There’s an undeniable allure to Malta’s famous beaches. The sweeping, ochre-red sands of Golden Bay, the vast, family-friendly expanse of Mellieħa Bay, and the almost supernatural turquoise of the Blue Lagoon are featured on postcards for a reason. They are stunning. But on a hot July afternoon, their beauty can be eclipsed by a sea of umbrellas and the buzz of a thousand conversations.
As a resident of Mġarr, I live just a stone’s throw from the iconic trio of Golden Bay, Għajn Tuffieħa, and Ġnejna. I see the endless stream of cars heading for that famous coastline, but I also know the deep satisfaction of turning down a different path—one that leads to the whisper of waves on an empty shore, the thrill of discovering a cove you have all to yourself, and the authentic connection to the raw, natural beauty of the Mediterranean.
If you’re ready to trade the convenience of a lido for the reward of adventure, then this guide is for you. Let’s step beyond the postcard and discover some of Malta’s most enchanting, lesser-known coastal gems.
1. Fomm ir-Riħ – The Bay at the Mouth of the Wind
- The Vibe: Wild, dramatic, and utterly secluded, Fomm ir-Riħ is the epitome of an untouched beach. Flanked by towering cliffs and accessible only via a steep, winding path, it feels like a lost world. The silence here is profound, broken only by the sea and the cry of gulls. The beach itself is pebbly, and the water is exceptionally clear, making it a truly immersive natural experience.
- Type of Spot: Secluded pebble beach and bay.
- How to Get There: This one requires effort, which is why it remains so pristine. Drive towards the village of Baħrija on the west coast. Follow the signs for Fomm ir-Riħ until you reach a small, dead-end road. From here, a 15-20 minute hike down a sometimes-tricky path is required. The path is manageable but steep in places.
- Best For: Adventurous couples, seasoned hikers, and anyone seeking true solitude. It is not suitable for children or those with mobility issues.
- Insider Tip: Wear sturdy walking shoes or trainers for the hike down; flip-flops are not recommended. There are zero facilities here, so pack everything you need: plenty of water, food, and sun protection. The reward for your effort is a day of almost guaranteed peace.
2. St. Peter’s Pool – The Natural Limestone Lido
- The Vibe: A stunning natural swimming pool carved into the flat, sun-drenched limestone by millennia of wind and waves. Its deep, emerald-green water and natural arches make it one of the most picturesque swimming spots on the island. While it’s no longer a complete secret, it attracts a more adventurous crowd than the main sandy beaches, creating a lively yet laid-back atmosphere.
- Type of Spot: Natural swimming pool with flat rocky platforms.
- How to Get There: Located near Marsaxlokk in the south-east of Malta. You can drive down a narrow country road, but parking is extremely limited and chaotic. A better option is to park near Delimara power station and walk the final 10-15 minutes. Alternatively, take a water taxi from Marsaxlokk harbour in the summer months.
- Best For: Confident swimmers, sunbathers who prefer rock to sand, and thrill-seekers looking for a safe spot for cliff jumping (always check the depth first!).
- Insider Tip: There are no facilities here, not even shade. Bring an umbrella if you plan to stay for a while. The smooth, flat rocks are perfect for sunbathing, but a padded mat will make it much more comfortable. For a quieter experience, visit on a weekday morning.
3. Wied il-Għasri – The Gozitan Sea Canyon
- The Vibe: A breathtaking sea canyon carved deep into the Gozitan coastline. A narrow flight of stone steps leads down into a secluded, fjord-like inlet where a tiny pebble beach meets the turquoise water. The high cliffs on either side provide shade and a sense of dramatic enclosure. It’s a truly unique and unforgettable swimming spot.
- Type of Spot: Narrow sea inlet (fjord-like) with a tiny pebble beach.
- How to Get There: Located on the north coast of Gozo, a short drive from the village of Għasri. There is a small area for parking near the top of the steps. It’s a popular stop for boat tours but swimming from the shore is a must-do experience.
- Best For: Snorkelers and scuba divers (there’s an amazing underwater cave system here), photographers, and anyone looking for a truly epic swimming photo. The enclosed, calm water is also suitable for confident swimming families.
- Insider Tip: The water here can be cooler due to the shade from the high cliffs, which is incredibly refreshing in the peak of summer. Visit early in the morning to have the best chance of experiencing its tranquil magic all to yourself before the tour boats arrive.
4. Santa Marija Bay, Comino – The Blue Lagoon’s Peaceful Sister
- The Vibe: Everyone knows Comino’s Blue Lagoon, but just a 20-minute walk away lies its serene, overlooked sibling. Santa Marija Bay offers a proper sandy beach, shady tamarisk trees, and the same crystal-clear water without the overwhelming crowds. It has a wonderfully relaxed, almost sleepy atmosphere, perfect for a day of pure escapism.
- Type of Spot: Small, quiet sandy beach with clear, shallow water.
- How to Get There: You need to get to the island of Comino via ferry or water taxi from either Malta (Marfa or Ċirkewwa) or Gozo (Mġarr Harbour). Once on the island, instead of following the crowds to the Blue Lagoon, take the path leading north towards the old police station.
- Best For: Families with young children, travellers looking to escape the Blue Lagoon’s chaos, and anyone who wants a proper beach day on Comino.
- Insider Tip: There is usually a single kiosk here in summer renting sunbeds and selling drinks and snacks, but it’s always wise to bring your own water just in case. The short walk from the Blue Lagoon is scenic and well worth the effort for the peace you’ll find.
5. Slugs Bay – The Tiny, Hidden Cove
- The Vibe: This is a true hidden gem. Tucked away on the northern tip of Malta near Mellieħa, Slugs Bay is a miniature cove with a tiny patch of red sand and exceptionally clear water. Its secluded nature means it’s often completely empty, offering a rare sense of private discovery.
- Type of Spot: Tiny, secluded sandy cove.
- How to Get There: It requires a bit of effort. Drive towards the Armier coast and park near the white ‘Torri l-Abjad’ tower. From there, you’ll need to find a small, unmarked path that leads down a rocky slope to the bay. It’s a short but slightly adventurous descent.
- Best For: Adventurous couples, snorkelers, and those on a mission to find the island’s most secret spots. It’s not suitable for families with lots of gear.
- Insider Tip: The bay is tiny, so it can feel “full” with just two or three small groups. Go early. The waters are teeming with life, so bring your snorkelling gear. You will feel a world away from the nearby, bustling Mellieħa Bay.
6. Mġarr ix-Xini – The Historic Gozitan Inlet
- The Vibe: A beautiful, fjord-like inlet on Gozo with deep, clear water and a small pebble beach, guarded by a restored Knights-era watchtower. It gained international fame after being featured in the film ‘By the Sea’ but has retained its rugged, peaceful charm. The steep valley sides create a dramatic and sheltered environment.
- Type of Spot: Sheltered pebble beach and deep water inlet.
- How to Get There: Accessible via a steep, winding road from the villages of Sannat or Xewkija in Gozo. Parking is available right down at the bay, but can be limited.
- Best For: Scuba divers, snorkelers, and history lovers. The calm, clear waters are also great for families with older children.
- Insider Tip: There is an excellent, well-regarded fish restaurant located right on the beach. It’s the perfect spot for a long, leisurely lunch after your swim, but booking ahead is highly recommended, especially on weekends.
Exploring Malta’s coastline is a journey of discovery. While the famous bays have their place, the real magic often lies just around the next headland, down a dusty track, or at the bottom of a winding staircase. So next time you’re here, dare to venture beyond the sunbed and the lido. The reward—a sense of peace, adventure, and a connection to the wild heart of the Mediterranean—is more than worth the effort.