The smallest member of the European Union, Malta, is known for its low taxes, left-hand traffic, barren vegetation, rocks and cliffs. But on the three inhabited islands, Malta, Gozo and Comino, there are also very beautiful sandy beaches. Many are not and most are not particularly large, but that is exactly what makes the archipelago so attractive.
The main island's natural sandy beaches are mostly in the west. There is also one in the east with Pretty Bay, but this was artificially created and offers the best view of the largest container port on the island. So whether you want to go on a beach holiday in the immediate vicinity of a huge harbor is up to you.
The beaches presented in this article are just a selection. Of course there are others, some of which are very easy to reach and others require a short hike. Therefore, only places are presented that are easily accessible by public transport for the average tourist.
Gozo
Ramla Bay (Gozo)
Ramla Bay (Gozo) is one of the largest beaches on the island of Gozo and is located in the north. Its unique feature is the reddish hue of the sand, creating a visually striking contrast. The water is crystal clear, and normally there are neither sea urchins nor jellyfish. In the summer of 2020, a sensation occurred from a Maltese perspective: for the first time in over 80 years, sea turtles were observed laying their eggs. As a result, the affected areas of the beach were temporarily closed to protect the eggs.
Parasols and deck chairs can be rented on site at a price of five euros per day. Free toilets are also available. The showers and changing rooms were temporarily closed due to the Covid-19 measures. Incidentally, this also applies to the outdoor showers, which have simply been removed.
When it comes to catering, nothing is missing here, because numerous snack and beverage stands on the street have offers ready during the holiday season and there is also a small canteen with a grill. The price level is fair and not excessive. Lifeguards are present during the official opening times.
Tip: When facing the sea, the left side of the beach is much more pleasant, as there are few to no stones in the water. The right side is considerably more challenging, as it is covered with many stones and small rocks lying on the sand in the water.
Getting there: Take bus lines 302 (from Victoria) or 322 (from Mgarr Ferry Terminal) to the "Ramla" stop. From there, simply walk straight ahead along the small road for about two minutes, and you'll be right on the beach. Parking is usually available along the side of the road.
Xlendi Bay
For those who prefer to sit in a café or restaurant right by the sea, but also want the option of taking a dip in the cool water at any time, Xlendi is the perfect place. This small fishing village is situated in a breathtakingly beautiful landscape and boasts a small sandy beach. The bay is extremely shallow and free of stones and rocks, making it ideal for swimming with small children. Hotels right on the seafront offer private terraces where you can relax. However, sun loungers are not available for rent in Xlendi. The water is significantly deeper at the mouth of the bay, where you can also swim and jump into the sea near the rocks. Lifeguards ensure safety. Prices in Xlendi's restaurants are comparable to those of typical Maltese restaurants, and therefore slightly below the average prices charged in Austria and Germany. Both public and private restrooms are available in the restaurants.
Tip: In Xlendi there's also a grotto that you can explore by boat for a small fee. There's also a viewing platform, accessible via a very long staircase. Despite the summer heat, the stunning view more than makes up for the effort.
Getting there: Xlendi can be reached by bus from Victoria on lines 306 and 330. The Xlendi bus stop is located directly behind the hotels and restaurants in the parking lot. It's less than a minute's walk. Drivers should note that some parking spaces are subject to a fee.
Inland Sea
The Inland Sea doesn't have a sandy beach, making it unique in its own right. However, it's a geographically exceptional spot that's definitely worth a visit on Gozo. Swimming is, of course, possible, and the location is extremely popular with divers. However, the beach is pebbly, so water shoes are recommended, as getting in and out of the water can be quite challenging otherwise. There are two small restaurants with reasonable prices. The Inland Sea is also a popular meeting place for locals. It's frequently used as a filming location for movies. Public restrooms are located in the parking lot to the left of the chapel. Showers are also available, but they are temporarily closed due to COVID-19 restrictions.
Tip: Take your time, as there are also interesting swimming spots and plenty to discover just to the left of the Inland Sea. Unfortunately, the Azure Window collapsed a few years ago. Furthermore, you should definitely take in the impressive scenery of this region. Why not enjoy some fresh grilled fish?
Getting there: Bus route 311 takes you directly from Victoria to the Inland Sea. Get off at the “Dwejra” stop. A large, free car park is available for drivers.
More tips for Gozo day trips:
- The Gozo Channel Line runs with high frequency between Ċirkewwa (Malta) and Mgarr (Gozo). The return ticket costs only 4,65 euros for pedestrians.
- You do not need a ticket for the outward journey. You only pay when you return to Mgarr. This also applies if you use the ferry by car.
- The two ferry ports are extremely easy to reach with the regular buses. If you have to change trains in Victoria (Gozo), just use the waiting time to visit the city with its impressive buildings. There is really a lot to see just a few steps from the bus station.
- Victoria has a fruit and vegetable market on certain days of the week. Here you can stock up on delicious fruits and juices directly from the farmer. The prices are cheap and the quality is excellent.
Comino: Santa Maria Bay
Comino is not a very populated island. It's characterized by sparse vegetation and a few ruins, a reminder that it was once quite a bustling place. However, that was a long time ago, and today it's best known for the Blue Lagoon . There's no sandy beach there, and the entire area is a tourist hotspot, attracting huge numbers of visitors by excursion boat. Prices at the stalls are very high by Maltese standards. The other side of the island is considerably quieter and more beautiful: Santa Maria Bay offers a small sandy beach, public restrooms, and boat docks. That's about it, though, as there's absolutely nothing there except a police station and lifeguards. Umbrellas aren't available for rent. The bungalows belonging to the Comino Hotel, located in the neighboring bay, have been closed. This closure is unrelated to the COVID-19 pandemic, as the buildings are aging and slated for extensive renovations. As a result, Santa Maria Bay is extremely quiet and frequented mainly by locals in their boats.
Tip: Be sure to bring plenty of drinks and snacks, as there are no shops at Santa Maria Bay. If you'd like to stay overnight, you'll find a campsite in what feels like the middle of the island. Swim a short distance from the beach and you'll come to seagrass. Young fish often congregate there and can be observed.
Getting there: Comino Ferries Co-Op offers a ferry service from Cirkewwa, stopping at both Blue Lagoon and Santa Maria. Due to the COVID-19 pandemic and the resulting low tourist numbers, ferry services to Santa Maria are significantly reduced. Santa Maria is about a 15-minute walk from Blue Lagoon. The return ticket costs €13.
More tips for Comino day trips:
- Always keep your eyes open, otherwise you could miss an exciting encounter with a rare bird or a small reptile such as a chameleon. The chances are pretty good.
- Explore the island on foot. It is not particularly big, but has a lot to offer the eyes, especially in the area of the ruins.
- Remember to pack enough drinks, snacks and sunscreen. The prices at the stands in the Blue Lagoon are very high.
Malta
Ghadira Bay
The largest sandy beach on the main island by far is located in Mellieħa and is called Għadira Bay . The bay is extremely shallow, allowing you to wade very far out into the sea. The fine sand is clearly a big hit with children. Lifeguards and public restrooms are, of course, available. Renting a sun lounger and parasol costs €7,50 per day. Prices at the snack bars and restaurants are reasonable.
Tip: Għadira Bay is an ideal spot where children can splash around in a sheltered bay with calm waters, while you can relax. Several bus stops are located directly above the beach.
Getting there: Several bus lines serve numerous stops along the beach. Arriving by public transport is strongly recommended, as there is very limited parking for cars.
Golden bay
One of the most famous beaches is Golden Bay . However, it's heavily influenced by the Radisson SAS Hotel. Almost all the characteristics of a typical tourist beach can be found there. Various water activities are offered for a fee, and even the toilets cost money. A sun lounger and parasol together cost ten euros per day. The small beach bar is reasonably priced. Peace and quiet are difficult to find here, as the water activities are sometimes noisy, and loud music occasionally blares from the hotel. The bay itself is quite beautiful, though, and you can walk far out into the sea on the sandy shore.
Tip: Find a cozy spot as far away from the hotel as possible. You'll have to do without the free Wi-Fi, but it will be much quieter. By the way: even the showers, if they're working, cost extra on this beach.
Getting there: There are some parking spaces for drivers, but these often fill up quickly. The stadium can be reached by bus lines 101, 223 and 225. The bus stop is called “Ferh”.
Riviera Bay
Riviera Bay is almost within sight of Golden Bay . It's considerably quieter here, and the sand is reddish. To reach the bay, you have to descend a long, steep staircase. There, you'll find a beautiful sandy beach, crystal-clear water, a small restaurant, and a magnificent view. This bay is also very shallow, allowing you to wade far out into the sea. However, the reddish sand also means it can get particularly hot. Drinks and food are available at the restaurant, though the prices are rather high. Toilets are also available free of charge. Sun loungers and parasols cost eleven euros per day.
Tip: Swim out a little further, as you can catch great views of the two neighboring bays. Bring plenty of drinks and snacks with you, as prices on this beach are high by Maltese standards.
Arrival: There is sufficient parking space for cars. Bus routes 44, 101, 223 and 225 serve the beach. The stop is called Riviera. From there it is about a two-minute walk to the stairs.
More tips for the island of Malta:
- For bus trips, it is better to use the Tallinja Card, which is available at the bus stations and at the sales counter at Luqa Airport. The ticket is of course also valid on the island of Gozo. You save money compared to single cash tickets.
- Most places can be easily reached by bus. There is an inexpensive shuttle service to the hotels from Luqa Airport. This costs around five euros each way and takes you to the hotel.
- Aviation enthusiasts can marvel at some exhibits from the Second World War in the Malta Aviation Museum.
- The cities of Sliema and Valletta are rather expensive, the further west you book your hotel, the cheaper it will be.
- The National Aquarium in Qawra is definitely worth a visit.