THE BEST BEACHES, SWIMMING SPOTS AND POOLS IN MALTA. A GUIDE TO QUIET AND PEACEFUL LOCATIONS.
Malta is an island made for swimming. With its mix of sandy beaches, rocky inlets, and hidden coves, it’s the kind of place where you’ll always want to have a swimsuit handy.
We recently walked around the entire island of Malta. Not only was this a walkers dream, but it meant that I got to see every single beach and swimming spot on the entire island. Sadly for us, we visited in February, and whilst the beaches were nice and quiet it was a bit too nippy to swim – even for me. Visit from May to October for endless swimming hours.
Whether you’re looking for a lazy day on the sand, a quiet dip in a secluded bay, or a more adventurous cliff jump, Malta has a swimming spot for every mood. Here’s where to go for the best swims on the island.
The best beaches, swimming spots and pools in Malta – a map
Below you can find a map of all the beaches and swimming spots that I’ve mentioned in this guide.
Malta’s quiet beaches
Contrary to popular belief, Malta does have plenty of quiet beaches and swimming spots. You just might have to work a bit harder to find them. In my guide below, you can find the quiet beaches marked – so if you want a little slice of tranquillity, head to these spots.
And, if you really want to beat the crowds – visit off season. July and August is when things get a wee bit busy. Avoid these months, visit mid-week and you just might have the place to yourself.
Malta’s sandy beaches
Malta has a handful of sandy beaches, from wilder red sand to neater looking bays. Golden Bay is perhaps the most well known, but there is actually a series of sandy beaches close by. The North Eastern peninsula also has sandy beaches, mostly frequented by locals.
Find a selection of Malta’s sandy beaches in our guide below and in the map above.
Malta’s best beaches, swimming spots and pools
Here are 12 of the best beaches, swimming spots and pools that we discovered in Malta.
1/St. Peter’s Pool
Near Marsaxlokk, this natural swimming hole is as scenic as they come. Flat limestone ledges make it easy to sunbathe or dive straight into the impossibly clear water. It’s deep enough for cliff jumping, but even if you prefer a gentle entry, there are steps cut into the rock. Go early if you want to avoid the crowds—this place gets busy, and for good reason.
2/ Golden Bay
Malta’s classic beach destination. The soft golden sand, gentle waves, and easy access make it one of the most popular places to swim. There are sunbeds and cafes, so you can make a day of it. It’s also a brilliant spot for sunset, especially if you take a short walk up the nearby cliffs.
🏖️sandy beach
3/ Gnejna
Not far from Golden Bay and Għajn Tuffieħa, Ġnejna Bay offers a more low-key alternative to its famous neighbours. The beach is a mix of sand and pebbles, with a backdrop of dramatic limestone cliffs. The shallow waters make it a good choice for a relaxed swim, and there’s even the option to rent a kayak and explore the nearby coastline. If you walk a little further along the coast, you’ll also find some secluded spots ideal for a private dip.
🏖️sandy beach
4/ Sliema’s Natural Pools
Sliema might be known for its city vibes, but its rocky coastline hides some fantastic swimming spots. The natural pools near Fond Għadir Beach are perfect for a quick, refreshing dip. The sea here is beautifully clear, and the smooth rock formations make it easy to find a comfortable place to lie back and dry off.
5/ Qawra Point Beach
A snorkeller’s paradise, this rocky beach near St. Paul’s Bay is all about the underwater world. The clear waters and interesting rock formations attract plenty of fish, making it a great place to explore with a mask and snorkel. There’s no sand, but the flat rocks provide plenty of space to relax between swims.
6/Imgiebah Beach
A proper hidden gem. Tucked away in the north of Malta, Imgiebah Beach is one of the least crowded sandy beaches on the island. The road to get there is rough, but if you’re after a quiet, unspoiled swim, it’s perfect. The water is crystal-clear, and the peaceful setting makes it feel like a private paradise.
🏖️sandy beach
7/ Little Armier Beach
At the northern tip of Malta, Little Armier Beach has calm, shallow waters that are ideal for a relaxing dip. It’s a small beach, but the soft sand and tranquil atmosphere make it a great place to spend an afternoon. If you want more facilities, the larger Armier Bay is just around the corner, but Little Armier has a more secluded feel.
🏖️sandy beach
8/ Qarraba Bay
This one’s for the adventurous. Qarraba Bay, near Għajn Tuffieħa, is only accessible by boat or a challenging hike, which means it stays blissfully quiet. The waters are deep and wonderfully clear, perfect for snorkelling or floating in uninterrupted peace.
🤫quiet spot
9/ Ghar Lapsi
More of a rocky inlet than a traditional beach, but an incredible place to swim nonetheless. Ghar Lapsi, near Siggiewi, is a favourite among divers, thanks to its underwater caves and exceptional water clarity. If you love snorkelling or deep-water swimming, this is a must-visit.
10/ Ta’ Kalanka Sea Cave
For a truly unique swim, head to Ta’ Kalanka near Delimara. This sea cave is best accessed by boat or kayak, and once inside, the water takes on an electric blue glow. The cave itself provides a natural shade, making it a great spot to escape the midday heat while still enjoying the water.
🤫quiet spot
11/St. Thomas Bay
St. Thomas Bay in Marsascala is a laid-back swimming spot, popular with locals. It has a mix of sandy and rocky areas, and the water is shallow for quite a way out, making it good for wading or just floating around. It’s also a great place to try paddleboarding or windsurfing.
🏖️sandy beach
12/ Zonqor Point
At the far end of Marsascala, Zonqor is a rugged, rocky coastline with fantastic swimming conditions. The deep, clear water and lack of crowds make it a favourite for those looking for a peaceful swim. It’s also a good snorkelling spot, with plenty of fish and interesting rock formations underwater.
🤫quiet spot
Written by Emma
Wine Lover. Yogi. Hiker. Writer.
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