If you are traveling to Malta you absolutely need to carve out a few days specifically for beaches. There are so many incredible beaches in Malta and it is very hard to choose which ones to visit. From sandless beaches that are full of adventure to some of the most pristine and beautiful beaches in the world, Malta has it all.
Ferry to Gozo and Comino
We have carefully selected the best beaches in Malta itself, but also decided to include some of our favorite beaches on Malta’s nearby islands. Read to the end to see the best beaches on the islands of Gozo and Comino. You can easily get to both Gozo and Comino by ferry which departs from Marfa on the northern coast of Malta.
Local’s Favorite Malta Beach
Pretty Bay in Birzebbuga
Sometimes, the best way to have a perfect beach day is to do as the locals do. Pretty Bay in Birzebbuga is one of the best beaches in Malta and is the local’s favorite beach on the island.
Here you will find a wide, white sandy beach tucked into a cove on the southern coast of Malta. Face the ocean and you will see the turquoise waters of the bay. If you face the town itself, you’ll see the rows of refreshment stands that line the beach along with many cafes and restaurants just across the street.
There is plenty of space to spread out, relax in the sun and prepare to take a dip in the bay. Pretty Bay is also one of the best beaches in Malta for people watching.
If you plan on falling in love with Birzebbuga and want a few days at Pretty Bay, consider staying at The Boat House. This stay is just a minute’s walk from the sandy beach and has views of the bay and the Mediterranean Ocean which you can enjoy from your own private balcony.
The Most Natural Beaches in Malta
St. Peter’s Pool
This natural pool has formed over millennia and is one of the most unique and breathtaking Malta beaches. St. Peter’s Pool is perfect for cliff diving and snorkeling.
There is no sand in this natural pool; it is known as the “Rocky Bay” as it is lined with limestone rocks. These crystal clear waters along with the unique rock formations that create this natural pool make St. Peter’s Pool a once-in-a-lifetime experience.
It is important to note that there are no lifeguards at this beach, so if you’re a new swimmer, maybe don’t jump in. St. Peter’s Pool can get very crowded on the weekends, so try to go very early in the morning or on a weekday to have this natural beach to yourself.
As St. Peter’s Pool is on Delimara point just outside of Marsaxlokk, you will have a hard time staying right next to the pool itself. If you’re interested in a unique stay close by, a night at Marsaxlokk’s lighthouse might be intriguing! Otherwise, there are also many nice guesthouses in Marsaxlokk like this one.
It may look far on the map, but the other side of the peninsula is actually less than a 10-minute drive from St. Peter’s Pool and you can choose one of the beautiful apartments or hotels to stay in, such as the Seagull Penthouse.
Gnejna Bay
Our next natural beach in Malta is surrounded by steep cliffs, unique sea stacks, and deep blue water. Gnejna Bay is on the northern coast of Malta and feels like an untouched beach where you can step back in time.
Known as one of the most romantic beaches in Malta, Gnejna Bay is less crowded but does have some snack bars, public restrooms, and stalls where you can rent umbrellas and beach beds for your secluded beach day. You can also hike to the top of the cliff that overlooks the bay to find an incredible view of the Mediterranean.
For those of you who have always wanted to learn how to surf, check out the Malta Surf School which hosts classes at Gnejna Bay.
While there may not be many options to stay right on the water at Gnejna Bay, you can rent a local apartment, like this one, in the nearby town of Mgarr which is only a 5-minute drive from the water.
Best Beaches in Malta for Families
Mellieha Bay
One of the most famous and popular beaches in Malta, this long stretch of beach has gentle waves, bright white sand, and some of the clearest water in the Mediterranean. Mellieha Bay is a favorite destination for many for a reason: the calm waves make it perfect for young children along with knee-deep waters that stretch about 50 meters offshore.
This beach is an absolute paradise! It can get very crowded on the weekends so if you’re looking for a quiet beach day you will want to go during the week. There are always lifeguards on duty, making it one of the safest beaches in Malta for children.
If you want to stay on the northern side of Malta to get more time at Mellieha Bay, consider staying at the Seafront Penthouse. This beautiful apartment is right on the water and just a minute’s walk from the beach. Even better, the location is perfect so you can drive to Paradise Bay in less than ten minutes.
You’ve probably heard of Paradise Bay and the all-inclusive resort right on the water. It is an incredible experience and is worth your trip, but also convenient to be able to visit multiple Malta beaches in one trip!
Golden Bay Beach
Our next beach in Malta for families is Golden Bay Beach. The long stretch of golden sand is one of the most developed beaches in Malta and is the perfect beach for young children. While relaxing on the beach with your rented beach gear, you can jump in the water for some snorkeling or swim in the calm waves.
Once you’ve had enough sun and sand, check out one of the restaurants along the beach for lunch or dinner! There are also coffee and snack stands and well as mobile bars that line the beach itself.
The best place to stay near Golden Bay Beach is the Radisson Blu Resort & Spa. Located right on the water, you and your family can enjoy the ocean views with all the modern amenities and comforts you could dream of.
Most Modern Beach in Malta
St. George’s Bay
Sometimes, you don’t want to leave the city in order to have your beach day. St George’s Bay is the best beach in Malta for your modern beach vacation. This stretch of sand was actually created by a council who used imported sand to make the perfect space for sunbathing or swimming without leaving town.
While there are no lifeguards at St. George’s Bay, the calm waters and expansive shallows make it safe for swimmers of all ages and expertise. The waterfront is lined with restaurants, cafes, and hotels so you will have everything you need at this Malta beach.
You have many options to choose from when you’re deciding where to stay at St. George’s Bay. Check out places like Bayview, beautiful accommodation that overlooks the bay in one direction and the Mediterranean Sea in the other. You’ll enjoy the amenities just as much as the view and location!
Best Beach in Malta on the Island of Comino
Blue Lagoon
One of the best beaches in Malta is by far the Blue Lagoon. Located on the western coast of the island of Comino, the Blue Lagoon is essentially a near magical beach right out of the Caribbean. The glistering turquoise water slowly swells onto the pristine beach in this perfectly enclosed cove.
The water is amazing to swim in and is perfect for families with small children. This paradise isn’t a very well-kept secret so make sure you get there early or go on a weekday to avoid the crowds. Taking a boat trip out to enjoy the turquoise water is a popular activity.
While there aren’t any hotels or rentals on the island of Comino itself, though there are campsites where you can reserve a spot, the ferry is very convenient and easy to use.
If you want to stay on the island of Gozo, check out Maisonette Fort Chambray which is right next to where the ferry will pick you up to take you to the Blue Lagoon.
Just for convenience, you can also stay at Paradise Bay Resort which is on the island of Malta and is also right next to the ferry terminal.
Either way, you will get to stay at a hotel with ocean views and even more Malta beaches nearby!
Best Beaches in Gozo, Malta
Ir-Ramla il-Hamra
The island of Gozo is just off the northern coast of mainland Malta and also has some incredible beaches that are worth visiting. Ir-Ramla il-Hamra is the largest beach on the island of Gozo, has a very wide shoreline, golden beaches, and is lined with steep cliffs. The waves are fairly tame, making it a great beach for families with young children and there are chairs and umbrellas available for rent at one of the stalls on the beach.
If you feel like exploring one of the best beaches in Malta, make your way to the western end of the beach to see a beautiful statue of the Virgin Mary that was built in 1881. You can also hike east to find the Tal Mixta Cave where the view will definitely not disappoint.
If you need more time on the island of Gozo, consider staying at Villa Bernadette, a beautiful villa only a 15-minute walk from the beach. Here you can enjoy ocean views, a private pool, and all the amenities you could need.
Mgrr ix-xini bay
If you’re feeling adventurous, you need to explore Mgrr Ix-xini Bay. This is another one of Malta’s sandless beaches but is absolutely worth your visit. Mgrr Ix-xini Bay is extremely secluded and on the southern coast of the island of Gozo. The surrounding hills have twisting hikes as well as rock climbing over the bay and cliff diving into the deep blue waters.
As it is very secluded, only experienced swimmers should jump in for a swim. This is absolutely one of the best beaches in Malta simply because of the experience and breathtaking views.
Some of the best hotels in Gozo is just an 8-minute drive from Mgrr Ix-xini bay. Misrah Ta Cenc would be a nice stay for you while you’re exploring the island of Gozo. This accommodation is also right next to the iconic Ta Cenc Cliffs that look like something out of a movie!
Xlendi Bay
This bay has several coves hidden behind the twists and turns as you make your way from the small fisherman’s town to the Mediterranean Sea. Xlendi Bay has a beautiful stretch of white sand which is perfect for a relaxing day on the sand. You can also partake in several water sports, from snorkeling to scuba diving.
This residential beach is surrounded by towering cliffs and has some of the best restaurants on the island just across from the sand. If you’re looking for the most “all-inclusive” beach in Malta, then definitely head to Xlendi Bay.
Hotel San Andrea has the most incredible view of the bay with the view of the sea in the distance. This stay is directly on the beach and has beautiful balconies and everything you need for your beach vacation.
Exploring Beaches in Malta and Gozo
If you’re looking for a breathtaking and relaxing beach vacation, Malta should be at the top of your list. With crystal clear waters, secluded bays, and white sand beaches, you’ll find everything you need to relax and rejuvenate. Not to mention, the island of Gozo is just a short ferry ride away and offers even more stunning beaches and coastline.
In addition, there are many things to do in Malta that will make it a superb experience. The small yet charming country is known for its beautiful architecture and scenery, that served as the settings for various film sets including Game of Thrones.
