Good to know
Good to Know
- St. Julian's offers a mix of sandy and rocky beaches within short walking distance or via public transport. St. George's Bay is the only significant sandy beach, making it very busy in summer.
- Rocky beaches are the norm in Malta; many have natural rock pools and are excellent for snorkeling. Wear water shoes — rock surfaces can be sharp and slippery.
- Sun loungers and umbrellas are typically available for a fee at full-service beaches; bring your own towel for free space.
- Most beaches have nearby bars, cafés, and restaurants within walking distance, making them full-service options for day trips.
- For families with young children or non-swimmers, investigate neighboring beach towns like Mellieħa (Malta's longest beach) or St. Paul's Bay, which may be more suitable and are accessible via short bus rides.
Beaches
St. George's Bay
- Proximity
- Central St. Julian's, walking distance from Paceville
- Designation
- family/full-service
- Description
- The most central beach in St. Julian's. Small and sandy — very rare in Malta. Offers sun loungers and umbrellas available for a fee, with free space to lay towels. Water is calm and clean with a lively but manageable atmosphere.
- Family Note
- One of the few sandy beaches in southeastern Malta, making it busy in season. Better suited to families with older children; busy urban setting with nearby nightlife.
Amenities
- Sun loungers and umbrellas (fee-based)
- Bars and kiosks (Rocky's, Open Waters)
- Restaurants and elegant venues (e.g. Paranga at Intercontinental)
- Nearby shops and Bay Street Shopping Complex
Balluta Bay
- Proximity
- Walking distance from St. Julian's center
- Designation
- quiet
- Description
- Scenic rocky beach within the St. Julian's area, part of a scenic waterfront branch with Sliema.
- Family Note
- Quieter alternative within walking distance; good for those seeking calmer atmosphere.
Amenities
- Nearby restaurants and amenities
Spinola Bay
- Proximity
- Within St. Julian's, ~10 minutes walking distance from center
- Designation
- quiet
- Description
- Small secluded rocky beach. Offers breathtaking views across Balluta and Spinola bays as well as the open sea.
- Family Note
- Quiet setting, great for relaxation and swimming from a secluded spot.
Amenities
- Nearby cafes, restaurants, bars, supermarkets
- Public transport access
Fond Għadir (Roman Baths)
- Proximity
- Accessible by public transport from St. Julian's
- Designation
- quiet
- Description
- Rocky beach famous for natural rock pools. Unique rocky coastline with rough surfaces near the sea; ladders available for safe entry. Popular for snorkeling.
- Family Note
- Not recommended for families with small children — sea deepens fast. Better suited to older children and adults.
Amenities
- Natural rock pools
- Nearby bars
- Easy public transport access
Dragonara Beach (Westin Dragonara Resort)
- Proximity
- Cape area within St. Julian's vicinity
- Designation
- full-service
- Description
- Two private beaches located at the Westin Dragonara Resort on the Cape. Includes casino, 5-star resort amenities, indoor and outdoor pools, and multiple dining options.
- Family Note
- Full-service resort beach; available to resort guests and visitors with appropriate access.
Amenities
- Resort facilities
- Casino
- Multiple restaurants
- Indoor and outdoor pools
- Cat sanctuary on-site
Best For Families
Families with older children rather than toddlers or non-swimmers. St. George's Bay is the primary sandy-beach option but becomes very busy. Most other beaches are rocky with ladder entry; suitable for confident swimmers.
Accessibility Note
Most rocky beaches have ladders or designated entry points. Free space available at most beaches, though sun loungers and umbrellas are fee-based at busier venues.
General Characteristics
St. Julian's is not abundant in sandy beaches. Most beaches are rocky coves with clear, gorgeous water. The main sandy option (St. George's Bay) is small but busy in season. Most beaches are easily accessible by public transport or short walk.
Sources cited for this category
These are the sources cited in this beaches research for this city. Individual figures may not each trace to one of them.
More About St. Julian's
Data last updated July 2026 · Verify anything important.