Between Malta and Gozo lies the tiny island of Comino, Malta, an idyllic hideaway famed for its dazzling Blue Lagoon and unspoiled charm.
Comino measures just 3.5 km² and is virtually uninhabited – only two residents call it home – giving it the atmosphere of a deserted paradise. With virtually no cars or towns, the island’s rugged limestone landscape and wild herbs evoke a castaway feel, while its crystal-clear waters and hidden coves beckon swimmers, snorkelers, and photographers from around the world.
Despite its size, Comino’s character is larger than life. Visitors find both adventure and tranquility here, from sun-drenched Blue Lagoon shores to quiet footpaths scented with wild thyme, making Comino a truly enchanting escape.
Though small, Comino boasts a rich history that belies its humble size. In the Middle Ages its coastal caves were notorious hideouts for pirates preying on ships crossing between Malta and Gozo.
The Knights of St. John later fortified the island, building the still-standing Santa Marija Tower in 1618 to guard the channel and signal between islands. Comino even served as a remote outpost where errant knights were exiled to man the lonely tower as punishment. The island’s very name comes from the cumin (“kemmuna”) once harvested here. Over the centuries Comino was often uninhabited or used for specific purposes – from a game reserve teeming with wild boar and hares to a quarantine station during the Napoleonic era.
By the 20th century a small farming community emerged briefly, then living off the land and the surrounding sea. However, due to the island's isolation, limited resources, and lack of infrastructure, most eventually moved to Gozo or Malta.
Today Comino is cherished mainly for its historic landmarks and untouched nature rather than permanent settlements.
Though small, Comino boasts a rich history that belies its humble size. In the Middle Ages its coastal caves were notorious hideouts for pirates preying on ships crossing between Malta and Gozo.
The Knights of St. John later fortified the island, building the still-standing Santa Marija Tower in 1618 to guard the channel and signal between islands. Comino even served as a remote outpost where errant knights were exiled to man the lonely tower as punishment. The island’s very name comes from the cumin (“kemmuna”) once harvested here. Over the centuries Comino was often uninhabited or used for specific purposes – from a game reserve teeming with wild boar and hares to a quarantine station during the Napoleonic era.
By the 20th century a small farming community emerged briefly, then living off the land and the surrounding sea. However, due to the island's isolation, limited resources, and lack of infrastructure, most eventually moved to Gozo or Malta.
Today Comino is cherished mainly for its historic landmarks and untouched nature rather than permanent settlements.
For such a small island, Comino offers a surprisingly diverse array of attractions for every type of traveller.
These Comino attractions range from picturesque lagoons and beaches to intriguing caves and a legendary watchtower. The famous Blue Lagoon, Comino’s crown jewel, draws swimmers and snorkelers with its shimmering turquoise waters and white sands – a vibrant spot perfect for those seeking a fun beach day. In contrast, Santa Marija Bay on the island’s quieter side offers a peaceful sandy beach and shallow waters ideal for those looking to relax away from the crowds (great for younger children or anyone craving tranquillity).
Adventure seekers can head to the Santa Marija Caves, a network of sea caves along the coast where snorkelers and divers discover underwater wonderlands of marine life and dramatic rock formations. Hikers and history buffs will love trekking up to Comino’s Santa Marija Tower (St. Mary’s Tower), a 17th-century stone fortification that offers panoramic views over the sea and a peek into the island’s storied past (this tower even featured as the Château d’If in the film The Count of Monte Cristo).
Finally, nature lovers can roam the footpaths and garigue trails across Comino – you can hike the entire island in about three hours (see our Comino walk!), encountering wild herbs, lizards, migratory birds, and stunning seascapes at every turn.
Reaching Comino from Gozo is straightforward and part of the adventure. Small ferries and water taxis operate frequently from Gozo’s Mġarr Harbour, making the short trip to Comino (around 15 minutes).
There are also ferries from Ċirkewwa in mainland Malta (~35 minutes), but many visitors opt for a convenient Comino boat trip from Gozo as it’s the quickest hop to the Blue Lagoon. In summer, numerous tour companies offer boat excursions from Gozo, some of which include visits to Comino’s sea caves or combine Gozo’s coast and Comino in one outing. For those looking for more flexibility, private boat charters can be hired to explore Comino’s hidden coves at your own pace.
And if you’re feeling adventurous, you can even kayak across the channel from Gozo to Comino – an exhilarating option for experienced paddlers (guided kayak tours are available and popular with adventure enthusiasts). Keep in mind that Comino has no roads, shops, or facilities (aside from seasonal kiosks in peak season), so once you arrive you’ll be exploring on foot. Be sure to bring any essentials like water, snacks, and sun protection for your day on this little island paradise.
PRESERVING THE ISLAND: VISITING RESPONSIBLY
To protect Comino’s fragile environment and improve visitor experience, a new online visitor booking system for the Blue Lagoon was introduced in 2025. Under the “Book. Protect. Enjoy.” initiative, all visitors arriving at Blue Lagoon Comino must pre-book a free time slot for their visit.
There are three daily slots (morning, afternoon, and evening), and a maximum of 4,000 people are allowed in the Blue Lagoon area at any one time – a significant reduction from the overcrowding of past summers. This system, managed by Malta Tourism Authority, is designed to safeguard the pristine Natura 2000 site and ensure everyone can enjoy Comino’s beauty responsibly. Bookings can be made by clicking on the link below, after which you receive a QR code to exchange for a wristband at the Blue Lagoon entry points.
Respectful tourism is strongly encouraged – visitors are asked to follow guidance from officials, stick to their allotted time, and help keep Comino clean by not leaving any trash. By planning ahead and using the booking system, you’ll not only secure your spot in this stunning lagoon but also play a part in preserving Comino’s natural magic for generations to come.