The warm Mediterranean sun hits your skin as the deep blue of the Maltese sea stretches out before you, impossibly clear and inviting.
In This Article
The Beaches of Malta
Malta offers a surprising variety of beaches considering its modest size, from golden sandy coves to rocky plateaus perfect for sunbathing. Mellieha Bay is the largest sandy beach on the main island, with shallow waters that make it ideal for families with young children. Golden Bay and its neighbour Gnejna offer softer sand and a more relaxed atmosphere, with beach clubs renting sunbeds and umbrellas during the summer months. The rocky coastline around Sliema and St Julian’s provides designated swimming areas with ladders and platforms, popular with locals who prefer to swim laps rather than lounge. For a truly unforgettable experience, take a boat to the Blue Lagoon on Comino, where the water shimmers in shades of turquoise that look almost artificial in photographs.
Diving and Snorkelling
Malta is one of the best diving destinations in the Mediterranean, with crystal-clear visibility, fascinating wrecks, and dramatic underwater topography. The wreck of the HMS Maori sits in just eighteen metres of water off Valletta, a purpose-sunk wreck from World War II that has become an artificial reef teeming with marine life. The Blue Hole at Dwejra on Gozo is a natural rock formation that descends through a chimney into the open sea, surrounded by colourful reef fish and occasional octopus. Snorkellers can explore the shallow caves and inlets that dot the coastline without needing any certification. Numerous dive centres across the islands offer courses for beginners and guided dives for experienced enthusiasts, making underwater exploration accessible to everyone.
Boat Trips and Island Hopping
A holiday by the sea in Malta is incomplete without spending a day on the water, exploring the coastline from a different perspective. Traditional Maltese luzzu boats, painted in bright colours with the eye of Osiris on the bow, offer harbour tours from Valletta and Marsaxlokk. Larger catamarans run day trips to Gozo and Comino, stopping for swimming breaks in hidden coves along the way. The fjord-like inlet of Salini Bay provides a sheltered route for kayaking, while sailing charters allow you to visit remote anchorages inaccessible by road. Sunset cruises with dinner and drinks are a popular option for couples, combining spectacular coastal views with the magic of a Mediterranean evening.
Coastal Walks and Sea Views
The Maltese coastline is crisscrossed with walking paths that offer breathtaking views at every turn. The walk from Sliema to St Julian’s follows a restored promenade lined with cafés and viewing platforms, popular with joggers and evening strollers. The Dingli Cliffs on the western side of Malta rise 250 metres above the sea, providing a dramatic vantage point for watching the sun sink into the Mediterranean. On Gozo, the coastal path from Xlendi to Dwejra passes through rugged limestone scenery and offers glimpses of the famous Azure Window site. The best time for walking is early morning or late afternoon, when the heat is manageable and the light turns the limestone golden.
Seaside Dining
Eating by the sea is one of the great pleasures of a Maltese holiday, with restaurants serving freshly caught fish in settings that range from casual beachside kiosks to elegant cliff-top establishments. Marsaxlokk fishing village hosts a Sunday market where vendors sell lampuki, swordfish, and red snapper straight from the boats. The harbour restaurants in Valletta and Birgu offer waterfront dining with views of luxury yachts and historic fortifications. Local specialties include aljotta, a traditional fish soup with garlic and herbs, and fenek, rabbit slow-cooked in wine and served with crusty bread. Seafood in Malta is fresh, simply prepared, and best enjoyed with a glass of local Vermentino while the waves lap at the shore below.
Have you discovered the crystal-clear waters and seaside charm of Malta yet?
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