The Blue Lagoon is the image on every Malta poster, and in person it really is that colour. It lies on the tiny, almost uninhabited island of Comino, between Malta and Gozo, where a shallow channel over white sand separates Comino from the rocky islet of Cominotto. The water is sheltered, warm in summer and astonishingly clear, so snorkellers can watch fish over pale sand while boats bob above. Most visitors arrive by boat: regular shuttle ferries cross from Cirkewwa and Marfa at Malta’s northern tip and from Mgarr on Gozo, and day cruises run from Sliema and Bugibba, many combining the lagoon with Gozo and the sea caves of Comino’s cliffs. Tiqets sells several of these options, from a short Blue Lagoon and Santa Maria Caves boat trip to full Comino and Gozo days. On land, facilities are basic: kiosks, sunbed rentals and little shade, on rocks rather than a beach.
Crowds were the problem, so since May 2025 the Malta Tourism Authority has required a free online booking in the busy season, with timed slots across the day and a cap on how many people can be at the lagoon at once; you receive a QR code and a wristband for your slot. Check whether the system is in force for your dates, and whether your boat operator handles it. In peak summer, go for the earliest slot or the evening one; midday is packed and hot.
Shoulder seasons are the sweet spot: in late spring and early autumn the water is still warm and the boats are fewer. In November and winter, fewer boats run, the sea is cooler, and the lagoon is quiet and beautiful for a walk on Comino’s trails rather than a swim. Bring water shoes, sun protection and drinking water whatever the season.
What to expect
The experience
A boat trip to Comino with time to swim and snorkel in the lagoon; many trips add sea caves or Gozo.
Best time
Late spring and early autumn; in summer the earliest or evening slot.
How long
Half a day for the lagoon alone, a full day combined with Gozo.
Tips
Check the seasonal booking requirement, bring water shoes and shade, and avoid midday in high summer.
Quick picks
- Best for
- Swimmers and anyone chasing the most famous water in the Mediterranean.
- Families
- Shallow, calm water is great for kids, but there is little shade; bring a parasol or book a sunbed.
- Couples
- Take an early boat and swim before the crowds arrive.
- Pair with
- A Gozo day trip, since many boats combine both.
- Time needed
- Half a day to a full day.
Good questions
Do I need to book to visit the Blue Lagoon?+
In the busy season, yes: a free online booking with timed slots has been required since May 2025. Check whether it applies on your dates and whether your boat operator arranges it.
How do I get there?+
By shuttle boat from Cirkewwa or Marfa on Malta, from Mgarr on Gozo, or on a day cruise from Sliema or Bugibba.
Is there a sandy beach?+
Only a tiny one; most people sit on the rocks or rent sunbeds, so water shoes help.
Can I swim in November?+
Some hardy swimmers do, but the sea is cooler and fewer boats run; it is better for walking.
Is there food on Comino?+
Kiosks sell snacks and drinks near the lagoon, but bring water and sun protection.