Blue Lake (Modro Jezero) is a seasonal sinkhole lake on the edge of Imotski in Dalmatia. In spring it can be calm, turquoise and deep enough for kayaks and SUPs; by late summer it may recede dramatically, or even dry out completely. This guide explains when Blue Lake is actually kayakable, how to plan a safe half-day visit, and how to combine it with nearby Red Lake.
If you’re mapping a wider trip, start with our Croatia Travel Guide and build your inland day trips from there.
Quick facts
- Location: Imotski, Dalmatian hinterland (about 1 hour from Split by car)
- Best months for kayaking: Usually April–June (water levels tend to be higher)
- Kayak access: Only when water safely covers submerged rocks—check the noticeboard/kiosk on the rim the same day
- Time needed: 3–6 hours (depending on whether you add Red Lake)
Can you actually kayak Blue Lake?
Sometimes – but not year-round.
Blue Lake’s water level fluctuates a lot. In high-water periods, local operators may run pop-up SUP/kayak rentals from the shoreline. In low-water periods, the lake can be too shallow, full of exposed rocks, or completely dry (in which case kayaking obviously isn’t possible). Plan this as a “conditional” activity: you’re visiting Blue Lake regardless, and kayaking is the bonus.
What to do if kayaking isn’t running
- Hike down to the lake floor anyway (it’s still the best way to experience the crater).
- Do the rim viewpoints and the loop that includes Red Lake.
- Swap paddling for a nearby activity (wine tasting in Imotski, or a different Croatia water spot later in your trip).
For more “lakes + seasonality” planning, see our Plitvice seasonal guide.
When to visit Blue Lake for kayaking (season-by-season)
Rule of thumb: aim for spring to early summer for the best odds of safe water depth.
| Season | Typical conditions | What it’s best for |
|---|---|---|
| March–May | Often rising water, cooler air | Best chance of kayakable depth + photography |
| June–August | Warmer, busier, water may be lower | Swimming + viewpoints; kayaking depends on the year |
| Sept–Oct | Receding fast, sometimes exposes beach | Hikes + the “dry lake” tradition if it empties |
| Nov–Feb | Quiet, variable, occasional closures | Moody views; plan for weather and safety closures |
How to get to Blue Lake (Imotski)
By car (best option)
Imotski is about 90 km east of Split. The straightforward route is A1 motorway → Zagvozd exit → follow signs for Imotski. Parking is usually easiest along the rim streets near the viewpoints.
By bus
Split ↔ Imotski buses run more frequently in summer. From the station, you can walk down to the rim in ~10 minutes.
Guided day tours
Some Split operators bundle Blue + Red Lake with stops like wineries. If you’re short on time or not driving, this can be the simplest way to do it.
What to do at Blue Lake
1) Rim-to-shore hike (the essential experience)
Switchbacks drop from the rim down to the lake floor. It’s steep in places with loose gravel, so wear proper shoes and take your time on the return climb.
Tip: If you’re planning to kayak, do the hike first, operators (if present) will usually be on the shoreline.
2) Kayaking & SUP (when conditions allow)
If rentals are operating:
- Launch from the gentler shoreline area (operators will direct you).
- Keep close to the cliffs for the best views.
- Expect wind to pick up mid-afternoon—go earlier if possible.
- Wear the life jacket (often mandatory) and don’t assume there are easy exit points.
Safety note: treat Blue Lake as a natural site first, “activity second.” If the lake is low or conditions are uncertain, skip the paddle.
3) Cliff-top panorama walk + Red Lake add-on
Red Lake (Crveno Jezero) is close enough to combine in one visit. If you like “cenote-style” geology, this region is a highlight.
(Internal link suggestion) If you want a bigger route built around these kinds of sinkholes, see our Europe’s Secret Cenotes Circuit: Albania to Croatia.
4) Swim like a local (summer only)
On hot days, locals swim when conditions are safe and access is open. Bring water shoes if you have them—shore footing can be rocky.
One-day Blue Lake kayaking itinerary (half-day plan)
09:00 Rim viewpoints + coffee
09:30 Hike down to the shore
10:15 Check whether kayaks/SUP are operating (and water depth is safe)
10:30–11:30 Paddle loop (easy pace)
11:30–12:30 Swim + picnic lunch
12:30–13:15 Hike back up
13:30–15:00 Walk/drive to Red Lake viewpoints
15:30 Imotski old town (snack / wine stop)
What to pack (so you’re not caught out)
- Trail shoes (the hike is the “must-do” even if paddling isn’t on)
- 1.5–2L water in summer + sun protection
- Dry bag / phone lanyard (if kayaking)
- Light layer in spring (it can feel cooler in the crater shade)
- Swim kit + towel (if visiting in warm months)
No, water levels fluctuate dramatically and it can even dry out in drought years.
Not always, but rentals (when available) are typically run by local operators who control when it’s safe.
Plan 3–4 hours for Blue Lake alone, or 5–6 hours if you add Red Lake and Imotski.
