Malta, a gem in the Mediterranean, is renowned for its azure waters, rugged cliffs, and vibrant maritime culture. While many tourists flock to popular beaches like Golden Bay and the Blue Lagoon, Malta’s true coastal magic lies in its lesser-known coves and beaches — many of which can only be accessed by boat.
For those seeking solitude, adventure, or simply a place to drop anchor and swim in crystal-clear water, this guide reveals the top 10 hidden beaches and coves in Malta, Gozo, and Comino that you can only discover by sea.
1. Fomm ir-Riħ Bay (Malta’s Wild Western Escape)
Location: Western coast of Malta, near Bahrija
Coordinates: 35.8997° N, 14.3536° E
Fomm ir-Riħ is a remote pebbly bay nestled beneath towering cliffs and arid karst terrain. Accessible with difficulty on foot, it’s far more enjoyable — and scenic — by boat. The water is deep and intensely blue, perfect for swimming and snorkeling with very few people around.
Why it’s special:
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One of the most secluded beaches in Malta.
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Perfect for diving, especially near the underwater boulders.
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Offers views of fossil-rich sedimentary cliffs.
Pro tip: Anchor near the reef to the west for shallow snorkeling in crystal-clear water.
2. Coral Lagoon (Il-Mixquqa)
Location: Mellieħa, northern Malta
Coordinates: 35.9904° N, 14.3633° E
A surreal natural cave with a collapsed roof, the Coral Lagoon is one of Malta’s most Instagrammed (yet oddly under-visited) wonders. From above, it looks like a hole in the rock; from below, it reveals a turquoise pool beneath limestone walls.
Why it’s special:
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Accessible only by kayak, dinghy, or small boat due to the narrow entrance.
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Great for free diving and swimming inside the cave.
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Less crowded than Comino’s Blue Lagoon.
Pro tip: Bring a waterproof flashlight for exploring underwater nooks inside the lagoon.
3. Il-Ħofra l-Kbira & Il-Ħofra ż-Żgħira (Delimara’s Secret Bays)
Location: Delimara Peninsula, southeastern Malta
Coordinates: 35.8274° N, 14.5550° E
Meaning “The Big Hollow” and “The Small Hollow,” these two adjacent coves are completely hidden by tall cliffs. They’re invisible from land and offer some of the calmest waters in southern Malta.
Why it’s special:
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Surrounded by clay slopes and fossil-rich cliffs.
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Ideal for paddleboarding or kayaking.
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Often completely empty — a private paradise.
Pro tip: Visit early in the morning for mirror-like water conditions perfect for reflection photos.
4. San Blas Bay (Gozo)
Location: Northeastern Gozo
Coordinates: 36.0751° N, 14.2826° E
San Blas is a small, rust-colored sandy beach bordered by fruit orchards and steep terraced cliffs. Land access is possible but difficult due to a sharp descent, making boat access preferable.
Why it’s special:
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Soft red sand — rare for Maltese beaches.
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Excellent snorkeling on the northern edge of the cove.
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Surrounded by Mediterranean flora including tamarisk and prickly pear.
Pro tip: Bring your own food and water, as amenities are often closed in the off-season.
5. Għajn Tuffieħa Cliffs (The Clay Terraces)
Location: Northwestern Malta
Coordinates: 35.9224° N, 14.3452° E
Beyond the well-known Għajn Tuffieħa beach lies a series of inlets beneath clay cliffs that are best explored by catamaran or motorboat. These smaller coves remain mostly untouched by tourism.
Why it’s special:
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Clay slopes offer natural healing mud.
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Birdwatchers can spot blue rock thrushes and kestrels nesting in the cliffs.
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Dramatic sunsets over the sea.
Pro tip: Use a SUP (stand-up paddleboard) to explore the inner coves from your boat.
6. Tal-Mixta Cave (Above Ramla Bay, Gozo)
Location: Nadur, Gozo
Coordinates: 36.0726° N, 14.2774° E
Not technically a beach, but this cave offers a commanding view over Ramla Bay and can be reached by boat followed by a short hike. From here, you can enjoy privacy and panoramic photo opportunities.
Why it’s special:
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Natural window view over Malta’s most famous red beach.
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Used by smugglers and monks in ancient times.
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Cool and shady retreat in summer heat.
Pro tip: Combine with a boat stop at San Blas Bay or Hondoq ir-Rummien for a full Gozo itinerary.
7. Santa Marija Bay (Comino)
Location: North coast of Comino
Coordinates: 36.0157° N, 14.3396° E
Overshadowed by the Blue Lagoon, Santa Marija Bay offers the same azure waters without the crowds. Its sandy beach and nearby caves make it a must-visit stop for catamaran tours.
Why it’s special:
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Calm anchorage even on windy days.
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Great for paddleboarding and swimming with kids.
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WWII-era shelters hidden in the cliffs.
Pro tip: Anchor here in the late afternoon to enjoy sunset with fewer boats.
8. Slugs Bay (Selmun)
Location: Near Fort Campbell, Mellieħa
Coordinates: 35.9764° N, 14.3847° E
This tiny, protected inlet is so named for the sea slugs that thrive in the rock pools here. It’s a great snorkeling location and rarely sees visitors beyond locals.
Why it’s special:
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Natural rock arches and shallow marine shelves.
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Ideal for marine biology lovers and underwater photographers.
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Only accessible via narrow hiking trails or boat.
Pro tip: Use reef shoes — the rocks can be slippery with algae.
9. Il-Qarraba (Behind Għajn Tuffieħa)
Location: Northern coast
Coordinates: 35.9229° N, 14.3418° E
Il-Qarraba is a rocky peninsula surrounded by secret swimming spots and small caves. It’s reachable only by boat or a steep descent from the top.
Why it’s special:
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Offers full seclusion, even in peak summer.
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Rich marine biodiversity around the rocks.
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Surreal coastal rock formations — a dream for drone shots.
Pro tip: Anchor on the western side for better snorkeling visibility.
10. Għar Lapsi (Southwest Malta)
Location: Siggiewi
Coordinates: 35.8292° N, 14.4368° E
This inlet is a local favorite, protected from wind and home to crystal-clear water, ideal for beginner snorkelers. The adjacent caves offer a calm environment to explore without strong currents.
Why it’s special:
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Underwater caves and marine tunnels.
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Great for scuba divers looking for shallow dive sites.
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Stunning views toward Filfla islet.
Pro tip: Combine with a visit to the Blue Grotto for a full-day coastal excursion.
Final Thoughts: Why Explore by Boat?
Visiting these coves by motorboat or private yacht allows you to escape Malta’s crowded hotspots and enjoy the archipelago’s untamed natural beauty. These places are:
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Undisturbed by development
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Rich in biodiversity
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Ideal for personalized, private experiences
Whether you’re after snorkeling, photography, or simply a peaceful swim, accessing Malta’s coast by sea gives you the freedom to discover hidden wonders at your own pace.
