Malta, located in Southern Europe, is an island country of an archipelago. It’s surrounded by the Mediterranean Sea and so benefits from sandy shores and turquoise seas, luring travellers from all around the world. It has a rich history which offers plenty of monuments and attractions to explore. It has three UNESCO World Heritage Sites, among which are seven megalithic temples, examples of the oldest in the world.
Valletta. Photo by: Valery Bareta/Stock
A European Capital of Culture
What is a European Capital of Culture?
This is a city, or recently cities, named by the European Union who hold the title for a year to organise a series of cultural events. Outcomes for that city include boosted tourism, regeneration of cities, and a raised profile, among other benefits.
The first was named back in 1985 by Greece’s minister of culture who wanted to bring Europeans closer together, highlighting the richness of their cultures and raising awareness of their history and values.
Cities are required to submit a proposal for judging, outlining why they should be awarded the title, against set criteria.
2018 cultural programme
Valletta in Malta, and Leeuwarden-Friesland in the Netherlands, have been named as Capital of Culture for this year.
Malta celebrates the official opening of their cultural programme of events between 14th and 21st January. This contains a week-long series of events held in the capital of Valletta including live music, street artists, exhibitions, and open days of historical spaces.
After this week, the festa will stretch across the island and over to Gozo.
You can check the full programme over here, and bearing this in mind, there’s probably never been a better time to experience Malta. You’ll have a whole new wealth of activities and entertainment at your disposal.
Be sure to also check out our guide for top attractions and things to do in Mdina and Rabat.
Golden Bay. Photo by: Arseniy Krasnevsky/Stock
What are the best beaches?
Any Mediterranean location is bound to offer some incredible spots for sunsets and sunbathing; Malta is no different. It’s always worth bearing in mind that with any spot popular with tourists and locals is bound to get busier during summertime so be sure to arrive early to avoid disappointment. We list some of the best beaches in Malta below.
Golden Bay
Ideal for swimming, sunbathing, and beach BBQs. Located in the north west of Malta, on the edge of Mellieħa, the conditions make it one of the most popular. Although how busy it gets is a testament to its quality, it’s advisable to travel early in peak times as the beach is sure to fill quickly. The nearby car park makes it easy to reach too so a spectacular sunset is never out of reach. The bay is dotted with inlets and caves, perfect for exploring with a snorkel. It’s Blue Flag certified and has amenities close by, including good restaurants.
Blue Lagoon
Situated on the small island of Comino, which has only a few permanent residents, you’ll need to take a ferry if you’re not staying on the island. Set off from Malta or Gozo to this island in-between the two in search of these light blue clear waters and white sand. The bay consists of two beaches with rocks dividing them. The shallow waters, colourful fish and caves serve a perfect setting for snorkelling. A ban on boats has been put in place to minimise the disruption caused.
Ghajn Tuffieha. Photo by: imagesef/Stock
Għajn Tuffieħa
This Blue Flag beach, near Golden Bay, receives less visitors than its counterpart. Smaller and more untouched than Golden Bay, you’ll need to head down a steep flight of steps (and back up again!) from the car park at the top of the cliffs to indulge here. You’ll find only basic facilities which add to the ruggedness of the area. The beach is often peaceful and uncrowded but will see an increase in visitors in peak season. The area is managed by the Gaia Foundation who ensure its natural beauty remains untarnished and well-kept.
Mellieħa Bay
For about 50 metres out to sea, the water remains shallow, and there’s no underwater current so the conditions are perfect for those with young children. There are lots of activities available here to be taken advantage of, including windsurfing, kite surfing, canoeing, and water-skiing. This Bay is Malta’s longest beach, wading in at 800 metres long and boasts another Blue Flag award. There are lots of facilities available, so you’ll find it easy to spend a day here. If you get bored of the golden shore (it could happen), the Ghadira Nature Reserve is across the road; a seven-hectare reserve of in-land wetlands making it a haven for birds and other wildlife.
Ramla I-Hamra (Ramla Bay)
Rocky cliffs surround this long and wide beach, offering some shelter. Some facilities are available, and the area is best reached by car. There are a few underwater rocks, but these can be spotted upon approach. For incredible scenery, considering taking a coastal walk to either side of the bay.
Paradise Bay. Photo by: Igor Kolos/Stock
Paradise Bay
This does exactly what it says on the tin. You’ll find a rugged landscape and beautiful views contained in this natural cove. Although the beach is smaller than others, its popular for beach parties. Jellyfish nets have been put in place to protect swimmers, but you can snorkel just past these. There’s a car park situated at the top of the cliffs which means a descent down steep steps which not all may manage. Sunbathe here and you’ll be taking in a view of the islands Gozo and Comino. The surrounding area is ideal for hiking, so a day can be wiled away at ease.
Imġiebaħ Bay
This area isn’t the easiest to get to, but it’s worth the effort if you can make it. This small sandy beach rarely gets busy because it’s tucked out of the way and is relatively undisturbed. Located in the north of Malta, you’ll need to head towards Selmun Palace. Unconfident drivers should park here and make the rest of the way on foot. The road leading to the beach was never designed for two-way traffic so if you continue in the car, be prepared to spend some time reversing if you meet on-coming traffic. Once near the shore, you’ll have to make a trek down the cliff-face. The journey won’t be suitable for everyone. There’s no facilities so take plenty of water. Be vigilant for strong currents in the water as there’s no lifeguard on duty.
St Peter’s Pool
Technically this isn’t a beach, so we’ll list it last. You’ll find no sand here but the available flat rocky outcrop near Marsaxlokk, at Delimara Point (South West Malta) still retains a unique appeal. Ladders from the rocks allow access to the waters below where you can snorkel after some time spent sunbathing. The area is popular among locals, but the lack of sand affects the number of tourists that visit. It’s in a remote location and has no facilities which perhaps makes it less appealing. However, if you’re prepared to take your own supplies (ensure you have enough drinking water) and you’re looking to get away to a picturesque spot, you should consider this natural pool. No public transport operates nearby so be sure to book a hire car.
St Peter’s Pool. Photo by: Jaroslav Moravcik/Stock
Top tips to bear in mind when visiting beaches in Malta
- Stick to any marked swimmer’s zones as there are sometimes strong underwater currents.
- You should never swim alone, especially in an area known for strong currents.
- Use sunblock (perhaps common sense but we all forget at times!). It’s advised by the Maltese authorities to stay out of the sun when its strongest between 11am and 4pm because of high UV. Read up on our tips on how to protect your skin from the sun when on holiday, which includes information on what UV rays are and how they affect our skin.
- Although there may be parking attendants at some of the locations above who request gratuities, you don’t have to pay these if you don’t think they’ve helped you. Some attendants may be pushy, but if you think they’ve earned a tip then you can leave a euro.
- Avoid leaving any valuables on display while you’re on the beach, or in your hire car. While petty theft is rare in Malta, there is the odd case. Check out our tips for protecting your rental car from thieves.
- Public nudity in Malta is illegal so refrain from taking all your clothes off while you’re sunbathing. There are certain beaches where this is relaxed. It’s also frowned upon for men to enter shops or restaurants with a bare chest, no matter how hot it is.
- Pay attention to any beach flags on display. A green flag shows that the water is safe to enter while a yellow flag signals that there’s low danger and some caution should be exercised. A red flag means danger, so you shouldn’t enter the water. A double red flag means extreme danger and in these conditions, lifeguards aren’t required to enter the water. If you enter the sea when there’s a double red flag displayed, don’t think you’re guaranteed help from them if you get into trouble.
What’s a Blue Flag status beach?
These beaches have met a set list of requirements which deems them a higher quality. For example, they might have a lifeguard presence, the safety flag system in place, emergency equipment and facilities such as toilets and showers etc.
Your trip to the European Capital of Culture in 2018 and finding the best beaches in Malta
If you’ve got a trip planned to Malta this year, we’d love to hear what you’ve got on your itinerary already or what you’re looking forward to doing or seeing. Perhaps you’ve already visited and have some recommendations or advice you want to pass on to other travellers. Let us know about your past or upcoming Malta experience in the comments below.
Written by Jessica Juby.
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