Where are there beaches in Valletta?

Swimming spots around Valletta

Valletta was built on a rocky peninsula for a reason: Much easier to defend from seaward attacks than an open sandy bay that would make it easy for soldiers to land on shore.

Having said that, the locals have been enjoying a summer swim in a few key spots along the city’s coastline, in places that are safe and well away from any ships entering the harbours on either side.

• St. Elmo Bay is situated on the West-facing Marsamxett Harbour side of the city, and its rocky coastline is easily accessible. There are a few easy entry points into the sea and s close to the entry point from the open sea.
• On the same side of Valletta, you can find a small area next to the water polo pitch with steps hewn into the rock that make it easy to swim and is another local’s favourite spot.
• Finally, on the Grand Harbour side, there’s a part of the coastline across the road from the Mediterranean Conference Centre (formerly La Sacra Infermeria – Knight’s Hospital) where you’ll find a few fisherman’s boathouses and easy entry points (steps) to get into the sea and enjoy a swim. You can find it under the name “Wuestenwinds beach” on Google Maps.

Note: I wouldn’t call any of these spots family-friendly, so look elsewhere if you’re looking to take a dip with the kids in tow.

Going to sandy beaches by bus

These are a few great beaches in Malta that are easy to reach from Valletta by bus:

• Golden Bay is a lovely sandy beach on the west coast of Malta with Blue Flag certification (a status that indicates the availability of amenities, lifeguards, nature conservation, etc.) and can be reached by bus route 44. Expect around 1.5h travel time.
• Għajn Tuffieħa is a beach largely untouched by man with clay slopes and lovely natural surroundings and is located just south of Golden Bay. It can be reached with the same bus route 44 (and similar travel time) and is the last stop before reaching the latter beach.
• Mellieħa Bay is Malta’s largest sandy beach and is located north of the village of Mellieħa. Being the most popular beach the island knows, it does tend to get pretty busy there but it’s a great beach to go to with kids, having a shallow surf and amenities and lifeguards present.