Explore the best of Mellieha in Malta: A Guide to Beaches, Nature & Village Charm

When planning your holiday in Malta, the town of Mellieħa is almost certain to make the list.

Spread across the island’s northern region, Mellieħa is blessed with a slower pace of life, dramatic cliffs, peaceful nature reserves, and some of the most popular beaches in Malta. Many travellers come here for its long stretches of golden sand, but there’s much more to discover beyond the shoreline.

This handy guide will get you acquainted with the best of Mellieħa Malta, helping you make the most of your time in this beautiful part of the island with ease.

Mellieħa’s town centre is a lively hub that retains the charm of olden Malta with the carefree spirit of a popular expat destination. Stroll its streets and you’ll find quaint cafés and a variety of Mellieħa restaurants serving everything from classic Maltese dishes to international cuisine. Overlooking it all is the Sanctuary of Our Lady of Mellieħa, a centuries-old church that offers sweeping views across the surrounding countryside and shoreline.

In summer, Mellieħa comes alive thanks to its long stretches of sandy beaches and bays. Locals and visitors alike flock here to spend their days swimming, sunbathing, and enjoying the wide choice of beaches in Mellieħa Malta. From family-friendly bays with shallow waters to coves ideal for snorkelling and water sports, the area has something for every beach lover.

Mellieħa is also renowned for its annual feast on 8 September, one of Malta’s biggest celebrations. Each year, the town centre transforms into a stage of colour and sound, with marching bands, street processions and live concerts featuring both local and international acts. As night falls, spectacular fireworks choreographed to music illuminate the main piazza.

Enjoy the best of Mellieha in Malta with our must-see highlights that will help you experience the best this village has to offer.

Għadira Bay, also known as Mellieħa Bay, is the largest and most popular sandy beach in Malta. With its shallow waters stretching far out to sea, it’s perfect for families with children and anyone who enjoys a safe, leisurely swim.

The beach is lined with loungers, umbrellas, and plenty of food and ice cream kiosks to keep you refreshed throughout the day. Water sports are a big draw here too, with jet skis, paddleboats and even an inflatable water park keep the energy high all summer long. Whether you’re here for relaxation or fun in the water, Għadira Bay is the ultimate beach in Mellieħa, Malta.

Tucked away near Ċirkewwa, Paradise Bay in Mellieħa more than lives up to its name. This small cove is framed by dramatic cliffs and blessed with crystal-clear waters in shades of turquoise and aquamarine. It’s a favourite for snorkelling, thanks to its rich marine life, and a peaceful alternative to Mellieħa’s busier beaches.

Stay until evening and you’ll be rewarded with some of the most stunning sunsets on the island, especially as the light fades over nearby Comino and Gozo. Paradise Bay is one of the must-visit highlights of Mellieħa, Malta.

Beyond the famous names, Mellieħa is home to some of Malta’s most scenic spots. Għajn Tuffieħa is known for its golden sand and dramatic clay slopes, offering a wilder beach experience with breathtaking views. Slugs Bay is a tiny, tucked-away cove perfect for those who want peace and solitude. Armier Bay, with its larger sandy stretch, is popular for picnics and barbecues, while Marfa Bay is an excellent starting point for boat trips to Comino. Each bay has its own personality, but together they make Mellieħa one of the island’s best-loved destinations for sun, sand, and sea.

Just behind Għadira Bay lies the Għadira Nature Reserve, one of Malta’s most important protected areas. Spread across 7 hectares of wetland, it provides a vital resting spot for migratory birds such as herons, flamingos, and warblers. Wooden hides and nature trails make it easy to quietly observe the wildlife while enjoying the tranquillity of the surroundings.

Managed by BirdLife Malta, the reserve also preserves the area’s historic salt pans, a reminder of Mellieħa’s connection to its name, which derives from the Semitic word for “salt.” A visit here offers a completely different side to Mellieħa, Malta.

For those who love the outdoors, Mellieħa offers rewarding hikes around Foresta 2000, a reforestation project that has turned former farmland into a haven of woodland and walking paths. Trails wind through pine trees and wildflowers, opening up to spectacular views over Mellieħa Bay.

Just nearby stands the Red Tower, also known as St Agatha’s Tower, built in the 17th century by the Knights of St John as a coastal defence. Its bright red façade is unmissable and climbing to the top rewards you with panoramic vistas across Gozo, Comino, and Marfa Ridge. It’s a must-do experience while exploring Mellieħa, Malta.

One of Mellieħa’s quirkiest attractions is Popeye Village, the original film set built for the 1980 musical starring Robin Williams. Today, it’s a colourful theme park overlooking Anchor Bay, with rustic wooden houses, fun shows, and plenty of activities for kids.

Visitors can watch live performances, explore the quirky buildings, or even take a dip in the bay’s clear waters. It’s playful, photogenic, and a true family favourite in the region. Whether you’re a film buff or just travelling with children, Popeye Village is a unique highlight that adds a touch of fun to any Mellieħa, Malta itinerary.

At the heart of Mellieħa town centre stands the majestic Sanctuary of Our Lady of Mellieħa. Built in the 19th century with the voluntary help of locals, it’s both a spiritual and architectural landmark. The honey-coloured Baroque façade opens into an interior rich with artworks, including the titular painting by Giuseppe Calì. But it’s the views from the church parvis that truly impress. From this hilltop perch, you can take in sweeping panoramas across Mellieħa Bay, the nature reserve below, and all the way to Comino and Gozo.

AX Hotels guests are invited to reach out to our dedicated team for expert guidance and tailored recommendations to make the most of your time in this historic city.

We can recommend attractions and experiences on your behalf through our trusted partners, ensuring you are treated to the very best that Mellieha, Malta has to offer.