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Blue Lagoon (Comino)

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Blue Lagoon (Comino) (Malta)

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The Blue Lagoon on the island of Comino is one of Malta's most celebrated natural landmarks, tucked away between the main island and the uninhabited islet of Cominotto. The lagoon is distinguished by its exceptionally shallow, brilliant turquoise waters and stark white sandy seabed, giving it a tropical appearance unique in the Mediterranean. This visual effect is caused by the purity of the water and the reflection of sunlight off the white sand. Historically, Comino served as a hideout for pirates and smugglers during the Middle Ages before the Knights of St. John erected St. Mary’s Tower in the 17th century to patrol the channel between Malta and Gozo. Today, the Blue Lagoon is a major attraction for day-trippers, swimmers, and snorkelers from across the globe. The entire area is a protected bird sanctuary and a marine conservation zone within the Natura 2000 network. Despite the high volume of visitors during the summer months, the lagoon maintains a sense of isolation as Comino has only a handful of permanent residents. The site has also gained cinematic fame, serving as an impressive backdrop for various international films, such as the 2002 movie Swept Away starring Madonna.

Best time to visit & climate

The most pleasant time to visit is May–Jul.

JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec
Avg °C151415161923262725232016
Rain mm74655133171141063829582

📋 Practical info

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Visiting
The Blue Lagoon is a beautiful coastal bay on the small island of Comino, primarily known for swimming, snorkeling, and sunbathing. Since the sandy areas are quite small, much of the surrounding space consists of rocky platforms where visitors typically lay out their towels.
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Typical hours
The bay itself is a natural, open environment and technically accessible at any time. However, practical visiting hours are dictated by the schedules of the ferry and boat operators, which generally run frequently throughout the daytime, especially during the peak summer months.
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Photography
The turquoise water against the rugged rocks provides an incredibly photogenic setting. For the most impressive landscape shots without overwhelming crowds, it is best to capture your photos very early in the morning before the main tour boats arrive, or later in the evening as they depart.
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Time needed
Visitors typically spend at least a half day at the lagoon to fully enjoy swimming in the clear waters and relaxing on the rocks. Some choose to stay for the entire day, exploring other smaller bays on Comino by foot if they want a break from the main crowded area.
Combine with
A trip to the Blue Lagoon is often the sole focus of a day tour, but it can easily be combined with short hikes across Comino island to see the Santa Marija Tower. You could also pair it with a quick visit to Gozo, depending on the specific boat excursion package you choose.
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Getting there
The lagoon is entirely inaccessible by car and can only be reached via water. Numerous operators offer frequent ferries, speedboats, and large catamaran tours departing mainly from Cirkewwa in Malta, or Mgarr in Gozo, dropping passengers right at the lagoon's edge.
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Insider tip
During the peak summer season, the small sandy patches and rocky areas get incredibly crowded by mid-morning. If you prefer a more peaceful experience, try to take the earliest possible boat, or visit outside of the main tourist season for a much more relaxed atmosphere.

Geography

Coordinates
36.01400, 14.32600

Facts

  • The lagoon is situated between Comino and the islet of Cominotto.
  • The white sandy bottom gives the water a vivid turquoise color.
  • St. Mary's Tower was built in 1618 to defend against corsairs.
  • Comino island currently has only 2 permanent residents.
  • The area is a designated bird sanctuary and protected marine zone.
  • It was used as a filming location for the movie 'Swept Away' (2002).

Explore nearby

Notable places around

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Sights in the town Blue Lagoon (Comino) (10)

Blue Lagoon

Lagoon in Malta with turquoise water between Comino and Cominotto.

Blue Lagoon Tunnel Dive Site

Dive through a tunnel in the Blue Lagoon, for experienced divers.

P31 - Patrol Boat

Former Maltese patrol boat, now on display as an attraction.

Saint Mary Tower🗼 tower

Wignacourt Tower, a 17th-century watchtower on Comino.

Chapel of Our Lady's Return from Egypt

Church on Comino, Malta, dedicated to Mary's return from Egypt.

Ħondoq ir-Rummien

Beach and coastline with salt pans and caves, popular for snorkeling and diving.

Saint Mary's Gun Battery

18th-century gun battery on Comino, part of the coastal defenses.

Saint Anthony's Battery

Gun battery built 1731-1732 to guard the channel between Gozo and Comino.

Immaculate Conception Chapel

Chapel in Malta, dedicated to the Immaculate Conception.

Bajja ta' Gorgun

Bay on Comino, a quiet beach away from the main attractions.

Sights nearby

Frequently asked questions

How do I get to the Blue Lagoon?
By ferry or water taxi from Cirkewwa (Malta) or Mgarr (Gozo).
When is it most crowded at the Blue Lagoon?
In high season, between 10:00 AM and 4:00 PM, it is extremely crowded.
Are there shaded areas on the beach?
There is very little natural shade; umbrellas are available for rent but sell out early.
Can you stay overnight on Comino?
There is only one hotel and a campsite (permit required).
Are food and drinks available there?
Yes, there are many food trucks selling burgers, pineapple cocktails, and drinks.
Blue Lagoon (Comino): where is it located?
Blue Lagoon (Comino) is located in Malta.
Blue Lagoon (Comino): what is there to see?
Highlights include Blue Lagoon, Blue Lagoon Tunnel Dive Site, P31 - Patrol Boat.
Blue Lagoon (Comino): when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is May, Jul.
Blue Lagoon (Comino): why is it worth visiting?
The Blue Lagoon on the island of Comino is one of Malta's most celebrated natural landmarks, tucked away between the main island and the uninhabited islet of Cominotto.
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