Balluta Bay; one of Malta’s premier beaches

Set along the northeast coast of Malta lies Balluta Bay, a popular beach gem adored by locals and visitors alike, which sits between the coastal towns of Sliema and St Julian’s.

Despite its small size, spanning just 50 meters of golden sand, this charming bay boasts a big reputation as one of the island’s most beloved swimming destinations. As such it makes for a great coastal destination to check off if you’re holidaying in Malta, especially if you’re staying in the Sliema or St Julian’s area.

Curious to learn more about Balluta Bay beach in Malta? Of course you are! In this guide, we’ll dive into everything you need to know to plan a fun day of swimming at Balluta Bay.

Sliema and St Julian’s do feature a few popular swimming spots, however most of these are on rocky shores. Because Balluta Bay offers a sandy beach it does draw many tourists who prefer sand to a rocky coastline. In addition to the beach, the allure of Balluta Bay lies in its picturesque surroundings and colourful atmosphere. The bay is flanked by a scenic promenade, adorned with quaint cafés and shaded piazzetta, which is always busy. There’s also a very distinctive skyline, graced by the stunning neo-gothic Carmelite Parish Church, the elegant art nouveau Balluta Buildings, and a cluster of terraced townhouses in the local variant of Georgian-style architecture. This makes for a really charming backdrop to your swimming experience.

With its gently sloping shores and clear waters, Balluta Bay offers a safe and inviting environment for swimmers of all ages. The water depth increases gradually, providing ample space for both leisurely dips and those who are stronger swimmers. There are also rails leading to the beach that ensure accessibility for all, while regular updates on beach websites keep visitors informed about any potential hazards like jellyfish alerts.

Getting to Balluta Bay is a breeze, thanks to its convenient location and excellent transportation links. From Valletta, hop on one of several bus routes heading towards St. Julian’s, Pembroke, or Swieqi, all of which pass by the bay regularly. Taxis and ride-hailing services like Uber and Bolt offer quicker alternatives, while guests staying at our hotels Sliema, including AX The Palace, AX The Victoria, or Palazzo Capua, can enjoy a leisurely 15-minute walk to soak up the local atmosphere. Alternatively, speak to a member of our reception team who can book a private taxi for your convenience.

Beyond swimming, Balluta Bay offers a plethora of dining and shopping options along its bustling promenade. Indulge in delectable cuisine at nearby restaurants, kick back with a refreshing gelato, or explore other nearby beaches like Tigne Point, Għar id-Dud, Fond l-Għadir, and Exiles for more aquatic adventures.

If you’re staying in one of AX Hotels’ Sliema accommodations or our sister hotels in Valletta and Qawra, our dedicated team is here to enhance your Malta holiday. Partnering with trusted local experts, we can direct you towards more fabulous swimming spots beyond the beaten path. Looking for a thrilling watersports excursion or a mesmerising diving adventure? Simply share your preferences with us, and we’ll tailor recommendations to suit your preferences. We’re always happy to elevate your holiday experience with personalised service and insider tips on the best Malta has to offer.