Summary
The beaches of Malta are typically dramatic, marked by rocky formations and sculpted by the sea, offering fewer soft and sandy stretches along the Mediterranean coastline than one might anticipate.
Nonetheless, the residents of Malta fully embrace each bathing area. On these compact islands, aquatic activities are plentiful, and the sea is always within reach. With transparent waters, historical wrecks, and intriguing underwater landscapes, Malta is lauded as Europe’s premier diving venue. Furthermore, snorkeling along the island’s coast provides an extraordinary glimpse into the vibrant underwater ecosystem.
Whether your interest lies in frolicking in the surf, spending a tranquil afternoon on the beach, or savoring a leisurely meal of local seafood, below are the beaches to explore on Malta and its smaller counterparts, Gozo and Comino.
1. Golden Bay, Malta
Optimal beach for soft sand
Although Malta and Gozo lack in expansive sandy beaches, there are several hidden treasures. Golden Bay, located on Malta’s northwestern coast, is arguably the most stunning, featuring a wide curve of golden-orange sand that merges gently with the deep-blue Mediterranean waters. It is an ideal spot to settle onto the island’s softest sands, contemplate various water sports and boat excursions available, or explore the menus of nearby eateries overlooking the bay.
2. Mellieħa Bay
Optimal beach for water sports
In Malta, you are always within proximity of a water sports provider. For diversity, Mellieħa Bay stands out as one of the top beaches to engage in varied aquatic activities, including windsurfing, kitesurfing, waterskiing, canoeing, banana boating, and parasailing. This is Malta’s largest sandy beach, benefiting from a reliable northeastern breeze, making it perfect for wind-based water sports. Other excellent options for water sports include Xlendi, Marsalforn, and Golden Bay.
3. Blue Lagoon, Comino
Optimal beach for swimming
Among numerous formidable contenders, Comino’s Blue Lagoon secures the title of Malta’s foremost swimming location. Surrounded by rocks and framed by pristine white sands, Comino’s crystalline and protected inland sea sparkles in periwinkle hues, creating an idyllic swimming environment.
Planning tip: As the Blue Lagoon is far from a hidden gem, expect to share the area with numerous others during peak season. A more favorable option is to opt for an afternoon boat trip, which allows you to visit after a majority of visitors have departed.
4. Fomm ir-Riħ
Optimal beach for tranquility
Fomm ir-Riħ, which translates to ‘mouth of the wind,’ represents Malta’s most secluded beach. A steep and sometimes challenging path descends to the beach from the small town of Baħrija on the northwestern coast. The effort is indeed worthwhile, particularly if you seek solitude, crystal-clear waters, and breathtaking coastal vistas.
Planning tip: The descent takes roughly 20 minutes; however, if the hike is not appealing, approaching by boat is a viable option.
5. Wied il-Għasri
Optimal location for snorkeling
For snorkeling enthusiasts, Malta is an underwater paradise. Located along the Gozo coast, Wied il-Għasri is a coastal gorge that yields a narrow stream of seawater, culminating at a small sandy and pebbly beach. Access to the beach is via a staircase carved into the rock. Some of Malta’s premier snorkeling opportunities await those who venture into the channel, although it is advisable to refrain from this when conditions are rough.
Planning tip: Other notable snorkeling locations include the rocky inlet of Mgarr ix-Xini and the natural sea pool of Għar Lapsi. For scuba diving enthusiasts, numerous diving centers operate throughout the region; the popular diving site is the Blue Hole near Dwejra Bay in Gozo.
6. Għajn Tuffieħa
Optimal beach for sunbathing
Adjacent to the well-frequented Golden Bay, sharing delightful views and soft, silky butterscotch-hued sands, Għajn Tuffieħa presents a more tranquil setting for sunbathers. Unlike Golden Bay, it lacks hotel development nearby, and the slightly extended walk to reach it helps to minimize crowds. When mere relaxation under the sun and occasional dips in the sea are what you desire, this is an idyllic option.
7. Ramla Bay
Optimal beach for families
Conveniently accessible by bus or car, the terracotta sands of Gozo’s Ramla Bay are complemented by a restaurant that offers umbrellas and sunbeds for hire. The beach gently slopes into the water, providing picturesque views over the hills, and if needed, there is a hike up to Calypso’s Cave for additional entertainment. Ramla Bay is celebrated as one of Malta’s prime family beaches, with Golden Bay, Mellieħa Bay, and Paradise Bay also being strong contenders.
8. Mġarr ix-Xini
Optimal beach for dining
Accessible via a narrow, winding road, Gozo’s Mġarr ix-Xini (Port of the Galleys) previously served as the island’s primary harbor for the Knights of St John. The rocky bay’s pebbled beach now hosts Malta’s most relaxed beachside restaurant. The service at the 10-table Rew Rew may occasionally be leisurely, but the abundance of seafood dishes—including exceptional calamari—and freshly prepared salads and potato chips make the experience worthwhile.
Planning tip: Visiting on a weekday is recommended to increase the chance of securing parking in the adjoining car park, or consider chartering a boat along the coast from Xlendi or Mġarr harbor.
9. St Peter’s Pool and Il-Kalanka Bay
Optimal natural swimming pools
Natural swimming pools, fashioned by coastal erosion, are a picturesque summer highlight in Malta. Found on the southeastern shore, St Peter’s Pool is one of the most charming—its ladle-like indentation in the rock creates a protected lagoon for a refreshing swim, followed by relaxation on the surrounding stones.
Planning tip: In proximity, and typically far quieter, lies the swimming hole at Il-Kalanka Bay. Be cautious, as the jumping platform at Il-Kalanka is elevated higher than at St Peter’s, necessitating additional care.
10. Għar Lapsi
Optimal location for diving into the sea
A notable mention is Għar Lapsi, a rocky inlet positioned at the base of Malta’s Dingli Cliffs. It is a favorite among snorkelers, divers, and particularly children who enjoy leaping into the sea from the surrounding rocks. Presenting splendid views of the rocky cove, Carmen’s Bar & Restaurant is another exceptional choice for a leisurely meal.
This article was initially published on July 5, 2019, and updated on November 22, 2023.
