Blue Grotto
Il-Kalanka
A group of sea caves beneath the cliffs of southern Malta; boat trips inside reveal vivid, fluorescent-looking blue water.
The Blue Grotto lies near the small fishing harbour of Wied iż-Żurrieq on Malta's southern coast. It is a cluster of sea-eroded arches and caves; in sunlight the water inside turns a translucent deep blue, and corals and minerals on the cave walls reflect a range of colours. Visitors board traditional wooden boats at the Wied iż-Żurrieq quay for a 20–25 minute tour costing about €10, and the light is best between 9 a.m. and noon. Boat trips are suspended in rough seas, so check before setting out. A viewpoint by the road overlooks the great arch. Buses 74 and 201 serve the area, and it can be combined with the Hagar Qim and Mnajdra temples.
Opening hours
Boat tours about 09:00–17:00 (depends on sea conditions; shorter in winter)
Nearby sights
- Ħaġar Qim & Mnajdra Temples
- Ħal Saflieni Hypogeum
- Dingli Cliffs
- Għar Dalam
- Tarxien Temples
- St. Paul's Catacombs
- Mdina
- Rotunda of Mosta