Nestled between the islands of Malta and Gozo, Comino Island is a tiny paradise that punches well above its weight when it comes to sheer natural beauty and seaside charm.
At just 3.5 square km, you can walk around the entire island in a few hours – but with crystal clear waters, secluded bays and picturesque walking trails, you’ll want to linger for longer to properly soak up the island vibes.
Getting to Comino Island is easy – there are regular ferries and boat trips from Malta and Gozo that can get you there in about 15-30 minutes.
Accommodation options on the island are limited, but you can easily visit on a day trip. Whether you’re looking for relaxation, watersports, nature hikes or just want a taste of traditional Maltese life, Comino has something for every type of traveler.
Ready to escape to this Mediterranean dream island? Here’s everything you need to know for planning an unforgettable trip to Comino.
How to Get to Comino Island
Getting to Comino is a breeze thanks to the regular ferries and boat trips available.
There are a few options:
- From Malta: Frequent ferries run from Ċirkewwa to Mġarr Harbour on Comino, taking about 15 minutes. There’s also a boat service from Sliema and Buġibba that stops at Blue Lagoon en route. See the schedule here.
- From Gozo: Regular ferries run from Mġarr Harbour in Gozo to Comino’s Mġarr Harbour, taking around 20 minutes. Some also stop at Santa Marija Bay. See the schedule here.
- Day cruises: A number of companies offer day trips to Comino which include return transport, stops for swimming and a picnic lunch on board. Most depart from Sliema, Buġibba or Mellieħa.
- Private boat charters: You can also charter your own boat and captain to explore Comino at your own pace. This is a good option if you want flexibility.
When to Visit Comino Island
Thanks to Malta’s mild Mediterranean climate, Comino is beautiful to visit at any time of year. That said, the peak seasons of summer and early fall offer the best beach weather.
- June-September is the hottest time of year with near constant sunshine and average highs of 30°C. The sea temperature also reaches a very pleasant 25°C. However, it’s also the busiest tourist season.
- May and October are excellent shoulder season months – still sunny and warm without the intense crowds. Average temperatures are around 25°C.
- November-April sees cooler weather and potential rain showers, but the island is far less busy. If you don’t mind bundling up a bit, you’ll have Comino’s tranquility all to yourself!
No matter when you go, be sure to bring sun protection as the Mediterranean sun is strong.
Top Things to Do on Comino Island
Though small in size, Comino packs a lot of natural beauty and charm into its coastline. Here are the top attractions and activities not to miss:
Relax at Blue Lagoon
This famous lagoon with its turquoise waters and white sand seabed is undisputedly Comino’s biggest claim to fame, and one of the most popular attractions in all of Malta.
Arrive early to snag a spot on the little beach before the crowds descend! Come prepared to swim, snorkel and revel in the breathtaking surroundings.
This complete Blue Lagoon guide offers tips and advice on making the most of its turquoise waters.
Go Sea Kayaking and Paddleboarding
Paddle your way around the island’s rocky coves and sea caves for a fun perspective from the water. Guided kayak and SUP tours are available if you need rentals and instruction. It’s a peaceful way to take in the scenery when the main beaches are busy.
Hike or Bike Around the Island
Comino has a coastal walking path that loops the island, as well as inland trails through characteristic Mediterranean shrubland. The flat terrain makes it ideal for relaxed hiking or cycling. Soak up the peace and admire views of Blue Lagoon along the way.
Snorkel and Dive the Clear Waters
The underwater world around Comino is just as impressive as its beaches. Snorkel from shore at Blue Lagoon and Santa Marija Bay to see schools of fish.
For a truly underwater adventure, join a scuba diving in Malta day trip. Ranging from coral caverns to WWII shipwrecks, some of Malta’s best dive sites is on Comino Island.
Sunbathe on Santa Marija Bay
This sweeping bay on Comino’s eastern shoreline has a beach with fine sand and shallow, calm waters perfect for swimming. It’s less crowded than Blue Lagoon (but still popular) so stake out a good spot early.
Swim in Crystal Lagoon
For a quieter swimming experience, head to the small rocky cove of Crystal Lagoon on Comino’s west coast. The name says it all – the water is crystal clear! Arrive by private boat or hike overland from Santa Marija Bay.
Visit the Comino Chapel
This petite chapel is dedicated to St. Mary and is the only real attraction in Comino’s tiny interior. Pop in to see the quaint interior, then relax in the adjacent public square under the shade of tamarisk trees.
Go Fishing
The bountiful waters around Comino are excellent for fishing. Join an organized fishing trip, or throw in a line from the rocks yourself. Common catches include sea bream, grouper and octopus. Fishing permits are required and available on the island.
Admire the Island Views
For panoramic vistas over the island and sea, take the walking path up to the old disused signal tower on Comino’s western cliffs. The views of the blue expanse surrounding the tiny island are well worth the climb.
Where to Stay on Comino
Accommodation options on Comino itself are very limited and often booked far in advance. The choices include:
- Camping – Primitive campsites are located inland from Santa Marija Bay. You’ll need to be fully self-sufficient. Permits required.
With restricted accommodation on Comino, many visitors choose to stay on Malta or Gozo instead and visit Comino on a day trip. Staying in Malta also gives you the chance to explore its many other attractions. Recommended places close to the Comino ferries include:
- Mellieħa – Laidback coastal town with hotels, guesthouses and self-catering apartments. Close to Ċirkewwa Harbour.
- St Paul’s Bay – A developed resort area minutes from Buġibba’s boat tours. Great base for exploring Northern Malta.
- Sliema – Lively coastal city near Valletta with upscale hotels and good transport links. Departure point for Comino cruises.
Getting Around Comino Island
Comino is tiny enough that you can easily walk everywhere. The coastal paths circumnavigating the island take 1.5-2 hours to complete on foot.
If you want to explore the beaches further afield like Santa Marija Bay or Crystal Lagoon, water taxis are available:
- Official taxis – Public transfers between Comino’s main harbors and bays. Predominately serve hotel guests.
- Private boat transfers – Hire your own captained boat to freely move around Comino and the nearby islands. Ideal for accessing remoter spots.
Note: There is no public bus service on Comino. Vehicle access is also very restricted – only residents are permitted to drive on the island.
Top Tips for Visiting Comino Island
Follow these tips to make the most of your time on this Mediterranean dream island:
- Avoid crowds by visiting Blue Lagoon early morning or late afternoon. Midday is peak time.
- Pack beach essentials like hats, reef shoes, snorkels and sunscreen – you’ll live in your swimsuit here.
- Bring cash as there are no ATMs on Comino. Cards are accepted at some locations.
- Take the ferry from Ċirkewwa instead of Sliema for a shorter, more direct crossing.
- Don’t litter – help preserve Comino’s natural beauty by taking trash away with you.
- Fill up your water bottle before heading to the island – there are limited shops or kiosks.
- Pre-book Comino Hotel or apartment accommodation well in advance for peak season visits.
Dining on Comino Island
While restaurants and shops are limited on Comino, you still have some tasty dining options:
Restaurants
The Blue Lagoon Kiosk is open during summer months for drinks, basic snacks and boat trip lunches. The permit-only Santa Marija Bay Eatery offers seasonal seafood meals but must be pre-booked.
Takeaway
The tiny San Nikola kiosk sells food like sandwiches and pizza to take away or eat at their adjoining tables. Stock up on snacks and drinks here for picnics.
Picnic Provisions
Bring picnic supplies like cheese, bread, fruit and chilled wine from Malta or Gozo to enjoy al fresco on Comino’s scenic beaches. The island’s tranquility is ideal for lazy waterfront lunches.
Boat Trips
Many cruises to Comino include a delicious spread of Maltese food served on board. Think Mediterranean salads, pasta, meats and wine. A fun way to sample local cuisine!
So while you won’t find extensive dining on Comino itself, with some planning you can certainly eat well amidst the island’s idyllic settings.
Experiencing Maltese Culture on Comino
Though primarily a nature destination, visiting Comino Island also provides a little taste of traditional Maltese island life. Here are some ways to get a sense of local culture:
- Attend Sunday mass at Santa Marija Chapel to see the islanders’ faith and modest place of worship. Everyone is welcome.
- Stroll through the tiny village squares to admire the simple pastel-colored cottages where some locals still reside seasonally.
- Pop into the island’s only grocery store for a charmingly personal shopping experience to chat with the owners.
- Learn some key Maltese phrases like hello (‘bonġu’), goodbye (‘saħħa’) please (‘jekk jogħġbok’) and thank you (‘grazzi’) to befriend locals.
- Swim and sail in the beautiful clear waters – as the Maltese have done for centuries. The Mediterranean is integral to their lifestyle.
While Malta has changed in many ways over the years, sleepy Comino retains the timeless, rustic charm of traditional island life. Absorb it during your visit.
Day Trips and Excursions
Although tiny Comino has plenty to keep you occupied, you can also use it as a base for venturing further afield. Here are some great day trips:
Valletta and Mdina Tour
Take a day trip to Malta’s capital Valletta – a city full of history and culture. Also visit Mdina, Malta’s medieval silent city for a trip back in time.
Gozo Highlights Tour
Sail north to Malta’s sister island Gozo for a day discovering highlights like the Ggantija Temples, Citadel city and famous azure window site.
Malta Hiking and History
Combine scenic hiking in Malta’s rural interior with visits to historical sites like Hagar Qim Temples or the famous Mosta Dome church.
Dolphin and Coastal Watching
Spot dolphins and other marine life off Malta’s eastern coastline, with swimming stops at picturesque bays and fishing villages like Marsaxlokk.
With so much to see around Malta, Comino makes the perfect base for exploring further with its great ferry connections.
Travel Guide for Comino Island Key Takeaways:
- Comino is a blissful Mediterranean island getaway midway between Malta and Gozo, renowned for secluded beaches and crystal clear waters.
- The famous must-see attraction is Blue Lagoon – arrive early to soak up the turquoise waters before crowds descend.
- Hiking, sea kayaking and scuba diving are all excellent ways to take in the island’s natural beauty.
- Accommodation on Comino is very limited – stay on Malta or Gozo instead for more options, and visit Comino on a day trip.
- The island is perfect to visit year-round – aim for May, June or September to miss peak summer crowds.
- Take the ferry from Cirkewwa or Mgarr Harbour for the quickest trip over to Comino.
So embrace your inner island spirit and escape to Comino for a taste of Mediterranean paradise – without straying too far from Malta’s lively cities and towns.
This tranquil gem truly has something for everyone. Let the turquoise waters beckon – I’ll see you on Comino!
Comino Island FAQs:
How do I get to Comino Island from Malta?
You can take a 15 minute ferry from Cirkewwa or Marfa to Comino’s Mgarr Harbour. Fast ferries leave every hour during the day. Boat tours to Comino also depart from various points around Malta like Sliema, Bugibba, and Mellieha.
What is there to do on Comino Island?
Top attractions include swimming and sunbathing at Blue Lagoon, hiking the coastal trails, snorkeling the clear waters, visiting Santa Marija Chapel, and having a picnic on the secluded beaches. Water sports like kayaking and standup paddleboarding are also popular activities.
Does Comino Island have hotels?
Yes, but accommodation options are very limited. The only hotel on Comino is the Comino Hotel near Santa Marija Bay, which currently is closed. There are also a few self-catering apartments available for rent. Camping is allowed in certain areas with a permit.
How do I get around Comino Island?
Comino is very small, so walking is the main way to get around. The coastal walking path circles the island in 1.5-2 hours. There are also official taxi boats and private boat transfers available between Comino’s main bays.
What is there to eat on Comino Island?
There are no restaurants on Comino. Some limited food options include the Blue Lagoon kiosk and San Nikola takeaway shop. Many visitors picnic or eat on boat tour meals.
When is the best time to visit Comino?
Comino enjoys mild weather all year round, but the summer months of June-September offer the warmest weather and swimming conditions. May/October are good shoulder season options with fewer tourists.
Can I visit Comino on a day trip?
Yes, visiting Comino on a day trip is very popular as accommodation is minimal. Many cruises offer roundtrip day trips to Comino from Malta, allowing you to see the highlights without needing to stay overnight.
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