨로 같달까 아나카프리의 “아나”가 ”위“라는 의미처럼 카프리타운보다 해발 150m 정도 올라가 있어 경관이 더 멋져요 그래서 부호들의 별장들이 많고 석회암 절벽이만든 자연명소가 많은데 그중 하나가 전설속의 바다동굴 블루그로토에요 아주작은 동굴구멍에 배를 타고들어가면 푸른빛의 공간이 나오는데, 빛이 굴절되며 보여주는 짙은 푸른색이 오묘해서 인기가 많습니다 오시는 방법은 항구에서 보트투어, 아나카프리에서 버스타고, 프라이빗보트 이렇게 세가지가 있는데 저는 소렌토에서 카프리로 오는길에 들려 프라이빗보트로 방문하였고 일반대기는 한두시간 기다려야한다 들었는데 지갑잃어버린 저를 꼬드기는 뱃...
atoz_matzip
1.2K likes • 0 views

💨 Check the Weather

Tours can be cancelled due to wind. Have a backup plan! TikTokReddit

💰 Boat Tour Cost

Expect to pay around €10 per person for the boat tour. Reddit

Will you enter this small cave risking your life?😳 Its very risky to enter this cave especially during windy days where the cave entrance gets closed automatically.😨 Finally, we managed to get in after trying three times. The water level was high and the hole was closed, so I thought we wouldn't be able to experience it. But I'm glad the water level went down and we were able to experience it. ...
anmol__pahuja
342 likes • 15K views

Tips

from all over the internet

🎯 Lay Flat for Entry!

You MUST lie flat in the boat to enter. It's a tight squeeze but worth it! TikTok+1

⏳ Arrive Early

Beat the crowds by arriving before opening. Lines can get long quickly. Instagram

💨 Check the Weather

Tours can be cancelled due to wind. Have a backup plan! TikTokReddit

💰 Boat Tour Cost

Expect to pay around €10 per person for the boat tour. Reddit

📸 Viewpoint Option

If tours are closed, the viewpoint above still offers amazing photos. Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.7
(12k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors consistently praise the Blue Grotto's breathtaking turquoise waters and the unique experience of entering the cave. The stunning natural light and coastal views are major highlights. However, some find the wait times long, the actual grotto experience brief, and the entrance challenging, especially if tours are cancelled due to weather.

"Blue Grotto is one of the most beautiful spots in Malta. The water is an incredible turquoise, and the cliffs and arches look truly impressive. The best time to visit is in the morning before noon, when the sun lights up the caves and the colors of the water look absolutely stunning.

Even if you don’t take the boat tour, the views from the lookout point are worth it. It’s a really special place that leaves a lasting impression."

Andrii Abramovych

"Blue Grotto is amazing – if you are coming to Malta, this is a must-visit destination. I recommend taking the boat ride, which costs €10 per person. The best time to visit is between 9 AM and 1 PM because of the light reflection.

Amazing :)"

Haris Hrvic

"It stinks that the weather "wind" kept the boat tours from happening to the grotto, but we found a fix. We took a taxi and we're at least able to get pictures from above. But these pictures don't do it justice. We also saw a tug boat pulling a fish farm of tuna around the area. Definitely would recommend seeing but hopefully by boat on your excursion."

Spencer Atkinson

What People Like

Incredible turquoise water
Magical light effects
Unique cave entrance

What People Dislike

Long wait times
Weather cancellations
Brief tour duration

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

You can reach the Blue Grotto by taking a private boat or taxi to the entrance. From there, you'll transfer to small rowboats for the actual cave tour. Some visitors opt for organized tours from nearby towns like Sorrento. TikTokReddit

Yes, the Blue Grotto is a popular attraction in Malta. Boat tours depart from a small harbor area. Reddit

While you can drive to the general area and access viewpoints, the actual grotto is only accessible by boat. Parking can be challenging. Reddit

Ferries and hydrofoils run regularly to Capri from Naples and Sorrento. Once on the island, you can arrange boat transport to the Blue Grotto. TikTok

Yes, many boat tours around Capri and the Amalfi Coast include a stop at the Blue Grotto, or you can book specific tours to the grotto itself. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

The boat tour into the Blue Grotto typically costs around €10 per person. This fee is separate from any transport to the grotto's entrance. Reddit

Tickets for the rowboat tour are usually purchased at the harbor where the tours depart. Booking in advance isn't typically necessary, but arriving early can save you waiting time. Instagram

The Blue Grotto generally opens around 9 AM and closes in the late afternoon. However, hours are subject to change based on weather conditions. TikTokInstagram

The entrance is very low, requiring you to lie flat in the boat. If you are claustrophobic, this experience might be challenging. TikTok+2

If the Blue Grotto is closed due to weather, you can still visit the viewpoints above for stunning photos of the coastline and sea. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

Inside the grotto, the light is dim and the boat moves. Focus on capturing the incredible blue water. Be mindful of your surroundings and hold on tight. TikTokInstagram

Absolutely! The viewpoint above the Blue Grotto offers a fantastic panoramic view and is a great spot for photos, especially if the grotto itself is closed. Reddit

Generally, photography is allowed, but be quick and careful as the boat is small and the entrance is low. Your skipper might also sing traditional songs, adding to the atmosphere. Instagram

Given the low light and moving boat, a wider aperture and higher ISO might be necessary. Image stabilization is also helpful. Instagram

Modern smartphone cameras can capture the essence, but be prepared for potential blur due to movement and low light. Focus on the vibrant water. TikTok

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

No, there are no dining facilities inside the Blue Grotto itself. You'll find restaurants and cafes in the nearby towns or on Capri island. Reddit

Food and drinks are generally not permitted or available on the small rowboats that take you into the Blue Grotto. It's a short tour. TikTok

The areas around the Blue Grotto, especially in towns like Anacapri or Capri, offer a variety of dining options from casual trattorias to more upscale restaurants. Instagram

It's a good idea to pack some water and light snacks, especially if you're waiting in line or planning other activities on the island. TikTok

Capri is known for its fresh seafood, lemon-infused dishes, and delicious pastries. Look for local specialties. Instagram

🎫 💡 Onsite Experience

You'll board a small rowboat and lie down as the skipper navigates through a very low cave entrance. Inside, the water glows an ethereal blue. It's a unique and memorable experience. TikTok+2

The actual boat tour inside the Blue Grotto is quite short, typically lasting around 5-10 minutes once you're inside. The waiting time can be much longer. Instagram

Many find it a breathtaking and unique experience, calling it a must-visit. Others feel it's a bit underwhelming for the wait and cost, but still beautiful. InstagramReddit

It's possible to bring babies, but it requires careful handling due to the low entrance and the need to lie flat. Some parents have done it. TikTok

Wear comfortable clothing and shoes that you don't mind getting a little wet. A hat and sunglasses are recommended for the boat ride. TikTok

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Visiting the Blue Grotto with young children can be an adventure! The main challenge is the low entrance, requiring everyone to lie flat in a small boat. TikTok+2 While some families have managed it, it requires careful handling and supervision of children. Ensure your child is comfortable in small spaces and can follow instructions. TikTok Consider the age and temperament of your child before deciding. If the grotto is closed due to weather, the viewpoints above still offer beautiful scenery that kids might enjoy. Reddit

💰 Budget Travelers

The Blue Grotto boat tour itself is relatively affordable at around €10 per person. Reddit However, the cost of getting to the grotto (e.g., ferry to Capri, private boat hire) can add up. To save money, consider taking public ferries and then arranging a shared boat tour rather than a private one. TikTok If the grotto is closed, enjoying the free viewpoints is a great budget-friendly option. Reddit Packing your own snacks and water can also help reduce expenses. TikTok

❤️ Couples

The Blue Grotto offers a uniquely romantic and adventurous experience for couples. The magical blue light inside the cave creates an intimate atmosphere, and the shared thrill of navigating the low entrance can be a fun bonding moment. TikTokInstagram Consider booking a private boat tour for a more exclusive and personalized experience, allowing you to set your own pace and enjoy the stunning coastal scenery together. Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Thrill of Entry: Navigating the Blue Grotto's Mouth

The most talked-about aspect of visiting the Blue Grotto is the dramatic entrance. Visitors must transfer to small, traditional rowboats, each carrying only a few passengers. As the boat approaches the cave's opening, the skipper instructs everyone to lie flat on the bottom of the boat. This is crucial to avoid hitting your head on the low rock ceiling, which is only about a meter high at its lowest point. TikTok+3 The maneuver can be startling, especially for those who are claustrophobic, but it's an essential part of the unique experience. Many creators highlight this moment, often with exclamations of surprise or laughter, emphasizing the need to be prepared for the squeeze. TikTok+2

This tight passage is not just a physical challenge but also a testament to the grotto's natural formation. The sea cave is approximately 60 meters long and 25 meters wide, with its mouth being only two meters wide. The skill of the skippers in navigating these conditions, even during low tide, is remarkable. Some sources even suggest that the job of safely guiding tourists into the cave is highly skilled and potentially lucrative. TikTok Despite the potential for a bumpy ride or a cancelled tour due to weather, the reward is an entry into a world of unparalleled natural beauty. TikTok

The Magic of the Light: Why the Blue Grotto Glows

The defining feature of the Blue Grotto is its mesmerizing, luminous blue water. This incredible effect is created by sunlight entering the cave through an underwater opening. The light refracts and reflects off the white sandy bottom of the cave, illuminating the water with an ethereal, almost otherworldly blue glow. InstagramReddit The intensity and shade of blue can vary depending on the time of day and the angle of the sun. InstagramReddit

Travelers often describe the water as crystal clear and a vibrant turquoise, especially when the sun hits it just right. Reddit This natural phenomenon makes the Blue Grotto a photographer's dream, though capturing its true magic can be challenging due to the low light conditions inside the cave and the movement of the boat. Instagram+1 Many visitors are captivated by the sight, with some describing it as a once-in-a-lifetime experience. TikTok The visual spectacle is so profound that it leaves a lasting impression on those who witness it. Reddit

Planning Your Visit: Timing, Weather, and Alternatives

Visiting the Blue Grotto requires a bit of planning, primarily due to its dependence on weather conditions. The cave can close unexpectedly due to high winds or rough seas, sometimes for the entire day. TikTokReddit Many visitors recommend arriving early in the morning, ideally before the official opening time of 9 AM, to minimize wait times and increase the chances of getting in before any potential closures. Instagram The period between 9 AM and 1 PM is often cited as the best time to visit for optimal light conditions. Reddit

If the Blue Grotto is closed for tours, don't despair. There are viewpoints located above the grotto that offer stunning panoramic views of the coastline and the sea caves. Reddit This can still provide a memorable experience and excellent photo opportunities. Some travelers suggest having a backup plan or exploring other attractions on Capri or the Amalfi Coast if the grotto is inaccessible. Reddit For those who are concerned about the tight entrance or potential closures, exploring other sea caves or enjoying a boat tour around the island can be a great alternative. Reddit

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