Nestled at the base of Hum Hill, Komiža is a historic fishing town on the west coast of Vis. It was first mentioned in the 12th century before a Venetian fortress was constructed in 1585. Komiža is famed for its falkuša vessels, which were adapted to the unique needs of the local fishermen.
Things to do in Komiza
Stroll through Komiža’s atmospheric streets to admire its 17th-century Venetian houses and the clock tower that dominates the town’s 16th-century fortress. Today, the Komiža Castle houses the Fishing Museum, where you’ll find antique fishing equipment and boats. A highlight is the replica of a gajeta falkuša, with these fishing vessels enabling long expeditions in the open sea.
Komiža is home to a handful of pebbly beaches where you can swim and sunbathe in the warmer months. Nestled at the base of high cliffs is picture-perfect Stiniva Beach, which was voted the most beautiful beach in Europe in 2016. Follow the trail that leads through its narrow entrance and refresh in the crystal clear waters before grabbing a drink at the small beach bar.
Just offshore from Komiža is the island of Biševo, which is famed for its aptly-named Blue Grotto. Once only accessible to divers, it can now be visited by boat. If you time your visit right, you’ll see how the cave received its name, with sunlight shining in and creating an iridescent blue glow. On the island’s south coast is Monk Seals Cave, named after the marine animals that once resided here.
Getting around Komiza
Komiža is around 10 minutes’ drive from Vis, which receives vehicular ferries from Split on mainland Croatia. Split Airport has seasonal flights to destinations across Europe. Regular buses connect to Komiža, although renting a car gives you greater freedom to explore the island.