St Nicholas Bay curves gently along Comino's southern coastline, its sandy seabed glowing amber beneath crystalline turquoise water. Unlike its famous neighbour, the Blue Lagoon, this sheltered inlet remains remarkably peaceful even in summer, with only the occasional water taxi depositing sun-seekers onto its narrow beach. Low limestone cliffs cradle the bay, their white stone radiating stored heat as late afternoon light turns the water luminous. The gentle lapping of waves against the shore and distant calls of yellow-legged gulls create a soundtrack of Mediterranean calm. Small boats bob at anchor, their shadows dancing across the sandy bottom visible through six metres of perfectly clear water.
🚗 Getting There
St Nicholas Bay is accessible only by boat or on foot from Comino's ferry landing. Most ferries from Malta and Gozo dock at Comino's main jetty near the Blue Lagoon. From there, walk approximately 15-20 minutes along the marked coastal path heading southeast—follow signs towards Santa Marija Tower. Alternatively, some water taxi operators from Ċirkewwa (Malta) and Mġarr (Gozo) offer direct drop-off at St Nicholas Bay for an additional fee. Private boat owners can anchor in the bay. There are no roads or vehicle access on Comino.
📅 Best Time to Visit
Visit between May and June or September to early October when the sea is warm (20-25°C) but tourist numbers remain manageable. July and August bring calm seas but also crowds of day-trippers, particularly between 11am and 4pm. Arrive before 10am or after 4pm for the most serene experience. The bay faces south, making it sheltered from the prevailing northwesterly winds but occasionally choppy during sirocco winds from the southeast. Avoid visiting during rough weather as the walk from the main jetty becomes challenging.
ℹ️ What to Know Before You Go
St Nicholas Bay has minimal facilities—expect no toilets, showers, or permanent kiosks. The beach is narrow, mostly sand and pebbles with some rocky patches at the edges. Water entry is easy across the sandy seabed, making it suitable for families with children, though you should supervise young swimmers as the bay deepens relatively quickly. The water is generally calm with no strong currents, but watch for occasional boat traffic. Jellyfish can appear in late summer. Bring all supplies including water, food, and shade (umbrellas or beach tents) as natural shade is limited. Some boat operators offer umbrella and lounger hire during peak season, but availability varies. There's no entrance fee. Dogs are permitted but owners must clean up after them.
💡 Insider Tips
- Negotiate with boat operators at Ċirkewwa or Mġarr for direct drop-off and pick-up rather than walking from the main jetty.
- The walk from the ferry jetty is exposed with no shade—start early morning or wear a hat and carry plenty of water.
- Snorkelling is excellent along the rocky western edge of the bay where you'll spot damselfish, wrasse, and occasionally octopus.
- Santa Marija Tower sits just above the bay—climb up for spectacular views and photo opportunities of the entire southern coastline.
- Pack out all rubbish as there are no bins; help preserve this pristine spot for future visitors.
- Swimming shoes are useful for the rocky patches but not essential like they are at the Blue Lagoon.
- If staying overnight at the Comino Hotel, you can walk to the bay in under 10 minutes via the internal paths.
🔄 How It Compares
Compared to the Blue Lagoon just 800 metres northwest, St Nicholas Bay offers genuine tranquility and easier swimming thanks to its sandy bottom, whereas the Blue Lagoon's rocky floor requires swimming shoes. However, the Blue Lagoon's iconic turquoise intensity is slightly more dramatic. St Nicholas Bay sees perhaps 20% of the Blue Lagoon's visitor numbers, making it ideal for those prioritising peace over Instagram moments. The beach is also larger than Blue Lagoon's narrow strip, offering more space to spread out.
🚌 Getting Around Malta
Reaching the quieter swimming spots is far easier with your own transport, and a taxi is often cheaper than you would expect for a short hop.
