Top 9 surfing spots in Malta that every wave chaser needs to try
When it comes to fun in the sun, surfing easily makes the cut, especially when golden beaches and rolling waves are everywhere. Whether you’re chasing your first swell or already carving like a pro, Malta’s waters deliver.
Surfing in Malta is a blend of calm and exhilarating surf breaks, with spots that cater to every level. From hidden coves to wide sandy bays, the islands offer waves as inviting as the scenery itself.
Even if you spend more time soaking up the sun than riding waves, surfing still counts as a win—salty hair, sandy feet, and all.
1. Golden Bay
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Website: https://www.visitmalta.com/en/attraction/golden-bay/
Location: Close to Mellieħa and Manikata Region
Contact: +356 2291 5000
Hours: Open 24 hours
Golden Bay is the crown jewel of Malta’s surf scene, known for its wide sandy shoreline and rolling swells. The golden-hued sand gives this spot its name.
The waves are gentle and steady, making it perfect for beginners still learning to stand on the board. Even as a beginner, you’ll feel like you’re actually surfing rather than balancing, which is a win in my book.
Here’s a little fun secret: Golden Bay is one of the few beaches where you can grab a horse ride along the sand at sunset. You can swap your board for a saddle and trotting along the shoreline for a completely different kind of thrill, but just as unforgettable.
Pro Tips:
- Planning a surf-and-grill day? Gas BBQs are permitted at Golden Bay, provided you apply for a permit through the Mellieħa Council’s Permit System. Secure yours in advance so you can fire up the grill without hassle.
- When visiting Golden Bay, be sure to pay attention to the beach flag system. A double red flag means the sea is off-limits due to extreme conditions like strong currents, rough waves, or storms.
2. Għajn Tuffieħa Bay (Rivera Beach)
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Website: https://www.visitmalta.com/en/attraction/ghajn-tuffieha-bay/
Location: Mģarr
Contact: +356 2291 5000
Hours: Open 24 hours
Għajn Tuffieħa is often called Riviera Beach. It offers a wilder, more rugged vibe compared to its neighbour, Golden Bay. Surfers love it here for the rolling, less predictable swells that make each session an adventure.
Reaching the beach involves descending a long staircase, but the reward is a crescent-shaped bay surrounded by dramatic cliffs. The raw beauty adds a sense of drama to every ride, even if the swells rise.
This spot is better suited for surfers with a little confidence in their skills. Newbies can try it out any time, but the current can be tricky on windy days.
Pro Tip:
Unlike Golden Bay, Għajn Tuffieħa has limited amenities. A small seasonal kiosk may offer drinks and light snacks. However, if you’re planning a long surf session, bring lots of water and food to keep your energy up.
3. Mellieħa Bay
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Website: https://www.visitmalta.com/en/attraction/Mellie%C4%A7a-Bay/
Location: Għadira Bay
Contact: +356 2291 5000
Hours: Open 24 hours
Mellieħa Bay, also called Għadira Bay, is Malta’s sandy beach and a hotspot for all kinds of water sports. The shallow waters stretch far out, which makes it a fantastic training ground for beginner surfers.
The waves here are generally small and playful, which I love. It’s ideal if you’re still getting comfortable on the board. With its shallow seabed and wide stretch of water, there’s plenty of room to practise, making it one of the best spots for first-timers.
Pro Tip:
If you’re planning to spend the whole day surfing and lounging, rent a sunbed and umbrella on the beach. At around €5 to €10, it’s a small price for comfort, providing shade while you relax between sessions.
4. St. Thomas Bay
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Website: https://www.visitmalta.com/en/attraction/St-Thomas-Tower
Location: Marsaskala
Contact: +356 2180 0992
Hours: Open 24 hours
St. Thomas Bay has a laid-back, local vibe that makes it feel more like a community hangout than a tourist spot. Its long, sandy stretch and frequent swells make it a favourite for surfers looking for easy-going rides.
While it doesn’t always produce the biggest waves, I love how the bay’s wide-open space means there’s room for everyone, even when the crowds arrive. You’ll often spot local surfers sharing the water with kayakers and swimmers.
After surfing, take a short walk up to St. Thomas Tower, a 17th-century coastal fortress built by the Knights of St. John. Standing guard over the bay, the tower once defended against pirates and Ottoman raids. But today, it offers panoramic views of the coastline.
Pro Tips:
- After your surf, head to Turtle Bay just past St. Thomas Bay. It’s a rocky cove loved by locals for snorkelling and cliff jumps. Plus, there’s a chance of actually seeing turtles there.
- Skip the BBQ sessions because it isn’t allowed in St. Thomas Bay. Pack a picnic and some drinks instead.
5. Ramla Beach (Gozo)
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Website: https://visitgozo.com/places/ramla-bay/
Location: Gozo
Contact: +356 2281 2281
Hours: Open 24 hours
Ramla Beach is immediately recognisable for its striking red-golden sand. In fact, locals call it Ramla il-Ħamra, which literally means “The Red Sandy Beach”. The colour comes from the iron-rich rocks, and trust me, it makes this spot unlike any other beach in Gozo.
The beach is broad and spacious, giving everyone plenty of room to spread out. When conditions line up, the surf here is fun and mellow. You’ll find both right and left-handers rolling in.
What I love most about Ramla Beach is that it’s more than a surf stop. Between catching waves, you can grab snacks from kiosks, swim in the clear shallows, or simply laze under the hills.
Pro Tip:
After a surf session, do it like the locals—grab a cold Cisk or a fizzy Kinnie and pair it with galletti crackers, tangy ġbejna cheese, or a bag of Twistees. Most beach kiosks around the bay stock these classics, so you can have a taste of tradition while resting.
6. Qbajjar Bay (Gozo)
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Website: https://visitgozo.com/places/qbajjar/
Location: Iż-Żebuġ
Contact: +356 2156 3056
Hours: Open 24 hours
Qbajjar Bay is a rocky bay near Marsalforn, best known for its natural salt pans and calm atmosphere. While not as famous for surfing as other spots, it can surprise you with fun swells on the right day.
The bay is fairly shallow, with patches of Neptune grass swaying on the seabed between sandy stretches. You’ll probably spot plenty of fish while riding your board.
Surf-wise, it’s an intermediate spot thanks to the rocky outcrops and shifting conditions. But here’s the cool part: Qbajjar is one of the easiest dive sites. With shore access, depths of 6 metres, and clear visibility at 10-30 metres, it’s perfect for beginners.
Pro Tip:
Don’t just surf and leave! Swing by on a Monday or Thursday during summer to watch locals harvest salt the traditional Gozo way. It’s a rare, centuries-old practice that’ll make you feel like stepping into the island’s history.
7. Ġnejna Bay
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Website: https://www.visitmalta.com/en/attraction/gnejna-bay/
Location: Mģarr
Contact: +356 2152 0011
Hours: Open 24 hours
Ġnejna Bay is framed by rugged cliffs and countryside, giving it a more secluded charm. Surfers love the quiet vibe here, where occasional swells roll into this sandy cove, allowing you to truly lose yourself in the rhythm of the waves.
The bay’s mix of sandy bottoms and rocky sections keeps things interesting. One minute you’re cruising a soft, mellow wave, the next you’re lining up for a steeper take-off that pushes you enough out of your comfort zone.
Water depths usually range from 1 to 3 metres close to shore, which makes it beginner-friendly.
Pro Tip:
Ġnejna has no showers, changing rooms, or sunbed rentals. So, pack the essentials like an umbrella, towels, and lots of water, and enjoy the rest of the day without worries.
8. Ħondoq ir-Rummien
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Website: https://www.visitmalta.com/en/attraction/hondoq-ir-rummien-beach
Location: Qala
Contact: +356 2155 2555
Hours: Open 24 hours
Ħondoq ir-Rummien is one of Gozo’s most scenic spots for surfing and swimming. With water so turquoise and clear, you can see the seabed beneath your board.
Wave-wise, expect mostly mellow to moderate breaks, which are ideal for intermediates or beginners ready to move past the basics. This is a beach break, so the waves roll in over sand and rock, offering left and right-handers depending on conditions.
Depths start shallow near shore, at about 1 to 2 metres, and slope gradually to 5 or 6 metres further out. That makes it easy to paddle in stages, great for warming up or trying small turns closer to shore before heading deeper for longer rides.
Pro Tips:
- Bring your snorkelling gear, mask, and all. Ħondoq’s famously clear water makes it one of the best spots in Gozo to spot fish and underwater caves right from the shoreline.
- Because of pebble and rock sections on the beach, especially near the shore, wear water shoes to avoid stepping on sharp rocks or uncomfortable pebbles.
9. San Blas Bay
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Website: https://gozobeaches.com/beaches/SanBlas
Location: Gozo
Contact: +356 2152 0011
Hours: Open 24 hours
San Blas Bay is a hidden gem on Gozo’s northeast coast, instantly recognisable for its reddish-golden sand and backdrop of steep, green hills. The bay is smaller and secluded than other beaches, which gives every surf session a more peaceful feel.
Wave-wise, San Blas leans toward mellow, with breaks that roll gently over the sandy bottom. On good days, you’ll get soft, playful waves that suit beginners looking to practice in a calm setting.
The beach break occasionally offers both right and left-handers, but don’t expect anything too powerful. The depths begin shallow at about 1 to 2 metres.
Pro Tip:
Pack light, but don’t skip the water and snacks. The steep walk down (and back up!) makes carrying gear a workout. Ensure you have the essentials for when you need a break between hikes.