The Ultimate Guide to Hidden Beaches: 5 Incredible Day Trips From Malta

Sure, you’ve seen the postcard-perfect images of Malta’s Blue Lagoon and heard whispers of the sprawling Golden Bay. They’re famous for a reason, but that fame comes with a price: crowds. What if you could trade the packed sands for a slice of paradise all your own? The thrill of discovering Malta’s secret coastline is an adventure in itself. Forget the tourist traps; we’re talking about secluded coves, natural swimming pools, and red-sand wonders that most visitors completely miss.

Can you do day trips from Malta? Absolutely! And this guide is your treasure map to the island’s best-kept secrets. We’ll show you five incredible hidden beaches, detail exactly how to get there, provide a sample itinerary, and share the insider tips you need to escape the crowds and find your own piece of Mediterranean bliss in 2025.

Malta Hidden Beaches Day Trip: Quick Facts

Factor	Details
Distance from Valletta	30-60 minute drive / 45-minute ferry (to Gozo)
Typical Duration	Full Day (6 – 8 hours)
Estimated Cost (per person)	€20 (budget) – €80+ (mid-range with car/dining)
Best Time to Go	May-June & Sept-Oct; Weekday mornings before 10 AM
Primary Transport	Rental Car (recommended) or Gozo Ferry

How to Get to Malta’s Secluded Beaches

Reaching these hidden gems is part of the adventure. While Malta’s main attractions are well-connected, you’ll need a bit more planning to get off the beaten path. Here’s a breakdown of your best options.

Getting Around Malta

Your choice of transport will define your day trip. For maximum freedom, a car is unbeatable. However, public transport can be a great budget-friendly alternative if you don’t mind a bit of extra walking.

• Rental Car: This is the most flexible option, allowing you to discover the most remote spots on your own schedule. Driving is on the left, and roads can be narrow, but a small car (think Fiat 500) makes navigating and parking much easier. Expect to pay around €30-€50 per day in high season.
• Public Bus: Malta’s bus network is extensive and incredibly cheap (€2.00 for a 2-hour ticket in summer). However, reaching these hidden beaches often means a 15-30 minute walk from the nearest stop, turning your trip into more of a hike.
• Ride-Hailing: Bolt and Uber are widely available. They’re great for a one-way trip to a trailhead or a direct route back to your hotel after a long day in the sun, but costs can add up for a full day of exploring.

The Gozo Day Trip: A Must-Do

Some of Malta’s most spectacular secret beaches are actually on its sister island, Gozo. The journey is part of the fun and offers stunning views. You have two ferry options to get there:

• Gozo Channel Line (Car & Passenger): Departs from Ċirkewwa in the north of Malta and arrives in Mġarr, Gozo. The journey is a scenic 25 minutes. A standard passenger return is just €4.65, while a car plus driver is €15.70.
• Gozo Fast Ferry (Passenger Only): For a quicker, car-free trip, this ferry leaves from Valletta and takes about 45 minutes to reach Mġarr. A standard return ticket costs €12.

Transportation Options at a Glance

Method	Avg. Cost (per day)	Flexibility	Best For
Rental Car	€30 – €50	High	Reaching the most remote spots; families.
Public Bus	€2 (per ticket) / €21 (weekly)	Low	Budget travelers not in a hurry.
Ride-Hailing	Variable	Medium	Short trips; avoiding parking hassles.
Gozo Ferry	€4.65 – €12 (return)	N/A	Essential for accessing Gozo’s beaches.

Top 5 Hidden Beaches for Your Malta Day Trip

Ready for the adventure? Here are five of the most breathtaking and secluded spots that promise an unforgettable day away from the crowds.

1. 1. Fomm ir-Riħ Bay: The Adventurer’s Choice

   Meaning “Mouth of the Wind,” Fomm ir-Riħ is Malta’s wildest and most isolated beach. This stunning bay rewards those willing to work for it with crystalline waters, a dramatic pebble shoreline, and a profound sense of solitude. The journey is as memorable as the destination.

   Best For: Hikers, snorkelers, and anyone seeking true, untouched nature.

   How to Get There & Pro Tips: Drive towards the village of Baħrija and follow the signs. The real adventure is the challenging 15-20 minute hike down a steep, rocky path. Sturdy shoes are non-negotiable. There are zero facilities, so bring all your own water and food. Always check sea conditions, as undercurrents can be strong on windy days.

2. 2. St. Peter’s Pool: The Natural Swimming Pool

   This isn’t a beach in the traditional sense, but it’s one of the most unique swimming spots in the Mediterranean. St. Peter’s Pool is a stunning natural lido carved into the smooth, white limestone. The flat rocks are perfect for sunbathing, while the deep, turquoise water invites you to jump right in.

   Best For: Strong swimmers, sunbathers, and thrill-seekers who love cliff jumping.

   How to Get There & Pro Tips: Located a short drive from the picturesque fishing village of Marsaxlokk. Parking is chaotic in a free dirt lot that fills up fast, so arrive early. The walk from the car park is short but over uneven rock. Combine your visit with a fresh seafood lunch in Marsaxlokk for a perfect day trip.

3. 3. Wied il-Għasri, Gozo: The Secret Fjord

   Prepare to have your breath taken away. Wied il-Għasri is a narrow sea gorge that snakes its way inland through towering cliffs, ending in a tiny, secluded pebble beach. The water is impossibly clear, making it a dream for snorkelers and photographers.

   Best For: Photographers, snorkelers, and explorers looking for a truly unique landscape.

   How to Get There & Pro Tips: This gem is located on Gozo, not far from the salt pans of Marsalforn. A dramatic stone staircase leads you down into the gorge. Go early in the morning to beat the handful of other explorers and to catch the best light before the sun is blocked by the high cliffs.

4. 4. San Blas Bay, Gozo: The Red Sand Paradise

   If you’re dreaming of a quiet sandy beach, San Blas is your answer. Known for its unique, reddish-orange sand and tranquil atmosphere, this bay is a world away from the busy beaches on Malta. The shallow, clear water is perfect for a relaxing swim.

   Best For: Couples, families with older children, and anyone looking for a peaceful sandy retreat.

   How to Get There & Pro Tips: The price of this paradise is access via an incredibly steep concrete hill. You can either walk down (and, more challengingly, back up) or pay a few euros for the jeep shuttle service that often operates in summer. There’s a small kiosk for basic refreshments, but it’s best to bring your own supplies.

5. 5. Qarraba Bay: The Secluded Neighbor

   Located right next to the popular Għajn Tuffieħa Bay, Qarraba remains a secret to most. Shielded by dramatic clay slopes and golden cliffs, this beautiful sandy beach offers a wild, untamed feel. It’s the perfect escape when the main beach gets too busy.

   Best For: Adventurous beachgoers and those seeking a “wild” beach vibe.

   How to Get There & Pro Tips: Access is part of the adventure. Walk to the far left (south) end of Għajn Tuffieħa beach and you’ll find a path that requires a scramble down a very steep sand and clay dune. It’s not for the faint of heart, but the reward is worth it. Note: this spot is known locally as an unofficial and discreet clothing-optional beach.

Sample Day Trip Itinerary: Gozo’s Hidden Coast

Here’s a practical plan to help you explore two of Gozo’s hidden gems in one perfect day in 2025.

Time	Activity
8:00 AM	Drive to Ċirkewwa Ferry Terminal.
9:00 AM	Take the car ferry to Mġarr, Gozo. Enjoy the views of Comino.
9:45 AM	Drive towards Wied il-Għasri. Park and descend the stairs for a magical morning swim.
12:30 PM	Drive to Victoria (Rabat) for lunch and a quick exploration of the Citadel.
2:30 PM	Head to San Blas Bay. Park at the top and walk or take the jeep down.
3:00 PM	Relax, swim, and enjoy the beautiful red sand.
5:30 PM	Head back to Mġarr Harbour for the return ferry.
6:30 PM	Arrive back in Malta, tired but happy.

Where to Eat on Your Beach Day Trip

Exploring hidden beaches works up an appetite! Here are some fantastic food stops near our recommended spots.

Near Għajn Tuffieħa / Fomm ir-Riħ

• Singita Miracle Beach (€€-€€€): Stylish beach bar right on Golden Bay with great food, cocktails, and incredible sunset views.
• Agliolio (€€): Located at the Golden Sands hotel, offering solid Italian fare with a beautiful terrace overlooking the sea.

Near St. Peter’s Pool (in Marsaxlokk)

• La Nostra Padrona (€€-€€€): Excellent, fresh seafood with prime views of the colorful Luzzu fishing boats in Marsaxlokk harbour.
• Tartarun (€€€€): A refined fine-dining experience focused on local, fresh fish. Perfect for a special occasion.

On Gozo

• Ta’ Tona Restaurant (€€€): A legendary family-run seafood spot in Mġarr Harbour. You absolutely must book in advance.
• Maxokk Bakery (€): The perfect on-the-go lunch. Grab a traditional Gozitan ftira (a delicious cross between a pizza and a calzone) for a cheap and authentic takeaway meal.

Insider Tips for Finding Malta’s Best Kept Secrets

A little local knowledge goes a long way. Keep these tips in mind for a smooth and memorable adventure.

• Check the Wind: This is the number one local trick. Before you go, check a site like Windfinder. If the wind is strong from the northwest, choose a sheltered beach in the southeast (like St. Peter’s Pool), and vice versa.
• Rent a Small Car: Malta’s roads are narrow and parking is tight, especially near the coast. A smaller vehicle will make your life much easier.
• Pack Smart: Many hidden beaches have zero facilities. Bring more water and food than you think you’ll need, plus sun protection.
• Wear Sturdy Shoes: Flip-flops are fine for the car, but you’ll need proper walking shoes or hiking sandals for the hikes required to reach Fomm ir-Riħ or Qarraba Bay.
• Go Off-Season: If you can, visit in May, June, September, or October. The sea is warm, the sun is shining, and you might just have these incredible places all to yourself.
• Download Offline Maps: Mobile service can be spotty in remote coves. Download the map of Malta on Google Maps before you set off.

What to Pack for Your Hidden Beach Adventure

Here’s a quick checklist to make sure you have everything you need for a perfect day out.

• High-SPF Sunscreen
• Reusable Water Bottle (at least 1.5 liters per person)
• Snacks and a packed lunch
• Hat and Sunglasses
• Sturdy walking shoes or hiking sandals
• Water shoes for rocky coastlines (protects against rocks and sea urchins)
• Snorkel gear
• Towel and swimwear
• Cash (for parking, jeep shuttles, or small kiosks)
• Portable power bank for your phone
• A small backpack to carry it all

Estimated Budget Breakdown (Per Person)

A day trip to a hidden beach can be as cheap or as comfortable as you want it to be. Here’s a rough idea of what to expect.

Expense	Budget Option (Using Public Transport)	Mid-Range Option (with Rental Car)
Transport	€4 – €8	€20 – €30 (car rental/fuel split between two)
Food & Drink	€15 (packed lunch + drinks)	€40 (cafe lunch + drinks)
Activities	€0	€10 (sunbed rental/boat trip)
Total	~€20 – €25	~€70 – €80

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Can you do day trips from Malta?

Yes, absolutely. It’s very easy to do day trips within Malta to explore different regions, or to take a short ferry ride for a full day trip to the sister islands of Gozo and Comino. A rental car offers the most freedom, but the public bus system is also a viable option for budget travelers.

What is the most beautiful beach in Malta?

This is subjective and depends on what you’re looking for! The Blue Lagoon on Comino is famous for its impossibly blue water, while Golden Bay is a stunning sandy beach. However, for natural, rugged beauty away from the crowds, many consider hidden gems like the sea-carved fjord of Wied il-Għasri or the unique red sands of San Blas Bay in Gozo to be the most beautiful.

What is the most quiet beach in Malta?

Fomm ir-Riħ Bay is often considered the quietest and most isolated beach on the main island of Malta due to the challenging hike required to reach it. On Gozo, smaller coves that require some effort to find, like San Blas Bay, can also be incredibly peaceful, especially on weekdays outside of peak season.

Is there a nudist beach in Malta?

Officially, public nudity is illegal in Malta, and there are no designated nudist beaches. However, a discreet, clothing-optional culture is unofficially tolerated at a couple of very remote spots, most notably Qarraba Bay (next to Għajn Tuffieħa) and some isolated stretches of rocky coastline. Extreme discretion and respect for others are paramount.

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TL;DR: Your Quick Guide to Malta’s Hidden Beaches

Tired of crowded beaches? Rent a small car, check the wind direction, and head out early. For rugged adventure and solitude on Malta, hike down to Fomm ir-Riħ. For a unique cliff-jumping experience, visit St. Peter’s Pool near Marsaxlokk. For the best scenery, take the ferry to Gozo and explore the incredible fjord of Wied il-Għasri or the quiet, red sands of San Blas Bay. Pack sturdy shoes, plenty of water, and get ready for an unforgettable day trip in 2025.