The Blue Lagoon on Comino is Malta's most famous swimming spot, with shallow turquoise water over white sand and rock shelves. It is also one of the busiest places in the Mediterranean in midsummer. Here's how to get there, which boat to choose and how to have a good day despite the crowds.
Where is the Blue Lagoon?
The lagoon lies between Comino and the tiny islet of Cominotto, in the channel between Malta and Gozo. Comino has almost no roads, one hotel and no permanent village, so every visitor arrives by boat.
How to get to the Blue Lagoon: departure points compared
| Departure point | Crossing time | Best for |
|---|---|---|
| Ċirkewwa / Marfa (north Malta) | Roughly 15–25 minutes | Maximum time on Comino; staying in Mellieħa or the north |
| Mġarr (Gozo) | Roughly 15–25 minutes | Visitors staying on Gozo |
| Bugibba / St Paul's Bay | Around 45–60 minutes | Staying in Bugibba or Qawra; tours often include caves |
| Sliema Ferries | Around 1.5 hours each way, including a coastal sail | Staying in Sliema or St Julian's; full-day cruises with sightseeing |
Crossing times vary by operator, boat and sea conditions, so check the listing before you book.
Option 1: Short shuttle from Ċirkewwa or Marfa
Small shuttle boats run back and forth from the northern tip of Malta in season. Ċirkewwa is also where the Gozo ferry leaves, and it's about an hour or more by bus from Sliema or Valletta. This is the quickest crossing, but you have to get yourself to the north first.
Option 2: Boat tour from Sliema or Bugibba
Shared cruises leave from Sliema Ferries and Bugibba. They sail along the coast, often stop at the Comino caves and the Crystal Lagoon, then give you a few hours at the Blue Lagoon. Many include hotel pickup, which makes this the easiest option for first-timers.
Option 3: Private charter
A private boat lets you choose the timing, anchor in quieter coves when the main bay is full, and combine Comino with Gozo's coastline. It's the best choice for families, groups and special occasions.
Compare Comino & Blue Lagoon tours →
How to avoid the midday crowds
- Go early. The first boats of the morning arrive before the large cruises. The lagoon is at its calmest and clearest before about 11:00.
- Or stay late. Many shared cruises leave in mid-afternoon. If you're on a shuttle with a late return, the last couple of hours are much quieter.
- Avoid summer weekends. Local families visit too, so Saturdays and Sundays in July and August are the busiest days.
- Visit in shoulder season. Late May, June, September and early October offer warm water and fewer people.
- Swim away from the pontoons. The Cominotto side and the rocky edges of the lagoon are often less crowded than the main sandy area.
- Check current visitor rules. The authorities have been introducing measures to manage numbers at the Blue Lagoon. Check whether any booking or capacity system applies to your dates.
Is the Blue Lagoon worth a day trip?
Yes, for most visitors, as long as you set your expectations. The water is spectacular, but in peak summer you won't have it to yourself. It's worth it if you:
- Love swimming and snorkelling in very clear water
- Choose a tour that also visits the Crystal Lagoon and the caves
- Can go early in the day, or outside July and August
It may not be worth a full day if you dislike crowds and can only go at midday in August, or if you're short on time. In that case, a half-day boat trip or a sunset cruise could suit you better. Our guide to Malta boat trips compares the options.
What to bring
- Swimwear, a towel and water shoes (the rocks are sharp)
- Plenty of water, reef-safe sunscreen and a hat, since there is little natural shade
- A waterproof phone pouch
- Snorkel and mask if your tour doesn't include them
- Cash for kiosks, sunbeds and umbrellas
What if the weather is bad?
Strong winds can cancel crossings, especially the longer cruises from Sliema. Book your Comino trip early in your holiday so there's time to reschedule. Read what happens if your boat trip is cancelled.
Ready to go? Browse Comino & Blue Lagoon tours or all boat trips in Malta.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I get to the Blue Lagoon in Comino?
By boat. The shortest crossings leave from Ċirkewwa or Marfa in north Malta and from Mġarr in Gozo, taking roughly 15–25 minutes. Longer boat tours leave from Sliema and Bugibba, and many include hotel pickup.
What is the best time to visit the Blue Lagoon?
Early morning, before about 11:00, or late afternoon after the shared cruises leave. For warm water and smaller crowds, visit in June, September or early October.
Is the Blue Lagoon worth visiting?
Yes for most visitors, especially on a tour that also includes the Crystal Lagoon and the Comino caves. Expect crowds at midday in July and August.
Is there shade or food on Comino?
There is very little natural shade. Kiosks sell snacks and drinks and rent sunbeds and umbrellas in season, but bring your own water and sun protection.
Can I visit the Blue Lagoon in winter?
Some boats run outside summer when seas allow, but the water is cool and many services close. The main season is roughly April to October.
