Santa Marija Bay Comino
A serene bay on Comino, offering clear waters and rugged beauty as a peaceful alternative to the bustling Blue Lagoon.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, cooler temperatures
Santa Marija Bay Comino
Best Time
Fewer crowds, cooler temperatures
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A serene bay on Comino, offering clear waters and rugged beauty as a peaceful alternative to the bustling Blue Lagoon.
"Great place, much better than the overcrowded Blue Lagoon."
👟 Wear Sturdy Footwear
The path to Santa Marija Bay is rocky; good shoes are essential for a comfortable walk from the Blue Lagoon.
☀️ Pack Sun Protection
Comino is exposed. Bring sunscreen, a hat, and plenty of water to stay safe and hydrated.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Tranquil Waters
Santa Marija Bay
Enjoy the clear, calm waters perfect for swimming and relaxation, a peaceful alternative to the bustling Blue Lagoon.
Scenic Coastal Walk
Path from Blue Lagoon to Santa Marija Bay
A picturesque 15-minute walk over rocky terrain connects the two bays, offering stunning island views.
Unique Rock Formations
Surrounding cliffs
Marvel at the rugged cliffs and boulders shaped by nature, creating a mesmerizing and wild landscape.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Escape the Blue Lagoon Crowds
Comino Island Logistics
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
👟 Wear Sturdy Footwear
The path to Santa Marija Bay is rocky; good shoes are essential for a comfortable walk from the Blue Lagoon.
☀️ Pack Sun Protection
Comino is exposed. Bring sunscreen, a hat, and plenty of water to stay safe and hydrated.
🚤 Boat Trip Essential
Access Comino via boat tours from Malta or Gozo. Many tours include stops at Santa Marija Bay.
🏖️ Find Your Spot Early
While less crowded than Blue Lagoon, arriving early secures a good free spot on the rocky beach.
Tips
from all over the internet
👟 Wear Sturdy Footwear
The path to Santa Marija Bay is rocky; good shoes are essential for a comfortable walk from the Blue Lagoon.
☀️ Pack Sun Protection
Comino is exposed. Bring sunscreen, a hat, and plenty of water to stay safe and hydrated.
🚤 Boat Trip Essential
Access Comino via boat tours from Malta or Gozo. Many tours include stops at Santa Marija Bay.
🏖️ Find Your Spot Early
While less crowded than Blue Lagoon, arriving early secures a good free spot on the rocky beach.
📸 Capture the Scenery
The bay's natural beauty and rugged cliffs make for stunning photos, especially during golden hour.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Santa Marija Bay is praised as a beautiful and much less crowded alternative to the Blue Lagoon, offering clear waters and scenic rocky shores. While some find it not as visually stunning as its famous neighbor, its tranquility and affordability are significant draws. Visitors recommend sturdy footwear for the rocky terrain and advise packing essentials due to limited facilities.
"Can't swim there noow"
Waddah Hammad
"not nearly as nice as blue lagoon, however far less overcrowded and cheaper, you can find a free spot to sit (at least in the morning). also thetbeach is not 1fine sand, but sand with rocks. it is 15 minute walk from blue lagoon. i advise to have good footwear, because the road is very rocky."
Karolína Mendelová
"Great place, much better than the overcrowded Blue Lagoon"
Agnieszka Suska
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The most common way to reach Santa Marija Bay is by taking a boat tour from Malta (e.g., from Sliema, Bugibba, or Cirkewwa). Many tours also stop at the Blue Lagoon and Crystal Lagoon. You can also take a ferry to Comino and then walk to Santa Marija Bay. 
No, Santa Marija Bay is located on Comino, a car-free island. Access is exclusively by boat.
From Gozo, you can take a ferry or a boat tour directly to Comino. The journey is shorter than from Malta.
Boat trips from Malta typically range from 30 minutes to an hour, depending on the departure point and type of boat.
While there are ferries to Comino, the primary way to experience Santa Marija Bay is through organized boat tours that include stops at various bays.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Santa Marija Bay itself is a natural bay and does not require an entrance ticket. However, you will need to pay for a boat tour or ferry to reach Comino Island.
Prices vary depending on the tour operator, duration, and inclusions. Expect to pay anywhere from €20 to €50 per person for a day trip.
Sun loungers and umbrellas are often available for rent at Santa Marija Bay, with prices varying seasonally. It's advisable to check with local vendors upon arrival.
As a natural bay, Santa Marija Bay is accessible at all times. However, boat tour operating hours will dictate when you can most easily visit.
Yes, booking boat tours in advance is highly recommended, especially during peak season, to secure your spot and potentially get better rates.
📸 📸 Photography
The rugged cliffs, clear turquoise waters, and the contrast between the rocky terrain and the sea offer numerous photo opportunities. The walk from Blue Lagoon also provides scenic vistas.
Early morning or late afternoon (golden hour) provides the best light for photography, minimizing harsh shadows and creating a warm, inviting atmosphere.
Drone regulations can vary. It's essential to check current local rules and restrictions regarding drone usage in Comino before flying.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive bay and cliffs. Waterproof gear or a protective case is useful if you plan on getting close to the water.
The unique rock formations along the coastline and the panoramic views of the bay itself are prime subjects for photography.
🎫 🏖️ Onsite Experience
You can swim in the clear waters, sunbathe on the rocky shore, explore the surrounding cliffs, and enjoy boat trips that often include stops here.
Yes, the waters are generally calm and clear, making it excellent for swimming. It's a more peaceful swimming experience compared to the Blue Lagoon.
Facilities are limited. You can find seasonal food vendors and sun lounger rentals. It's best to bring your own snacks and drinks.
It's significantly less crowded than the Blue Lagoon, especially in the mornings. You can usually find a free spot to sit.
The beach is primarily rocky with some sandy patches. Good footwear is recommended for comfort.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
There are typically seasonal food vendors and small kiosks offering snacks and drinks. For more substantial meals, consider dining on your boat tour or back on Malta/Gozo.
Expect typical beach fare like sandwiches, snacks, ice cream, and drinks from the seasonal vendors.
Yes, bringing your own food and drinks is highly recommended, as options on Comino are limited and can be pricey.
Comino is a small island with very limited dining. Most visitors eat on their boat tours or plan meals on Malta or Gozo.
Food and drinks from vendors on Comino can be more expensive due to their remote location. Packing your own is a budget-friendly option.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider a boat tour that includes stops at Santa Marija Bay, as this can make the journey more enjoyable for kids. The shorter walk from the Blue Lagoon also means less strenuous travel for younger ones.
💰 Budget Travelers
🚶♀️ Day-Trippers
Allocate a couple of hours to swim, relax, and explore the immediate surroundings before heading back. Remember to wear comfortable shoes for the walk. Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Navigating Comino: Boat Tours and Ferries
+1When choosing a tour, consider the duration, the number of stops, and whether they offer specific amenities like food or drinks. Some tours focus on a more relaxed pace, allowing ample time at each bay, while others are faster-paced. Alternatively, public ferries operate between Malta/Gozo and Comino, offering a more independent way to visit, but you'll need to arrange your own transport on the island, which is primarily walking.
It's wise to book your boat trip in advance, especially during the busy summer months, to secure your preferred date and time. Researching different tour operators and reading reviews can help you find the best fit for your budget and desired experience.
The Rocky Shores of Santa Marija Bay
While the rocky nature means you won't find soft sand everywhere, it also contributes to the bay's charm and provides interesting formations to explore. Visitors are advised to wear sturdy footwear, such as trainers or hiking sandals, to navigate the paths and the shore comfortably.
The rocky seabed also means the water is exceptionally clear, offering excellent visibility for swimming and snorkeling. The clarity of the water is a consistent highlight in reviews, making the rocky terrain a worthwhile trade-off for the pristine swimming conditions.
An Alternative to the Blue Lagoon Buzz
Travelers often highlight that Santa Marija Bay provides a similar stunning natural beauty with its clear turquoise waters and scenic surroundings, but without the overwhelming throngs of tourists. This makes it an excellent choice for those seeking a peaceful escape or for families with young children who might find the Blue Lagoon too chaotic.
By opting for Santa Marija Bay, visitors can still experience the magic of Comino's waters and landscapes while enjoying a more serene and personal encounter with this beautiful part of Malta.
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