Santa Marija Bay

Santa Marija Bay (St Mary's Bay) is a small sandy bay on the north-east coast of Comino, the 3.5-square-kilometre island between Malta and Gozo. Visit Malta lists it as one of the most popular bathing spots on Comino, alongside San Niklaw Bay and the famous Blue Lagoon. It has a short strip of sand and clear water that shelves into the bay.

Because Comino has no cars and only a handful of buildings, getting here is part of the trip. Most people combine it with a boat trip to the Blue Lagoon and walk across the island on its dirt tracks, which takes you through garigue scented with wild thyme. The bay is noticeably calmer than the lagoon on a summer afternoon. Check which facilities are available and bring water, food and shade, and carry your rubbish back with you. Outside summer, Comino is quiet and good for walkers and photographers.

Visiting Santa Marija Bay

• Seasonal lifeguard provision is documented; check current duty notices before swimming. Cover is not guaranteed outside the season or duty hours.
• Small sandy beach with clear water on Comino's north-east coast.
• Arrive by boat or walk across the island on tracks.
• Check current facilities and bring water, food and shade.
• Check how your landing at the Blue Lagoon works before you set off (see below).

If you land at the Blue Lagoon, you need a landing pass only to stay at the lagoon itself; walking straight through on the paved paths to other parts of Comino does not require one, according to the official booking site. Our Comino and Blue Lagoon guide explains the boats, and coastal walking and hiking covers routes across the island.