About Delimara Bay
Delimara is the narrow peninsula that closes off the eastern side of Marsaxlokk Bay in the south-east of Malta, about two and a half kilometres long and a few hundred metres wide. Its coast is all limestone: low cliffs, flat rock shelves and small coves with deep, clear water. The large power station on the harbour side is the landmark you see from everywhere around the bay.
The swimming here is from the rocks, not from sand. On calm days the coves on the open-sea side, such as St Peter's Pool and Il-Kalanka, are some of the clearest water in the south of Malta, and the harbour-facing shore offers quieter spots on the rocks. It is a place for confident swimmers who bring their own shade and supplies.
What Delimara is like
The peninsula is mostly fields, rubble walls and scrub, with a single narrow road running along its spine from Marsaxlokk towards Delimara Point. The western shore faces into Marsaxlokk Bay and the Freeport at Birżebbuġa across the water, while the eastern shore faces the open sea. Both sides are rocky, with flat shelves at the edge and deep water immediately off them.
The cliffs are eroding in places, and fences and signs warn of falling rock along some stretches. Keep away from overhangs and the foot of the cliffs, especially after heavy rain.
When to go to Delimara
Which side to choose depends on the wind. The harbour shore faces west into Marsaxlokk Bay, so it is calm in north-westerly, northerly and north-easterly winds and becomes rough in southerly, south-westerly and westerly winds. The open-sea coves on the eastern side are the opposite: sheltered from the west, exposed to easterlies.
July and August are the calmest months. Swimming spots and parking fill from late morning in summer, especially at weekends, so arrive early. Spring and autumn are quieter and good for walking the coast.
Swimming and safety at Delimara
There is no sand and no gentle entry anywhere: you get in from the rocks, by ladder where there is one, or by jumping. The water is deep straight away, so it does not suit young children or weak swimmers. There are no lifeguards, so swim with someone and stay out when waves are breaking on the rocks.
Keep well away from the power station outfall at Il-Ħofra ż-Żgħira, on the eastern side, and from any marked exclusion zone. Water shoes help on the sharp limestone, and bring a mask, as the visibility is usually excellent.
Things to do near Delimara
St Peter's Pool, the peninsula's best-known swimming spot, is about a kilometre away, and Il-Kalanka and Xrobb l-Għaġin are also close. Near the southern tip stand Delimara Lighthouse, from 1854, and Fort Delimara, a British fort from the 1870s, while Tas-Silġ archaeological site and its church are on the road in from Marsaxlokk.
Marsaxlokk itself, with its fishing harbour, waterfront restaurants and Sunday fish market, is a few minutes' drive away. Boat trips from the waterfront run along the Delimara coast in summer.
Food and facilities at Delimara
There are no toilets, showers, kiosks or sunbeds at the swimming spots, and very little shade. Bring water, food and a parasol, and take your rubbish home. Shops and restaurants are in Marsaxlokk.
Frequently asked questions
Is Delimara sandy?
No. You swim from flat limestone rocks straight into deep water.
Is there a bus to Delimara?
Not to the swimming spots. Buses 81, 85, 119 and 210 serve Marsaxlokk, and from there it is about a 30-minute walk.
Is there parking at Delimara?
Yes, informal parking near the swimming spots. One area near St Peter's Pool has charged a small cash fee in summer, with free spaces further back.
Which side of Delimara is best for swimming?
It depends on the wind. The coves on the eastern, open-sea side are calm in westerly and north-westerly winds, while the shore facing Marsaxlokk Bay is calmer in northerly and north-easterly winds.
Is Delimara good for snorkelling?
Yes, on calm days. The water off the rocks is deep and usually very clear, especially in the coves on the open-sea side.
Can you get to Delimara Bay by boat?
Yes. Boat trips to Delimara Bay run with SIPS Watersports Malta.
