How to Visit Vis Island from Hvar in One Day

Discover Vis: Croatia’s Hidden Gem

Tucked away in the Adriatic Sea, Vis is one of Croatia’s most remote and fascinating islands. Known for its unspoiled nature, crystal-clear waters, and rich history, Vis remained closed to tourism until 1989 due to its strategic military importance during Yugoslav times. This isolation helped preserve its authenticity, giving visitors a true taste of traditional Dalmatian island life.

One of the island’s biggest claims to fame is that it served as the filming location for Mamma Mia! Here We Go Again—yes, that dreamy Greek island you saw on screen was actually Vis! With its scenic stone houses, vibrant blue coves, and relaxed island vibe, it’s easy to see why Hollywood chose this spot.

Vis is also home to some of the most breathtaking beaches and magical coastal villages in Croatia. From the legendary Stiniva Beach, to the charming fishing town of Komiža, every corner of the island offers a new reason to fall in love. Caves, cliffs, hidden bays, and historical military tunnels—Vis has it all. Spoiler alert: Vis exceeded all expectations.

If you’re planning this trip, don’t forget your snorkel or swimming goggles—you’ll want to see everything beneath the surface! If you don’t have your own, check in advance if the boat rental includes them. We also packed ice, drinks, and food for sandwiches so we could avoid extra stops and enjoy every second on the water. Our boat came with a small cooler to keep everything fresh.

Stop 1: Budihovac Island

After about one hour of sailing from Stari Grad, our first stop was Budihovac Island, a peaceful, uninhabited spot just off the southeast coast of Vis. The water here was incredibly clear—perfect for snorkelling. It was the ideal warm-up for the day ahead.

Stop 2: Stiniva Beach

Next up was Stiniva Beach, one of Croatia’s most famous beaches and a true hidden gem. Surrounded by massive cliffs —boats aren’t allowed to approach the shore. For those less confident in the water, a rope runs from the boat area to the beach so you can pull yourself in.

The water was stunning, and we couldn’t resist doing some cliff jumping, with jumps ranging from 2 to 10 meters.

Stop 3: Limestone Caves

Our third stop took us to the Limestone Caves on the southern coast of Vis. Swimming into the cave felt like entering another world—an enormous natural column in the centre and water glowing electric blue. If you bring fins or rent them, you can dive deep and explore the many shades of blue that make this spot so unique.

Stop 4: Komiža

We continued to the picturesque town of Komiža, a small fishing village with traditional stone houses, beaches, and mountain views. We had lunch right on Komiža Beach, enjoying our sandwiches and the peaceful atmosphere. This village is also where Mamma Mia! Here We Go Again was filmed!

Stop 5: Hidden Cave

Later we found a small sea cave where you could swim in and climb up inside. It wasn’t very deep but added a touch of fun and mystery to the route. Little surprises like this are what make Vis unforgettable.

Stop 6: Yugoslav Army Boat Tunnel – Potkop Parja

One of the most surreal stops was the Yugoslav underground military tunnel, carved directly into the rock. Known as Potkop Parja, this massive structure once served as a secret shelter for military boats during the Cold War. You can sail right into the tunnel—it’s eerie, echoey, and fascinating.

Final Stop: Pakleni Islands & Dolphins

We wrapped up our loop with a drink at a cozy beach bar on the Pakleni Islands, just off Hvar’s coast. And just when we thought the day couldn’t get better, a group of dolphins showed up to guide us back to Stari Grad. Pure magic.

Final Tips for Visiting Vis by Boat

• Bring snorkeling gear or make sure your boat provides it.
• Pack food, drinks, sunscreen, and towels.
• Ask if your boat has a cooler or bring one with you.
• Start early (we left at 9:00 AM) to make the most of each stop.
• Respect the natural environment—leave no trace.

Want to Do the Same Trip?

We booked our fast boat with skipper through Faros Boats in Stari Grad, and it made all the difference. Super chill, flexible schedule, and great gear on board.
👉 Contact them via WhatsApp at +385 981674532 or find them on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/farosboats/

Let them know you found them through Travel to Exist 😊

Conclusion: One Day, a Thousand Memories

Vis isn’t just an island—it’s a feeling. It’s the chill of diving into electric blue water, the thrill of jumping off a cliff, the taste of a simple sandwich on a quiet beach, and the quiet awe of entering a military tunnel carved into the rock. It’s the kind of place that stays with you, long after your skin stops smelling like salt.

If you’re in Hvar and thinking about doing something a little different—take the boat. Go to Vis. Let it surprise you.
Because sometimes, the best adventures happen when you leave the map behind and follow the horizon instead.

More Croatia Travel Inspiration

Looking for more ideas around the Croatian coast? Check out these posts:

• Two days in Stari Grad
• The Best beaches in Stari Grad
• Day trip to Bol – Zlatni Rat (the golden horn)
• Peka in Hvar – a Dalmatian Tradition