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Discover the Best Places to Swim While Visiting Malta

August 11, 2025

You’re heading to Malta and dreaming of diving into clear, blue water? You’re in for a treat. This island may be small, but it’s packed with stunning places to swim. From sandy beaches to rocky coves and hidden lagoons, Malta is one of the best places to swim in Europe, no question.

Want to float in calm, shallow water? Lounge with a view? Go snorkelling with colourful fish? Or maybe you’re up for a cliff jumping into the deep? Malta has it all.

Some spots, like the Blue Lagoon Malta, are famous for their bright turquoise water and amazing views. Others are more peaceful and known mostly by locals. But each place offers its own kind of magic.

Whether you’re spending one day or a full week, this guide will help you find the best places to swim in Malta. We’ll show you which beaches are great for families, which ones are good for adventure, and where to go if you want a quiet swim away from the crowds.

Pack your swimsuit, grab your towel, and get ready. Malta’s beaches are calling.

Rocky coastline with crystal-clear turquoise water, one of the best places to swim in Malta, ideal for snorkelling and sunbathing.

Why Malta Is a Dream for Swimmers

Malta is one of those places that feels made for swimming. Its coastline is full of variety, soft sandy beaches, natural rock pools, and quiet little coves that feel like your own private getaway. And with three islands to explore, Malta, Gozo, and Comino, there’s always a new spot waiting around the corner.

Malta, the main island, has lots of beaches with easy access and family-friendly vibes. Gozo is a bit more peaceful and green, with hidden swimming spots perfect for relaxing. Then there’s Comino, a tiny island that packs a big punch, it’s home to the famous Blue Lagoon Malta, known for its crystal-clear, bright blue water.

What really makes Malta special is how clear the sea is. You can see straight down to the bottom, even in deeper areas. The water is warm too, from May to October, it’s perfect for swimming, snorkelling, or just floating around.

No matter what kind of swimmer you are, Malta has something for you. Easy, calm spots for kids, romantic beaches for couples, and wild, rocky places for adventurers. Just pick your vibe and dive in.

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Quick Glance: Beach Comparison Chart

Before we dive into the details, here’s a fast way to figure out what suits your vibe:

Beach

Best For

Facilities

Notes

Blue Lagoon

Clear water, photos

Limited

Very popular anchorage, many buoys, can get crowded

Ghajn Tuffieha Bay

Sunset, chill vibes

Basic

Sandy but exposed bay; anchorage can be rough

Ramla Beach Malta

Families, space

Yes

Shallow sandy bay, moderate anchorage, some rocks

Golden Bay Malta

Popular, sunsets

Full

Often exposed to north-west winds

Crystal Lagoon Malta

Snorkeling, private

None

Sheltered, very popular for private boats

Comino Beaches

Day trips, swimming

Basic

Most coves and beaches accessible by private boat

St Peter’s Pool Malta

Cliff jumps, views

Limited

Popular stop for swimming/diving from boats

Gnejna Bay Malta

Local feel, swimming

Full

Sandy, some rocks, anchorage less sheltered

Paradise Bay Beach

Couples, chill day

Yes

Small cove, can be swelly, watch for ferries

Mgarr ix Xini

Snorkelling, quiet

Limited

Scenic, sheltered inlet, limited space

 

Best Places to Swim in Malta Based on Your Travel Style

1. For Families & Chill Swimmers

You want calm waters, soft sand, and easy access? These beaches are ideal for parents, kids, or anyone just looking to float and relax.

Ramla Beach Malta (Gozo)

Beautiful view of Ramla Beach Malta with golden sand and clear blue waters.

A wide red-gold beach that’s never too crowded. It’s super safe for little ones thanks to its shallow water. There’s plenty of space to spread out, plus snack stalls and shaded areas.

Mellieha Bay (Malta)

Panoramic view of Mellieħa Bay, Malta, featuring a wide sandy beach, calm turquoise waters, and a backdrop of rolling hills and charming seaside buildings

One of the largest sandy beaches on the main island. Water stays shallow forever, making it a favourite for families. Sunbeds, umbrellas, and cafés are all here.

Ghar Lapsi (Malta)

Scenic coastal view of Ghar Lapsi in Malta, featuring crystal-clear turquoise waters, rugged limestone cliffs, and a peaceful natural swimming area.

Technically a rocky inlet, but it’s calm, clear, and great for beginner snorkellers. There’s even a small natural pool for kids to splash in. Just bring water shoes, rocks can be sharp.

2. For Couples & Scenic Seekers

Looking for that picture-perfect backdrop or a quiet swim with your person? Try these gems.

Blue Lagoon Malta (Comino)

Yes, it’s as gorgeous as the photos, but it gets very busy after 10 AM. Beat the crowds by catching the earliest ferry or booking a private boat tour with GOZOblu. The water here is shockingly clear and blue.

Crystal Lagoon Malta (Comino)

Just around the corner from the Blue Lagoon, this spot is more peaceful and better for snorkelling. You’ll need a boat to get here, but it’s worth it for the privacy and calm vibes.

Paradise Bay Beach (Malta)

A small, romantic bay with soft sand and great views. Grab a cocktail from the beach bar and stay for the sunset. Not too crowded, even in summer.

Inland Sea (Gozo)

A totally unique swim. This saltwater lagoon is surrounded by cliffs and connected to the open sea through a narrow cave. Calm water inside, adventure just beyond.

3. For Adventurers & Water Lovers

Want some adrenaline with your swim? These spots deliver action.

St Peter’s Pool Malta

Rock platforms, dramatic cliffs, and perfect water. Come here for cliff jumping and sunbathing in the raw. There are no facilities, so pack drinks and snacks.

Mgarr ix Xini (Gozo)

A narrow, fjord-like cove surrounded by rugged cliffs. It’s quiet, with few tourists. Perfect for snorkelling, kayaking, or just soaking in the silence.

Wied il-Ghasri (Gozo)

It’s a bit of a trek down steep steps, but wow, it’s worth it. You swim between two rock walls in a long, narrow inlet. Amazing spot for underwater photos.

Ghajn Tuffieha Bay + Gnejna Bay Malta

Two stunning beaches next to each other, but each with its own vibe. Ghajn Tuffieha Bay is more remote and natural, with a scenic cliffside path. Gnejna Bay Malta is a bit more relaxed and often less crowded.

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When to Swim in Malta (And Avoid the Crowds)

Planning your swim time in Malta can make a huge difference. The beaches are beautiful, but they can get crowded, especially in summer. Here’s how to get the most out of your beach day:

  • Best months to swim: May through October is the sweet spot. The sea is warm, the sun is out, and the weather is usually perfect. June and September are great if you want sunshine without the big summer crowds.
  • Avoid the midday rush: July and August are the busiest months, especially around noon. Want a quiet spot? Go early, before 9 AM is peaceful. Or come later in the day, after 5 PM, when most people are heading home.
  • Watch the beach flags: Many beaches use a colour flag system. Red means no swimming. Yellow means be careful. Some even show if jellyfish are around. Always check before jumping in!

Love sunsets? Golden Bay Malta and Ghajn Tuffieha Bay are two of the best places to watch the sky light up. Bring a towel, relax on the sand, and enjoy nature’s show.

Beautiful view of Ramla Beach Malta with golden sand and clear blue waters.

Helpful Tips for Smooth Swimming Days

Planning a beach day in Malta? A little prep goes a long way, especially if you’re heading to places like the Comino beaches, St Peter’s Pool, or the Crystal Lagoon. These spots are stunning but can be tricky if you’re not ready.

Here are a few tips to help you out:

  • Getting Around: Malta’s buses can get you to most beaches, but they can be slow and crowded. If you’re visiting Gozo or planning to explore a few beaches in one day, renting a car is way easier. To reach Comino beaches like the Crystal Lagoon, you’ll need to take a ferry or join a boat tour from Cirkewwa or Marfa.
  • What to Bring: Pack sunscreen, a towel, water shoes (especially for rocky spots like St Peter’s Pool), and snorkel gear. A power bank is smart too, some beaches don’t have charging spots or even signals.
  • Food & Water: Bring snacks and plenty of water. Places like St Peter’s Pool and the Crystal Lagoon don’t have vendors or restaurants nearby.
  • Safety First: Swim in areas with lifeguards if you’re not super confident. Be extra careful at cliffs, don’t jump unless you know it’s safe and you feel sure about it.

Easy Beach-Hopping Day Itineraries

Want to explore more than one beach in a day? These combos make it easy. You don’t need to rush, each group of beaches is close enough to visit without feeling like you’re spending the whole day in transit. Just pack water, snacks, sunscreen, and you’re good to go!

Family Day in the North

  • Start at Mellieha Bay for calm water and space to play. Great for kids!
  • Head to Paradise Bay for a smaller, quieter beach with soft sand.
  • End your day at Golden Bay Malta. Grab a snack and stay for the sunset.

Adventure Route in Gozo

  • Kick off at Ramla Beach Malta, big, wide, and great for a morning swim.
  • Then visit Wied il-Ghasri for snorkelling in a narrow sea canyon.
  • Finish with Mgarr ix Xini, a peaceful spot with cliffs and clear water.

Comino Full Day

  • Take a boat to Blue Lagoon Malta early to beat the crowds.
  • Then head to Crystal Lagoon Malta, perfect for swimming and snorkelling.
  • Bring your own food and drinks, there aren’t many shops here.

Sunset Chill Combo

  • Swim and relax at Gnejna Bay Malta, a local favourite with fewer crowds.
  • Hike over to Ghajn Tuffieha Bay for one of Malta’s best sunsets.

FAQs About Swimming in Malta

Is the water warm enough for swimming?

Yes, it is! From late May to early October, the sea is warm and perfect for a swim. It feels amazing on hot summer days, and you won’t want to get out once you’re in.

Absolutely. You don’t need to join a guided tour if you don’t want to. Ferries run every day from Cirkewwa or Marfa, and they’ll take you straight to the Blue Lagoon. Just try to go early, it’s a popular spot and gets crowded fast!

However, please note that individual visitors now need to register for access using a QR code. If you choose to visit with GOZOblu Private Boat Tours, there’s no need to register, we take care of everything for you.

Ramla Beach, Mellieha Bay, and Ghar Lapsi are great picks. They have calm, shallow water, soft sand (or easy rock access), and space to play. Perfect for families who want to swim and relax.

Sometimes, yes. It depends on the wind and currents. Look for warning flags on the beach or check online before you go. Most days, it’s all clear.

If you love snorkelling, check out Crystal Lagoon, Mgarr ix Xini, and Wied il-Ghasri. The water is super clear, and there’s lots of sea life to spot.

Ready to Swim Your Way Through Malta?

Swimming in Malta isn’t just something you do to cool off; it’s an adventure. One minute, you’re floating in a quiet bay with golden cliffs all around you. Next, you’re diving into a cave or snorkelling with bright fish in crystal-clear water. From hidden coves to iconic beaches, the best places to swim in Malta each have their own story, and they’re all worth exploring.

It doesn’t matter if you’re on a solo trip, visiting with your partner, or travelling with your whole family, there’s a perfect swimming spot waiting for you somewhere in Malta, Gozo, or Comino. Some are sandy and calm, perfect for relaxing. Others are wild, rocky, and ideal for cliff jumps. No matter what kind of swimmer you are, you’ll find your place here.

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