Southern Region, Malta

Hamrun Beaches

Overview

While Hamrun itself is an inland town in Malta's Southern Region and doesn't have its own beaches, it serves as an accessible urban base for exploring the diverse coastal offerings of the Maltese islands. From Hamrun, you can reach various types of beaches, including sandy stretches and rocky coves, by public transport or car. This makes it a practical option if you're looking for a local experience and don't mind a short journey to the sea.

Among the most celebrated beaches accessible from Hamrun is Golden Bay, renowned for its beautiful golden sands and clear waters, making it one of Malta's most iconic and popular spots. Another top choice, especially for families, is Mellieha Bay, Malta's largest sandy beach with inviting shallow waters. For a unique swimming experience, St. Peter's Pool offers a natural rocky pool with crystal-clear waters ideal for diving. A ferry trip to Gozo will reward you with Ramla Beach, famous for its distinctive red sand and stunning scenery. Many visitors also enjoy Paradise Bay for its beautiful setting.

Malta's coastline offers a variety of experiences, from the family-friendly amenities at beaches like Pretty Bay, which is relatively close to Hamrun, to more secluded spots. The waters around the islands are generally crystal-clear, making them excellent for swimming and snorkeling. While popular beaches can get crowded, especially in summer, the sheer number of coves and larger beaches means there's something for everyone. For a comprehensive look at all the coastal gems, be sure to check out our longer list of beaches in this guide.

FAQ

People Also Ask

Are there any beaches actually in Hamrun?

No, Hamrun is an inland town and does not have any beaches directly within its borders. However, several beaches are accessible from Hamrun. The nearest sea access point is about 1 km away.

What are the closest beaches to Hamrun and how far are they?

Some of the closest beaches to Hamrun include Pretty Bay (around 7.9 km), Wied Diegu (around 8.1 km), Playa Ghar Lapsi (around 8.7 km), and Wied Ix-Xaqqa (around 9.7 km). Exiles Bay Beach is approximately 3.3 km away.

How do I get to the beaches from Hamrun?

You can reach beaches from Hamrun using public transport (buses) or by taxi/ride-hailing services. For example, a bus journey to Mellieha Bay (one of the larger sandy beaches) takes around 30-35 minutes. Driving yourself is also an option.

What kind of beaches can I expect to find near Hamrun?

Malta offers a variety of beaches, including sandy beaches, rocky shores, and natural swimming pools. Near Hamrun, you can access man-made sandy beaches like Pretty Bay, natural beaches like Wied Ix-Xaqqa, and popular spots for swimming and snorkeling like Playa Ghar Lapsi. Some beaches have amenities, while others are more secluded.

Is Hamrun a good place to stay for a beach holiday in Malta?

Hamrun is an inland town, so it's not a typical beach holiday destination where you can walk to the sea from your accommodation. However, it offers a more local, urban experience and can be a budget-friendly base if you are happy to travel to the coast by bus or car. If your main priority is daily, easy beach access, staying in a coastal town like Mellieha, St. Paul's Bay, or near St. George's Bay might be more suitable.

Are the beaches near Hamrun family-friendly?

Yes, several beaches accessible from Hamrun are family-friendly. Pretty Bay is known for its family amenities. Mellieha Bay, though further out, is very popular with families due to its shallow waters. Golden Bay is another option with facilities suitable for families.

What is the water like for swimming at Maltese beaches?

The waters around Malta are generally known for being crystal-clear and blue, making them great for swimming and snorkeling. Water quality is generally excellent, with many beaches awarded Blue Flag status. Sea temperatures are pleasant for swimming from late spring to autumn.

When is the best time to visit Malta for a beach holiday if I'm staying in Hamrun?

The best time for a beach holiday in Malta is generally from late spring to early autumn (May to October) when the weather is hot and the sea is warm. June to August are peak summer months with the warmest sea temperatures, but also more crowds. For fewer crowds and still warm sea, consider May, September, or early October.

Are there sandy beaches near Hamrun, or are they mostly rocky?

While Malta has many rocky coastlines, there are several sandy beaches accessible from Hamrun. Pretty Bay is a man-made sandy beach. Larger sandy beaches like Golden Bay and Mellieha Bay are further north but reachable by public transport or car.

How crowded do the beaches in Malta get, especially those accessible from Hamrun?

Popular beaches in Malta, such as Golden Bay and Mellieha Bay, can get very crowded, especially during peak summer months (July and August) and on weekends. Some smaller, more remote beaches might be less crowded but may have fewer amenities. Visiting during shoulder seasons (May, June, September, October) or earlier in the day can mean fewer people.

Are there any quieter, hidden gem beaches I can get to from Hamrun?

Yes, Malta has some quieter, more secluded coves and beaches, though they might require a bit more effort to reach from Hamrun and may have fewer facilities. Examples include Imgiebah Bay (though remote) or exploring smaller bays along the coast. Armier Bay and Little Armier are popular with locals and can sometimes be less crowded than the main tourist beaches.

What are the local beach quirks or culture I should be aware of in Malta?

Maltese locals love their beaches, especially on weekends when families often set up for the day. Some popular bays have lidos with sunbeds and umbrellas for rent. While many beaches are sandy, there are also many rocky stretches popular for sunbathing and direct sea access. Toplessness is generally not permitted on Maltese beaches.

Are there accommodations near Hamrun that offer easy beach access or beach shuttles?

As Hamrun is inland, accommodations within Hamrun itself won't offer direct beach access. Some hotels in coastal tourist areas might offer beach shuttles, but this is less common for accommodations in residential towns like Hamrun. If easy beach access from your hotel is a priority, consider staying in a coastal resort town. However, from Hamrun, you can easily use public transport to reach various beaches.

Is it better to stay in Hamrun and travel to different beaches, or stay in a coastal town like Mellieha?

This depends on your holiday priorities. Staying in Hamrun offers a more urban, local experience, potentially at a lower cost, with good bus connections to explore the whole island, including various beaches. Staying in a coastal town like Mellieha provides direct access to a large sandy beach and a more resort-like atmosphere, but might be further from other attractions like Valletta. Consider if daily beach proximity or a central base for wider exploration is more important.

Are there any accessible beaches for people with mobility issues near Hamrun?

Malta has been improving accessibility at several beaches. Beaches like Mellieha Bay, Golden Bay, and Qawra Point have features like walkways, accessible toilets, and sometimes beach wheelchairs or hoists. While not directly in Hamrun, these accessible beaches can be reached by transport.

Local gems for everyone

Explore More Local Beaches

The fastest way to find the best Hamrun Beaches

Hamrun Beaches Map

Plan your day with the latest beach weather conditions

Hamrun: Weather Today

📅 Monday, June 9, 2025
Today is shaping up to be a fantastic beach day with plenty of sunshine. The air temperature will reach a high of 32.8 °C. The sea is pleasant, with a temperature of 23.5 °C and small waves. The wind will be light but expect some stronger gusts at times. The sun is strong, so make sure to apply sunscreen, as the UV index will reach 8.5.
🌬️

Air

Low / High21.7°C/32.8°C
Feels Like (High)35.5°C
🌊

Sea

Sea Temperature23.5 °C
Wave Height0.3 m
🌧️

Rain

Rain Chance0%
Rainfall0 mm
Rain Duration0 h
🌞

Sun

Sunrise / Sunset05:45/20:17
Sunshine Hours13.6 hrs
UV Index8.5
Cloud Cover0%
💨

Wind

Speed13.3 km/h
Gusts34.2 km/h
DirectionNW

More Beaches Nearby

Explore More

Malta
Malta Beaches
Southern Region
Southern Region Beaches