St. Mary's Tower Comino - a tall stone tower
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St. Mary's Tower Comino

4.6
·573 reviews·Ghajnsielem, Malta

Historic 17th-century watchtower on Comino, offering commanding ocean views and a peaceful escape from the Blue Lagoon crowds.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekdays, mornings

Fewer crowds, better photos

CrowdLow
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St. Mary's Tower Comino - a tall stone tower

St. Mary's Tower Comino

Best Time

Weekdays, mornings

Fewer crowds, better photos

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Historic 17th-century watchtower on Comino, offering commanding ocean views and a peaceful escape from the Blue Lagoon crowds.

4.6
(573 reviews)

"The astonishing views we enjoyed were worth the effort, even if the tower was closed. Reddit"

Vertical photo
TIP

Check Tower Flag Status

A raised flag means the tower is open! Always check before your visit. :informationdeskperson:

Bring Cash for Donation

Entry to the tower is by donation (around 2€). Cash is preferred. :moneywithwings:

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

St. Mary's Tower Views

St. Mary's Tower Views

Top of the tower

Panoramic ocean vistas and stunning coastal scenery from this historic watchtower's summit.

Peaceful Comino Escape

Peaceful Comino Escape

Surrounding area

A tranquil spot away from Blue Lagoon crowds, perfect for a serene walk and enjoying nature.

Scenic Island Hike

Scenic Island Hike

Comino Island trails

Enjoy a rewarding trek across the island, leading to breathtaking viewpoints and hidden coves.

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Planning Your Visit

Landing Pass for Blue Lagoon

As of May 1st, 2025, a free online landing pass is required for the Blue Lagoon on Comino Island. Book this in advance for your chosen visit time to avoid issues. TikTok

Accessing St. Mary's Tower

The tower's opening status can vary. Look for a raised flag as an indicator. While sometimes closed for refurbishment, the surrounding views are still spectacular. Reddit

Best Times

When
Weekdays, mornings
Why
Fewer crowds, better photos
Crowd
Low
When
Late afternoon
Why
Golden hour light
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

DO NOT go to the Blue Lagoon in Malta without watching this video!! 🚨🇲🇹 As of May 1st 2025, you must have a landing pass to be able to go to the Blue Lagoon on Camino Island. This is free and you can get it online at blcamino.com. Make sure to select the correct time for the date you’re planning to visit! #malta #travel #eurosummer #bluelagoon #bluelagoonmalta #traveltip #travelinfo #maltatiktok ...
@miawtravelx
30.7K likes • 516.9K views

Check Tower Flag Status

A raised flag means the tower is open! Always check before your visit. Reddit :informationdeskperson:

Bring Cash for Donation

Entry to the tower is by donation (around 2€). Cash is preferred. Reddit :moneywithwings:

If you’re planning a trip to Malta, don’t skip this! This full-day boat tour to Comino, Gozo, and the Blue Lagoon was hands down the best £25 I’ve ever spent 🇲🇹🛥️ We cruised past sea caves and cliffs, swam in crystal clear water, jumped off the boat at Comino, explored Gozo, and ended the day floating in the turquoise water of the Blue Lagoon. 🐚☀️ The boat was really stable (I usually get seasick ...
@cynthiaroyer
28.5K likes • 418.1K views
reddit.com

Tourists who recently visited Malta, did you visit Comino? If yes, did it meet your expectations?

Wear Comfortable Shoes

The hike to the tower and around the island requires sturdy footwear. :athletic_shoe:

Book Blue Lagoon Pass

Essential for Blue Lagoon access from May 2025. Book online at blcamino.com. TikTok :ticket:

reddit.com

Visiting Crystal Lagoon on your own?

Tips

from all over the internet

Check Tower Flag Status

A raised flag means the tower is open! Always check before your visit. Reddit :informationdeskperson:

Bring Cash for Donation

Entry to the tower is by donation (around 2€). Cash is preferred. Reddit :moneywithwings:

Wear Comfortable Shoes

The hike to the tower and around the island requires sturdy footwear. :athletic_shoe:

Book Blue Lagoon Pass

Essential for Blue Lagoon access from May 2025. Book online at blcamino.com. TikTok :ticket:

Combine with Boat Tour

Full-day boat tours often include Comino, Gozo, and the Blue Lagoon for great value. TikTok :ferry:

What Travellers Say

4.6
(573 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors praise St. Mary's Tower for its breathtaking panoramic views and its peaceful atmosphere, offering a welcome respite from the crowds of the Blue Lagoon. While access can sometimes be limited due to closures or refurbishment, the surrounding scenery and the rewarding hike are consistently highlighted as worthwhile experiences. Reddit

"Quite a trek to the other side of the island, but you’re presented with great views of Malta from near to the tower, the stairs were closed when we visited in April 25 , heading back down the island to the north there’s a great view of a little bay (the one with the boat parked in it)"

Mzazi

"Possibly located in the most scenic spot of Malta’s 17th-century defensive towers."

John Quist

"Didnt get to see it open. Still really pretty despite scafolding and worth the hike

Would be cool for more information to be provided about the refurbishment"

jezzaftw

What People Like

Spectacular ocean views
Peaceful island escape
Rewarding scenic hike

What People Dislike

Occasional tower closures
Limited facilities

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

St. Mary's Tower is located on Comino Island. The most common way to reach Comino is by taking a boat tour from Malta or Gozo. Many tours include stops at the Blue Lagoon and offer opportunities to explore the island, including the area around the tower. TikTok Some visitors also opt for water taxis or private boat rentals. The hike from the Blue Lagoon area to the tower is manageable but requires comfortable shoes. Reddit

Comino is a small island, and walking is the primary way to explore. There are paths leading to various viewpoints and bays. While generally accessible, some terrain can be rocky. Reddit Comfortable walking shoes are highly recommended for navigating the island. Reddit

No, private vehicles are not permitted on Comino Island. Access is exclusively by sea. Boat tours are the most popular and convenient method for tourists to reach the island and its attractions. TikTok

Many travelers recommend a full-day boat tour that covers Comino, the Blue Lagoon, and often Gozo. These tours provide a comprehensive experience, including swimming, snorkeling, and exploring sea caves. TikTok Ensure your chosen tour allows time to disembark and explore Comino's quieter spots, like the area around St. Mary's Tower. Reddit

As of May 1st, 2025, a free online landing pass is required to visit the Blue Lagoon on Comino Island. You can obtain this pass at blcamino.com and should select your desired visit time in advance. TikTok This pass is crucial for entry to the Blue Lagoon area. TikTok

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Entry to St. Mary's Tower is typically by donation, with a suggested amount of around 2€. It's advisable to bring cash, as card payments may not be available. Reddit

The tower's opening hours can be variable. A good indicator of whether it's open is to look for a raised flag outside the tower. Reddit It may also be closed for refurbishment or due to weather conditions. Reddit

While the tower has a general schedule, it's not always open on specific days like Mondays. Reddit The best approach is to check for the raised flag or inquire with boat tour operators. Reddit

There is no general entrance fee for Comino Island. However, access to the Blue Lagoon area requires a free landing pass, which must be booked online in advance as of May 1st, 2025. TikTok

Even if the tower itself is closed, the surrounding area offers stunning views and a peaceful atmosphere. Many visitors find the hike and the scenery worthwhile even without entering the tower. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

The area around St. Mary's Tower offers incredible photo opportunities. Capture the tower against the blue sea, the panoramic ocean views from its perch, and the scenic bays on the island. Reddit The hike to the tower also provides vantage points for dramatic coastal shots. Reddit

Late afternoon, during the golden hour, provides beautiful lighting for photography. Reddit Mornings can also be good for fewer crowds and softer light. Reddit

Yes, from the top of St. Mary's Tower, you get commanding 360-degree views of the surrounding sea, neighboring islands, and the Maltese coastline. Reddit This is an ideal spot for sweeping landscape photography. Reddit

A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive sea and landscapes. A telephoto lens can be useful for details on the distant coastline. Don't forget a polarizing filter to enhance the blues of the water and sky. Instagram

Drone regulations can vary, and it's essential to check current rules for Comino and Malta before flying. Always prioritize safety and respect for the environment and other visitors. TikTok

🎫 🚶 Onsite Experience

Comino offers more than just the Blue Lagoon. You can hike to St. Mary's Tower for incredible views, explore other smaller bays, and enjoy the peaceful, less crowded parts of the island. Reddit Some boat tours also include stops at sea caves. TikTok

The hike is generally considered moderate. It involves walking on uneven terrain and some inclines. Comfortable walking shoes are a must. Reddit The distance from the Blue Lagoon is manageable for most visitors. Reddit

Bring plenty of water, sunscreen, a hat, swimwear, a towel, and comfortable walking shoes. If you plan to enter the tower, bring cash for the donation. Reddit

Facilities are limited on Comino. Restrooms and some basic refreshments might be available near the Blue Lagoon during peak season, but it's best to come prepared. Reddit

The Blue Lagoon can get extremely crowded, especially during peak season. The areas around St. Mary's Tower and other parts of Comino are generally much more peaceful and less crowded. Reddit

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Comino offers a fantastic day out for families, with the Blue Lagoon being a major draw for its shallow, clear waters perfect for little ones. TikTok However, it can get very crowded. For a more relaxed experience, consider exploring the areas around St. Mary's Tower, which are generally less packed. Reddit The hike to the tower is manageable for older children, and the views are rewarding. Remember to pack plenty of water, snacks, and sun protection, as facilities are limited. Reddit Ensure you book the free landing pass for the Blue Lagoon in advance if visiting after May 1st, 2025. TikTok

🚶 Solo Travelers & Hikers

Comino is an excellent destination for solo travelers looking for scenic hikes and beautiful coastal views. The island offers a peaceful escape, especially if you venture away from the main Blue Lagoon area. Reddit The walk to St. Mary's Tower is a rewarding trek with stunning vistas, perfect for photography and enjoying nature. Reddit Consider joining a boat tour for easy access to the island, or if you prefer more independence, look into water taxis. TikTok Be prepared with comfortable shoes, water, and sun protection for your explorations. Reddit

💰 Budget Travelers

To make your Comino trip budget-friendly, opt for boat tours that offer good value, often including stops at multiple locations. TikTok Look for tours that allow you to bring your own food and drinks to save on onboard costs. Entry to St. Mary's Tower is by donation, so bring some cash for a small contribution. Reddit The free landing pass for the Blue Lagoon (required from May 2025) is a great way to manage costs for that popular spot. TikTok Walking around the island and enjoying the natural beauty is free of charge. Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

Exploring Comino's History and Defense

St. Mary's Tower, also known as the Comino Tower, is a significant historical landmark on the small island of Comino. Built in the 17th century by the Knights of Malta, its primary purpose was to guard the strategic channel between Malta and Gozo against pirate raids and other maritime threats. The tower stands as a testament to the island's historical importance in Malta's defensive network. Reddit

Visitors can often access the interior of the tower, which provides a glimpse into its past. Information about the tower's history and its restoration is usually available in multiple languages. Reddit The strategic location offers commanding views, allowing for early detection of approaching vessels. The surrounding landscape, though rugged, adds to the tower's imposing presence and historical narrative. Reddit

While the tower itself is a focal point, its presence on Comino is part of a larger story of coastal defense. The island's isolation and natural beauty make it a unique setting for such a historical structure. Travelers often appreciate the blend of natural scenery and historical significance that St. Mary's Tower provides, offering a quieter alternative to the bustling Blue Lagoon. Reddit

Navigating Comino: Boat Tours and Access

Reaching Comino, and by extension St. Mary's Tower, is almost exclusively done via boat. Numerous boat tours operate daily from Malta (Bugibba, Sliema, St. Julian's) and Gozo, offering various packages. These tours are a popular and convenient way to experience the island's highlights, including the Blue Lagoon, sea caves, and Comino's coastline. TikTok

Many tours include swimming stops, snorkeling opportunities, and sometimes even food and drinks. The duration and itinerary can vary, so it's wise to choose a tour that allows ample time for exploration on Comino itself, rather than just a brief stop at the Blue Lagoon. TikTok Some tours might offer a guided walk towards St. Mary's Tower, while others allow independent exploration. Reddit

It's crucial to be aware of the landing pass requirement for the Blue Lagoon, which became mandatory from May 1st, 2025. This free pass must be booked online in advance via blcamino.com for a specific time slot. TikTok While this primarily affects the Blue Lagoon, it's an essential piece of information for anyone planning a trip to Comino. TikTok For those seeking a more private experience, private boat rentals or water taxis are also options, though typically more expensive.

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