Plizio Visual Lab

Coral Lagoon (Malta)

Plizio editorial teamUpdated: Jun 2026Data Sources

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The Coral Lagoon, also known as Dragonara Cave, is a striking geological feature located at the north-eastern tip of Malta, near Armier Bay. It originated as a sea cave whose roof eventually collapsed, creating a nearly circular open-air pool of deep blue, crystalline water. The lagoon is connected to the open Mediterranean Sea via a narrow underwater tunnel, making it a favorite spot for kayakers and experienced divers. From above, the perfectly round void in the rocky coastline features a dramatic visual contrast against the surrounding limestone plateau. Geologically, the area is characterized by sharp Upper Coralline Limestone, necessitating sturdy footwear for those exploring the site on foot. Due to its accessibility only via unpaved tracks, the lagoon has maintained its rugged and pristine character. Swimming inside is strictly recommended only during very calm sea conditions, as the currents through the connecting tunnel can become hazardous.

Location: Malta
Nearby: Ghajn Tuffieha Bay (4 km)

Best time to visit & climate

The most pleasant time to visit is May–Jul.

	Jan	Feb	Mar	Apr	May	Jun	Jul	Aug	Sep	Oct	Nov	Dec
Avg °C	15	14	15	16	19	23	26	27	25	23	20	16
Rain mm	74	65	51	33	17	11	4	10	63	82	95	82

📋 Practical info

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Visiting

The Coral Lagoon is an impressive open-roofed sea cave that can be viewed from above by walking cautiously along the surrounding rocky cliffs. Alternatively, visitors often explore the interior waters from below by paddling into the cavern through its narrow sea entrance.

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Typical hours

As a wild natural site on the coastline, the lagoon is completely free to visit at any time. However, going there during daylight hours is highly recommended to safely navigate the sharp rocks and to see the bright colors of the water illuminated by the sun.

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Photography

Photographing the lagoon from the edges of the collapsed roof above yields dramatic and dizzying shots of the pool below. Taking a kayak or a stand-up paddleboard inside allows for equally striking photos looking up through the circular opening towards the sky.

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Time needed

A visit typically lasts around one to two hours, especially if you are simply walking from the nearest parking spot to take photos and admire the geological formation. If you plan to rent kayaks and paddle from nearby bays to enter the cave, expect the activity to take at least three hours.

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Combine with

The lagoon is located near the northernmost tip of Malta, making it very easy to combine with a relaxing visit to Armier Bay or the popular sandy stretches of Mellieha Bay. You can also pair it with a ferry trip to the neighboring islands of Gozo and Comino.

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Getting there

Getting to the top of the lagoon involves driving toward the northern coast and then walking along a rugged, rocky path for about ten to fifteen minutes from the nearest informal parking area. Accessing the water inside requires a boat, kayak, or paddleboard from the nearby beaches.

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Insider tip

Swimming inside the lagoon is often discouraged or considered risky because there are sharp rocks below the surface and the sea currents can occasionally pull unexpectedly. If you visit the edge on foot, wear closed, sturdy shoes to safely walk across the sharp coastal limestone.