Malta
Malta
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Malta
Malta is a place where you can get your history fix and tap into its fast-paced energy all at the same time. Megalithic temples are just a quick stroll from trendy bars, and Michelin-starred restaurants sit inside palazzos from the 17th century. Spend the day roaming the cobblestone streets of Valletta and check out masterpieces by Caravaggio at St. John’s Co-Cathedral. Hang out at a beach club in Mellieħa, or hop on a boat and explore hidden coves in Gozo—it’s a lot less crowded than Blue Lagoon but just a short ferry ride away. Whether you want to dive into the past or turquoise waters (or a combo of both) you can do it. We’ve got more ideas below.
Essential Malta
My favorite beaches in Malta
No matter the season, you can’t go wrong with a beach day in Malta—a sunny island nation with more than 30 beaches. From the main island of Malta to Gozo (where I live), I’ve tried them all. Some shores are rocky, some are sandy, some are crowded with sun worshippers, some are blissfully remote and empty. Here are my favorites.
Mary Charlebois, Nadur, Malta
Ghajn Tuffieha Bay695The unspoiled beach on Ghajn Tuffieha Bay is one of the few under-the-radar treasures in Malta. Its rugged cliffs are breathtaking, and its turquoise water is perfect for swimming and snorkeling. It’s a bit of a hike downhill to the beach, but it’s well worth it. Secure your place with a rented lounge and umbrella. When lunch rolls around, head down the beach to Grill and Chill for a salad and a glass of wine.
Ramla Bay1,523This hidden gem is in Gozo, Malta’s smaller sister isle. Ramla’s red sand makes it easy to hunt for shells, heart-shaped pebbles, seaweed fronds, and sea glass. It’s also nice to swim in the bay or nap under an umbrella. On summer evenings, I like to bring a picnic for dinner on the sand or on a table nearby. In the winter, Ramla can be almost deserted. That’s the prime time for beachcombing or a sunrise walk.
Hondoq Bay281Gozo’s Hondoq Bay has it all—a deep swimming hole, a seawall, and a rocky shore to explore. I recommend arriving early to pick your lounge chair and umbrella (my go-to spot is on the corner of the seawall). I read, nap, and watch the jet skis and boats zip in. For lunch, I often stroll to the on-site kiosk. The bruschetta is the best on the island, and the wine isn’t bad either.
Armier Bay Beach368Located on the northern tip of Malta, I consider Armier a standout strip. There are picture-perfect views of Comino (another sister island) and Gozo, and it’s got top-notch swimming, sunbathing, and snorkeling. Plus, since it’s surrounded by rocky cliffs and is accessible only by car, it is less crowded than other beaches on the island. My partner and I come to this peaceful place in the fall, when the sunsets are particularly spectacular.
Dahlet Qorrot Beach61I enjoy the secluded feel of this small, pebbly bay on Gozo. Boat houses are carved into its limestone cliffs—their bright, colorful doors make for a great photo op. In the cooler months, I usually have the beach all to myself. In the summer, don’t miss the hamburgers at the little food and beverage bar—they’re juicy and BIG. Keep your eyes peeled: On a clear day, you can see Sicily 60 miles away.
Mellieha Beach3,579Mellieha Beach is one of Malta’s most popular (read: crowded) stretches. Its soft sand and crystal-clear waves attract loads of visitors during the summer months. But when travelers want a buzzy beach scene with restaurants, bars, and cafés, this is what I recommend. In the winter, it transforms into a tranquil area that’s perfect for strolling along the coastline. The views of the surrounding countryside and the Red Tower can’t be beat.
Golden Bay1,227People-watching is a sport at Golden Bay, on the northwest side of Malta. This iconic beach attracts both jetsetters and locals, who wear everything from burkas to bikinis. The views are pretty too—the golden sand and cerulean water make it one of the most photographed beaches. Don’t miss the sunset; it’s the best on the island. Tip: Download the Tallinja app to see the bus schedule and directions to get here.
Xwejni Bay Beach2Xwejni Bay is tucked away on the northern coast of Gozo. I appreciate its laid-back atmosphere with calm waters that are ideal for swimming and snorkeling (bring the kids!). The beach also has a low pier, where you can easily launch a kayak and paddle around the shore. Tip: Wear water shoes to protect your feet from the slippery rocks. Hungry? Cross the road to Saltside restaurant. I can never resist the pulled pork sandwich.
How to do Malta in 3 days
Pair exploring 16th-century palazzos with relaxing afternoons on the beach
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Browse collections
For the history buff
Must-see sites and architecture
Spend the day at sea
Boat tours, diving—the ocean’s all yours
Raise a glass
Top vineyards worth a visit
Get the catch of the day
All the best seafoods spots around
Head to the beach
From sandy shores to rugged coastlines
