Beaches and Beyond; Malta's Top Coastal Gems

It’s no secret that Malta is a remarkably beautiful island destination boasting stunning countryside, ancient cities, and charming villages, but perhaps the greatest attraction of this Mediterranean wonderland is its fringe of world-class beaches and coastal communities. Whether you are looking for a quiet spot to relax or a place to enjoy watersports and cultural activities, Malta has it all.

Our sister company Out Of Office has curated a number of itineraries designed to combine the excitement of EuroPride Valletta with Malta's most stunning natural environments. Discover a range of bespoke, luxury trips at OutOfOffice.com

Malta is also a great choice for LGBTQ+ travelers, with a collection of LGBTQ+ bars, clubs, and even gay beaches. In 2023, Malta’s capital of Valletta is also welcoming EuroPride - Europe’s largest LGBTQ+ pride celebration. Read on to discover some of Malta’s best beaches as well as their wider coastal regions.

 

Blue Lagoon

 

Blue Lagoon beach is a breathtaking destination that attracts visitors from all over the world with its tranquil turquoise waters and soft white sand. This paradisiacal beach offers visitors stunning

views of the Mediterranean Sea and is located within an area of remarkable natural beauty. From sunbathing to swimming in its crystal-clear waters, Blue Lagoon is an unmissable beach for anyone looking for a place to enjoy Malta’s famous coastal potential.

Located on the edge of the clear blue waters of Comino, a small island that lies between Malta and Gozo, the Blue Lagoon beach is accessible only by boat. Visitors can take a ferry or water taxi from either of the larger islands and with its azure waters and secluded atmosphere, the beach is well worth the adventure.

Comino, the third and smallest island of the Maltese archipelago, offers an abundance of opportunities to explore its remarkable natural beauty. Besides swimming and sunbathing on its sandy beach, a trip to Comino wouldn't be complete without an exploration of its Blue Lagoon Caves. The caves are located just another short boat ride from the beach and are one of the country’s most unique coastal environments in addition to being a popular spot for snorkeling and scuba diving.

 

Ramla Bay

 

Upon reaching Ramla Bay, you'll be met with a stunning view of its pristine beach framed by rolling green hills and rugged cliffs. With soft, warm sand and plenty of space, Ramla Bay is the ideal spot for a day of quiet relaxation or some water-based revelry. Thanks to its gorgeous natural scenery, Ramla is home to a collection of resorts and high-rise hotels which are great choices for travelers seeking prime accommodation on the island of Gozo.

With a documented history dating back to ancient times, it is believed that this sandy beach was the mythical home of Calypso’s cave, where the beautiful nymph held Odysseus prisoner for several years. In the 19th century, remains of a Roman villa were dug up on the beach, adding another layer of mystery to its intriguing past.

In addition to soaking up the sun on Ramla Bay, visitors to this part of Gozo can also enjoy activities such as hiking through the neighboring valley and exploring nearby Xagħra, home to a number of historic monuments including the Ġgantija temples, which date back more than 5,000 years and offer an unparalleled glimpse into the lives of Malta’s first human inhabitants. If you want to avoid Ramla Bay without the crowds, be sure to visit in the morning as the beach gets busier throughout the day.

 

Gnejna Bay

 

Gnejna Bay is an iconic beach that boasts stunning and untouched scenery, with golden sand, large rocky outcrops, and rugged beauty. This natural environment draws visitors from all over

the world who come to appreciate and admire its breathtaking vistas. Located on the northwest coast of Malta, the bay is perfect for those seeking a relaxing coastal experience. Visitors can

enjoy access to luxury hotels and villas with private beaches, pools, spas, and wellness facilities. For those looking to explore some interesting nearby attractions, the town of Rabat is home to the old city of Mdina and Domus Romana – a stunningly preserved Roman villa.

Gnejna Bay is situated near the village of Mgarr, which is an idyllic fishing village that’s home to a small port, a collection of stores, and an array of delectable eateries. Mgarr is renowned for its delightful fresh seafood, giving visitors the chance to taste local fish plucked straight from the harbor.

The allure of Gnejna Bay is not only confined to the nearby village of Mġarr, with the bay serving as Malta’s most popular, yet unofficial, gay beach. This sandy stretch is popular amongst the local LGBTQ+ population due to its secluded and welcoming atmosphere, and visiting gay travelers will also find the beach to be an inclusive environment.

 

Mellieħa Beach

 

Located on Malta’s northern coast, Mellieħa Beach is popular with locals and tourists seeking a classic experience of Maltese coastal living. The beach is surrounded by rugged cliffs and the geographic position of this sandy stretch means the water is anomalously warm and perfect for activities such as snorkeling and stand-up paddleboarding. The popular nature of Mellieħa beach also means that there is an abundance of sun loungers and daybeds available to hire, making it the perfect spot for a day of gentle relaxation.

If for some unknown reason, you get bored of beautiful Mellieħa beach, the surrounding area is home to an array of fascinating opportunities for entertainment and discovery. The quaint town of Mellieħais teeming with historical landmarks, such as the 19th-century MellieħaParish Church and the unmissable Red Tower (also known as St Agatha). The town is home to a variety of hotels, villas, and rental apartments, making it an ideal destination for a relaxing getaway. Plus, it's easy to get around thanks to regular bus links from the capital city Valletta.

Foodies can also get their fill, as there are lots of restaurants serving up delicious Maltese snacks, seafood dishes, and other traditional Mediterranean culinary delights. Take your pick from picturesque dining spots offering beautiful seaside views to casual beachside eateries, there’s something for everyone in Mellieha.