Exploring the Bluest Waters of Europe: Here’s Everything You Need to Know About the Island of Comino
The island of Comino is one of the most beautiful places to visit in Malta, especially if you’re looking for crystal-clear turquoise water, incredible swimming spots, and stunning coastal scenery. Sitting between Malta and Gozo, this tiny island is best known for the famous Blue Lagoon, but there is more to explore if you plan your visit right. When I first visited in 2014, Comino felt like a hidden gem, but when we returned in 2025, it was a completely different story!
Despite how popular it has become, Comino is still absolutely gorgeous. The second time around, we took the very first ferry of the day to enjoy the island before the crowds arrived, and it made a huge difference. By late morning, the Blue Lagoon was packed with visitors, which was a big contrast to our first experience. If you’re planning a trip, timing really matters, and we’ll share what we learned from visiting during two very different stages of Comino’s popularity.
In this guide, we’re covering everything you need to know about visiting Comino, from getting there from Malta or Gozo to exploring its beaches, finding food and drinks, and making the most of your time on the island. We’ll also share practical tips for avoiding the biggest crowds, what to bring with you, and how to plan a day trip without missing out on what makes Comino so special.
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Basic Info for Visiting the Island of Comino in Malta
Before planning your trip, let’s learn a bit about what makes the island of Comino so special, and where it’s located in relation to the other Maltese islands.
⭐️ What Is the Island of Comino Known For?
Comino is best known for the Blue Lagoon, a stunning stretch of clear, turquoise water between Comino and the small islet of Cominotto. It’s one of Malta’s most famous swimming spots, and the color of the water really is as beautiful as it looks in photos.
Beyond the Blue Lagoon, Comino has other coastal areas worth exploring, including Crystal Lagoon, Santa Marija Bay, sea caves, and scenic walking routes.
🤔 Is the Island of Comino Worth Visiting?
The island of Comino is a must for any Malta itinerary! It’s close, easy to get to, and extremely beautiful.
Even after visiting twice, we still think Comino is worth experiencing for its incredible water and coastal scenery alone. My first visit in 2014 felt like discovering a hidden gem, while our return in 2025 showed us just how popular it has become. The island was just as beautiful, but the crowds definitely changed the experience.
Our biggest recommendation is to arrive as early as possible, especially during the warmer months. We caught the first ferry on our second visit and had time to enjoy Comino before it became crowded. By late morning, the Blue Lagoon was packed, so don’t expect the same peaceful experience if you arrive in the middle of the day during peak season.
⏳ How Many Hours Do You Need on the Island of Comino?
We recommend setting aside at least half a day for Comino, although a full day gives you more time to swim, explore the coast, and visit more than just the Blue Lagoon. If you’re mainly interested in seeing the famous turquoise water and taking a swim, a shorter visit may be enough.
Your timing also depends on how you get there and whether you’re joining an organized boat trip or taking a ferry that lets you explore independently. If you want to visit other bays or walk around the island, give yourself extra time rather than spending your entire visit at the Blue Lagoon.
📍 Where is the Island of Comino Located?
Comino is part of the Maltese archipelago in the Mediterranean Sea, between the main island of Malta and Gozo. It’s the smallest of Malta’s three main inhabited islands, although it has very little permanent settlement and is primarily visited for its natural scenery.
Its location makes it possible to visit from either Malta or Gozo, with boat journeys available from several departure points. The crossing is generally shorter from Gozo, while visitors staying on Malta have a wider choice of organized boat trips and departure locations.
Getting to the Island of Comino
Since Comino is a small island between Malta and Gozo, the only way to get there is by boat. You can take a direct ferry and explore independently, or join an organized boat trip that may include coastal sightseeing and swimming stops. Which option makes the most sense depends on where you’re staying, your budget, and how much time you want to spend on Comino.
⛴️ Taking a Ferry from Malta
If you’re staying on Malta and want to explore Comino at your own pace, taking a ferry from the north of the island is usually the most affordable option. The main departure points are Ċirkewwa and Marfa, and the crossing takes around 20 minutes.
The main operators are:
These ferries are a good choice if you want to arrive early, spend several hours swimming or exploring, and return whenever it suits you within the operator’s schedule. Just make sure you check the last return boat before setting off.
🚤 Taking a Ferry from Gozo
If you’re staying on Gozo, visiting Comino is even easier because the crossing from Mġarr Harbour is super short. It’s a great option for a half-day trip, although you can also spend most of the day on Comino if you want to explore more than the Blue Lagoon.
The main options include:
The crossing generally takes around 15–20 minutes, depending on the service. If you’re planning to return to Gozo, check that you’re choosing the correct destination when booking, since not every boat follows the same route.
🛥️ Joining an Organized Boat Trip
If you’d rather not travel all the way to the northern ferry departure points, you can join an organized boat trip from other parts of Malta. These trips often leave from tourist hubs such as Sliema, St Julian’s, and Buġibba, and can combine the Blue Lagoon with sightseeing along the coast.
These are great if you’re short on time, want to hang out with other travleres, or simply don’t want the hassle of planning everything on your own.
Some focus on the Blue Lagoon, while others include Crystal Lagoon, sea caves, snorkeling stops, or even a trip along Gozo’s coastline. This can be a great way to see more of the area without having to organize each stop yourself.
Here are some of the best Comino tours you can take:
One thing to keep in mind is that organized boat trips follow set schedules, so you’ll have a limited amount of time at each stop. Some excursions focus on swimming from the boat, while others allow you to go ashore at the Blue Lagoon. If your main goal is to explore Comino on foot and spend time at the lagoon, check the itinerary carefully before booking. And if avoiding crowds is a priority, look for an early departure rather than a midday cruise.
💡 Prices and availability can change depending on the date, group size, and season, so check the details before booking.
🧭 Which Option Should You Choose?
For most visitors, we’d recommend choosing based on where you’re staying and what you want to do:
When we visited Comino in 2025, we took the first ferry of the day to beat the crowds, and we’d absolutely recommend doing the same. By late morning, the Blue Lagoon was packed, so arriving early gave us a much better chance to enjoy the scenery before the busiest part of the day.
Whichever option you choose, check the current timetable. Boat schedules and prices can change with the season, and your ferry ticket may not include the separate reservation required to access the Blue Lagoon shore.
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Top Things to Do & See on the Island of Comino
Most people visit Comino for the Blue Lagoon, and honestly, the water alone is worth seeing. However, there are other beautiful spots around the island, from quieter beaches and dramatic sea caves to historic landmarks and scenic walking trails. If you have enough time, we recommend exploring beyond the main lagoon instead of spending your entire visit in one crowded area.
🩵 Enjoy the Blue Lagoon
The Blue Lagoon is the main attraction on Comino, famous for its incredibly clear, turquoise water and the little island of Cominotto sitting just across from it. The water really is stunning, and it’s easy to understand why this spot has become one of Malta’s most popular places to visit.
When I first came in 2014, the Blue Lagoon felt like a hidden gem, but when we returned in 2025, it was a completely different experience in terms of crowds. We took the first ferry of the day, which gave us some time to enjoy the area before it filled up. By late morning, there were people everywhere!
If you want to swim, take photos, or simply enjoy the scenery without feeling surrounded by people, arrive as early as possible. Keep in mind that the shoreline has limited umbrellas, so you’ll want to snag one as soon as you see one open.
🏊🏻 Swim Over Cominotto
While you’re at the Blue Lagoon, don’t miss out on the island of Cominotto, just a little swim away. It’s a cool place to hang out and explore away from the crowds at the Blue Lagoon – with a cave, small sandy strip, and rocky landscapes to discover.
💎 Venture Over to Crystal Lagoon
The Crystal Lagoon is another beautiful swimming spot on Comino, located just around the coast from the Blue Lagoon. Surrounded by limestone cliffs, the water here is deeper and has a gorgeous blue-green color, making it especially appealing for swimming and snorkeling.
It’s also surrounded by caves and rocky formations that make the scenery particularly beautiful from the water. There’s a ladder that gives you easy access to the water, and one of the caves is a short swim across. If you want to see more of Comino’s coastline, look for a boat trip that includes both lagoons.
Unlike the Blue Lagoon, Crystal Lagoon is primarily accessed by boat, and many boat excursions include a stop here. We actually walked over though, so you can certainly do that as well!
💡 Bring a GoPro or Insta360 camera with you to go the cave!
🏖️ Explore Santa Marija Bay
If you’re looking for a quieter place to swim and have some time, you can take a walk over to Santa Marija Bay, which takes about a half hour get to. Located on the northern side of Comino, this bay has a small sandy beach and clear water, offering a totally different setting from the rocky shoreline around the Blue Lagoon.
It’s also a good option if you want to get away from the busiest part of the island for a while. Just make sure to bring plenty of water, sunscreen, and proper shoes to get there.
🪨 Explore Comino’s Sea Caves
Comino has several groups of sea caves along its coastline, and exploring them by boat is a great way to see a different side of the island. The Santa Marija Caves are among the best-known, but there are also caves around Crystal Lagoon, including a natural tunnel cave, as well as Popeye’s Cave, Lovers Cave, and Monte Cristo Cave.
Each area has its own rock formations and clear blue water, and some caves have openings that let you see inside from the boat. Certain spots are also popular for snorkeling and diving, depending on the conditions and your experience.
If you’d like to visit the caves, we recommend choosing a boat trip that specifically includes them, since not every excursion visits the same locations. Many of these caves are best accessed from the water rather than on foot.
🏰 Visit Santa Marija Tower
Santa Marija Tower is one of Comino’s most important historic landmarks. Built in 1618, the watchtower was part of the coastal defense system established by the Knights of St. John and stands on elevated ground overlooking the surrounding sea.
You can walk to the tower from the Blue Lagoon area, following the island’s rough, exposed paths. The surrounding landscape offers beautiful views toward Malta and Gozo, making this a worthwhile stop if you want to see more than just the beaches.
💡 Check the tower’s current opening status before visiting, as access can depend on restoration work and opening schedules.
🚶 Walk Around the Island
Comino is small enough to explore on foot, and walking is a great way to discover a quieter side of the island aside from just the Blue Lagoon. Trails lead through rugged countryside and past coastal viewpoints, with opportunities to see secluded bays, historic structures, and dramatic limestone scenery along the way.
Just remember that this isn’t a shaded resort island with paved promenades. Many paths are rocky and uneven, and there is very little protection from the sun. If you want to explore beyond the main swimming areas, wear proper walking shoes, bring plenty of water, and allow enough time to get back to your departure point.
🤿 Go Snorkeling
With such clear water and a rocky coastline, Comino is a great place to go snorkeling. You can spot fish around the rocky edges of the lagoons and explore underwater landscapes that are different from the sandy sections of the Blue Lagoon.
Crystal Lagoon and the rocky coastal areas can be particularly great for snorkelers, although conditions and access vary. Bring your own mask and snorkel if you have them, and always pay attention to currents, boat traffic, and your swimming ability. Never attempt to swim across to Cominotto or enter caves unless conditions and your experience make it safe to do so.
Amenities on the Island of Comino
Comino is a small island, so you won’t find the same facilities you’d have on Malta or Gozo. Most of the amenities are concentrated around the Blue Lagoon, where the majority of visitors spend their time. Here are the amenities you can find on the island, and how you can prepare for the island doesn’t have.
🍔 Food Stalls at the Blue Lagoon
Around the Blue Lagoon, you’ll generally find seasonal food kiosks and vendors selling quick meals and snacks. Options can include burgers, sandwiches, fries, ice cream, and other easy takeaway food, although what’s available can vary depending on the season and current operating arrangements.
These stalls are handy if you want something to eat without leaving the lagoon area, but don’t expect a wide selection or a traditional Maltese dining experience. The prices are of course higher than other areas of Malta, and the quality won’t be life-changing either.
During busy summer days, lines can also eat into your time, so we’d honestly recommend bringing a few snacks or a picnic if you plan on spending several hours on the island.
🚻 Toilets, Showers & Changing Areas
You’ll want to keep in mind that facilities on Comino are limited, and are only around the Blue Lagoon. Right near the dock you’ll find bathrooms with toilets and showers.
Once you leave the main Blue Lagoon area, you won’t find any facilities. We recommend using the available toilets before heading off to explore, and bringing everything you’ll need for the rest of your visit.
If you plan to swim, we recommend arriving in your swimwear and bringing a towel and a cover-up for afterward.
🔓 Lockers
Right near the bathrooms you’ll also find lockers where you can leave your belongings. This is particularly useful for people who are using Comino to connect between Gozo and Malta, since they’ll most likely have more things with them they’ll need for the day in Comino. Rentals start at 5 euros a day, through Blue Lagoon Lockers.
Getting Around the Island of Comino
Comino is a tiny island, so getting around is pretty simple, but your options are limited to walking or traveling by boat. There are no regular buses or taxis to take you between the beaches, which means you’ll need to plan your route around how far you’re comfortable walking and which parts of the coastline you want to see.
🚶 Exploring Comino on Foot
Walking is the main way to explore Comino once you’ve arrived, especially if you’re visiting the Blue Lagoon and want to see other parts of the island. There are paths connecting the main visitor areas with spots such as Santa Marija Bay and Santa Marija Tower, along with plenty of coastal scenery along the way.
The distances might look short on a map, but don’t underestimate the heat. Many paths are rocky, uneven, and exposed to the sun, with very little shade along the way. Wear comfortable shoes, bring plenty of water, and give yourself enough time to get back to your boat before departure.
If you’re only visiting for a few hours, you may want to focus on the Blue Lagoon and one or two nearby spots rather than trying to walk around the entire island. For a longer day trip, you can explore farther and discover some of the quieter areas away from the main crowds.
🚤 Exploring Comino by Boat
A boat is the best way to see parts of Comino that aren’t easily accessible on foot, particularly Crystal Lagoon and the island’s sea caves. You can book an organized excursion that includes several coastal stops or arrange a private boat if you’d prefer more flexibility.
Some boat trips allow you to swim in different locations, while others focus more on sightseeing around the coastline. Before booking, check which stops are included and how much time you’ll actually have to swim or explore.
You can also see more of Comino’s coastline by choosing a tour that departs from Malta or Gozo rather than simply taking a return ferry to the Blue Lagoon. This can be a great option if you want the boat ride itself to be part of the experience, rather than spending your entire visit on land.
Other Things to Know About Visiting the Island of Comino, Malta
Comino is beautiful, but it’s also a small, exposed island with limited facilities, so it’s important to be preapred for your visit. From choosing the right time to visit to knowing what to bring for a full day outdoors, here are a few things we recommend keeping in mind before heading over.
🛡️ Is Comino Safe to Visit?
Comino is a very safe place to visit, but you’ll want to be careful around the rocky coastline and when swimming. Some areas have are sharp and uneven, and conditions in the water can change depending on the wind and currents. Pay attention to the swimming flags and any instructions from lifeguards, and don’t enter the water if conditions are unsafe.
It’s also important to remember that Comino is largely exposed to the elements. Bring enough water, protect yourself from the sun, and be mindful of how far you’re walking, especially during the hottest part of the day. If you’re planning to explore beyond the Blue Lagoon, wear shoes that are suitable for rocky paths rather than flip-flops.
The good news is, if something minor does happen, the lifeguards are on top of it. I cut myself on one of the sharp rocks, and they got me cleaned up quickly.
☀️ What’s the Best Time to Visit Comino?
The best time to visit Comino depends on whether you’re prioritizing swimming weather or avoiding crowds. Summer has the warmest water and is ideal for spending time in the lagoons, but July and August are also among the busiest months. We visited in 2014, when Comino felt like a hidden gem, and returned in 2025 to find it much more popular, even though it was just as gorgeous.
For a balance of warm weather and potentially fewer visitors, we’d consider May, June, September, or early October. The sea can still be really nice for swimming during these months, although weather and water temperatures aren’t as consistent. If you’re visiting in peak summer, try to go on a weekday and take one of the earliest boats available.
🌡️ What Is the Weather Like on Comino?
Comino has a Mediterranean climate, with hot, dry summers and mild winters. Summer is the most popular season for swimming, sunbathing, and boat trips, while spring and autumn are often more comfortable for walking around the island.
There is very little natural shade around the Blue Lagoon and along many of the walking paths, so the summer heat can be pretty intense. Even on a breezy day, the sun is strong, and the wind can make it feel cooler than it actually is. Check the forecast before leaving, especially if you’re booking a boat trip, since rough seas or unfavorable weather can affect crossings and excursions.
🎒 What Should You Pack for Comino Island in Malta?
Since you’ll be spending most of your time outdoors and can’t rely on finding everything you need once you arrive, we recommend packing properly. Here’s what we’d bring for a day trip:
We’d also recommend bringing a light cover-up for the boat ride, especially if you’re traveling early in the morning or returning later in the day. Most importantly, don’t forget to arrange your Blue Lagoon access in advance if required for your visit, and keep your return boat time somewhere easy to check.
FAQ About the Island of Comino in Malta
Now you know almost everything you need to enjoy Comino island! But in case you missed anything in our Comino travel guide, here are some answers to some frequently asked questions.
Is Comino, Malta worth visiting?
Absolutely! Comino has some of the most beautiful turquoise water in Malta, and we think it’s worth visiting even with how popular it has become. When I first went in 2014, it felt like a hidden gem, but when we returned in 2025, it was much busier while being just as gorgeous. Our biggest tip is to take the earliest boat possible so you can enjoy the Blue Lagoon before the crowds arrive. By late morning, it can get packed, especially during summer.
Are Blue Lagoon and Comino the same?
No! Comino is the island, while the Blue Lagoon is its most famous attraction and the main reason most visitors come. The Blue Lagoon is known for its incredibly clear, turquoise water, but there’s more to see around Comino, including Crystal Lagoon, Santa Marija Bay, sea caves, and Santa Marija Tower. If you have time, we recommend exploring beyond the Blue Lagoon to see more of what this little island has to offer.
What to do on Comino Island, Malta?
The main thing to do on Comino is visit the Blue Lagoon for swimming and enjoying the incredible scenery. You can also explore Crystal Lagoon and the sea caves by boat, visit Santa Marija Bay, walk to Santa Marija Tower, or explore the island’s coastal paths. If you enjoy snorkeling, bring your gear to make the most of the clear water. Just remember that Comino has limited shade and facilities, so plan ahead if you’re spending the whole day there.
Are there hotels on Comino?
Comino is primarily a day-trip destination, and there are currently no ordinary tourist accommodation options to plan an overnight stay around. Instead, you’ll need to stay on Malta or Gozo and visit by boat. Both islands make good bases, so choose whichever fits the rest of your itinerary best.
Is it safe to swim in Blue Lagoon, Malta?
Swimming in the Blue Lagoon is a popular activity, and the clear water is one of its biggest draws. However, conditions can change, and swimmers should pay attention to local safety instructions, swimming-zone boundaries, currents, and boat traffic. Stay within designated swimming areas, don’t swim beyond your ability, and avoid entering the water when conditions are unsafe. Also keep in mind that the lagoon gets very busy during peak season, so be aware of other swimmers and boats around you.
How much does a ferry ticket to Comino cost?
Prices depend on your departure point and the operator you choose. As one example, Comino Ferries lists adult return tickets from Malta at €15 and return tickets for children under 10 at €7. The company also offers a Malta–Blue Lagoon–Gozo ferry connection at the same listed prices. Fares and schedules can change, so check the operator’s website before booking. Remember to check the separate Blue Lagoon visitor booking requirements too, as your boat ticket may not automatically include access to the shore.
Can you do Gozo and Comino in one day?
Yes, you can visit both Gozo and Comino in one day if you book a combined boat trip or plan your transportation carefully. However, we’d recommend allowing more time for Gozo if you can. There are so many things to do there, including exploring Victoria and the Citadel, visiting beautiful beaches and coastal spots, discovering historic temples, and enjoying the island’s villages and local food. You could easily spend a few days exploring Gozo without running out of things to see. Check out our guide to the best things to do in Gozo to plan your visit. If you have the time, we’d separate the two islands into different days rather than rushing through both.
Final Tips for Visiting the Island of Comino & What’s Next
The island of Comino is a must-see for a Malta trip, whether you’re visiting for just the Blue Lagoon or to explore some of its caves and more underrated swimming spots. With its crystal clear waters and gorgeous Maltese Islands that we think is well worth experiencing.
Before you go, here are a few final tips to help you plan your visit:
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👀 What’s Next?
Now that you’ve finished our Comino travel guide, let’s help you explore more of Malta.
Here are other Malta guides we have:
🚢 How to get to Gozo
🛵 How to get around Gozo
💦 Best things to do in Gozo
📖 Gozo travel guide
✈️ How to get to Malta
🌊 17 Things to do in Malta
Here are a few other upcoming Malta guides we’re working on:
🚗 How to get around Malta
📸 Malta photo guide
📖 Complete guide for planning a trip to Malta
We hope you enjoyed our guide to visiting the island of Comino! If you have any other questions or comments about visiting, feel free to leave them below.
Ready to learn more about visiting the Maltese islands? We have a few Gozo travel guides, as well as a couple of other Malta travel guides. Don’t forget to subscribe to our newsletter to get all of our updates on articles, trips, and shop discounts..
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