What Makes St Peters Pool One of the Coolest Spots in Malta
St Peters Pool Malta isn’t your typical beach experience. There’s no golden sand, no beach bars, and definitely no umbrellas for rent. What you get instead is something far more special: a horseshoe-shaped rock pool carved by centuries of Mediterranean waves, where the only sounds are splashing water and maybe the occasional excited shout from a cliff jumper.
You might have seen St Peters Pool Malta on social media; it’s the spot where Titti the diving dog became an internet sensation (and now her successor Tina carries on the tradition). But there’s so much more to this place than viral videos.
Ready to discover why locals guard this spot like a family secret? Let’s dive in.
What Makes St Peter's Pool Special
A Natural Masterpiece
The limestone formation at St Peter’s Pool Marsaxlokk didn’t happen overnight. Thousands of years of waves crashing against Malta’s southern coast created this perfect horseshoe-shaped swimming spot. The rocks form natural steps leading down to the water, making it easy to get in and out.
The pool itself has this amazing gradient, shallow enough for nervous swimmers near the edges, but deep enough in the centre for some serious cliff jumping. The limestone walls create a natural windbreak, so even on breezy days, the water stays relatively calm.
Waters That'll Make Your Instagram Jealous
The crystal-clear turquoise waters here are something else entirely. On a good day, you can see straight down to the rocky bottom, which makes it perfect for snorkelling and underwater photography. The visibility is so good that you’ll spot fish swimming around before you even get in the water.
What makes the water so clear? It’s all about the limestone. The rock acts like a natural filter, and since there’s no sand to stir up, the water stays pristine. Just don’t expect it to be bath-warm, this is the Mediterranean, not a heated pool.
Adventure Without the Crowds
Here’s what sets St Peter’s Pool apart from Malta’s more famous spots: it still feels wild and untouched. No resort developments, no beach clubs, no vendors trying to sell you overpriced drinks. Just you, the rocks, and that incredible water.
The cliff jumping here is legendary among locals. The heights range from “I can definitely do this” to “maybe I’ll watch others first.” Most jumps are from 3-6 metres, which is thrilling without being terrifying. Just make sure you jump where you see others doing it, they know where the deep spots are.
Getting to St Peter's Pool Malta
Driving (Your Best Bet)
If you’re renting a car, this is definitely the way to go. The drive from Valletta takes about 40 minutes, and from Marsaxlokk it’s just 15-20 minutes. Fair warning though; the roads get narrow and a bit rough as you get closer.
There’s free parking at the top of the cliff, about a 10-minute walk from the pool. If you don’t mind paying €3 for the day, there’s closer parking that’ll save your legs. Just be prepared for some tight maneuvering, these aren’t exactly rental-car-friendly roads.
Public Transport Plus a Scenic Walk
Take bus route 81 or 85 to the “Abdosir” stop, then prepare for a 30-40 minute walk. The path is mostly flat and follows the coast, so you’ll get some great views along the way. Pack light though, you’ll be carrying everything you need.
Arrive by Boat
This is where things get interesting. From Marsaxlokk, local fishermen sometimes offer short boat rides to the pool. It’s not a regular service, but if you ask around the harbour, someone might take you.
If you’re looking for a private boat tour in Malta, we don’t currently go to St Peter’s Pool but we do offer unforgettable custom boat trips to other iconic spots like the Blue Lagoon, Crystal Lagoon, and Blue Grotto. These tours are perfect for a relaxing day at sea, snorkelling, and sightseeing along Malta’s stunning coastline.
If you’re cruising, you’ll want to check out Top 5 Must-Do Shore Excursions in Malta for Cruise Ship Passengers
What to Know Before You Go
St Peters Pool Malta is not a full-service beach. And that’s what makes it great. But it does mean you’ll need to come prepared.
- Bring everything: There are no cafes or shops. Pack water, snacks, sunscreen, towels, and maybe a beach umbrella.
- Snorkel gear is a must: This is one of the best places to snorkel in Malta.Â
- No lifeguards: Swim at your own risk, and watch for rough seas.
- Cliff Jumping: Check the water depth first before jumping. Never jump during rough weather. When waves are crashing against the cliffs, the water gets churned up and unpredictable.Â
- Wear decent shoes: The walk down involves uneven paths and rocky ledges.
The sea here can get choppy. If the waves are high or the wind is strong, skip the jump and just chill on the rocks.
Things To Do in St Peters Pool Malta
Coastal Hiking
The walk from St Thomas Bay to St Peter’s Pool is one of Malta’s most scenic coastal hikes. The Munxar Path takes you past dramatic cliffs, hidden coves, and the impressive Munxar Arch. Allot 1-1.5 hours for the hike, and bring a camera.
Explore Marsaxlokk
You can’t visit this area without stopping in Marsaxlokk. The fishing village is famous for its colourful luzzu boats and Sunday fish market. It’s the perfect place to grab lunch before or after your pool adventure.
The harbour-front restaurants serve some of the freshest seafood you’ll find in Malta. Try the local catch of the day, and don’t miss the lampuki if it’s in season.
Combine with Other Attractions
Smart travellers often combine St Peters Pool Malta with other nearby attractions. Since we don’t normally visit St Peter’s Pool by boat, unless requested as part of a personalised itinerary, we recommend booking a separate visit by land, then joining us for a private boat tour to the Blue Lagoon, Blue Grotto, or Comino’s hidden caves for a full day of Malta’s coastal highlights.
For cruise ship passengers, we offer luxury shore excursions that can be customised to fit your docking schedule.
Looking for something special with your partner? How to Plan the Perfect Romantic Sunset Boat Trip in Malta has everything you need to set the mood.
Don’t Miss the Famous Diving Dog
This one’s for animal lovers.
Years ago, Titti the diving dog went viral for jumping into the sea at St Peter’s Pool alongside her owner. Today, her legacy lives on through Tina, who can still be spotted making a splash now and then.
Keep your eyes peeled, you might just catch the most famous four-legged local doing her thing.
Instagram-Worthy Photo Tips
Need proof for the ‘gram? Here’s where to snap it:
- Overhead shot of the limestone cove and turquoise water.
- Mid-jump photo off the cliff’s edge (be safe, obviously).
- Underwater snorkelling shots with marine life.
- Golden hour light bouncing off the rock formations.
No filters needed.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is it safe to swim at St Peters Pool Malta?
Yes, when conditions are calm. There are no lifeguards, so don’t swim alone. Avoid jumping if the sea looks rough.
How do I get from Marsaxlokk to St Peters Pool?
You can drive (15-20 minutes), walk (30-40 minutes), or sometimes catch a boat ride from the harbour.
Are there facilities?
No bathrooms, no food stalls, no showers. Bring everything you need.
Making the Most of Your Malta Adventure
St Peters Pool Malta represents everything that makes Malta special; natural beauty, adventure, and authentic local experiences. It’s not the easiest place to reach, and it’s not the most comfortable, but that’s exactly what makes it worth the effort.
Whether you’re cliff jumping with the locals, snorkelling in crystal-clear waters, or just soaking up the Mediterranean sun on limestone rocks, St Peters Pool Malta offers something you can’t find at developed beaches. It’s raw, it’s real, and it’s absolutely beautiful.
Pack your sense of adventure, bring plenty of water, and prepare for one of Malta’s most memorable natural swimming experiences. Just remember, once you’ve been to St Peters Pool Malta, every other swimming spot will have some serious competition.
The secret is out, but the magic remains. St Peters Pool Malta is waiting for you to discover why it’s become one of the island’s most beloved hidden gems.