Blue Lagoon, Comino: Malta's Iconic Turquoise Paradise

The Blue Lagoon, nestled between the tiny island of Comino and the even smaller islet of Cominotto, is arguably Malta’s most famous and breathtaking natural attraction. Its incredibly clear, turquoise waters, white sandy seabed, and stunning scenery have made it a must-visit destination for travelers from around the world. This comprehensive guide provides everything you need to know about the Blue Lagoon, from how to get there and what to do, to where to stay and how to visit responsibly. Prepare to be mesmerized by this jewel of the Mediterranean!

The Blue Lagoon: A Maltese Icon and Mediterranean Masterpiece

The Blue Lagoon’s fame is well-deserved. The water’s vibrant turquoise hue, a result of the white sandy seabed and the clarity of the water, is simply breathtaking. It’s a scene that seems plucked straight from a postcard, offering a picture-perfect Mediterranean escape. The lagoon is relatively shallow, making it ideal for swimming and wading, and the surrounding rocky coastline provides opportunities for exploration and sunbathing. While incredibly popular, especially during the summer months, the Blue Lagoon’s beauty remains undeniable, and it’s an essential experience for anyone visiting the Republic of Malta.

Getting to the Blue Lagoon: Your Journey to Paradise

The Blue Lagoon is located on Comino, a small, car-free island situated between Malta and Gozo. Access is exclusively by boat.

From Malta (Ċirkewwa or Marfa): The most common way to reach the Blue Lagoon is by boat from Ċirkewwa or Marfa in northern Malta. Numerous operators offer regular ferry services and day trips. The boat trip itself is part of the experience, offering stunning views of the Maltese coastline. Travel time is approximately 15-25 minutes.
From Gozo (Mġarr): Boats also depart from Mġarr Harbour in Gozo, offering a shorter journey to the Blue Lagoon. Travel time is approximately 10-15 minutes.
Day Trips and Cruises: Many tour operators offer day trips and cruises to the Blue Lagoon, often including stops at other Comino attractions, such as the Crystal Lagoon and the Santa Maria Caves. These can be a convenient option, especially if you want a guided experience.
Private Boat Charters: For a more exclusive and customizable experience, consider chartering a private boat. This allows you to set your own schedule and explore the area at your own pace.
Types of Boats Variety of boats are available.

The Magic of the Blue Lagoon: Exploring Its Unique Features

The Blue Lagoon’s appeal lies in its exceptional natural beauty:

Turquoise Waters: The water’s incredibly vibrant turquoise color is the defining feature of the Blue Lagoon. The combination of the white sandy seabed and the exceptional water clarity creates this mesmerizing hue.
White Sandy Seabed: Unlike many Maltese beaches, which are rocky, the Blue Lagoon boasts a white sandy seabed, making it comfortable to walk and wade in.
Shallow, Calm Waters: The lagoon is relatively shallow, especially in the central area, making it ideal for families with children and those who are not strong swimmers.
Rocky Coastline: The lagoon is surrounded by low-lying rocky coastline, providing opportunities for sunbathing, exploring, and finding a (somewhat) quieter spot away from the main beach area.
Cominotto Island: The small islet of Cominotto, located just across from the Blue Lagoon, has a small sandy beach and offers another perspective on the stunning scenery. You can easily swim or wade across to Cominotto.
Crystal Lagoon: While not as famous as the Blue Lagoon, the nearby Crystal Lagoon is another beautiful spot on Comino, known for its clear waters and dramatic cliffs. Many boat trips include a stop here.

Activities at the Blue Lagoon: Swimming, Sunbathing, and More

The Blue Lagoon offers a range of activities, primarily centered around the water:

Swimming: The clear, calm waters are perfect for swimming. The shallow areas are ideal for families, while stronger swimmers can venture further out.
Sunbathing: Relax on the small sandy beach area or find a spot on the surrounding rocks. Keep in mind that shade is limited, so sun protection is essential.
Snorkeling: While the marine life isn’t as abundant as in some other Maltese locations, the exceptional water clarity makes snorkeling enjoyable. You can expect to see some fish and other marine creatures.
Kayaking and Paddleboarding: Rent a kayak or paddleboard and explore the lagoon and surrounding coastline at your own pace.
Boat Trips: Take a short boat trip around Comino to explore the Crystal Lagoon, the Santa Maria Caves, and other coastal attractions.
Walking and Exploring: While Comino is small, there are some walking paths that allow you to explore the island’s rugged interior and enjoy panoramic views.
Photography: The Blue Lagoon is a photographer’s dream, with endless opportunities to capture the stunning turquoise waters, the white sand, and the dramatic coastline.
Relaxing: simply a **thing to do in malta**.

Facilities and Amenities at the Blue Lagoon (Be Prepared!)

Facilities at the Blue Lagoon are limited, especially considering the large number of visitors it receives, particularly in summer:

Food and Drink Vendors: Several kiosks sell snacks, drinks, and ice cream. However, the selection is limited, and prices are typically higher than on the mainland. It’s a good idea to bring your own water and snacks, especially if you have dietary restrictions.
Sunbed and Umbrella Rentals: Sunbeds and umbrellas are available for rent, but they can be expensive and sell out quickly during peak season.
Restrooms: Public restrooms are available, but they can be crowded and not always well-maintained.
Lockers: Limited lockers may be available for storing valuables, but it’s best not to bring anything too valuable with you.
First Aid: Basic first aid may be available, but for serious medical issues, you would need to be transported back to Malta or Gozo.
Limited Shade: Natural shade is extremely limited. Sun protection (hat, sunscreen, sunglasses) is absolutely essential.
Crowds: Be prepared for crowds, especially during the peak summer months (June-August) and on weekends. The Blue Lagoon can get very busy.

Accommodation Near the Blue Lagoon: Staying on Comino or Nearby Islands

Accommodation options on Comino itself are extremely limited. Most visitors stay on Malta or Gozo and visit the Blue Lagoon on a day trip:

Hotel Name	Location	Rating (Approx.)	Price Range (Per Night – Double Room)	Features
Comino Hotel	Comino	3-star	€100 – €250 (Seasonal)	The only hotel on Comino, offering direct access to the Blue Lagoon and other Comino attractions. Limited availability, book well in advance.
Kempinski Hotel San Lawrenz	Gozo (San Lawrenz)	5-star	€150 – €350	Luxury hotel, multiple pools, spa, restaurants, excellent service. Requires a ferry trip to Comino.
Grand Hotel Gozo	Gozo (Mġarr)	4-star	€80 – €180	Located near the ferry terminal, convenient for trips to Comino, rooftop pool, sea views.
Paradise Bay Resort Hotel	Malta (Ċirkewwa)	4-star	€70 – €160	Close to the Ċirkewwa ferry terminal (for access to Comino), sea views, pools, restaurants.
Labranda Riviera Hotel & Spa	Malta (Marfa)	4-star	€80 – €200	Seafront location, close to Comino ferry departure points, multiple pools, spa.

Other Accommodation Options:

Camping (Comino): There is a designated campsite on Comino, near Santa Maria Bay. This is a basic campsite with limited facilities. Permits are required.
Self-Catering Apartments (Malta & Gozo): Numerous apartments are available for rent on both Malta and Gozo, offering flexibility and kitchen facilities.
Guesthouses (Malta & Gozo): Guesthouses provide a more affordable and often more personal accommodation option.
Vacation Rentals (Malta & Gozo): Websites like Airbnb and Booking.com list villas, apartments, and farmhouses for rent.

Visiting the Blue Lagoon Responsibly: Protecting Paradise

The Blue Lagoon’s popularity has put a strain on its environment. It’s crucial to visit responsibly to help preserve its beauty for future generations:

Avoid Peak Season (if possible): If you can, visit during the shoulder seasons (April-May, September-October) to avoid the largest crowds and the most intense heat.
Leave No Trace: Pack out all your trash and leave the area cleaner than you found it.
Respect the Environment: Do not disturb the marine life or damage the surrounding vegetation.
Use Reef-Safe Sunscreen: Choose sunscreen that is labeled as “reef-safe” to minimize the impact on the marine ecosystem.
Be Mindful of Noise Levels: Keep noise levels down to avoid disturbing other visitors and the local wildlife.
Support Sustainable Businesses: Choose tour operators and businesses that demonstrate a commitment to environmental sustainability.
Consider Alternatives: If the Blue Lagoon is extremely crowded, consider visiting other, less crowded beaches and coves on Comino or elsewhere in Malta and Gozo.
Stay Hydrated:** Carry Water.

Beyond the Blue Lagoon: Exploring Comino

While the Blue Lagoon is the main attraction, Comino offers other points of interest:

Crystal Lagoon: Another beautiful bay with clear waters and dramatic cliffs.
Santa Maria Caves: A series of sea caves that can be explored by boat or by experienced divers.
Santa Maria Bay: A sandy beach on the northern side of Comino, offering a quieter alternative to the Blue Lagoon.
St. Mary’s Tower: A historic watchtower offering panoramic views of the island.
Comino Chapel: A small, historic chapel.
Hiking Trails: Explore the island on foot on one of the many trails.

The Blue Lagoon: A Maltese Must-See

The Blue Lagoon, with its breathtaking turquoise waters and stunning scenery, is an unforgettable destination. While it can get crowded, especially during peak season, its beauty is undeniable. By planning your visit carefully, choosing the right time to go, and visiting responsibly, you can have an incredible experience at this iconic Maltese location and create lasting memories of this Mediterranean paradise. It is a truly worthwhile experience for anyone visiting Malta.