About Santa Maria Bay
Santa Marija Bay (often written Santa Maria Bay) is a shallow, sandy bay on Comino's north coast, facing across towards Malta. Behind the sand is a line of tamarisk trees and what is left of the dunes, and on the shore just beside the bay stands Comino's small police station, built in the 18th century. A short walk inland is the old chapel of Santa Marija, which gave the bay its name.
It is the easiest sandy beach on Comino and the obvious escape from the Blue Lagoon crowds. You do not need the Blue Lagoon pass to land or swim here, the water is calm in most winds, and even in summer it has a slower pace than the other side of the island.
What Santa Marija Bay is like
The bay is a small crescent of fine sand that shelves gently into clear, shallow water over a sandy seabed, so small children can paddle safely on calm days. The sand is narrow, and the tamarisks behind it give the only real shade on this part of the island. Rocky ledges on either side are good for a walk along the shore and for snorkelling.
Comino is a Natura 2000 site, and the remaining dunes and native trees around the bay are protected. Keep to the marked paths and do not set up camp among the trees. The island's only designated camping area, Tal-Ful, is just inland.
When to go to Santa Marija Bay
The bay faces north, so it is sheltered from most winds, including southerly and westerly ones that roughen the Blue Lagoon side. The exception is a northerly wind, which sends waves straight in; the north-westerly can make it a little choppy. On a typical summer day it is one of the calmest swims on Comino.
Ferries run most often from late spring to October, and the bay is quietest early and late in the day, before and after the walkers arrive from the Blue Lagoon. Some tour operators now drop visitors here who have no Blue Lagoon pass, so midday in August can be busier than it used to be. Out of season it is usually empty, and good as a stop on a walk around the island.
Swimming and safety at Santa Marija Bay
The shallow, sandy entry makes this the most family-friendly beach on Comino. There is no lifeguard, so watch children closely. Boats anchor at the mouth of the bay in summer, so stay close to shore unless the swimming area is clearly marked. Snorkellers will find more to see along the rocks on either side than over the open sand. Divers know the Santa Maria caves, just off the point, a shallow boat dive.
Things to do near Santa Marija Bay
From the bay, tracks lead west to St Nicholas Bay, a small sheltered cove close by, and south-west across the island to the Blue Lagoon, about half an hour on foot. Further south, Santa Marija Tower, built in 1618 on the cliffs facing Gozo, is open in the warmer months and has views over both islands. The chapel near the bay is still used for Sunday Mass, and the police station at the water's edge is one of the few buildings still in use on Comino.
Facilities are seasonal and basic. In summer a food truck and sunbed and umbrella hire usually operate at the bay, but don't rely on them: bring water, food and sun cream, and take your rubbish back with you. The former hotel bungalows near the bay are closed and due to be redeveloped, so expect some building work in the area.
Frequently asked questions
Do you need a pass to visit Santa Maria Bay in Comino?
No. Since May 2025 the free timed pass is only needed to land at the Blue Lagoon. Santa Marija Bay needs no booking.
How do you get to Santa Maria Bay?
By boat from Ċirkewwa, Marfa or Mġarr in Gozo, either directly where a departure calls there, or by landing at the Blue Lagoon and walking across the island.
Is Santa Maria Bay sandy?
Yes. It is a sandy bay with shallow water, which makes it a good choice for young children.
Are there facilities at Santa Maria Bay?
Public toilets are at the Tal-Ful campsite nearby. Don't count on a kiosk or sunbeds, so bring your own supplies and shade.
Is Santa Marija Bay good for children?
Yes, on calm days. The sand shelves gently into shallow water, but there is no lifeguard and very little shade.
Can you walk from the Blue Lagoon to Santa Marija Bay?
Yes. Dirt tracks cross the island, and the walk takes about half an hour. Wear proper shoes and carry water, as there is no shade on the way.
Is there somewhere to eat at Santa Maria Bay?
Yes, on the beach: Santa Marija Bay food truck.
Can you get to Santa Maria Bay by boat?
Yes. Boat trips to Santa Maria Bay run with Comino Ferries Co-op, Comino Land Charters, Hera Cruises and 9 others.
