Mellieħa Bay Beach

From Mellieħa town, both car and bus take around five minutes. Buses run frequently and drop you almost at the waterfront — the easiest option on a hot day. If you drive, multiple car parks line the road behind the beach: roadside and public options are free, while some paid lots charge roughly €5–€10 per day; expect competition for spaces in peak season. Note that a busy road runs directly behind the beach, so keep a close eye on children when moving between the car park and the sand.

The bay itself is a windsurfing and kitesurfing hub, with designated water sports zones keeping things orderly. A short walk inland leads to Il-Bajja tal-Għadira nature reserve and the wartime Xelter tal-Gwerra shelter, while the Air Raid Shelters are worth the 1.1 km stroll for a dose of Maltese WWII history. Further afield, the medieval Mellieħa Sanctuary — about 2 km away — houses one of Malta's most venerated Marian shrines, and Ċirkewwa Ferry Terminal (7 km) is your jumping-off point for Gozo and Comino day trips.

Right behind the beach, Great Dane, Winston Steakhouse, and Hansen Gastro Bar are all within 200 metres if you need a proper sit-down meal. Blũ Beach Club at 300 metres is the obvious choice for drinks with a view, and Amami — same distance, specialising in Japanese and Asian seafood — is a solid option when you want something lighter and different. You won't go hungry here.

VIU57 is the closest option at under a kilometre from the sand, making early-morning beach runs genuinely easy. Lure Hotel & Spa sits 1.1 km away for those who want spa access after a day of windsurfing. If you prefer something with more character, The 1930s Maltese Residence at 4.6 km offers a period feel while keeping the bay within easy reach.

Shoot from the southern end of the beach at golden hour — the low sun catches the turquoise water and the Mellieħa town skyline lines up perfectly behind the bay. Early morning before the daytrippers arrive gives you clean golden sand and glassy reflections; the windsurfers and kiteboarders in action mid-afternoon add dynamic colour against the turquoise backdrop.

Dogs are prohibited on the beach during the summer season — leave them at home if you're visiting between June and September. Water sports are confined to designated zones, so check the flag markers before launching a board or kite. The busy road immediately behind the beach is a genuine hazard: always use the designated crossing points and supervise children carefully. July and August bring the heaviest visitor numbers and peak seagrass accumulation, so June or September give you the same golden sand and turquoise water with noticeably more breathing room.