When you think of Malta, the sea is the first thing that comes to mind.
Sure, there are plenty of historical landmarks and cultural sights, but no trip here is complete without slowing down and soaking up the magic of the island’s crystal-clear waters.
Summer is long in Malta, and with it, waves of tourists from all over Europe fly in to enjoy their holidays under the Mediterranean sun.
A Maltese friend once told me that when they were kids, every summer day was spent at the beach—jumping off high cliffs, sometimes getting a few scrapes and bruises 😅 Basically, swimming is second nature to most Maltese people!
In this post, I’ll share some of the beaches that my Maltese friends and local residents recommend. I’ve divided them into two categories:
- ✨ Instagram-famous beaches every tourist should visit
- 🌿 Hidden gems that locals would rather keep secret
So, whether you’re here for the perfect photo or a quiet escape, let’s dive into Malta’s best beaches!
Must-Visit Beaches in Malta | 5 Tourist Favorites
If you’re on a short trip to Malta and don’t have much time, or if you’re staying longer but still want to tick off the famous spots, these are the beaches you can’t miss.
Now, I’ll be honest: I usually try to avoid the big “touristy” places listed in every guidebook. They’re often too crowded to fully enjoy. But some beaches are popular for a reason—and these five are absolutely worth your time.
Here’s a quick snapshot before we dive into each one:
| Beach | Location | Type | Depth |
|---|---|---|---|
| Riviera Beach / Golden Bay | Northwest Malta | Sandy | Shallow → Deep |
| St. Peter’s Pool | Southeast Malta | Rocky | Deep |
| Blue Lagoon | Comino Island (NW) | Sandy & Rocky | Medium → Deep |
| Ramla Beach | Northeast Gozo | Sandy | Shallow → Deep |
| Xlendi Bay | Southwest Gozo | Pebbly | Shallow → Deep |
💡 Quick tip: If you love swimming in deep, transparent waters, go for the rocky beaches—they’re stunning! Just remember, in most rocky spots you won’t be able to stand, so if you’re not confident in the water, pack a noodle floatie (yes, I always bring mine 😅).
On the other hand, if you’d rather sunbathe, play beach volleyball, or enjoy the peace of standing in shallow water, sandy beaches are your best friend—especially if you’re traveling with kids.
Alright, let’s take a closer look at each of these five iconic spots!
Riviera Beach & Golden Bay | Northwest Malta
If you’re exploring the northwestern coast of Malta, you’ll find not just one, but three sandy beaches lined up next to each other—Golden Bay and Riviera Beach. Both of them are within walking distance (about 15 minutes apart), so you can easily hop from one to another in a single day.
- Golden Bay is one of the most famous beaches with a wide sandy shore, restaurants, and plenty of facilities. Families love it because it’s spacious, safe, and easy to access.
- Riviera Beach feels more peaceful. To reach it, you’ll need to descend a long staircase, but once you’re down, you’ll be rewarded with a beautiful cove framed by cliffs. There’s even a swing near the stairs that’s become a little Instagram icon.
🍴 Local tip: If you’re looking for a dinner spot, Singita Miracle Beach near Riviera is perfect for enjoying the sunset. For the more active, you can rent paddle boards (SUP) or head off on one of the nearby hiking trails—the Mellieħa area is full of them.
These beaches are some of the few sandy stretches on the island, so they’re well-loved by locals and tourists alike. Just keep in mind: in the peak of summer (July and August), Golden Bay and Riviera can get very crowded. For a quieter experience, try Gnejna, or head out in the early morning or off-season.
St. Peter’s Pool | Natural Rock Pool in the Southeast
If you’re the adventurous type—or just love the idea of diving into crystal-clear water—St. Peter’s Pool is a must. Located near Marsaxlokk on the southeastern tip of Malta, this natural rocky bay has become famous for its high cliffs and dazzling turquoise sea.
There’s no sandy shore here. Instead, flat limestone rocks form a sort of “natural pool” where locals and thrill-seekers gather to jump in. The water is deep and unbelievably clear, making it perfect for snorkeling as well.
💡 Good to know:
- There are no facilities (no cafés, no changing rooms, no restrooms), so bring plenty of water, snacks, and a towel.
- Shade is limited, so a sun umbrella is a lifesaver on hot summer days.
- Getting there isn’t super easy—you’ll need to either drive down a bumpy road or walk a bit from the nearest parking area. But once you arrive, you’ll see why it’s worth the effort.
And if cliff-jumping isn’t your thing? No problem—you can just stretch out on the rocks, dip your toes in, and watch others make their daring dives.
Blue Lagoon | The Jewel of Comino
If there’s one beach in Malta that you’ve already seen on Instagram, it’s definitely the Blue Lagoon. Located between the islands of Comino and Cominotto, this spot is world-famous for its almost unreal turquoise water. Honestly, it looks like someone dropped a giant Instagram filter over the whole place.
Most people visit on a day trip by boat from either Cirkewwa (Malta) or Mgarr (Gozo). As your boat approaches, you’ll see the water turn from deep blue to glowing aquamarine—it’s one of those “wow” moments you’ll never forget.
Once you arrive, you can swim in the sandy shallows, snorkel around the rocks, or just float on the crystal-clear surface. The colors are so vivid it feels more like the Caribbean than the Mediterranean.
💡 Tips for visiting:
- The Blue Lagoon gets packed in summer. To avoid the worst of the crowds, catch the earliest boat in the morning or visit in the off-season.
- Facilities are minimal. Expect a few kiosks selling snacks, drinks, and cocktails served in pineapples 🍍, but don’t expect restaurants or proper bathrooms.
- Bring water shoes if you have sensitive feet—much of the shoreline is rocky.
Even with the crowds, the Blue Lagoon is a bucket-list experience. Spend a few hours soaking it all in, then consider exploring Comino’s hiking trails or taking a boat to nearby caves for a quieter adventure.
Ramla Beach | Gozo’s Golden-Red Sand
If you hop over to Gozo, Malta’s smaller sister island, you’ll find one of its most iconic beaches: Ramla Bay. What makes it stand out? The sand isn’t golden or white, but a rich red-gold color that glows beautifully in the sun. It’s unlike any other beach in Malta.
Ramla is also one of the largest sandy beaches in the whole country, making it perfect for families, sunbathers, and anyone who loves wide open space. The water here is shallow near the shore, so kids and less confident swimmers can splash around safely before it gradually gets deeper.
Surrounded by hills and greenery, Ramla feels wonderfully unspoiled—there are just a couple of casual cafés and small kiosks selling snacks and ice cream. It’s simple, but that’s part of its charm.
💡 Fun fact: Up on the hill above Ramla Bay, you’ll find the cave where (according to legend) the nymph Calypso kept Odysseus captive in Homer’s Odyssey. You can even hike up for a panoramic view of the bay.
Xlendi Bay | Sunset Spot in Gozo
When I think back to Gozo, one of my favorite memories is sitting by the water at Xlendi Bay. Unlike Malta’s famous wide sandy beaches, Xlendi is a small bay surrounded by dramatic cliffs. The beach itself is pretty tiny, but the atmosphere more than makes up for it.
During the day, people come here to swim, rent kayaks, or snorkel around the rocky edges. The water is calm and clear, and if you’re up for it, you can even find some ladders attached to the rocks where locals jump in for a quick dip.
But for me, the best part of Xlendi was the evening vibe. The bay is lined with restaurants and cafés, so you can grab a seafood dinner, a glass of wine, and just watch the sun set behind the cliffs. The golden light reflecting on the water is honestly magical.
It’s not the place to spread out with a big beach towel, but it is the kind of spot where you can end your Gozo trip on a perfect, relaxed note.
Hidden Gems | 9 Beaches Loved by Locals
Now that we’ve covered the big-name beaches, let’s talk about the ones the locals actually love.
These hidden spots are often just as beautiful as the famous beaches—and sometimes even better. They’re usually more relaxed, less crowded, and give you a glimpse of everyday Maltese life. Honestly, if I had to choose, I’d pick these “secret” beaches over the touristy ones most of the time.
I’ve lived in Malta for a few years and spent countless weekends exploring its coastline, so this list includes not only well-known local favorites but also the places I personally loved. (Warning: this section is a little longer, but it’s close to my heart ✨).
If you’re here for more than just a short vacation—say you’re studying abroad, working remotely, or staying for a few months—definitely try some of these off-the-beaten-path beaches.
| Beach Name | Location | Beach Type | Water Depth |
|---|---|---|---|
| Pretty Bay | Southeast Malta | Sand | Shallow → Deep |
| Fort St Angelo Rocky Beach | East Malta | Rocky | Shallow → Deep |
| Gnejna Bay | Northwest Malta | Sand | Shallow → Deep |
| Perched Beach | Northern Malta | Pebbles | Shallow → Deep |
| Marleys Surf Spot | Northeast Malta | Sand & Rock | Shallow → Deep |
| Tigné Point | East Malta | Rocky | Mostly Deep |
| Santa Maria Bay | Northern Comino | Sand | Shallow → Deep |
| Gorgun Beach | Southeast Gozo | Rocky | Shallow → Deep |
| Blue Grotto Area | South Malta | Rocky | Deep |
Pretty Bay | Malta Island
First off, how cute is the name? Pretty Bay sits close to the fishing village of Marsaxlokk, famous for its Sunday market. It’s in the same direction as St. Peter’s Pool, so if you get tired of cliff diving and just want to swim, this is a great spot to switch things up.
At first glance, the surroundings can be a little surprising: you’ll see a power station and a shipping port with big cranes and container ships nearby. I honestly wondered if the water would be clean… but then I saw it.
The water here is crystal clear, with sand so pale it gives the sea a pastel-green shimmer. It reminded me of the Blue Lagoon—the visibility is that good. You can easily spot fish swimming around you as you wade in.
Even though it’s not exactly a “hidden” beach (locals love it, so it can get busy), it still feels different from the tourist-packed spots. You’ll mostly see Maltese families, groups of kids playing, and locals chilling. That’s why it made my list.
Plus, the area around Pretty Bay is full of good restaurants—no surprise since Marsaxlokk is famous for its fresh seafood. It’s one of my go-to places whenever I want a beach day with good food nearby.
Fort St Angelo Rocky Beach | East Malta
If you’re looking for a beach that feels more like a local hangout than a tourist attraction, head to the rocky shoreline near Fort St Angelo in Birgu (Vittoriosa).
There’s no wide stretch of sand here—it’s all flat limestone rocks leading straight into the water. That might sound uncomfortable, but honestly, it’s part of the charm. You’ll see Maltese families spreading out towels, kids jumping off the rocks, and teenagers daring each other to dive from higher spots.
What I loved most was the view: swimming here means you’re floating right across from Valletta’s iconic skyline. The golden stone buildings and church domes look even more impressive from the water. Sunset swims here are especially unforgettable.
The water is very clear and calm, with ladders placed along the rocks to make getting in and out easy. It does get deep quickly, so it’s not the best choice for little kids, but if you’re comfortable in the water, it’s amazing.
It might not win any awards for comfort, but this spot captures a side of Malta that sandy tourist beaches just can’t. It’s simple, authentic, and loved by the people who actually live here.
Gnejna Bay | Northwest Malta
Just a short drive from the more famous Golden Bay and Riviera Beach, Gnejna Bay feels like its quieter little sister. It has the same soft golden sand and clear water, but with far fewer people—especially outside the peak summer weekends.
One thing that makes Gnejna special is its setting. The bay is tucked between rolling hills and cliffs, giving it a more secluded vibe. You’ll see locals fishing off the rocks, kids splashing in the shallows, and small boats anchored offshore. It’s got that balance of being peaceful but not too remote.
The water here is shallow near the shore, making it safe for a casual swim, but if you go out further it gets deep enough for snorkeling. I remember floating on my back here, surrounded by calm waves and silence, and it felt like I had the whole bay to myself.
If you’re staying in Malta for a while and want a beach day without the Golden Bay crowds, Gnejna is one of the best places to slow down and just enjoy the island at your own pace.
Perched Beach | Bugibba, Malta
Over the last few years, Bugibba has grown into a lively seaside town. It’s by the water, but it doesn’t feel too rural or remote—there are plenty of shops, restaurants, and a fun mix of people. Interestingly, instead of traditional Maltese food, you’ll find lots of Southeast Asian restaurants here, especially Filipino and Thai spots.
The seaside promenade is one of my favorite things about Bugibba. It’s perfect for a relaxed walk, with views of the sea stretching out in front of you. Families love coming here because the area is safe, lively, and has everything you need close by.
Perched Beach is located on the northwest side of Bugibba, right near Malta’s only aquarium. The beach has lots of nearby restaurants, plus sunbeds and umbrellas for rent, so you can just show up without worrying about what to bring. If you get thirsty, cafés and bars are just a few steps away.
Another highlight is the Abyss Diving Club, based right by the beach. Whether you want to try scuba diving or prefer something lighter like jet skiing, there are plenty of water sports available.
When I tried a two-seater jet ski, it felt like riding a roller coaster on water—absolutely thrilling! Prices were around €40 for 15 minutes or €50 for 30 minutes, and it was worth every cent. At one point, I even spotted a man sitting on his jet ski in the middle of the sea, calmly reading a book. It made me secretly wish I had one of my own.
Marleys Surf Spot | Malta
Despite the name, I’ve actually never seen anyone surfing at Marleys Surf Spot. But don’t let that fool you—this place gets lively in summer, with both locals and visitors flocking here to enjoy the water.
The best part? The beach area is so wide that even when it’s crowded, you never feel cramped. No matter where you sit, the sea stretches out endlessly in front of you, making it feel open and relaxing. Another bonus is that you can choose between sandy spots and rocky areas. Locals often call it a pebble beach, and both options have their own charm depending on your mood.
In summer, Marleys is also a popular spot for barbecues. I still remember my friends bringing along a barbecue set—though it wasn’t the usual “fire and grill” setup I was used to. It felt more like a spontaneous beach picnic, but with that Maltese summer vibe, it was perfect.
Tigné Point | Malta
If you’re staying in the city but don’t feel like venturing too far—and at the same time don’t want to deal with big tourist crowds—Tigné Point is the perfect spot.
To get there, head to the very top floor of The Point shopping mall, exit on the side with the fountain, and just keep walking straight. Eventually, you’ll find yourself by the sea, with a peaceful atmosphere that feels far away from the city buzz.
During peak season, it can still get busy, but it’s nothing like the major tourist beaches. It’s more of a hidden corner where you can truly unwind. If you’ve been shopping around Sliema, this makes a great place to stop by afterward. Just keep in mind that the water here is quite deep, so if you’re not a confident swimmer, be careful before diving in.
On days that aren’t too hot, you can even grab some takeaway and enjoy a little seaside picnic here. It’s one of those places that feels like a secret break from the busy city life.
Santa Maria Bay | Comino Island
I couldn’t find a proper photo of Santa Maria Bay, but imagine something very similar to this… calm, turquoise waters and soft sand. 🙏
This bay is actually located on Comino Island, the same island that’s home to the famous Blue Lagoon. You can reach Santa Maria Bay on foot from the lagoon, or if you don’t feel like walking, there are even little tourist tuk-tuk–style rides that will take you there.
What I love about this spot is that it feels like a peaceful escape. The Blue Lagoon is stunning, of course, but it’s usually so crowded that you can barely enjoy it. If you ever find yourself exhausted from the chaos but still want to make the most of your time on Comino, Santa Maria Bay is the perfect alternative. You’ll still get that gorgeous island scenery—just without the overwhelming crowds.
Gorgun Beach | Gozo
Gozo is full of hidden beaches, but this one really stood out to me. Gorgun Beach is just a few steps away from the Gozo ferry terminal—so close that you’d expect it to be packed. Surprisingly, though, there were almost no tourists when I visited. The only people around were locals, and they honestly looked shocked to see me there.
This rocky beach is surrounded by tall cliffs, which means that by the afternoon you’ll find plenty of natural shade. Perfect for resting after a swim without feeling overheated.
One of my favorite parts was just sitting there, watching the ferries come and go, and staring out at the views of Malta in the distance. It’s incredibly peaceful—ideal for anyone who wants to slow down and disconnect.
Even in the water, you’ll notice big rocks scattered around that create patches of shade. It feels like little underwater shelters where you can float around gracefully. Just be careful when the waves are strong, but on a hot sunny day, it’s absolutely heavenly.
Blue Grotto Area | Malta & Filfla Island
Malta’s fourth island, Filfla, is a tiny, adorable island shaped a bit like a scone, located to the southwest. From the mainland near Blue Grotto, you get stunning views of this little gem.
The area around Blue Grotto also has a small boat pier, which surprisingly doubles as a nice spot to swim. So, if you’re heading there, I’d recommend bringing swimwear—you might get the chance to enjoy a dip while taking in the views.
Nearby, the Dingli Cliffs offer great hiking spots, so you could easily spend an entire day exploring this area.
I’ve lost count of how many times I’ve been blown away by Malta’s sunsets, but the ones over Filfla Island were truly divine.
By the way, I’ve heard that you can’t actually go to Filfla by boat—but even just admiring it from a distance is worth it. The scenery alone is stunning enough to feel satisfied.
Map & Ratings of Malta’s Hidden Beaches
Here’s a handy overview of the hidden beaches I’ve introduced. Checking them out on Google Maps, you’ll see they’re nicely spread out, so you can easily stop by a few if you’re exploring different areas.
Ratings of Malta’s Hidden Beaches
I’ve also rated each beach based on a few categories, purely from my own experience. Think of it as a friendly guide to help you pick the spots that match your vibe:
| Beach Name | Popularity | Fame | Personal Recommendation | Crowdedness | Swim-Friendly | Nearby Restaurants |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Riviera Beach / Golden Bay | ◎ | ◎ | △ | × | ◯ | ◎ |
| St Peter’s Pool | ◯ | ◎ | ◯ | × | △ | △ |
| Blue Lagoon | ◎ | ◎ | ◎ | × | △ | × |
| Ramla Beach | ◎ | ◎ | ◯ | × | ◯ | × |
| Xlendi | ◎ | ◎ | ◎ | × | △ | ◎ |
| Pretty Bay | ◯ | ◯ | ◯ | △ | ◎ | ◎ |
| Fort St Angelo Rocky Beach | △ | △ | ◯ | ◎ | ◎ | × |
| Gnejna | ◯ | ◯ | ◯ | △ | ◎ | × |
| Perched Beach | ◎ | ◯ | ◯ | △ | ◎ | ◎ |
| Marleys Surf Spot | ◯ | ◯ | △ | ◯ | △ | ◯ |
| Tigné Point | ◯ | ◯ | ◯ | ◯ | △ | ◯ |
| Santa Maria Bay | ◯ | △ | △ | ◯ | ◯ | × |
| Gorgun Beach | △ | △ | ◎ | ◎ | ◎ | × |
| Blue Grotto Area | △ | △ | ◯ | ◯ | ◯ | ◯ |
As you can see, each beach has its own pros and cons, so pick the ones that fit your preferences!
Tips for Enjoying Malta’s Beaches
Wondering which beach to visit? I personally rely on a website called Which Beach, which provides detailed info on wind direction, beach conditions, and even scores for each spot. It’s super handy, especially if you’re studying English, since everything is easy to understand with clear icons.
A few extra tips from my experience:
- Timing matters: Some beaches get crowded during peak season, so visiting early in the morning or later in the afternoon can make a huge difference.
- Bring essentials: For hidden spots, make sure you bring sun protection, snacks, and water. Some beaches have nearby restaurants, but not all.
- Transport: If a beach seems tricky to reach on foot, check for boats or local transport options. In Malta, a short boat ride is often faster, cheaper, and more scenic than a taxi.
- Mix it up: Try combining popular spots with hidden gems. That way, you enjoy the must-see views while still relaxing in quieter areas.
With these tips, you’re ready to fully enjoy Malta’s crystal-clear waters and beautiful beaches! 🌊❤
