Although many visitors head to Comino Island to experience the beautiful Blue Lagoon and its crystal-clear waters, it’s also worth exploring the lesser-known natural wonders and attractions.
The spectacular Santa Marija Caves certainly warrant a visit. Featuring a series of interconnected caves, the site is one of Comino’s coastal treasures and a very popular dive site among local and international divers due to its crystal-clear waters and unique formations. They’re one of the various caves along Comino’s coastline.
The Santa Marija Caves are located in the heart of Comino on the north-eastern side of the island, close to Santa Marija Bay, a small bay many locals like to visit, to escape the heavy crowds flocking to the famous Blue Lagoon during the peak summer months.
At the time of writing, we know there are at least 10 caves at the site, each with its own distinct features and unique formations, offering great opportunities for divers to discover a labyrinth filled with coastal treasures and aquatic life such as large schools of fish, lobsters, seabreams, moray eels, and octopuses.
Some caves offer swim-throughs, others have spellbinding, beautiful blue waters at their entrances, and you can also find hidden underwater tunnels, such as the famous Zorro Tunnel, featuring the unusual Z-shaped pattern cut into the rock face. In particular, the caverns offer a stunning dive for avid underwater photographers and videographers, since you can see light streaming through the cracks and openings in the cavern roof. In a nutshell, expect nothing short of a spectacular underwater playground!
Not a diver? No problem! You can still appreciate the natural beauty and picturesque views of the Santa Marija Caves when booking an organised boat trip. More info below!
Undoubtedly, the best way to discover the scenic beauty of the Santa Marija Caves is by booking an organised boat trip.
Here are my top-reviewed boat trip suggestions that include a stop at the caves:
€25
Families, Couples, & Groups
3.5 hours (excluding transportation)
Marfa Quay (close to Ċirkewwa)
Keen to explore the coastal wonders of the Maltese Islands? Sail away to paradise on this Half-Day Boat Cruise to Comino & Gozo.
Amongst the highlights, you’ll swim in the crystal-clear waters of the Blue Lagoon as well as explore the Crystal Lagoon, the Elephant Rock, and the famous Santa Marija Caves. Next, the boat will anchor at Il-Ġebla tal-Ħalfa, a secluded islet and limestone rock on Gozo’s south-eastern coast.
Available mid-April to mid-October only!
€25
Families, Couples, & Groups
3.5 hours (excluding transportation)
Marfa Quay (close to Ċirkewwa)
This Blue Lagoon Sunset Cruise is perfect for travellers who are not keen on early starts or would simply love to experience one of the island’s magical sunsets as you sail along the coast.
You’ll have time for a swim, alongside passing by other stunning beaches and wonders found in Comino, including the Crystal Lagoon and the Santa Marija Caves. You’ll also visit some hidden coastal attractions around Gozo’s south-eastern coast.
Available mid-April to mid-October only!
From 289*
Couples & Small Groups
3 hours
Ċirkewwa / Mġarr Harbour
This is a popular half-day private boat tour that offers a memorable experience to all visitors interested in getting a taste of Malta’s two sister islands, Comino and Gozo.
During the first part of the day, the skipper will take you around some of Comino’s secret coves and hidden caves, including Lantern Point, the Monte Cristo Cave, the Santa Marija Caves, the Comino Arch, and the P31 wreck (weather permitting).
The boat will then moor at the Crystal Lagoon, a wonderful stop ideal for snorkelling and getting a glimpse of the diverse marine life known to Maltese waters. Next, you’ll have time for a swim in the crystal clear waters of the Blue Lagoon away from the heavily crowded shore.
Finally, the boat cruises to Gozo’s southern coast, where you’ll visit scenic points ideal for snorkelling, such as Ħondoq Bay, Il-Ġebla tal-Ħalfa, and the Elephant Rock.
*Additional fees apply if you are more than 6.
You can also consider using the local ferry services from Ċirkewwa or Marfa Bay in Malta or Mġarr Harbour in Gozo.
Ferry tickets are cheap (between €13 and €15 for a return journey), and the schedule is every 30 minutes during the summer months. However, there are a few things to keep in mind, especially if a visit to the Santa Marija Caves is a must-see on your bucket list.
While a short tour of some of Comino’s caves (including the Santa Marija Caves) is included with your ticket, it’s not the same experience as the one offered by boat tours. You have to bear in mind that this would just be a quick stop to take some pictures before arriving at the Blue Lagoon or on your way back to Malta/Gozo.
Should you decide to opt for the local ferry, all the info you need about the service can be found here: How to Catch the Blue Lagoon or Comino ferry.
Check out our Blue Lagoon FAQ section or message us - We're happy to help!
