From pebbly isolated beaches to natural pools of turquoise water and red sandy bays, you’ll find some beautiful beaches in Malta and the Maltese islands of Gozo and Comino.
With more than 300 days of sunshine a year, a plethora of things to do, delicious cuisine and some fantastic beaches, Malta is the perfect summer holiday destination. Made up of three inhabited islands: Malta, Gozo and Comino, there is plenty of choice when it comes to beaches in Malta. The majority of the coastline is rocky, rugged and unspoilt, but sandy bays, natural pools and pebbly beaches can also be found around the coastline. Read on the discover some of the best beaches in Malta and the islands of Gozo and Comino:
1. Golden Bay Beach
Featuring a long crescent of golden sand, this Blue Flag beach is sheltered by cliffs and green countryside. There are lifeguards on duty during the summer months and the beach has plenty of facilities, including restaurants and sunbed hire. Due to its location in the north of the island, Golden Bay is known for its spectacular sunsets. Visit this beautiful beach late in the afternoon and stay to watch the sunset, you certainly won’t regret it! The easiest way to get to the beach is by bus, but parking is also available.
2. Blue Lagoon
The Blue Lagoon is an inlet on the island of Comino; the smallest inhabited island of the Maltese archipelago. One of the most famous tourist spots in Malta, it can get very busy during peak season, but don’t let that put you off going! With some of the clearest waters on the Maltese islands, it is an underwater paradise for snorkelling lovers. There is a kiosk and hotel nearby where you can pick up refreshments, but it is probably worthwhile bringing your own picnic if you plan to stay all day.
3. St. Peter’s Pool
The rocky beach of St. Peter’s Pool is an undiscovered gem. Located in the south, this natural pool is within walking distance of Marsaxlokk. An amazing swimming spot, the pool has been sculpted from the white limestone coastal rocks. There are no facilities here, so don’t forget to pack a picnic!
4. Mellieha Bay (Ghadira Bay)
Malta’s longest sandy beach, Mellieha Bay is set below the village of Mellieha. Shallow waters extend for quite a distance, making it a very popular beach with families. You will find all the usual facilities available, from beach bars and restaurants to toilets and sunbed hire. It is also the best beach in Malta for water sports, with windsurfing, canoeing, water-skiing and banana boats available.
5. Ghajn Tuffieha
Considered one of the most beautiful beaches on the island, steep cliffs surround this unspoiled beach. It is only accessible by hiking down a staircase of 200 steps, however, the sandy bay and clean water make the journey worth it. Ghajn Tuffieha, also known as Riviera, is perfect for those who prefer a quiet atmosphere away from the crowds. Sunbed hire is available during the day and there is a small snack bar too.
6. Paradise Bay
Close to Mellieha Bay, Paradise Bay is located at the most northerly point in Malta. It is quite small, but this Blue Flag beach has all the amenities you may need. With stunning views, natural caves and clear waters, this beach should definitely be on your list of places to go in Malta. Paradise Bay is accessible by bus and there is also parking available nearby.
7. Fomm Ir-Rih Bay
Whilst this beach may not be the easiest to get to, the reward at the end is worth it. The only way to get to Fomm Ir-Rih is via a rough pathway, which takes about 20 minutes to walk and can be very steep in places, or by boat. If you do decide to go by foot, then make sure to wear appropriate footwear. This pebbly, isolated and wild beach provides fantastic views. It is particularly popular among divers and snorkellers. Again, there are no facilities here, so it is recommended to bring supplies with you.
8. Armier Bay
Armier Bay is split into two, the biggest beach is known as Armier, and the other one is known as Little Armier. Situated directly across from Comino and Gozo, the views from the bay are stunning. The surrounding area is pretty rural, but you will find a small handful of bars and restaurants. These beaches are particularly popular with the locals so it can get busy during the weekend. If you want to experience it at its most tranquil then go during the week.
Tip! If you are travelling to Armier Bay by car, then it is worth making the short trip to the nearby Coral Lagoon. A natural wonder, the Coral Lagoon is a naturally formed cave and features crystal clear waters.
9. Ramla Bay
Located on the northern side of the island of Gozo, this sandy beach is Gozo’s most beautiful beach. Red, soft sand and clean shallow waters are backed by sand dunes and rocky headlands. A wonderful place to swim, snorkel and bathe in the sun, Ramla Bay should be on your Gozo checklist. Gozo is easily accessible from the main island of Malta from Ċirkewwa and the journey takes around 25 minutes.
The area around the beach is also interesting to explore and features some historical treasures. Calypso’s Cave, thought to be the same cave Homer mentioned in The Odyssey, and the remains of Marsalforn tower, a fornication built by the Knights of Malta in the 18th century, are worth a visit.
10. Wied Il-Ghasri
On the island of Gozo, Wied Il-Ghasri is a valley which contains a secluded beach. Wedged between high cliffs, this tiny bay is popular with snorkellers and those seeking an isolated beach experience. Surrounded by natural beauty, the water between the cliffs is great for snorkelling and swimming when the sea is calm, but it’s best to avoid in rough weather due to the narrow strait. There are no facilities here, so come prepared.