You’ve gathered your friends and family; you’ve completed the suncream checks; all the snacks (and necessary drinks) have been packed; you all arrive in high spirits at the harbour; you hop on your catamaran or yacht, ready to set off on your adventure sailing in Malta - and what’s the first activity on the list?
Discover new beaches, of course! Now that you’ve made the excellent decision to add a boat trip to your Malta itinerary, those Mediterranean beach gems have never been more accessible. A Sailo boat hire in Malta is definitely the best way to explore them!
Whether you’re spending a whole week floating languidly aboard this Beneteau 50.5, or just one full day cruising on this elegant Jeanneau 53, we’ve put together the ultimate list of beaches where you can anchor your catamaran in Malta and enjoy the sun. If you’re still sorting out your boat hire for Malta, take a look at how Sailo can help you arrange the perfect rental!
Most Popular Beach Spots
Qawra Point
Location: St Paul’s Bay, Bugibba
With its mix of rugged rocky charm, white sand, and blue waters, Qawra Point is one of Malta’s most cherished beach spots to include on your Malta boat trip. Easily accessible, yet private and secluded from the crowds, you will feel equally connected with the ocean and nature at Qawra.
There are plenty of little pools to be found, with protruding rocks to sit comfortably while basking in the heat. Fancy a stroll? Follow the walkway leading along the coastline which crosses through Qawra Point, and towards the Aquarium. Sunbeds and umbrellas can be rented on site, and a beach bar offers refreshments throughout the day. The locals love this spot, and it’s the perfect anchor spot for your boat rental while sailing the beautiful coast of Malta!
Golden Bay
Location: North-West coast of Malta, near Manikata.
The name of this beach says it all - when it comes to sandy beaches, Golden Bay is among the best Malta has to offer. Can you picture yourself anchored on your motor yacht rental in these waters on this Sunquest 48 for the afternoon?
Golden Bay is a Blue Flag beach, which means that the water is superbly clean, and the amenities plentiful. The beach itself is situated in a scenic cove, close to popular hotels and resorts, and the its shallow waters make it a paradise for young children - and older water babies too!
The northern side has a rocky shoreline, so if you’re looking for a good snorkel spot to anchor your boat rental for the day, Golden Bay ticks all the boxes for a beach stop while sailing around Malta!
Paradise Bay
Location: Mellieha, Malta
You may have thought you were already in paradise - but just wait until you sail towards the shore of this Maltese bay. This beach is small and intimate, making it the perfect spot to relax and chill - either on the deck of your boat rental, or on the sandy shore.
The beach itself is sheltered, and offers stunning views of the surrounding area. Its unique location at the farthest north point of Malta gives you a perfect view of the neighbouring islands of Gozo and Comino - even more so if you anchor your charter yacht or catamaran and take a climb up the cliffs! The beach may become crowded during the summer months, but it’s still definitely worth a visit. Nothing could spoil Paradise Bay’s romantic charm!
Ghadira Bay
Location: Mellieha, Malta
Not far from Paradise Bay, you will find Ghadira - Malta’s largest sandy beach. It’s also known as Malta’s most popular beach, especially for people sailing in Malta. But don’t worry, there’s more than enough beautiful sand space for everyone! If you’re traveling with a big crowd, consider one of our sleek catamarans to transport you to Ghadira and beyond.
As well as its stunning location and blissful waters, Ghadira Bay is definitely a winner as it is perfect for families and children, thanks to the minimal currents and safe swimming conditions. Ghadira is also Blue Flag certified, and within reach of plenty of snack bars and restaurants if you need to extend your boat rental anchorage through lunchtime.
Ghajn Tuffieha
Location: Mgarr, Malta
Situated near Golden Bay, this beach spot may be difficult to pronounce, but it’s all the more authentic and locally-loved because of it! At a first glance, this spot appears untouched, but it still has a record for being a tourist favorite for sailing in Malta because of its unique character.
When not accessing the beach by boat, the shore is reached by a sloping set of steps. The water is clear and clean, while the beach is rugged and boasts a deeper colored, glowing sand. Once you’ve anchored your catamaran rental or yacht charter, if you’re interested in venturing onland, the north side of the beach features a coastal watch tower known as the Ghajn Mixkuka Tower.
Hidden Beach Gems
Want something a little more secluded and intimate than the popular sprawling shores? Sailing in Malta on a boat hire allows you to discover the best secret spots along the coastline:
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St George’s Beach
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St Peter’s Pool
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Sliema Beach
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Dahlet Qorrot
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Armier Bay
Interested in exploring more sandy coves in the Maltese archipelago? Check out Sailo's Malta Destinaion Guide and our special feature about the best places to visit on Malta’s sister islands, Comino and Gozo! If one day on the ocean isn’t enough, we can also arrange weekly rentals as well as boat tours in Malta, to suit every occasion.