At the northern tip of Malta, in the scenic locality of Mellieha, lies the island’s largest sandy shore: Mellieha Bay (also known locally as “Ghadira Bay”). This beach draws in holiday-makers, families and sun-seekers alike thanks to its expansive golden sand, gentle waters and full range of facilities.
A Grand Beach with Gentle Waters
What makes Mellieha Bay truly stand out is how it is built for ease and enjoyment. Stretching some 800 metres and divided into three adjoining bays, it offers one of the most generous sandy expanses in Malta. The seabed slopes gently and remains shallow for tens of metres out from the shore — ideal for children paddling or adults relaxing in the calm Mediterranean. Furthermore, the beach has earned quality recognition, including Blue Flag status for its clean water and safe setup.
Setting & Surroundings
The beach enjoys a beautiful setting: the hillside town of Mellieha gazes down from above, while just behind the shoreline is the Ghadira Nature Reserve, a protected area that was once salt-marsh land and now hosts birds and nature walks. The main road to the ferry port of Cirkewwa passes nearby, meaning access by car or bus is convenient.
Best Times & Practical Tips
The key summer months — May through October — bring the warmest water and best beach conditions. Try to arrive early if visiting in peak season, especially on weekends, as parking and sun-bed areas can fill up quickly. Additionally, for a more relaxed experience, consider visiting in the shoulder months like May or September for slightly fewer crowds and still-nice weather.
Also, while the central stretch is lively and packed with amenities, if you want a more peaceful retreat walk a little to the quieter adjacent beach sections.
Why Visitors Love It
There are several reasons that people keep returning to or recommending Mellieha Bay:
Spaciousness: Even during busier periods, the broad stretch of sand gives you more breathing room than many other beaches.
Safe for children: The long stretch of shallow sea means kids can play safely, and you, as an adult, can relax with less worry.
Combination of beach + nature: The nature reserve behind the beach adds a layer of green and tranquillity, birds, walking paths — more than just sand and sea.
Good infrastructure: From eateries, equipment rental to wheelchair access — the beach ticks many comfort boxes.
Like any popular spot, Mellieha Bay is not without its trade-offs: during the height of summer and on weekends it can get crowded. Parking can become tricky; public transport is available but may be slower from more distant parts of the island. One visitor on Reddit noted:
““Ghadira Bay isn’t just Malta’s best beach — it’s a postcard come to life, where the sand meet turquoise waters under the timeless watch of the Red Castle, Mellieha Church, and the lush valley.”
So if you’re visiting for peace and quiet and will spend much time out and about, you might want to balance beach time with other spots or choose your timing carefully.
All that said, if you’re after a beach in Malta that delivers relaxed days of sand and sea, with reliable facilities, very shallow, calm waters and a good base from which to explore further — Mellieha Bay ticks almost all the boxes. Whether you’re in the mood for lounging under an umbrella or splashing with children in the shallows, it offers a versatile beach day in one of Malta’s best-loved coastal locations.
