Malta Beaches

Location:

Golden Bay, Northwestern Coast, Malta

Highlights:

One of Malta’s most beloved and picturesque beaches, Golden Bay is a Blue Flag beach known for its spacious shoreline, golden-hued sands, and gorgeous Mediterranean views. Situated on the northwestern shoreline of the island, it’s a top choice for both tourists and locals.

Recommended For:

Families, couples, sunbathers, swimmers, and travelers looking for a well-equipped and scenic beach with easy access and a social vibe.

What we Love:

The accessibility, clean facilities, soft golden sands, and the blend of natural beauty with modern comforts—all just a short journey from most of Malta’s main towns.

• Swim or wade in the calm, clear waters ideal for all ages and swimming abilities.
• Relax on the wide beach with plenty of space to spread out if you arrive early.
• Dine or drink at nearby seaside restaurants, bars, and hotel cafés without ever leaving the beach area.
• Stay at one of the well-rated resorts just steps away for a full-on beach holiday experience.

Cost:

Free public access. Fees apply for loungers, umbrellas, and certain facilities. Nearby parking is available but can fill up quickly on weekends.

Best time to visit:

May to October for sunny skies and warm swimming conditions. Arrive early to beat the crowd, especially on weekends or public holidays.

Local tips:

Bring a beach umbrella or rent one onsite. Golden Bay is a perfect sunset spot—stay late and watch the sky transform. Public transport and taxis provide convenient access if you’re staying outside the area.

Distance:

Approximately 20 km or 35–45 minutes by car or bus from Valletta, Malta’s capital city.

How to Get to Golden Bay:

Easily accessible via car, taxi, or Malta’s public bus network. Direct routes from Valletta, Bugibba, and other popular hubs are available, with the beach just a short walk from the final bus stop or parking lot.

Location:

Paradise Bay, Near Cirkewwa, Northern Malta

Highlights:

Tucked into the far north of Malta near the Gozo ferry terminal at Cirkewwa, Paradise Bay is a small, sheltered beach that absolutely lives up to its name. Known for its scenic cliffs, intimate setting, and calm waters, it's a favorite for those seeking beauty and tranquility in equal measure.

Recommended For:

Swimmers, couples, sun-seekers, and travelers en route to Gozo looking for a peaceful pre- or post-ferry beach break.

What we Love:

The surrounding cliffs create a secluded, picture-perfect cove, and the geology helps keep the water warm, calm, and crystal-clear—ideal for safe, relaxing swims.

• Swim in gentle, protected waters that are consistently warm and ideal for floating and wading.
• Sunbathe on the sand or rent a lounger and umbrella for a more comfortable beach day.
• Admire the surrounding scenery—steep cliffs, blue skies, and panoramic views of the open sea.

Cost:

Free public access. Loungers, umbrellas, and food are available for a fee through the beachside facilities.

Best time to visit:

May to October for warm weather and ideal swimming conditions. Weekdays are best for avoiding crowds in this smaller cove.

Local tips:

Arrive early to secure a spot on this compact beach. Bring water shoes if you plan to wade around the rocky edges. Paradise Bay is also a great place to relax before catching a ferry to Gozo.

Distance:

Roughly 30 km or 45–60 minutes by car or bus from Valletta; just a few minutes from the Cirkewwa ferry terminal.

How to Get to Paradise Bay:

Take a direct bus or taxi to Cirkewwa, then follow the signs down to the bay. Parking is available nearby, and the beach is accessible via a short descent down steps.

Romantic Malta Beaches:

Location:

Ghajn Tuffieha Bay, Near Golden Bay, Northwestern Malta

Highlights:

Often described as one of Malta’s most scenic beaches, Ghajn Tuffieha offers a rare blend of raw natural beauty and convenient amenities. Located just a short walk from Golden Bay, it provides a quieter, more relaxed alternative while still being well-equipped for visitors.

Recommended For:

Nature lovers, couples, photographers, and beachgoers looking for a peaceful but accessible coastal retreat.

What we Love:

The combination of pristine scenery—with its golden-red sands, rugged cliffs, and peaceful vibe—and tourist-friendly perks like snack bars and equipment rentals gives visitors the best of both worlds.

• Walk along the gently curving shore, taking in sweeping views that feel straight out of a nature documentary.
• Swim in calm, clear waters or relax on the warm sand for a quiet, restorative afternoon.
• Grab a snack or drink from the on-site kiosks, or rent beach chairs and umbrellas for added comfort.

Cost:

Free public access. Rentals and refreshments are available at modest local prices.

Best time to visit:

May through October for sunny weather and warm swimming conditions. Visit early or late in the day for a more secluded atmosphere.

Local tips:

Parking is limited and fills quickly during peak hours. Consider parking at Golden Bay and walking over—a scenic and manageable walk with rewarding views. Be prepared for a series of steps down to the beach.

Distance:

About 20 km or 35–45 minutes by car from Valletta; only a short walk from Golden Bay.

How to Get to Ghajn Tuffieha:

Accessible by car, taxi, or public bus from most of Malta’s central hubs. If arriving from Golden Bay, follow the coastal trail or road connecting the two beaches. Stairs lead down from the cliff to the beach area.

Location:

Pretty Bay, Birzebbuga, Southern Malta

Highlights:

As one of the historically most popular beaches in Malta, Pretty Bay lives up to its name with clear waters, soft sands, and a quaint, laid-back charm. Though it may not have the modern polish of other beaches, it remains a beloved spot—especially among locals.

Recommended For:

Families, casual beachgoers, swimmers, and travelers seeking a more traditional and less tourist-heavy beach experience.

What we Love:

The simplicity of Pretty Bay—perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and relaxing with a book. Its local flavor and community vibe make it a great place to unwind off the beaten path.

• Swim in the calm, clean water and enjoy the peaceful southern Malta setting.
• Sunbathe on the golden sands with plenty of room to stretch out on quieter days.
• Wander the promenade for local snacks, casual cafés, and friendly conversation with locals.

Cost:

Free public beach access. Nearby amenities are affordable and cater mostly to locals.

Best time to visit:

May to September for warm, dry weather. Visit during weekdays for a more tranquil experience.

Local tips:

While it's less polished than Malta’s northern beaches, Pretty Bay retains authentic charm. It's ideal for low-key beach days. You’ll also find nearby playgrounds and food options suitable for families with kids.

Distance:

About 13 km or 25 minutes by car from Valletta.

How to Get to Pretty Bay:

Drive or take a direct bus to Birzebbuga from Valletta or the Malta International Airport. The beach is centrally located in town and easy to find on foot once you arrive.

Unique Malta Beaches:

Location:

Mellieha Bay (Ghadira Bay), Northern Malta

Highlights:

Known locally as Ghadira Bay, Mellieha Bay is one of Malta’s largest and most spacious beaches, offering a wide expanse of golden sand and shallow waters ideal for families and beachgoers of all kinds. It’s a vibrant, well-equipped destination perfect for both relaxation and adventure.

Recommended For:

Families with young children, beginner swimmers, water sports enthusiasts, and groups looking for a lively, activity-rich beach day.

What we Love:

The generous space, variety of amenities, and the dual nature of the bay—with calm shallows for paddling and choppier waves farther out ideal for light surfing and other water sports.

• Swim or paddle in the shallow, safe shoreline—great for kids and non-swimmers.
• Surf or try water sports like paddleboarding or kayaking farther out to sea.
• Relax with beach chair rentals, enjoy snack stands, and grab a bite at nearby beachfront restaurants.
• Feel safe with lifeguards on duty during the summer season.

Cost:

Free public beach access. Rentals for loungers, umbrellas, and water sports available at varying prices.

Best time to visit:

May to October for sunny skies, warm sea temperatures, and full access to lifeguard services and seasonal amenities.

Local tips:

Arrive early during weekends and high season to claim a good spot. While it can get busy, the beach’s large size means there’s usually space for everyone. Look out for the small bird sanctuary just inland if you’re a nature enthusiast.

Distance:

About 25 km or 40 minutes by car or bus from Valletta.

How to Get to Mellieha Bay:

Easily reachable by public bus from most major towns in Malta or by car with ample parking nearby. The beach is also walkable from Mellieha village or nearby resorts.

If you're planning a beach trip in Europe, it makes a lot of sense to head to a location on the Mediterranean Sea. That's where the best beaches, warmest waters, and widest variety of activities can be enjoyed.

One of the best Mediterranean beach countries is Malta. This little island nation is located right in the middle of the Mediterranean Sea, about 50 miles off the coast of Italy.

It has a population of less than half a million people and attracts huge numbers of visitors due to its natural beauty and prime location for beach and water activities, as well as being the home to several UNESCO World Heritage Sites like the capital city of Valletta and its ancient megalithic temples.