Mellieha Bay

Malta's longest beach

Mellieha Bay (Ghadira Bay) is Malta's longest sandy beach, stretching about 800 metres along the northern coast. A wide strip of golden sand, shallow water (you can walk 50 metres from shore and still be knee-deep), and a gentle slope make it the ideal choice for families with small children.

Full infrastructure

The beach has everything: lifeguards (in season June-September), sunbeds and parasols (about EUR 10/day), several beach bars, showers, toilets, and parking (paid in summer). A promenade with restaurants runs along the beach. The Seabank and Mellieha Bay hotels stand right on the beach.

Ghadira Nature Reserve

Behind the beach extends the Ghadira Nature Reserve, BirdLife Malta's wetland reserve. A seasonal pool attracts migratory birds (including flamingos in winter). It is a unique combination: Malta's best beach neighbours its most important nature reserve.

Practical tip: Bus 41 or 42 from Valletta (50 minutes). In summer, arrive before 10 AM as parking fills up. Water is shallow and safe but can be slightly murky after a storm (sand stirred by waves). Behind the beach is the bird reserve, worth a 30-minute walk.