The Blue Lagoon is the most photographed spot in the Maltese islands, a shallow channel of astonishingly clear, turquoise water between the little island of Comino and the even smaller islet of Cominotto. The white sandy seabed turns the shallows an almost tropical blue, which is exactly why it draws crowds every summer. This guide covers where it is, how to get there, what to do once you arrive, and how to enjoy it without the midday rush.
Blue Lagoon, Malta: How to Get There and What to Do
Where the Blue Lagoon is
The Blue Lagoon sits on Comino, the smallest of Malta's three main islands, lying between the larger islands of Malta and Gozo. Comino is tiny and almost car-free, with only a handful of permanent residents, so it feels wild and open despite the summer visitors. The lagoon itself is the narrow stretch of water on the island's western side, sheltered between Comino and Cominotto, which keeps it calm and shallow, ideal for swimming.
How to get to the Blue Lagoon
There are two main ways to reach Comino. The quickest is the short ferry from Ċirkewwa, on the northern tip of Malta, which takes around 25 minutes; Ċirkewwa is also where the Gozo ferry leaves, so it is easy to reach by bus. Alternatively, day-trip boats run from the resort towns of Sliema, Bugibba and Marfa, often combining the Blue Lagoon with a cruise around Comino's caves and Gozo. Boats drop you right at the lagoon, and services are frequent in summer, though much reduced out of season.
What to do at the Blue Lagoon
Swimming and snorkelling are the main draws, as the water is clear enough to see straight to the bottom and full of small fish around the rocks. You can hire kayaks and paddleboards, and boat operators run trips to the nearby sea caves and to the striking Crystal Lagoon on Comino's south side. On foot, a short walk leads up to the Saint Mary's Tower, a 17th-century watchtower built by the Knights that featured in the film The Count of Monte Cristo, and there are quieter swimming spots at Santa Marija Bay and San Niklaw Bay if the lagoon is busy.
The best time to visit
Timing is everything here. The Blue Lagoon gets extremely crowded from late morning through the afternoon in July and August, so the trick is to arrive early, on one of the first boats, or come in the shoulder seasons of late spring and early autumn, when the water is still warm but the crowds are thinner. Out of season the lagoon is beautifully quiet, though boat services are limited and some facilities close.
Insider Tips from a Local
- The ferry to Comino Island drops passengers off at the Blue Lagoon before returning to the main island, Mġarr Harbour. If you're taking this service, it's worth spending a few extra euros for the optional detour around the Comino Caves on the return journey - a short but memorable experience.
- Water shoes are highly recommended, as the rocks surrounding the Blue Lagoon are sharp and uneven. Skip the flip-flops if you plan to explore the cliffs or wander along the rugged paths.
- Notably, Comino offers other fantastic swimming spots beyond the Blue Lagoon. The Crystal Lagoon is perfect for snorkeling and cliff jumping, while Santa Marija Bay, on the northern side, is a peaceful sandy beach. You can also check out San Niklaw Bay for a quieter swim.
- Are you visiting during winter? You might still spot a few swimmers, but the island is just as rewarding for a scenic hike. Follow one of the walking trails or visit the Santa Marija Tower, an impressive historical landmark.
- If you're taking public transport to the ferry terminal in Ċirkewwa, be sure to signal clearly to the driver as your bus approaches the stop.
While there are food trucks at the Blue Lagoon selling snacks and drinks, the prices are quite high for what you get - packing your own lunch is a smarter option.
Finally, bring some cash. Ferry tickets, umbrella and deckchair rentals, and most food stalls on the island don't accept cards, so having euros on hand will save you the hassle.
Summary
The Blue Lagoon on Comino is Malta's most famous swimming spot, a shallow turquoise channel between Comino and Cominotto. Reach it by the 25-minute ferry from Ċirkewwa or by day-trip boat from Sliema, Bugibba or Marfa, and go early or out of peak summer to avoid the crush. Bring your own water and sun protection, wear water shoes, and combine the swim with the caves, the Crystal Lagoon and Saint Mary's Tower. It is an easy day trip while studying English in Malta with SPRACHCAFFE.
FAQ
The Blue Lagoon is a sheltered bay on Comino, the small island between Malta and Gozo. It is known for its shallow, turquoise water over a white sandy seabed, which gives the lagoon its striking colour.
Most visitors take a ferry or boat from Cirkewwa in the north of Malta, or a day-trip boat from Sliema or Bugibba. Comino has no cars, so you continue on foot once you land.
Arrive early in the morning or later in the afternoon, and visit in spring or autumn if you can, to avoid the busiest midday crowds of high summer. The water is warm enough to swim from late spring.
The main draws are swimming and snorkelling in the clear water, along with short walks on Comino to quieter bays and the old watchtower. Facilities are limited, so it is wise to bring water and sun protection.
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