Looking for the best beaches in Malta and Gozo? You’ve found the perfect guide. Malta is an archipelago of three islands in the heart of the Mediterranean situated between Sicily and North Africa. This small European country has the warmest weather in the region and gets over 350 sunny days per year.
As you may guess, Malta is a popular travel destination. It’s not just about soaking up the sun; it’s a place rich in history. Did you know that Malta’s got ancient temples that outdate the Egyptian pyramids? But let’s be real. Most people come here for the great weather, fun water sports, and, of course, the beautiful beaches in Malta and Gozo.
No wonder Europeans flock to Malta in the winter time for its weather and beautiful beaches, similar to the Canary Islands. The bonus here is that Malta is a much shorter flight.
I was there last summer, and beach-hopping was my top thing. I visited popular sandy shores, beautiful nature spots and some less-known hidden beaches across the main island and the rest.
This article is your go-to guide for Malta’s beaches! I’m listing every beach I’ve checked out. You’re in for a mix. Some places are great for families. Other spots are perfect for water sports. And there are even some secret paradise spots. I’ve got all the info you need to find your ideal beach for an awesome sunny day in Malta.
Table of Contents
Quick Malta Travel Guide
Where to stay: Most people stay in Valletta, the beautiful UNESCO-listed capital city on the northern coastline of Malta. Here, you will find hotels to suit any budget, from the luxurious Phoenicia Malta and the Iniala Harbour House. Budget travellers will love the Inhawi Hostel, whilst a good mid-range option is the Luciano Valletta Boutique hotel.
Top activities and tours in Malta:
- Valetta Walking Tour ($21)
- Day trip to Gozo and Comino ($34)
- Blue Lagoon Catamaran Sailing Tour ($61)
- Valetta Food Tour ($49)
- Private Boat Tour of Gozo, Comino and the Blue Lagoon ($297)
Packing for Malta: Malta is a pretty warm destination year-round. As mentioned, there are 350 sunny days a year! Of course, the winter months can be a little cooler, so make sure to pack some layers. Light, breathable clothing should be your go-to – and swimsuits for exploring Malta’s beaches, of course! This packing list I wrote for visiting a beach destination in Mexico will help you pack for Malta in the summer!
Airport transfer: Going from Malta International Airport (MLA) to your hotel is super easy! Make sure to book your transfer in advance – a private transfer is surprisingly affordable, but you can also opt for a shared one!
Your Handy Guide to the Best Beaches in Malta, Gozo, and Comino
This guide divides all the beaches into 3 lists: beaches in Malta, Gozo, and Comino. It includes official beaches and unofficial spots. I have only included unofficial sites that are shallow and generally safe for a good swim.
In Malta, it’s pretty common to see people swimming almost anywhere. Don’t worry, there are no sharks or any other big sea creatures around.
If the sea’s calm, it’s usually a safe bet for a swim. The only thing you need to watch out for is the boats speeding by. But if you prefer a bit more reassurance, sticking to an official beach is the way to go. These places have swim zones marked out with buoys and ropes, and many even have lifeguards on duty.
Blue Flag Beaches in Malta
The Maltese islands joined the Blue Flag program in 2006. A Blue Flag is an award given to beaches (but also harbors) that have reached a desired level of eco-friendly and sustainable action. Criteria for getting a Blue Flag award relate to everything from safety to water quality.
Several of the beaches below have been awarded the Blue Flag, so you know you are in for a treat when you visit them!
The 5 Best Beaches in Malta
The first 5 beaches on the list are the best beaches in Malta, in my personal opinion. I’ve also included how to get to each beach – whether you have a car or are using public transportation.
Up next after that are the beaches on Gozo and the best beach on Comino (the small island in the middle of Malta and Gozo).
Ghajn Tuffieha Beach: A Natural Paradise
Ghajn Tuffieha Beach is on the northwest coast of Malta. It is between two other beaches, Golden Bay and Gnejna Bay.
This beach is so pretty! It’s got incredible orange sand. The crystal-clear turquoise waters are picture-perfect. The bay is also famous for some of the best sunsets in Malta.
At Ghajn Tuffieha, you’ve got the essentials: a restaurant, a bar, toilets, and lifeguards. Need a sunbed and umbrella? You can rent those too.
If you’re into water sports, you can rent a paddleboard or even catch some waves with a surfboard. The rocky sides of the bay are perfect for snorkelling. I’ve snorkelled there myself and saw a stingray and flying fish right near the shore. It’s an underwater wonderland.
I loved the raw, natural vibe of Ghajn Tuffieha Bay. The beach isn’t too crowded, which is a huge plus. Plus, there are hiking trails nearby, perfect for finding a quiet spot to watch the sunset.
You need to go down some steps to get to the beach. People say there are 187 steps down. It’s a bit of a climb, but the views make it worthwhile. Though, if you’ve got a baby stroller or lots of gear, it might be a bit tricky.
You can get to Ghajn Tuffieha by bus from Valletta, Sliema, or St. Julians. The bus stop ‘Riviera,’ is 50 meters from the stairs leading down to the beach. Buses run every 30 minutes, so it’s pretty convenient.
If you drive, there’s a small parking lot (get there early!) During summer, you’ll find extra temporary parking.

Ghadira Bay: Malta’s Largest Family-Friendly Beach
Ghadira Beach is up in the northern part of Malta, close to Mellieha. It’s a bit away from the usual tourist buzz but worth the trip.
This beach is all about soft sand and shallow waters. It’s the largest beach in Malta and a total crowd-pleaser. You can walk far into the water, and it stays nice and shallow. It’s very safe and perfect for kids.
Ghadira Beach has it all. Need to rinse off after a swim? They’ve got showers and bathrooms. Safety’s a top priority too – there are lifeguards on duty. Hungry or thirsty? You’ll find beach kiosks for snacks and drinks, and restaurants for bigger meals.
If you want to lounge in comfort, you can rent sun beds and umbrellas. Even better, you can order drinks right to your sun lounge from the friendly staff. Talk about a chill day at the beach!
If you’re into water fun, Ghadira’s your place. Paddleboarding, kayaking, sailing, windsurfing – you name it, they’ve got it. In summer, there’s an inflatable water park for children.
Ghadira Beach offers a perfect blend of relaxation and fun. But being the most popular beach in Malta, it can get pretty crowded. So, get there early or avoid weekends.
Getting there is easy. From Valletta or Sliema, it’s a 30-minute drive with parking nearby. If you travel by bus, look for one heading to Cirkewwa. The bus stops right in front of the beach, so you can’t miss it.

Ghar Lapsi: Malta’s Natural Swimming Pool
Ghar Lapsi is not a typical sandy beach. Instead, it is a beautiful natural pool. It is surrounded by rough cliffs and is situated on the southwest coast of Malta.
This beach is a small rocky cove, but it’s worth visiting. The water there is clear, and you have stunning coastal views. You can even see Filfla, an uninhabited island, from here.
Ghar Lapsi is a popular beach among locals, but it’s not like other beaches. It has a playground a few meters away and toilets, but it doesn’t have sunbeds or umbrellas.
There are 2 restaurants at Ghar Lapsi. One serves fresh fish. Another restaurant has many Mediterranean meals. These restaurants fill up fast on weekends. It’s best to book a table ahead of time if you want a tasty meal while you’re there.
I liked the peaceful vibe and the pretty scenery. I got there in the morning and sat by the water, putting my feet in and watching the fish swim. It was nice and relaxing.
Swimming and snorkelling in Ghar Lapsi is great because the water is clear. It feels like swimming in a pool. The water is shallow, so it’s safe for children too.
But, this cove is small, so it can get crowded. It’s not a sandy beach and the rocky terrain might not appeal to everyone. If you’re looking for a typical beach day with all the comforts, this might not be the place for you.
Getting to Ghar Lapsi is easy if you have a car. There is a big car park nearby. You can also go there by bus, but it’s not as convenient. The nearest bus stop is a 25-minute walk away. Take a bus that goes to Blue Grotto and ride it until you reach a bus stop called Bajjada.

Paradise Bay Beach: Malta’s White Sand Haven
Paradise Bay Beach is located in northern Malta, near Mellieha and the Cirkewwa Ferry Terminal.
The beach is small but beautiful. You can swim, sunbathe, and relax here. The water is clear and turquoise, with lots of fish, so it’s great for snorkelling. You also have great views of Gozo and cliffs that protect you from the wind.
At Paradise Bay Beach, you’ve got everything you need. There are restrooms, showers, sun beds, and umbrellas for rent. Hungry or thirsty? There’s a beach bar and a restaurant right there.
If you’re into kayaking, you can rent equipment right on the beach. They also sell snorkelling gear, so you’re all set for underwater exploration.
I loved the beautiful views at Paradise Bay Beach. The water was clear, the shore was sandy, and I could see Gozo. I swam along the rocky coastline and saw lots of colourful marine life.
This beach is small, so it gets crowded, especially on summer weekends. If you want a quiet spot, it might not be the best choice on those days.
To get to Paradise Bay Beach, follow signs from the main road to the Cirkewwa Ferry Terminal. There is parking nearby. If you’re using public transport, go to the Cirkewwa Terminal and it’s a short walk to the beach. The bus ride from Valletta or other major towns might take about an hour.

St. Peter’s Pool: Rocky Beach for Cliff Jumps
St. Peter’s Pool is in southern Malta, near Marsaxlokk. It’s a natural pool surrounded by tall white limestone cliffs. The cliffs are different heights and the water is deep. Many people enjoy jumping into the water at this beach.
Jumping into St. Peter’s Pool is an incredible thrill! I challenged myself to jump off the 4-meter high cliffs and it was such an adrenaline rush! If you’re not a fan of high diving, don’t worry. There are lower spots where you can still enjoy a refreshing splash.
Even if you don’t jump, you won’t be bored. I had a great time just watching others jump. It’s fun to see the mix of laughter, cheers, and surprise yelps.
The main attraction here is cliff jumping. There are no typical watersports, but the thrill of the jump makes up for it. If you are looking for an adrenaline-rich beach on the south coast, St. Peter’s Pool is it.
St. Peter’s Pool doesn’t have many amenities. There are no sunbeds and very little natural shade. It’s better to bring your umbrella. But, there is a van that sells snacks and drinks, so you won’t be hungry.
The beach is popular and often crowded and noisy, especially with young people. It is not suitable for children because the water is deep.
To get to St. Peter’s Pool, driving is the best option. The roads are narrow, so be prepared for an adventure. Or, you can walk from the nearby Marsaxlokk village. Keep in mind that there is no direct bus route, so if you’re using public transport, you’ll need to walk a bit.

The Best Beach in Comino
Comino is the small island between Malta and Gozo. There is one main attraction for visiting here; the stunning Blue Lagoon.
There are plenty of day trips from Malta or Gozo to the Blue Lagoon, ranging from the most affordable ($28 for a group sailing to the Blue Lagoon) to the more expensive, private cruises ($176 for a private boat for up to 6 people).
My favourite tour to the Blue Lagoon would probably be this one ($61), as it is on a catamaran and includes two stops for swimming and snorkelling.
Now to read why the Blue Lagoon is so famous!
Comino Blue Lagoon: One of the Best Beach Destinations in the Mediterranean
The Blue Lagoon is located between Malta and Gozo. It is on the small island of Comino, which is known for its clear water and amazing views.
This beach is amazing! The water is crystal clear, and the views are breathtaking. It’s like a big natural pool with shallow waters and a sandy bottom. It is for sure one of the top swimming spots in the Mediterranean.
If you like water adventures, you can go parasailing in Blue Lagoon. The clear waters are also good for snorkelling and exploring underwater.
The Blue Lagoon has the basic things you need. There are snack bars for food and drinks. The beach is small and rocky. You can rent a sunbed and umbrella. But, get there early to find a spot.
This beach is crowded because it’s the most popular in Malta. But it’s still worth going there. I loved the water here – so blue and so clear. It was so relaxing just to float around. And the views? Simply amazing. It’s like being in a postcard!
You can only reach the Blue Lagoon by boat. It’s easy to catch a boat from Malta. You can take a shuttle boat from Marfa or Cirkewwa. If you’re coming from Gozo, go to Mgarr Harbour.
There are also day trips that provide drinks and lunch. If you want something fancier, you can get a private boat charter. It will give you a more exclusive experience, and is surprisingly affordable if you are a bigger group.

The Best Beaches in Gozo
Gozo is the third island in the line of Maltese islands, and loads of people opt to stay there for a quieter escape. Below are the two best beaches on Gozo, and I know you’ll love them.
Ramla Bay: Gozo’s Red Sand Beach
Ramla Beach is the largest sandy beach on Gozo, which is Malta’s charming sister island. It is a hidden gem located on the east coast and can be reached by a 25-minute ferry ride from Malta.
When you arrive at Ramla, the first thing that catches your eye is the beautiful red sand. This is a unique feature that makes Ramla stand out. The water is also another attractive aspect of the place – it is clear and inviting. People of all ages, from children to adults, enjoy spending time here.
Ramla Beach has everything you need. There are showers, toilets, and picnic tables. If you get hungry, there are food stalls and cafes nearby. You can also rent sun loungers/sun beds and umbrellas for total relaxation. Plus, there are lifeguards on duty.
This red sand beach offers a variety of exciting water sports for those who like adventure. You can try stand-up paddleboarding, kayaking, or even a banana ride. If you’re interested in snorkelling, swim along the rocky shores. You can see lots of sea life there.
I loved the red sand and the natural beauty of the beach. The beach is big and it wasn’t crowded.
Here’s a tip: The entrance to the water is covered in pebbles, so it’s not very comfortable. Yet, if you walk to the end of the beach on your right, you’ll find a spot without pebbles and usually fewer people.
It is easy to get to Ramla. Buses run from Marsalforn, Victoria, or Mgarr Harbour. The bus drops you near the beach. Driving is also easy. There is parking available along the road or in a nearby private field.

Wied il-Ghasri Beach: A Hidden Gem in Gozo
Wied il-Ghasri Beach is located on the north coast of Gozo. It’s not too far from Zebug and Marsalforn. This hidden valley leads to a beautiful pebble beach.
This place is like a small canyon with tall limestone cliffs on both sides. It extends 300 meters inland to a small pebble beach.
Wied il-Ghasri Beach is great for swimming, snorkelling, or enjoying the beauty of Gozo. It’s safe for kids, but remember to wear aqua shoes because the bottom is covered in pebbles.
Be aware, there are no facilities at this beach. There are no toilets, food, or drink shops. The focus is on nature, not comfort. But that’s what makes it charming!
The beach is a snorkeler’s dream. You swim along the limestone walls, explore the caves and see lots of marine life. Scuba diving is big here too, especially around the large cave at the sea’s opening.
I enjoyed swimming near the cliffs and admiring the views. When I visited, there were small waves. I loved the sound of waves crashing against the cliffs. It was very soothing.
Wied il-Ghasri Beach is not your usual beach for a full day. It’s small and the pebble surface makes sunbathing less comfortable. Yet, it’s worth a visit for a few hours.
To get to Wied il-Ghasri by car, take a narrow road by the salt pans. There’s parking along the way and a small area near the beach. If you’re taking a bus, the closest stop is in Zebbug, which is a 15-20-minute walk. Or, you can walk from Xwejni Bay. It’s a beautiful 35-40 minute hike.

The Best Beaches in Malta and Gozo: FAQ
Below are some of the most frequently asked question about the beaches of Malta, Gozo and Comino – answered!
One of the most popular areas for beachgoers is the northern part of Malta, particularly the region around St. Julian’s and Sliema. Here, you’ll find a mix of sandy and rocky beaches, along with plenty of water sports and beachside cafes and bars. Another great option is the island of Gozo, just a short ferry ride away from the main island. Gozo is known for its more tranquil and untouched beaches, with stunning natural beauty and a slower pace of life.
Yes, the beaches in Malta and the other islands are swimmable.
Mellieha Bay is the longest white sand beach in Malta.
Most visitors stay on the northern coast of Malta, in or around Valletta. This is where you will find more hotels and resorts, and easy access to tours and other destinations.
Yes, Malta has some beautiful beaches and some stunning clear waters.
The beaches in Malta range from long, white sand beaches, to clear lagoons surrounded by cliffs.
Day Trips and Excursions in Malta
As you have now learned in this post, there are some great beaches to explore in Gozo and Malta. It is truly a haven for beach and ocean lovers.
Additionally, you don’t want to miss going on a day cruise around the islands, most of which include stops on the beautiful beaches.
Below are some of the top-rated excursions and day tours on Malta. Make sure to book in advance to be guaranteed a spot!
Final Thoughts: Finding Your Perfect Beach in Malta and Gozo
There you have it! I’ve listed the best beaches in Malta and Gozo. Each beach here has its own vibe. Some beaches are good for families, others are for adventurous water sports. There are also peaceful, off-the-beaten-path beaches.
Bring your towel, sunglasses, sunscreen, and goggles. Jump into the clear waters of Malta and Gozo’s beaches. You’ll have unforgettable moments by the seaside.
Read next: The best beaches in the Canary Islands