Where to find Malta's very best beaches & bays
Tucked south of Sicily in the Mediterranean Sea, the archipelago of Malta is a hotspot in every way. Its sun-drenched shores have long attracted holidaymakers drawn to the fabulous weather, oodles of ancient and modern history, eclectic dining scene and Baroque architecture, albeit much rebuilt.

Of course, for many, the appeal lies in the fun that can be had in and on the water across its three main islands. While Malta* boasts mostly rocky beaches there are ample kid-friendly bays, remote sunbathing spots, dramatic coves and even some select, well-maintained sandy beaches too.
Here we share our pick of the very best beaches you can visit on your next holiday to Malta, with special spots to enjoy everything from fiery sunsets to boat-fresh seafood across Malta and the smaller sister islands of Gozo and Comino.
Getting to Malta: find great value offers on holidays with TUI*, which offers escapes to this popular Mediterranean island all year round.
Golden Bay
Golden Bay is the most well-known beach in Malta as it is arguably the most beautiful. Found on the northwest coast, it is one of the few sandy bays and boasts an arc of amber sand that shelves gently into the dark-blue Mediterranean.
Naturally, this is popular with sunbathers and swimmers, those who love watersports and anyone who appreciates a stunning sunset.
Ghajn Tuffieha Bay
Neighbouring popular Golden Bay, and sharing the same vista, Ghajn Tuffieha Bay is a quieter choice for sun-worshipping. Unlike Golden Bay, it's not backed by hotels, and it's accessible by cliffside steps, which helps to minimise the crowds.
When all you want to do is lie in the sun and chill to the sound of lapping crystal sea, this is the beach for you.
Mellieha Bay
Families flock to Mellieha Bay* (aka Ghadira Bay) as it has deliciously shallow waters, perfect for paddling and plenty of amenities.

As Malta's largest sandy beach, it's a hub for watersports and the reliable northeasterly wind means you can have a go at windsurfing, kitesurfing, waterskiing, canoeing, banana boating and parasailing but also keeps it breezy.
Ghar Lapsi
The rocky cove of Ghar Lapsi features a series of natural pools and Malta's signature azure waters, making it a favourite for both adventurous swimmers and thrill-seekers who enjoy diving from its limestone ledge. With its calm, clear waters, it's dreamy for swimming and snorkelling, just don't forget your beach shoes.
Located close to the Blue Grotto sea caves and the dramatic Dingli Cliffs, it makes for a great addition to a day trip before stopping at Carmen's Restaurant for fresh seafood or Ta' Rita Lapsi View Restaurant, an historic eatery dating back to the 1930s known for its traditional Maltese rabbit dishes.
Coral Lagoon
If you fancy a real adventure, the Coral Lagoon is a cave just off Armier Bay in Mellieha. You can view the natural hole in all its glory, but when you get to the sand it is even more stunning. It's accessible either via walking beyond Ahrax Tower, or you can swim or kayak to the cave from Ahrax Bay.
Mgiebah Bay
Sitting on Malta's north coast is one of the most secluded and untouched beaches, Mgiebah Bay, where you'll arguably see the best sunset on the island. Reached by a rugged cliff path from the parking area near Selmun, you will need sensible shoes.

However, once settled, you'll have a quiet, sheltered bay with soft sand, rocks and idyllic snorkelling conditions. Worth noting that there are no restaurants, shops or sunbed rentals, so come prepared with food, supplies and beach essentials.
Fomm ir-Rih Bay
Over on Malta's west coast, Fomm ir-Rih Bay, which means "Mouth of the Wind", is one of the island's most isolated beaches. Accessible via a steep, challenging path that takes about 20 minutes to navigate, you're rewarded with a pebbly shore framed by striking cliffs and pristine waters, ideal for snorkelling.
If you're looking for a tranquil retreat, this is the bay for you but don't worry; if the scramble down (and up) doesn't appeal, this is also accessible by boat.
Slugs Bay
Looking for a Robinson Crusoe-style escape that can only hold a handful of visitors at a time? Slugs Bay near Mellieha in L-Ahrax is a pocket-sized stretch of sand just a few metres wide, which is well worth the trek.
Surrounded by nature and reached via a rickety, rocky pathway, a dip in the sea when you reach the bay is divine. Just make sure you remember your belongings as the walk back up is one you only want to do once.
St Peter's Pool
Head to the southeast coast and you'll find St Peter's Pool, a sheltered lagoon surrounded by sea-sculpted rocks which offer sun-worshippers a base to bask.

However, if you're keen to avoid the crowds, head a little further to the swimming hole at Il-Kalanka Bay, although the platform for jumping into the water here is higher than at St Peter's, so best reserved for the confident.
Ramla Bay
Situated on Malta's sister island, Gozo*, family-friendly Ramla Bay is easily accessible by car and distinguished by its vibrant red sand that slopes gently into the water. Don't miss a scramble up to Calypso's Cave for a different vantage point.
Wied il-Ghasri
Also on Gozo, the tiny pebbly beach of Wied il-Ghasri is reached through a valley that starts at Ta' Dbiegi Hill.
The scenic route winds through the village of l-Ghasri where you will come across a hidden cliffside staircase. Once beach bound, the secluded narrow bay is peaceful and ideal for snorkelling due to the proximity to nearby caves.
Mgarr ix-Xini
Remote Mgarr ix-Xini (aka Port of the Galleys), accessed via a narrow, winding road, was once Gozo's main harbour.
Here, you'll be greeted with a pebbled beach that happens to be home to possibly Malta's most laid-back beachside restaurant, 10-table Rew Rew. Alternatively, charter a boat around the coast from Xlendi or Mgarr Harbour.
Blue Lagoon
Last but very far from least, a visit to the Blue Lagoon on sparsely inhabited Comino is a must. For an island measuring just 3.5 sq-km, it was immortalised on the big screen by the film Troy and in Madonna's Swept Away video.

You can only get to Comino by boat and it's worth investigating Malta's 'hop on hop off' ferry. There's also the option of taking an organised trip*, which will drop you off for two hours with time to swim or snorkel your way to shore.
Climate in Malta
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The above guide shows the climate in Valletta. Find out more about conditions across the archipelago in our complete guide to the climate in Malta.
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