Exploring the Island of Comino

This is a tiny, barren limestone islet surrounded by azure waters and ringed by caves and sea cliffs.

Comino is situated in the channel between the islands of Malta and Gozo. Its name and spicy scent can be attributed to the Romans, who introduced cumin to the island. During the early 19th century, this former hideout for smugglers and pirates served as an isolation place for those afflicted with cholera and plaque.

Comino’s most famous attraction is the Blue Lagoon, a sheltered cove nestled between the western edge of the island and the islet of Cominotto. It is a delightful experience to swim across the bay towards Cominotto and continue through a cave that leads to the opposite side of the island. The cove is encircled by rocky ledges, rendering access to the water challenging. Unfortunately, the few spots with convenient entry are often overcrowded with day-trippers. To ensure safety, a small section of the cove is roped off to prevent boats from entering, which also results in crowded waters.

In addition to water activities, visitors have the option to explore the island on foot. The Circuit of Comino, which spans 8 km and takes a few hours to complete, offers a less crowded experience as only a handful of visitors venture beyond the Blue Lagoon.

The island can be reached via ferries from Malta and Gozo, charters from tourist centers, and most conveniently by private boat. Facilities such as public toilets, lockers, and several kiosks selling drinks and snacks are available. Additionally, sun loungers and umbrellas can be rented, although it is worth noting that the tiny beach/ferry port tends to get extremely crowded.

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