Comino Day Trip Survival Guide: What to Pack, Facilities, & Local Tips

A day trip to the Blue Lagoon on Comino is one of the highlights of any holiday in Malta. However, because Comino is a small, largely uninhabited island with rugged limestone terrain and minimal infrastructure, coming unprepared can take the shine off your day out.

From knowing what facilities exist on site to bringing the right gear for swimming off rocky shores, this practical survival guide covers everything you need to know before stepping onto the boat.

1. The Ultimate Comino Packing Checklist

Equipment and gear Sun and safety Food and cash
Water shoes or reef shoes High SPF sunscreen Cash in small notes
Microfibre towel UV sunglasses Refillable water bottle
Snorkel gear Wide-brimmed hat Light snacks or fruit
Dry bag for valuables Waterproof phone case Power bank

Essential items breakdown

  • Water shoes or reef shoes (must have): Comino has very little soft sand. Most of the shoreline consists of sharp limestone rocks. A pair of rubber water shoes will save your feet when getting into and out of the water.
  • Dry bag: If you plan on walking across the narrow water passage from the Blue Lagoon to the uninhabited islet of Cominotto, a waterproof dry bag keeps your phone, camera, and wallet dry while swimming.
  • Microfibre towel: Quick-drying and compact, microfibre towels are far easier to pack than bulky hotel towels, especially if you are combining your boat trip with an open-top bus tour on Gozo.
  • Waterproof phone pouch: Perfect for taking underwater photos in the neon-blue water while protecting your phone from saltwater splashes.

2. On-Island Facilities: What to Expect

Facility What to expect
Food kiosks and drinks Burgers, hot dogs, cold drinks, pineapple cocktails
Locker rentals Limited small lockers available near the main dock
Sunbed rentals Available on the small sandy area and rocky ledges, fills fast
Public restrooms Basic mobile facilities near the top of the path

Food and drink options

During the summer season, several food trucks operate along the ridge overlooking the Blue Lagoon. You can purchase cold drinks, burgers, fries, ice cream, and the famous fruity cocktails served inside hollowed-out pineapples.

  • Prices: Slightly higher than mainland Malta due to transport logistics to the island.
  • Payment: Most kiosks accept card payments, but cash is strongly recommended in case mobile network signals drop.

Sunbed and locker rentals

  • Sunbeds: A limited number of sunbeds and umbrellas are set up daily along the small sandy beach and surrounding rocky ledges. They are rented on a first come, first served basis and typically sell out by 10.30 AM during peak months.
  • Lockers: Small storage lockers are available near the main landing jetty for a daily fee, but capacity is low.
The smart alternative: Skip the hunt for sunbeds on land by booking a spacious boat cruise to Comino. The boat acts as your personal floating resort that provides guaranteed shade, comfortable seating, on-board restrooms, fresh water showers, and a bar throughout the day.

3. Practical Survival Tips for Your Visit

Protect yourself from the Mediterranean sun

Comino has virtually no natural shade apart from a few tamarisk trees near Santa Maria Bay. The sun reflects heavily off the white seabed and limestone cliffs.

  • Reapply high SPF sunscreen every two hours.
  • Bring a wide-brimmed hat or UV-protection rashguard if you plan on spending hours snorkelling.

Choose the right departure point

Depending on where your hotel is located in Malta, choosing an appropriate harbour saves valuable transit time. If you are staying in Sliema, Valletta, or St. Julian's, read our guide on comparing Sliema, Bugibba, and Cirkewwa departure points to pick the most convenient embarkation point.

Time your visit to beat the midday rush

The island experiences peak visitor volume between 11.00 AM and 3.30 PM. To learn how to structure your day or choose an alternative afternoon departure, check out our guide on how to beat the crowds at the Blue Lagoon.

4. Book Your Comino Trip with Hello Malta

Ready to explore Comino without the hassle of arranging separate ferries, land transfers, and equipment?

Frequently Asked Questions

Are there lockers at the Blue Lagoon in Comino?

Yes, a limited number of small electronic lockers are available near the main landing dock. However, they fill up quickly in summer. Bringing a waterproof dry bag or leaving valuables on your tour boat is recommended.

Is there drinking water available on Comino?

Yes, food kiosks sell bottled water, but prices are higher than on mainland Malta. It is best to bring an insulated refillable bottle filled with cold water for the journey.

Can I buy food on Comino if I have dietary restrictions?

Food kiosks primarily serve standard fast food like burgers, hot dogs, and fries. If you have strict vegan, gluten-free, or allergy restrictions, we advise packing your own lunch or choosing a tour with organised catering options.

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