Blue Lagoon — Comino

What is the Blue Lagoon?

The Blue Lagoon is a sheltered stretch of sea between Comino and the small uninhabited islet of Cominotto (Kemmunett). The seabed here is bright white sand, and in calm, sunny conditions it reflects the light to give the water a vivid turquoise colour. The lagoon is shallow and protected, which makes it ideal for swimming and snorkelling.

Where is the Blue Lagoon?

The lagoon lies on the north-western side of Comino, the small island in the channel between Gozo and the main island of Malta. Comino has only a handful of residents and no towns, so the lagoon is reached by boat rather than by road.

How the Blue Lagoon formed

The colour comes from the combination of a shallow, sandy seabed and exceptionally clear water. Light passes through the water, strikes the pale sand and reflects back, scattering into the blues and greens that give the lagoon its name. The surrounding low cliffs and the islet of Cominotto shelter the channel from open-sea swell, keeping the water calm.

What to see at the Blue Lagoon

• The turquoise channel itself, ideal for swimming.
• Snorkelling around the rocks towards Cominotto.
• Coastal walks on Comino to quieter coves away from the crowds.
• Views back towards Gozo and Malta.

Significance

The Blue Lagoon is the single most famous natural attraction in the Maltese islands and a centrepiece of summer tourism. Its popularity has also made it a focus of conservation concern, as authorities work to manage crowds and protect the seabed and surroundings.

Visiting the Blue Lagoon

The lagoon has no entrance fee, but it is reached only by boat — by ferry and excursion boats from Ċirkewwa in northern Malta and from Mġarr on Gozo, or by private craft. It becomes extremely crowded on summer days; early morning or shoulder-season visits are far quieter. There are limited seasonal kiosks but few permanent facilities.