Last Updated: January 3, 2024
With over 300 days of sunshine per year, you’re going to want to spend most of your time relaxing at some of Malta’s most stunning beaches. Although I have previously written a complete guide to Malta, I wanted to elaborate on the unique beaches that the island has to offer and also include my favorite ones.
Malta is a small island but as you continue reading, you’ll discover that it has no shortage of beautiful beaches. Most of them are scattered across the island; some of the best ones are found at quite remote locations and difficult to reach by car, whereas others are located at some of the island’s most touristy spots.
Continue reading to find out which are the best beaches in Malta plus insider tips to each and every one of them.
12 BEST BEACHES IN MALTA
GHADIRA / MELLIEHA
If you drive on the northern part of the island there is no way you’ll miss Mellieha beach. This gorgeous long stretch of sandy beach is visible from afar as you approach Mellieha. Ghadira is the largest sandy beach in Malta and one of the most popular ones. It is very easy to access with plenty of parking places on the side of the road. The beach is organized with umbrellas and sunbeds for rent and plenty of snack bars and restaurants.
INSIDER TIP: The water is shallow for quite a distance making it perfect for families with kids. That being said, if you’re a couple looking to relax, this might not be your best option. The locals prefer this spot to set tents and spend a whole day with their families enjoying the beach.
READ ALSO: HOW TO SPEND ONE DAY IN VALLETTA, MALTA
GOLDEN BAY
Golden Bay is one of the most famous beaches in Malta. A wide stretch of golden sand beach and calm shallow waters. This is your best choice if you’re looking for a bustling beach where you can mingle with locals and tourists alike. Next to Golden Bay beach, you’ll find a Radisson Blu hotel, many kiosks and on the opposite side, cliffs separate it from Ghajn Tuffieha beach. The cliffs also offer a great opportunity for trekking if you’re looking to stretch your legs. Beware however because the temperatures in Malta during the summer months get quite extreme so it’s best if you avoid exposing yourself to the sun for too long.
INSIDER TIP: Golden Bay is the Mecca for those who play volleyball. You’ll realize that as soon as you reach the beach and see the nets all set up. While it may be fun to watch the teams play, it can also get quite loud. Not to mention the risk of getting hit by a ball if you’re sitting somewhere close by.
TUFFIEHA
This is one of my favorite beaches in Malta! Tuffieha is a small beach located next to Golden Bay surrounded by exquisite unspoiled landscape. The waters are almost always calm here making it a perfect place for swimming. Unfortunately, its size works to its disadvantage because it tends to get overcrowded during the summer months. Get there early and try to reserve a spot at the far end if you want to keep other sunbathers at arm’s length. There is a restaurant on the hill, next to the beach where you can enjoy your lunch.
INSIDER TIP: In order to reach the beach, you’ll have to descend a flight of stairs. Keep that in mind on your way back so you reserve some of your energy and your water. Also, parking may be a bit of a challenge considering its popularity. Follow the road that goes to Golden Bay instead and try to find a parking spot on the uphill road that leads to Tuffieha; you’ll be more likely to find a parking place there.
SLIEMA
On the Sliema promenade, you’ll find an abundance of good spots where you can lay your towel and take a quick dip once you’re done exploring the area. The rock formations here create small natural swimming pools perfect to cool off on a hot day. The best part is that, although this beach is located in a bustling area, you can escape the crowds in an instant and replace the noise of the streets with the calming sound of the waves.
INSIDER TIP: If you’re looking to combine beach time over some drinks and music, then your best bet will be the spots near Surfside or Exiles. If you’re after more quiet spots, then head over to the beach next to Fortizza. Here the area expands and there is enough space to relax and allow more room between other sunbathers.
THE BLUE LAGOON, COMINO
The Blue Lagoon needs no introductions; it is one of the best beaches (if not the best) in Malta. Located at the small island of Comino, it is only accessible by boat. Regrettably, its remote location has not managed to keep this piece of heaven unspoiled by the masses of visitors who flock to this beach to enjoy its emerald waters. Swimming in Comino’s crystal clear waters feels as if you’re transported somewhere to an exotic island. It is a great place for a day trip, so it is best if you start in the early morning hours and leave after sunset. You can either bring your own food, or simply grab a small bite at one of the food vans loathed close to the beach.
INSIDER TIP: Comino island is a fantastic beach for snorkeling, actually one of the best spots in Malta. Some of the boat tours offer snorkeling equipment for free as part of the package. Be sure to check with them before booking. Most tours depart from Sliema but you will also find plenty departing from Bugibba.
SELMUN
This secluded beach is located just outside Selmun and it has managed to remain a well kept secret amongst the locals and a few expats. Due to its remote location, most tourists overlook it, which means that it is almost never overcrowded. It is a pebbly beach with clear shallow waters, perfect for swimming. You’ll need a car to get there and even then, the access is quite challenging. As you approach the beach, the road narrows down increasingly and becomes very bumpy.
INSIDER TIP: As soon as the beach is within walking distance, you’ll have to park your car and continue on foot. To access the beach, you’ll have to descend through a bit of rough terrain. Also, keep in mind that there are no vendors on or near the beach so plan accordingly.
ARMIER BAY
I love this location for 2 reasons; it is a great place to swim and also a fantastic spot for camping! Armier is actually split into, the Armier Bay being the largest and next to it is Little Armier. I personally prefer Little Armier as it is a bit quieter and the water is clearer. If you decide to camp, then Armier Bay will be your best choice. Regrettably, this one too is off the beaten path and there is no public transport. Despite it’s remote location, there are a few restaurants and also public toilets.
INSIDER TIP: If you have your own car, it is worth making the short drive to the neighboring Coral Lagoon. Park your car and walk uphill where the Coral Cave is, a beautiful rocky hole visible only as you get closer. If you’re brave enough, you can join the locals and jump from the top of the cave. This is an excellent spot if you would like to take some drone footage.
ĠNEJNA BAY
Mgarr is primarily famous for the numerous restaurants that serve the local delicacy, which is rabbit. The locals, however, love this spot for one more reason; the beautiful beach of Gnejna. If you like exploring new places and staying away from the typical touristy spots, then you will love this beach. Ġnejna Bay is a lovely sandy beach surrounded by beautiful scenery unobstructed by buildings and excessive noise. This is a quiet area but you’ll still be able to find a couple of vans selling ice cream and fast food, as well as public restrooms.
INSIDER TIP: The best and most convenient way to reach Gnejna is by car. There is only one bus that goes all the way to the beach but it passes only every hour. This bus does not go directly to the main stops of the island (such as Valletta, Sliema, etc.), therefore you’ll need to change at some point.
PARADISE BAY
Paradise Bay is set in a small cove nestled at the foothills of big cliffs. It is located on the way to Cirkewwa – the port where the ferries to Gozo depart – and it is easily accessible by car. You’ll find plenty of parking space and it offers a couple of restaurants located right on the beach.
INSIDER TIP: Paradise Bay attracts mainly young crowds so it tends to get busy and loud. Sometimes people organize barbecues so be prepared to find large groups of people partying, especially towards the late afternoon hours.
ST. PETER’S POOL
Time to explore Malta’s South coast and the hidden gem of St. Peter’s Pool. Although I wouldn’t classify this as a beach, I have included it in this list because of its unparalleled beauty. The scenery consists of giant flat limestone rocks interrupted on one side by a stunning natural swimming pool. St Peter’s Pool is an ideal place for cliff jumping and snorkelling so don’t forget to bring your gear! This one too is at a remote location and the buses don’t go all the way to the beach. If you decide to take the bus, then be prepared to walk for 30’ from the bus stop to the beach.
INSIDER TIP: Due to its remote location, there are no facilities close to the beach apart from an ice cream van, usually found at the parking lot. The beach is exposed and shade will be challenging to find so keep that in mind and plan your visit accordingly.
SLUGS BAY
Slugs Bay is probably one of the most remote beaches in Malta. Located on the North of the island, this tiny beach is known only by a few locals so the chances of having it to yourself are huge. If you’re adventurous and love to explore places that are off the beaten path, then Slugs Bay is definitely worth the effort. The beach is super tiny and because it’s difficult to access, it has managed to maintain its pristine condition.
INSIDER TIP: Slugs Bay is not visible from the road, so you’ll have to walk a bit before you reach it. As you drive the road that leads to Armier, on your left-hand side you’ll see a green sign reading “campsite caravan park”. Park your car nearby, cross the street, and walk towards the sea; as you approach the cliffs, you’ll be able to see the bay. Be sure to bring water with you as there are no facilities nearby.
TA’ FRA BEN (Qawra Point)
Ta’ Fra Ben is a beach located between Buggiba and Qawra. This is a great option if you’re out and about exploring the two towns and you feel like taking a quick refreshing dip. The beach is rocky with plenty of space to lay your towel and the water is crystal clear and beautiful views. Ta’ Fra Ben gets busy with people sunbathing and it is also a popular spot for picnics.
INSIDER TIP: Due to its clear waters this spot is lovely for snorkeling. Also, if you’re not a good swimmer, beware cause the water gets quite deep.
