From the famous Blue Lagoon to hidden sandy coves, discover Malta's most stunning beaches. Our complete guide covers access, facilities, and insider tips for 2026.
🌴 Ready to feel the sand between your toes? Book your Malta beach holiday with ATOL-protected packages from £299pp.
Search HolidaysMalta might be small, but it punches well above its weight when it comes to beaches. From world-famous spots like the Blue Lagoon to quiet sandy coves that most tourists never discover, the Maltese islands offer swimming and sunbathing experiences to suit everyone. Whether you're planning a family beach holiday or a romantic getaway, Malta's coastline delivers.
What to expect: Malta's coastline is predominantly rocky, with dramatic cliffs, natural pools, and crystal-clear water. True sandy beaches are fewer but spectacular when you find them. The sea stays warm well into October (23-27°C in summer), and the water clarity is exceptional — visibility of 30+ metres is common. For the best diving and snorkelling, head to Gozo — Malta's sister island accessible by a 25-minute ferry from Ċirkewwa.
When to visit: For beaches, the best time is June to September. July and August are peak season — expect crowds at popular spots. May-June and September-October offer the perfect balance of warm weather and fewer tourists. Check our best time to visit Malta guide for detailed climate information.
Getting to Malta: Direct flights from London take just 3 hours with KM Malta Airlines from Gatwick and Heathrow. Once you land at Malta International Airport, most beaches are within 30-45 minutes by car or bus. Combine your beach days with a visit to UNESCO-listed Valletta — Malta's stunning capital city.
Malta's most famous swimming spot. Crystal-clear turquoise water between Comino and Cominotto islands. The colour is incredible — almost unreal. Boat trips depart from Ċirkewwa (€10-12 return) or Sliema (€20-35 with lunch).
One of Malta's few genuinely sandy beaches. Wide golden sand, stunning sunset views, and the Radisson Blu hotel overlooking the bay. Popular but spacious. Sunbed hire, water sports, beach bars. Bus accessible.
Next to Golden Bay but accessed by 200+ steps down a cliff. Much quieter, arguably more beautiful. Sandy beach surrounded by dramatic clay cliffs. No facilities except a small kiosk. Worth the climb.
Malta's longest sandy beach. Shallow water extends hundreds of metres — perfect for young children. Lifeguards in summer. Sunbeds, water sports, restaurants along the road. Can get busy but there's plenty of space.
Gozo's best beach. Distinctive red-orange sand (unique in Malta). Wide bay backed by a fertile valley. Calypso Cave overlooks it — referenced in Homer's Odyssey. Less crowded than Malta's beaches.
Natural rock pool in the south near Marsaxlokk. No sand — you swim from flat rock shelves into deep, crystal-clear water. Famous for cliff jumping (various heights). No facilities. Free. Iconic Instagram spot.
Small sandy beach in the far north, near the Gozo ferry terminal at Ċirkewwa. Terraced into the cliff with steps down. Clear water, good snorkelling. Gets busy but beautiful. Food kiosk on site.
Sandy beach in the south, popular with local families. Views of the Freeport container terminal (not the most scenic backdrop, but the beach itself is good). Sunbeds, restaurants, ice cream. Very family-friendly.
Book your ATOL-protected beach holiday with KM Malta Airlines. Direct flights from London Gatwick and Heathrow.