The best beaches in Malta are spread across its three islands: Malta, Gozo, and Comino. On Malta island, the top beaches include the golden sands of Mellieha Bay and Golden Bay in the north, the rocky St. Peter’s Pool in the south, and urban beaches near Sliema and St. Julian’s. Gozo island offers Ramla Bay with its distinctive orange-red sand, while Comino island is home to the world-famous Blue Lagoon with its crystal-clear turquoise waters.
Malta’s archipelago may be small, but it offers an incredible diversity of beach experiences. From family-friendly sandy shores and dramatic rocky coves to secluded bays and vibrant beach clubs, Malta’s coastline delivers world-class beach experiences in every region. With 11 Blue Flag beaches recognized for their environmental standards and water quality, Malta’s shores rank among the Mediterranean’s finest.
Best Sandy Beaches in Malta
While Malta is known for its rocky coastline, the island does offer several excellent sandy beaches that rival those of larger Mediterranean destinations.
Mellieha Bay (Ghadira Bay): Malta’s Largest Sandy Beach
Located in the northern part of Malta, Mellieha Bay (also known as Ghadira Bay) is the island’s largest and most popular sandy beach. The beach features a long stretch of golden sand that slopes gently into shallow waters, making it ideal for families with children. The bay is sheltered between two headlands, providing relatively calm waters even when other parts of the coast are windy.
Mellieha Bay has earned Blue Flag status for its excellent water quality and facilities, which include sunbed rentals, beachside restaurants, water sports operators, and public restrooms. The beach is easily accessible by public transportation, with regular bus services from major tourist areas.
Golden Bay: Perfect for Water Sports Enthusiasts
Golden Bay is one of Malta’s most picturesque sandy beaches, located on the northwest coast. The beach features soft golden sand framed by rugged cliffs, creating a stunning natural setting. Golden Bay is particularly popular for its water sports offerings, including jet skiing, parasailing, windsurfing, and kayaking.
The beach has excellent facilities, including restaurants, bars, sunbed rentals, and lifeguard services during summer. Golden Bay is also known for its spectacular sunsets, making it a favorite evening destination. The nearby Radisson Blu Resort provides upscale accommodation for those wanting to stay close to this beautiful beach.
Ramla Bay (Gozo): Unique Orange-Red Sands
Gozo’s most distinctive beach, Ramla Bay (Ramla l-Hamra in Maltese, meaning “Red Beach”), is famous for its unusual orange-red colored sand. This wide, sandy bay on Gozo’s northern coast is relatively undeveloped compared to Malta’s main beaches, offering a more natural experience.
The beach is backed by dunes and surrounded by countryside, with just a few seasonal kiosks and restaurants. Ramla Bay has Blue Flag status and offers basic facilities including sunbed rentals and lifeguards in summer. History enthusiasts will appreciate the nearby Calypso Cave, said to be mentioned in Homer’s Odyssey.
Beaches in Malta with Sand – What to Expect
Malta’s sandy beaches vary in color and texture, from the golden sands of Mellieha Bay to the reddish sands of Ramla Bay. Most sandy beaches in Malta are natural, though some smaller urban beaches like St. George’s Bay and Balluta Bay have been artificially enhanced with imported sand.
Facilities at sandy beaches typically include sunbed and umbrella rentals (€8-15 per day), beachside restaurants or kiosks, and public restrooms. Most major sandy beaches have lifeguards during the summer season (June-September). Water quality is generally excellent, with many beaches earning Blue Flag status.
Accessibility varies significantly between beaches. Mellieha Bay and Golden Bay offer the best accessibility infrastructure, with dedicated parking, ramps, and in some cases, beach wheelchairs available upon request from local authorities.
Blue Lagoon Best Beaches in Malta
No discussion of Malta’s beaches would be complete without highlighting the world-famous Blue Lagoon on Comino Island, which consistently ranks as one of the Mediterranean’s most spectacular swimming spots.
Blue Lagoon: Malta’s Most Famous Beach
The Blue Lagoon is a small bay with crystal-clear turquoise waters located between Comino and the tiny islet of Cominotto. While the sandy area is limited, the lagoon’s shallow, pool-like waters with visibility to the white sandy bottom create an unforgettable swimming experience. The vibrant blue color against the rocky landscape makes it one of the most photographed locations in Malta.
During peak summer months (July-August), the Blue Lagoon becomes extremely crowded, with hundreds of visitors arriving on tour boats from Malta and Gozo. For a more enjoyable experience, visit in the early morning (before 9:30 AM) or late afternoon (after 3:30 PM) when day-trippers begin to depart. Alternatively, consider visiting in May, June, or September when crowds are more manageable.
The Blue Lagoon has limited facilities, with seasonal kiosks selling food and drinks and some umbrella rentals. There are no permanent structures on Comino, as it’s a nature reserve. Visitors should bring water, sun protection, and any necessary supplies.
Santa Marija Bay: Quieter Alternative
Located on the north side of Comino, Santa Marija Bay offers a quieter alternative to the Blue Lagoon, especially during peak season. This small bay has a narrow sandy beach and clear waters excellent for swimming and snorkeling. A few seasonal kiosks provide refreshments, and the bay is surrounded by walking paths for those wanting to explore more of the island.
Crystal Lagoon: For the Adventure Seekers
Less known than the Blue Lagoon but equally stunning, the Crystal Lagoon is located on Comino’s west coast. This deep, cave-like formation offers spectacular swimming in deeper waters than the Blue Lagoon. It’s accessible by boat tours or by a 20-minute walk from the Blue Lagoon. The Crystal Lagoon is ideal for confident swimmers and those seeking a more adventurous experience away from the crowds.
Urban Beach Escapes: Valletta, Sliema and St. Julian’s
Malta’s urban areas offer convenient beach options for those staying in the popular tourist hubs of Valletta, Sliema, and St. Julian’s.
Best Beach in Sliema and Nearby Areas
Sliema’s coastline is predominantly rocky, with swimming areas accessed via concrete platforms and ladders into the sea. While not traditional beaches, these areas are popular with locals and tourists alike.
Fond Ghadir is Sliema’s Blue Flag beach, featuring a rocky shoreline with good swimming access. Located near the Preluna Hotel, it offers excellent facilities including sunbed rentals, a beach club, and nearby restaurants. The water quality is consistently high, and the area is popular with snorkelers due to its clear waters.
Qui-si-Sana is another popular swimming spot in Sliema, with a wide promenade and easy sea access via platforms. The area has several cafes and restaurants nearby, making it convenient for a full day by the sea.
Best Beach in St Julian’s Malta
St. Julian’s offers a mix of rocky shores and small sandy beaches, catering to tourists staying in this entertainment district.
St. George’s Bay is the main sandy beach in St. Julian’s, located in the heart of Paceville entertainment area. This small urban beach has earned Blue Flag status and offers all necessary facilities, including restaurants, bars, sunbed rentals, and water sports. Its central location makes it extremely convenient for those staying in St. Julian’s, though it can get crowded in summer.
Balluta Bay features a small artificial sandy section that was created in recent years. Surrounded by a promenade with restaurants and cafes, it’s a convenient spot for a quick swim. The bay is framed by historic architecture, including the art nouveau Balluta Buildings, making it one of the more picturesque urban beaches.
Med-Bar Reef Club at The Westin Dragonara Resort offers a premium beach club experience with platforms extending into the clear Mediterranean waters. While access requires a fee (or residence at the hotel), it provides a luxury beach experience with excellent facilities right in St. Julian’s.
Best Beach Near Valletta
Valletta itself doesn’t have beaches within walking distance, but several excellent options are easily accessible by public transportation.
From Valletta, the most convenient beaches to reach are those in Sliema (10-15 minutes by ferry or bus) and St. Julian’s (15-20 minutes by bus). For those seeking sandy beaches, St. George’s Bay in St. Julian’s is the closest option, while those preferring a more traditional beach experience should head to Mellieha Bay or Golden Bay in the north (40-60 minutes by direct bus from Valletta).
Best Beaches in Gozo
Malta’s sister island of Gozo offers a more rural beach experience, with less development and more natural beauty.
Ramla Bay: Distinctive Red Sands
As mentioned earlier, Ramla Bay is Gozo’s premier sandy beach, known for its distinctive orange-red sand. The wide bay is relatively undeveloped, offering a more natural experience than many of Malta’s beaches. The beach has Blue Flag status and basic facilities including seasonal kiosks and sunbed rentals.
Marsalforn Bay: Popular Resort Beach
Marsalforn is Gozo’s main seaside resort town, with a small beach of sand and pebbles backed by a promenade lined with restaurants and cafes. The bay has Blue Flag status and offers good facilities, making it convenient for families. The surrounding area features traditional salt pans still used for harvesting sea salt.
Hondoq Ir-Rummien: Snorkeler’s Paradise
This small cove near the village of Qala offers a mix of sand and pebbles with exceptionally clear waters perfect for snorkeling. The beach has earned Blue Flag status and provides basic facilities including a small kiosk and sunbed rentals. From Hondoq Ir-Rummien, visitors enjoy spectacular views across the channel to Comino and the Blue Lagoon.
Wied il-Għasri: Dramatic Coastal Chasm
For something completely different, Wied il-Għasri is a narrow inlet cutting between high cliffs, ending in a small pebble beach. This dramatic location is popular with snorkelers and divers who explore the caves along the inlet. Access requires descending a staircase cut into the rock, making it less suitable for those with mobility issues or young children.
Best Beaches in Malta for Different Traveler Types
| Traveler Type | Top Beach Recommendations | Why It’s Perfect | When to Visit |
|---|---|---|---|
| Families with Children | 1. Mellieha Bay 2. Golden Bay 3. Ramla Bay (Gozo) 4. Paradise Bay | Shallow waters, facilities, easy access | June or September (fewer crowds) |
| Couples | 1. Ghajn Tuffieha 2. St. Peter’s Pool 3. Wied il-Għasri (Gozo) 4. Santa Marija Bay (Comino) | Romantic settings, scenic beauty | May, June, or September |
| Water Sports Enthusiasts | 1. Golden Bay 2. Mellieha Bay 3. Marsalforn (Gozo) 4. Armier Bay | Equipment rentals, consistent conditions | June-September |
| Photography Enthusiasts | 1. Blue Lagoon 2. Ghajn Tuffieha 3. Wied il-Għasri (Gozo) 4. St. Peter’s Pool | Dramatic landscapes, clear waters | Early morning or sunset |
| Accessibility Needs | 1. Mellieha Bay 2. St. George’s Bay 3. Bugibba Perched Beach 4. Fond Ghadir (Sliema) | Better infrastructure, facilities | June-September |
Best Places to Stay in Malta for Beaches
| Region | Best Towns/Resorts | Perfect For | Price Range | Nearby Beaches |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| North Malta | Mellieha | Families, Beach Focus | Mid-High | Mellieha Bay, Paradise Bay, Armier |
| North Malta | Bugibba/Qawra | Budget-Friendly, Families | Low-Mid | Bugibba Perched Beach, Qawra Point |
| North Malta | Golden Bay Area | Nature Lovers, Luxury | High | Golden Bay, Ghajn Tuffieha |
| East Malta | St. Julian’s | Nightlife, Urban Beaches | Mid-High | St. George’s Bay, Balluta Bay |
| East Malta | Sliema | Shopping, Rocky Beaches | Mid | Fond Ghadir, Qui-si-Sana |
| Gozo | Marsalforn | Relaxed Resort, Families | Mid | Marsalforn Bay, Qbajjar Bay |
| Gozo | Xlendi | Scenic Beauty, Dining | Mid | Xlendi Bay |
| Gozo | Qala | Quiet, Authentic | Low-Mid | Hondoq Ir-Rummien |
Best Beaches in Malta for Families
Malta offers several excellent beaches for families with children, combining safe swimming conditions with good facilities.
Mellieha Bay is widely considered Malta’s most family-friendly beach. Its long, gently sloping sandy shore creates shallow waters extending far from the beach, ideal for young children. The bay is well-protected from currents and has lifeguards during summer. Facilities include restrooms, showers, sunbed rentals, and plenty of dining options. The beach is easily accessible by car or public bus, with a large parking area.
Golden Bay is another excellent choice for families, offering fine golden sand and good facilities. The beach has several restaurants, water sports for older children, and lifeguard service. While the water deepens more quickly than at Mellieha Bay, a sectioned-off swimming area provides safe conditions for children.
For families staying in Gozo, Ramla Bay offers a spacious sandy beach with shallow entry points. The distinctive orange-red sand provides a unique experience for children, and the surrounding countryside offers space for exploration. Facilities are more limited than at Malta’s main beaches but include basic amenities such as sunbed rentals and seasonal kiosks.
10 Best Beaches in Malta for 2025
For those seeking a quick reference, here are the 10 best beaches in Malta for 2025:
- Blue Lagoon (Comino) – Crystal-clear turquoise waters in a sheltered lagoon, perfect for swimming and snorkeling
- Mellieha Bay (Malta) – The island’s largest sandy beach with excellent facilities and shallow waters ideal for families
- Golden Bay (Malta) – Beautiful golden sand beach with water sports and spectacular sunsets
- Ramla Bay (Gozo) – Distinctive orange-red sand beach in a natural setting
- Ghajn Tuffieha (Malta) – Secluded sandy beach with beautiful natural surroundings, accessed by steps
- St. Peter’s Pool (Malta) – Natural swimming pool with flat rocks perfect for sunbathing and jumping into crystal-clear waters
- Hondoq Ir-Rummien (Gozo) – Small cove with clear waters and views of Comino, excellent for snorkeling
- Paradise Bay (Malta) – Secluded sandy beach in Malta’s northernmost point
- St. George’s Bay (Malta) – Urban sandy beach in the heart of St. Julian’s entertainment district
- Wied il-Għasri (Gozo) – Dramatic inlet ending in a small beach, popular with snorkelers and photographers
Practical Information for Beach Lovers
Best Time to Visit Malta Beaches
The ideal time to visit Malta’s beaches depends on your priorities:
April-May: Early season with warm days (20-25°C) and fewer crowds. Water may be too cool for extended swimming (16-18°C), but perfect for combining beach time with sightseeing.
June: Excellent conditions with warming sea temperatures (18-20°C) and moderate crowds. Prices remain reasonable before the peak season rush.
July-August: Peak season with hottest temperatures (28-33°C) and maximum crowds. Sea temperatures reach their warmest (22-24°C), but expect higher prices and crowded conditions at popular beaches.
September-October: Perhaps the ideal time, with warm sea temperatures (20-22°C) from summer heating and diminishing crowds. September offers summer-like conditions with fewer people.
Heading to multiple beaches in one day? Store your luggage safely with Radical Storage’s convenient locations throughout Malta, allowing you to explore freely between hotel check-out and your evening plans.
Transportation to Beaches
While having a car offers the most flexibility for beach exploration, many popular beaches are accessible via public transportation:
- From Valletta: Direct buses connect to Sliema, St. Julian’s, Mellieha Bay, and Golden Bay
- From Sliema/St. Julian’s: Direct buses to northern beaches (routes 222/223 to Mellieha, 225 to Golden Bay)
- To Gozo: Ferry from Cirkewwa in northern Malta (25 minutes), then local buses to beaches
- To Blue Lagoon: Ferry services from Cirkewwa and Sliema/St. Julian’s (seasonal)
Final Tips
Malta’s beaches offer extraordinary diversity – from the golden sands of Mellieha Bay to the unique red shores of Ramla Bay and the crystal-clear waters of the Blue Lagoon. The country’s 11 Blue Flag beaches in 2025 confirm what visitors have long known – Malta offers beach experiences that rank among the Mediterranean’s finest.
Whether you’re seeking family-friendly shores, urban beaches near nightlife, or secluded coves for peaceful relaxation, Malta’s coastline provides the perfect backdrop for an unforgettable beach holiday. The combination of natural beauty, excellent facilities, and the warm Maltese welcome makes these beaches destinations to return to year after year.
For the latest information on Malta’s beaches, including water quality and facilities, visit the official Malta Tourism Authority website or check Blue Flag Malta for environmentally certified beaches. For public transportation options to beaches, the Malta Public Transport website provides up-to-date routes and schedules.
