Comino may be the smallest of Malta’s inhabited islands, but its crystal-clear waters and peaceful solitude make it a Mediterranean treasure.
In This Article
The Famous Blue Lagoon
The Blue Lagoon is the crown jewel of Comino, a stunning stretch of turquoise water between the islands of Comino and Cominotto. The water is so clear that you can see the sandy seabed from a boat deck. Swimming, snorkeling, and kayaking are the main activities here, with underwater visibility often exceeding 20 meters. The lagoon is sheltered from strong currents, making it safe for swimmers of all ages. Arrive early in the morning to enjoy the lagoon before the day-trippers arrive from Malta and Gozo.
Comino’s History and Silent Atmosphere
Comino has been sparsely populated for centuries, with only a handful of permanent residents. The island’s name is believed to derive from the cumin seed that once grew here. During the time of the Knights of St. John, Comino was used as a hunting and quarantine ground. Today, the island is a nature reserve, with no cars, no hotels, and very few buildings. The silence is one of its greatest attractions, offering a rare escape from the bustle of modern life. Walking across the island takes less than an hour.
Snorkeling and Diving Around the Coastline
The waters surrounding Comino are a paradise for snorkelers and divers. Beyond the Blue Lagoon, the island’s coastline is dotted with caves, inlets, and rocky reefs teeming with marine life. The Santa Maria Caves are a popular kayaking and boat destination, with dramatic limestone arches and glowing blue water. Sites like the Crystal Lagoon offer deeper waters ideal for scuba diving, where you can explore underwater rock formations and encounter octopus, moray eels, and colorful wrasse.
Getting to Comino and Planning Your Day Trip
Comino is accessible by ferry from both Malta (Cirkewwa) and Gozo (Mgarr). The crossing takes about 20 to 30 minutes. Many tour operators offer combined trips that include the Blue Lagoon, the Santa Maria Caves, and a stop at Comino Tower. Bring your own food and water, as facilities on the island are extremely limited. Pack sunscreen, a hat, and water shoes for the rocky shoreline. A day trip to Comino is one of the most memorable experiences you can have in the Maltese archipelago.
What to Bring and How to Prepare for Comino
Preparation is the difference between a magical day on Comino and a miserable one. Pack plenty of water, at least two liters per person, as there are no shops beyond a seasonal kiosk at the Blue Lagoon that closes early. Sun protection is essential: high-SPF sunscreen, a wide-brimmed hat, and polarized sunglasses for the intense Mediterranean glare reflecting off the white limestone. Water shoes are essential for the rocky shoreline. Bring snorkeling gear if you have it, as rental prices on tour boats are inflated. A dry bag protects valuables during boat transfers. Pack a picnic lunch with substantial food, as the limited options on the island are expensive. Arrive early to secure a good spot and leave before the last ferry to avoid the rush. With proper preparation, a day on Comino becomes exactly what it promises: a rare escape into one of the most naturally beautiful corners of the Mediterranean.
Comino Tower and the Island heritage
The Comino Tower stands as a silent sentinel over the island southern coast, a 17th-century watchtower built by the Knights of St. John to defend against Ottoman raids. The tower has been restored and is open to visitors during summer months, offering a glimpse into the strategic importance of this tiny island in the Mediterranean power struggles of earlier centuries. From the battlements, the views stretch across the channel to Gozo and down the rugged coastline where pirates once sought shelter. The tower interior houses a small exhibition on the island history and ecology, explaining how this barren landscape supported a population of monks, farmers, and soldiers over the centuries. The walk to the tower from the Blue Lagoon takes about 20 minutes across the island interior and is one of the most rewarding short hikes in the Maltese archipelago, passing drystone walls, abandoned farmhouses, and patches of wild thyme that release their fragrance with every step.
Have you visited the Blue Lagoon on Comino or are you planning a trip to Malta?
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