Mellieħa Bay
Mellieħa,
Malta
22°c
Sandy
NW 5.6 km/h
Blue Flag
Sea right now
97
of 100
Calm
Water Quality
Official EU classification, 2025 season.
The water quality is Excellent
EU bathing-water classification (EEA, Environmental Health Directorate)The sea
24°C
Wind NW 15 km/h
Waves 1.0 m offshore
Mellieha Bay, or Għadira, as the locals know it, is the largest sandy beach in Malta and it is found at the very northern tip of the island. This particular beach attracts thousands of beach goers every summer, mostly because of the spacious sand area and because of the blue shallow water.
There are all the facilities imaginable, including multiple restaurants or kiosks, public amenities and the possibility to rent a deck chair and an umbrella. Mellieha Bay also offers water sports.
This beach can get a little crowded in summer, especially on weekends. But the bay is relatively big and you’ll still be able to enjoy this beautiful beach if you find a quieter spot. Mellieha Bay is practically touching a main road, so car access is very easy. Swimming here is very safe almost all year round.
Forecast for Mellieħa Bay
-
Right now
10:42
Calm
NW 15 km/h 1.0 m waves -
This afternoon
14:00–17:00
Calm
NW 16 km/h 0.8 m waves -
This evening
17:00–20:00
Calm
NW 14 km/h 0.7 m waves -
Tomorrow morning
09:00–12:00
Calm
NW 15 km/h 0.6 m waves -
Tomorrow afternoon
13:00–17:00
Calm
NW 19 km/h 0.6 m waves
Getting there
Mellieħa Bay sits right on the main road between Mellieħa and Ċirkewwa, so it is easy to reach by car from St Paul's Bay, Mellieħa or the Gozo ferry. Many buses stop at the Għadira stop by the beach, including routes 41, 42, 49, 101, 221, 222 and 250, with 250 ending at the roundabout next to the bay.
Parking
Free car parks and roadside spaces line the beach and the main road, but on summer weekends they fill early, often before 9 to 10am. After that you may have to park further along the road.
Good to know
Malta's largest sandy beach, with shallow water stretching a long way out, which makes it a favourite with families. Sunbeds, umbrellas, kiosks, restaurants, toilets and water sports are all there, and lifeguards cover the summer season. Sunbed concessions take up much of the sand in summer, but the strip closest to the water is meant to stay free for your own towel and umbrella.
Frequently asked questions
Is Mellieħa Bay good for kids?
Yes. The sand and long stretch of shallow water make it one of the best beaches in Malta for young children.
How do I get to Għadira by bus?
Routes 41, 42, 49, 101, 221, 222 and 250 all stop at the Għadira stop beside the beach.
Is there parking at Mellieħa Bay?
Yes, free car parks and roadside parking along the bay, but they fill early on summer weekends.
Do you have to pay for sunbeds at Għadira?
Only if you rent one. You can bring your own gear, and the area right by the water is meant to stay open to the public.
Amenities at Mellieħa Bay
BBQ's allowed
Wifi
Sunbeds available
Food
Drinks
Umbrella
Camping
Water Sports
Dives Nearby
Parking
Accessibility
Dog Friendly
Toilets
Boat Friendly
Showers
