Visiting Malta and considering a day trip to Comino Island? This is a complete guide with everything you need to know before you go!
Comino Island is nestled between Malta and Gozo, and it’s a paradise waiting to be explored.
The island is mostly known for the stunning Blue Lagoon, but there’s so much more to do, and we’ll go through the best things to do on Comino.
Read on to discover all the information about visiting Malta Comino Island!
OVERVIEW – COMINO ISLAND IN MALTA
Let’s start this guide with the essentials you should know about the island, from its location to getting there and the best time to visit.
WHERE IS COMINO ISLAND?
Its located between Malta and Gozo Island in the Mediterranean Sea. This small island is known for the famous Blue Lagoon and rugged landscapes.
The island covers an area of just 3.5 square kilometers and is a popular destination for day trips, snorkeling, and diving.
It’s a peaceful, largely uninhabited island that offers a peaceful escape from Malta.
HOW TO GET TO COMINO?
To get to the island, you can take the Comino ferry service from either Malta or Gozo. Ferries to Comino Blue Lagoon depart regularly from Cirkewwa in Malta and Mgarr in Gozo.
The first ferry to Comino from Malta leaves at 9.30 am and there’s a departure each hour until 3.30 pm.
On the other hand, ferries from Mgarr in Gozo start at 8.00 am and there’s a departure each hour until 5.45 pm.
The journey takes about 15 to 20 minutes, and tickets cost €13 roundtrip from Malta and €10 when coming from Gozo.
Alternatively, you can also join a guided tour to Gozo and Comino, or a trip to Comino and its Blue Lagoon exclusively. I recommend the former if you have limited time.
BEST TOUR TO COMINO ISLAND MALTA
The best way to visit is by joining a Tour of Comino Island and Gozo!
It includes a stop at the Blue Lagoon, transportation from Malta, deck chairs, and an experienced guide!
BEST TIME TO VISIT COMINO MALTA?
The best time to visit is during the late spring to early autumn months, from May to September.
During these months, the weather is warm and sunny, perfect for swimming, snorkeling, and enjoying the things to do on Comino.
The summer months, especially July and August, can be busy with tourists, so visiting in late spring or early autumn can offer a more relaxed experience with fewer crowds.
CAN YOU SLEEP ON COMINO ISLAND?
It used to be possible to sleep on the island at the Comino Hotel, but it has been closed for a while now, and the only way to spend the night here now is to camp at Tal Ful Camping Site.
The camping site is free, which is great, but it’s been infamous for having rats roaming around, so you’ll either want to have a proper, protective tent or go back and spend the night in Malta.
Staying on the island allows you to enjoy the island’s tranquility after the day-trippers have left, but measure the pros and cons beforehand as the last ferry back to Malta is at 3.30 pm.
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FUN THINGS TO DO ON COMINO ISLAND MALTA
Now that you have a better idea about the island as a whole, let’s go through the best things to do in Comino.
Spoiler alert: Comino Island in Malta is mostly known for its outdoor activities, so you won’t find many indoor things to do or cities to explore. Does it still make it worth it? Absolutely!
THE BLUE LAGOON
The Blue Lagoon is the most famous attraction here, and that’s the main reason why people come to Comino Island in Malta.
Located between the island and the small islet of Cominotto, this protected cove boasts crystal-clear, turquoise waters and a sandy bottom, making it ideal for swimming and snorkeling.
The Blue Lagoon is a popular spot for boat tours, and despite being very crowded during the summer, you can visit early in the morning or late in the afternoon for a better experience.
The best way to visit, as I mentioned previously, is to join a tour of Gozo and Comino Islands, and you’ll have an expert guide taking you around and visiting the Blue Lagoon before the big crowds arrive.
COMINOTTO ISLAND AND BEACH
Cominotto Island is a small islet directly opposite and it’s a more secluded alternative to the busy Blue Lagoon.
A short swim across the clear waters brings you to Cominotto Beach, a quiet spot perfect for relaxation and exploration. It’s one of the best things to do in Comino.
The beach, featured in the movie “Troy,” is less crowded, and you’ll love it in the summertime when countless visitors are at the Blue Lagoon.
If you have more time available and eventually decide to visit on your own, you can rent a kayak or paddleboard from the Blue Lagoon area, which is a nice way to spend a couple of hours or so.
The beach is approximately 200 meters long, and you’ll love spending some time here!
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SAN NIKLAW BAY
Located at the northern end of the island, San Niklaw Bay is a beautiful spot with clear, turquoise waters and rocky shores, perfect for swimming and snorkeling.
If the Blue Lagoon is too crowded during peak season, San Niklaw Bay is a more relaxed place just a short walk along a dirt trail.
You’re almost guaranteed not to see crowds, and tours typically don’t stop here, which is a bonus if you plan to travel to the island on your own.
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SAINT MARY’S TOWER
Saint Mary’s Tower, also known as Santa Marija Tower or simply Comino Tower, is the most prominent structure on the island.
It was built in 1618 by the Knights of Malta, this large bastioned watchtower served as a crucial defense point against invasions.
It was the fifth of six Wignacourt Towers, part of a network to warn of approaching enemies, such as pirates and Ottoman Turks. Guards would light fires atop the tower to signal danger to other towers.
Today, Saint Mary’s Tower stands as a historical monument that can be seen from the sea or reached by a hike from the Blue Lagoon.
Located on a high cliff near the southwest corner of the island, it offers a glimpse into Malta’s storied past.
It’s worth noting that you’ll stop at Saint Mary’s Tower when booking a guided tour of the island and the Blue Lagoon, so that’s the best way to visit.
POPEYE’S CAVE
Popeye’s Cave, known locally as L-Għar ta’ Bla Saqaf, is a spectacular cave that gained fame from the 1980 Popeye film starring Robin Williams.
It’s located just east of Crystal Lagoon on the south-facing coast and features a large cavern with a collapsed roof, creating a natural skylight.
Needless to say, this is an amazing spot for taking photos. You can get there by boat, and it’s a must-visit when coming to the island.
LOVER’S CAVE
Lover’s Cave is a tourist spot that is often overlooked by people visiting, but I recommend stopping here on your trip.
Located just southeast of Popeye’s Cave, it’s only accessible from the water, making it even more unique.
At first glance, it appears as a small cave opening on the rugged coastline. But once you go through the dark, 40-meter-long tunnel, it opens up into a large cavern with a sandy beach inside.
Lover’s Cave is truly a special place worth discovering for its unique beauty and privacy, and I recommend taking a life jacket or life ring in case you’re not a confident swimmer.
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SANTA MARIJA BAY & CAVES
Santa Marija Bay, also known as Santa Maria Bay, is a charming pebble beach nestled in a cove on the northern end of the island.
There’s very little to do here apart from enjoying life and relaxing without the crowds.
A highlight of this area is the Chapel of Our Lady’s Return from Egypt, adding a touch of history to your time here. You can easily walk there, which only takes a few minutes from the beach.
Also, just a 5-minute walk or so away is Santa Mariya Caves, another incredible natural attraction to check out.
These stunning caves feature vibrant, clear turquoise waters that lead into a broad cavern. The summer sun reflects off the white bottom, creating a shimmering effect on the cave’s roof.
It’s worth noting that, unlike Santa Maria Bay, all island tours include a stop here, making it one of the top must-see spots, alongside the Blue Lagoon.
ĠEBEL COMINO
If you’re feeling adventurous, then you’ll want to take a hike to Ġebel, the highest point on Comino Island Malta.
Although it stands at less than 70 meters, the viewpoint offers expansive views over Malta and even Gozo.
The hike is relatively easy, starting from the island’s eastern side near the closed-down Pig Farm.
Follow the worn trail leading up the hill to the top, where a stack of stones marks the highest point, and enjoy the panoramic views from there – You won’t be disappointed!
TRAVEL TIPS FOR COMINO ISLAND
Now that we’ve covered the best things to do on Comino Island, here are some handy travel tips to know before you go.
HOW LONG TO STAY IN COMINO?
For most visitors, taking a day trip to Comino is enough to see the key attractions like the Blue Lagoon.
And for this, you’ll want to join a group tour to explore the highlights comfortably.
However, for the more adventurous, spending the day and camping overnight can provide a unique experience, and you’ll get to avoid the big crowds of tourists on the island.
IS COMINO ISLANDS MALTA WORTH VISITING?
Absolutely, Comino Island is worth visiting. Its stunning Blue Lagoon, clear turquoise waters, and natural beauty make it a must-see destination in Malta.
The island offers excellent opportunities for swimming, snorkeling, and exploring hidden caves. Whether you’re looking for adventure or relaxation, this island is a perfect escape with its picturesque landscapes and serene environment.
SHOULD YOU BOOK A TOUR TO COMINO ISLAND?
Yes, booking a tour of Comino Island is the best way to visit. Tours offer a convenient way to visit the island’s main attractions, including the Blue Lagoon.
They also include transportation, making the trip hassle-free, and you’ll meet other travelers, which is always a positive. Plus, this is Malta, and day tours are cheap, so I recommend booking now to secure your spot.
WHERE TO STAY IN MALTA?
Malta has countless places to stay, though accommodation sells out quickly, especially during the summer months, so you’ll want to book in advance.
Below you’ll find properties suitable for luxury travelers, budget backpackers, and everyone in between.
LUXURY: Rosselli AX Privilege
MID RANGE: The Londoner Hotel Sliema
BUDGET: Citizen Suites Aparthotel
FOR MORE OPTIONS, READ THIS GUIDE ON WHERE TO STAY IN MALTA – THE BEST AREAS
OTHER THINGS TO DO IN MALTA
Malta is one of the most beautiful countries in Europe, and there are plenty of things to see and do during your visit.
I spent one week in Malta, and here below is my complete guide to all the must-see attractions.
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FINAL THOUGHTS – COMINO ISLAND MALTA
I hope you enjoyed reading this article about the island of Comino Malta. If you have any questions, please leave a comment below this post and I will get back to you as soon as I can.
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