We are surrounded by the sea, but where are the best sandy beaches in Malta?

 

1. Golden Bay

It seems to be a lot of people’s favourite: sand and sunset – what else can you ask for? Golden Bay is popular with local people as a BBQ spot. Also great if you are into watersports. Why not try a stand-up paddle board (SUP) – or are you more into parasailing?

Golden Bay can be reached by public transport (buses number 44, 223 and 225).

 

 

2. Ghajn Tuffieha Bay

Personally, I am too lazy to take the endless steps down to Ghajn Tuffieha Bay so we usually end up swimming there from Golden Bay. Another sandy beach with the friendly Riviera Martinique Bar. A little less busy than Golden Bay.

Public transport: buses number 44, 223 and 225.

 

 

3. Gnejna Bay

Here you are already a bit further away from the mainstream touristy beaches. Gnejna Bay has a bus stop but buses don’t seem to go out there outside the peak summer season. The nearest locality to be reached by public transport is Mgarr, famous its succulent strawberries.
What you find here is a sandy beach, limestone formations and old boathouses carved in the rocks. A favourite BBQ location for many Maltese people.

 

 

4. Ghadira Bay

The shallow, crystal clear water attracts families with small children but Ghadira Bay (also known as Mellieha Bay) is equally attractive for people who think they would enjoy the longest stretch of sand in Malta to sunbathe on.
Public transport: buses number 41, 42, 221, 222.

 

5. Armier Bay and Little Armier Bay

Again, buses only reach this far out during the peak season. Facing Comino, the bay is quite near Cirkewwa, the Gozo ferry terminal. Sand, deckchairs. And boathouses. Among the bars, my personal favourite is Victoria Bar, Armier Bay. I recommend the Maltese pizza.

 

6. Ramla Bay, Gozo

Probably the loveliest sandy bay around here simply because of the red of the sand and the turquoise of the water. Direct bus connection to the ferry terminal.

Public transport: bus number 322

 

7. Blue Lagoon, Comino

The best of the best – not to be missed. And once you are there, why not swim to Cominotto?
Boats from Cirkewwa. Should you wish to stay overnight, there is a hotel, open during the summer months. Once I was alone swimming in the Blue Lagoon (on a November morning, before other tourists arrived) and it is definitely worth seeing this place at its secluded best. Alternately, make the most of mingling with the deckchair crowd.

 

Whichever beach you choose, enjoy yourself and stay safe. Hope you will have a lovely time.

 

Kata Vizi

Malta University Language School Teacher