If I asked you to close your eyes and picture Malta, you might call to mind the iconic skyline of Valletta or the grandeur of the Grand Harbour. Yet just as likely, maybe even more so, is that you dream up a sparkling bay with impossibly clear, blue water framed by sun-bleached limestone cliffs. While Malta’s heritage, dramatic architecture, celebrated filming locations, and breathtaking landscapes are legendary, one small bay on the tiniest of its main islands seems to steal the show time and time again. There’s no denying the allure of the Blue Lagoon, even amid the crowds and controversies, but Comino holds many more secrets beyond its famous turquoise waters.
Comino’s Heritage: Legend, Defence, and Isolation
The name “Comino” (Kemmuna in Maltese) originates from the abundance of wild cumin that once blanketed the island, perfuming the air and shaping local cuisine. Over the centuries, Comino has been a refuge for hermits, smugglers, and pirates, and played a strategic role during the era of the Knights of St John. The impressive Santa Marija Tower, constructed in 1618, served as a crucial lookout and line of defence against corsairs and Ottoman raiders. At times, Comino was even used as a place of exile for wayward knights.
A unique chapter in Comino’s story emerged under British rule when the Comino Isolation (Plague) Hospital was constructed in the 1890s near Santa Marija Tower. This remote facility played a vital part in Malta’s public health defences, quarantining soldiers and travellers arriving from plague- or cholera-stricken regions. During the early 20th century, it also sheltered individuals during outbreaks and received wounded soldiers from the First World War. As the risk of epidemics waned and the resident population declined, the building found new life as a school for the island’s few children before eventually falling into picturesque ruin.
Today, with just a two permanent residents, no operating hotels or restaurants, and untamed landscapes shaped by wind and sea, Comino remains utterly unique and, understandably, a draw for many visitors to Malta. Even though sometimes their experience doesn’t quite live up to expectation.
How to Get to Comino & The Blue Lagoon
Getting to Comino means hopping on a ferry or joining a boat trip from either Malta or Gozo. Ferries operate all year if the weather allows, and boat excursions are abundant in summer. As of June 2025, booking a landing slot for the Blue Lagoon is essential. Slots are free and easily reserved online at the official Blue Lagoon website. You select a time—morning (08:00 to 13:30), afternoon (13:30 to 17:30), or evening (17:30 to 22:00)—and receive a QR code by email. Some ferry or boat operators arrange this for you, so be sure to confirm when booking.
Important things to remember:
-
- Access is free.
-
- Under 5s do not require a pass.
-
- You do not need a pass if you are visiting other parts of Comino and not the Blue Lagoon.
-
- A pass is not needed to land briefly for food or drinks only.
-
- Some ferry or boat trip tickets include the pass, so always check.
- Some ferry or boat trip tickets include the pass, so always check.
Comino Ferry from Malta
The official Comino Ferry departs from Marfa and Ċirkewwa in north Malta about every 30 minutes in summer. The trip takes roughly 20 minutes, with return fares at €15 for adults and €7 for children. The first ferry leaves Marfa at 08:00 and the last return from Comino is at 20:00. Most trips also include a complimentary tour of Comino’s sea caves.
Comino Ferry from Malta
The official Comino Ferry departs from Marfa and Ċirkewwa in north Malta about every 30 minutes in summer. The trip takes roughly 20 minutes, with return fares at €15 for adults and €7 for children. The first ferry leaves Marfa at 08:00 and the last return from Comino is at 20:00. Most trips also include a complimentary tour of Comino’s sea caves.
Comino Ferry from Gozo
Several ferry services run from Mgarr Harbour in Gozo:
-
- Ebson Comino Ferries: Adult returns €13 or €10 (with or without cave trip), children €6.50 or €5.
-
- Bella Comino Ferries: Adult returns €15 or €10 (with or without caves), ages 5 to 10 half price and under 4s free.
Ferries usually run hourly with the earliest at 08:00 and the latest around 18:00. Always confirm the return times.
Other local ferry operators are plentiful and can be found in the harbour. Make sure to compare prices , but I’ve found booking online usually gets you the best deal.
Boat Trips to Comino and the Blue Lagoon
During summer, you are spoilt for choice. Choose from all-day cruises, swim-stop tours, family-friendly boats with slides, or trips with lunch and drinks included. There is an option to suit every type of traveller. Have a look below at some of the options.
What to Expect on Comino
While Comino is a dedicated bird sanctuary and part of the Natura 2000 network, do not be misled by images online portraying the Blue Lagoon as an isolated paradise. During the summer months, it can become extremely crowded, even with the recently introduced landing pass system aimed at limiting visitor numbers.
The sandy beach at the Blue Lagoon is quite small and offers little to no shade. There are no hotels, restaurants, or shops on the island. However, you will find food trucks and stalls clustered near the Blue Lagoon and Santa Marija Bay offering wraps, burgers, fresh fruit, and the iconic pineapple cocktails. Cash is preferred, although card payments are accepted. The choice may be limited, so it is wise to bring a picnic, especially if you are planning to camp or stay late. Public toilets and basic showers are available near the main landing point, but it is recommended to bring all essentials, including plenty of water, as there are no shops.
On the positive side, the waters surrounding Comino are some of the clearest and most beautiful you will ever experience. If you venture beyond the Blue Lagoon and explore the rest of the island, you will discover stunning views worthy of Instagram and a rich slice of Malta’s history.
Top Things to Do on Comino
As you might have gathered, Comino is not packed with man-made entertainment. However, this is the perfect island to enjoy some swimming and hiking, or to connect with Malta’s long and fascinating history. My top recommendations are:
-
- Blue Lagoon: Swim or snorkel in the lagoon’s shallow, crystalline waters. For a quieter experience, swim over to explore the nearby Cominotto islet.
-
- Hiking: The whole island can be walked in a few hours, visiting historic sites such as Santa Marija Tower, Santa Marija Battery, and scenic spots like the Chapel of Our Lady’s Return from Egypt. The best time for hiking is between October and May.
-
- Diving: The Santa Marija caves and the P31 Wreck provide excellent diving opportunities.
-
- Stargazing: With minimal light pollution, Comino offers spectacular night skies, perfect for astronomy enthusiasts.
- Spot Film Locations: Comino has played a role in plenty of movies. Take a stroll and see what you recognise.
Filming Locations: Comino in Film & TV
Comino, especially the Blue Lagoon, rivals Dwejra Bay as one of Malta’s most popular filming locations. A-list stars such as Brad Pitt, Madonna, Guy Pearce, and Tim Robbins have all filmed here. For a full list, visit our Gozo movie locations page, but here our some of our favourites:
-
- Troy (2004): The Blue Lagoon stood in for ancient Greece in the blockbuster epic starring Brad Pitt.
-
- The Count of Monte Cristo (2002): Santa Marija Tower was used as the grim Chateau d’If. It reprised its role for the 2025 TV series.
-
- Swept Away (2002): Madonna’s Mediterranean drama showcased Comino’s wild shores.
-
- Helen of Troy (2003): This mini-series featured Comino’s stunning natural beauty.
While the Blue Lagoon might not offer the tranquil experience others promote, Comino offers much more than this one bay, blending natural wonder, history, and cinematic appeal in one small but captivating island. The Blue Lagoon is worth visiting and I recommend planning ahead to help you make the most of your time on the island, and remember to explore further.
Comino & Blue Lagoon FAQ
How do I get to Comino from Malta and Gozo?
Regular ferries run from Ċirkewwa and Marfa in north Malta, and from Mgarr Harbour in Gozo. There are also numerous boat tours available from both islands.
How long does it take to get to Comino?
That very much depends from where you start. From Marfa or Ċirkewwa in the north of Malta, or Gozo. The trip will take 10 – 20 minutes.
If you’re taking a boat trip from Sliema or Buġibba, then it’s going to take a good hour or more
Do I need to book in advance to visit Comino or the Blue Lagoon?
Yes, as of June 2025, visitors must book a free landing slot for the Blue Lagoon online. Booking ensures visitor numbers are managed for a better experience. Ferry and boat operators sometimes include the pass, so check when you book.
Are there any hotels or restaurants on Comino?
No, there are currently no hotels or restaurants operating on the island. You will find food trucks and stalls near the Blue Lagoon and Santa Marija Bay during the day. It’s a good idea to bring snacks, especially if you plan to camp or stay late.
Can I camp overnight on Comino?
Yes, camping is permitted only at the designated Tal-Ful campsite. The site is rustic and free, but you must bring your own equipment and supplies. Open fires are not allowed, but gas barbecues are permitted.
What facilities are available on the island?
Basic public toilets and showers are located near the main landing area. There are no shops, but there are plenty of kiosks selling food and drinks.
How long does it take to explore the island?
You can walk around Comino in a few hours, visiting its historic sites and enjoying scenic views. Many visitors combine this with swimming at the Blue Lagoon or nearby beaches.
Is Comino suitable for families and children?
Yes, Comino’s shallow waters and beaches are great for families, but be aware there is little shade and facilities are limited. Always supervise children closely, especially around water and rocky areas.
Can I visit Comino outside of the summer months?
Yes, it is possible to visit all year round weather permitting. The island is quieter outside the summer season, making it a peaceful choice for hiking, nature watching, and stargazing.
Is the Blue Lagoon, and Comino worth visiting?
Absolutely. It’s gained a bit of a reputation as a disappointing place to visit over the past few years, but it is still a stunning location that is worth a trip/
We recommend going early, and make sure that you take plenty of water and suncream. Also explore the rest of the Comino to get a real sense of the beauty of the island.
How long should I stay on Comino?
That depends on what you want to do. If your aim is to enjoy the waters of the Blue Lagoon, then probably one to two hours would be perfect. If you want to explore the island, then I’d recommend spending two to three, or even four hours on Comino.
