Playa de Santa Marija Bay

Introduction

When we think of Malta's beaches, our minds often go straight to the famous Blue Lagoon of Comino. However, the small island of Comino holds another treasure that, although less known, is no less charming: Santa Marija Bay Beach. We had the pleasure of discovering this peaceful corner and, honestly, it left an indelible impression on us. Located on the north coast of Comino, this bay offers a refreshing contrast to the liveliness of its bigger sister, the Blue Lagoon, providing a more intimate and relaxed experience for those seeking to escape the crowds.

Santa Marija Bay is a sanctuary of tranquility, a place where time seems to stand still. Its waters, of a mesmerizing turquoise blue, are extraordinarily clear and shallow, making it a perfect destination for families and for those who simply wish to immerse themselves in the serenity of the Mediterranean. The fine, golden sand invites you to lay out your towel and enjoy the Maltese sun, while the gentle breeze caresses your skin. For us, it was the ideal setting to disconnect and recharge, a true miniature paradise that reminded us of the unspoiled beauty that can still be found on the islands.

How to Get to Santa Marija Bay Beach

Getting to Santa Marija Bay Beach is part of the adventure and, although it requires a bit of planning, the effort is well rewarded. Comino is a car-free island, which contributes to its pristine and tranquil atmosphere. The first step is to get to Comino, and for that, we opted for one of the many ferry or tourist boat services that depart regularly from Malta (Cirkewwa) and Gozo (Mgarr).

From Malta or Gozo

Ferries and excursion boats offer constant trips to Comino, usually disembarking at the Blue Lagoon. From there, there are several options to reach Santa Marija Bay:

• On foot: It's a walk of approximately 15-20 minutes from the Blue Lagoon. The path is relatively easy, although it can be a bit steep in some sections and the sun can be strong in summer. We recommend wearing good shoes, carrying water, and using sun protection. The walk allowed us to enjoy the stunning panoramic views of Comino's coast and its vegetation.
• Local transport service: During the high season, there are usually small vans or minibuses operating a transport service between the Blue Lagoon and Santa Marija Bay (and the Comino Hotel, if operational). This is a comfortable and quick option if you don't wish to walk, especially if traveling with children or a lot of luggage. It's always a good idea to ask at the Blue Lagoon pier about the availability and rates of this service.
• Private boat or water taxi: For a more exclusive and direct experience, you can consider renting a private boat or a water taxi to take you directly to Santa Marija Bay. This option is ideal for small groups or for those seeking flexibility in their schedules, although it is, naturally, more expensive. We observed how some boats anchored directly in the bay, which made access easier.

The Sand and Water

Santa Marija Bay Beach is a true delight for the senses, and its sand and water features are, without a doubt, its greatest attractions. We were captivated by the quality of its natural environment, which distinguishes it as one of the best beaches in Comino (Għajnsielem).

Fine Golden Sand

The beach is characterized by its fine golden sand, a rarity in some parts of Malta, where rocky beaches are more common. This soft, pleasant sand underfoot invites you to walk barefoot along the shore or simply lay out your towel and enjoy a comfortable rest. Unlike other more crowded beaches, here the sand remains clean and well-kept, contributing to the feeling of being in an almost pristine place. For us, the texture of the sand and its warm color contrasting with the blue of the sea created a perfect postcard.

Crystal-Clear and Calm Waters

But if the sand is a strong point, the waters of Santa Marija Bay are simply spectacular. They are crystal-clear waters of astonishing transparency, allowing you to see the seabed with total clarity, even at several meters depth. The color ranges from a bright turquoise near the shore to deeper blues as you go further out, creating a chromatic gradient worthy of admiration.

Besides its clarity, what surprised us most was the tranquility of its waters. Protected by the shape of the bay, Santa Marija Bay rarely experiences strong waves, making it a perfect natural swimming pool. This calm is ideal for:

• Swimmers of all ages: From the little ones who can splash safely in the shallower areas to adults who want to swim long distances without worrying about currents.
• Snorkeling: The visibility is excellent, and the rocks flanking the bay harbor interesting marine life. We spent hours exploring with our masks, amazed by the diversity of fish and marine plants. It's an accessible adventure experience for everyone.

Services and Facilities

Although Santa Marija Bay Beach