Northern Region, Malta

Is-Swieqi Beaches

Overview

Is-Swieqi, a residential town in Malta's Northern Region, offers a peaceful retreat with convenient access to some of the island's most popular coastal spots. While Is-Swieqi itself doesn't have its own sandy beaches, the vibrant St George's Bay is just a short 10-15 minute walk away, making it a popular choice for visitors staying in the area. This proximity allows for a quieter stay while still being close to the lively beach scene and nightlife of nearby St. Julian's.

For those looking to explore beyond the immediate vicinity, Is-Swieqi serves as a good base. Among the editor's picks, Mellieha Bay, Malta's largest sandy beach, is renowned for its extensive facilities and is a top choice for many. The picturesque Golden Bay is famous for its beautiful golden sands and clear waters. Closer to Is-Swieqi, St George's Bay provides a bustling town hotspot, and for a unique adventure, St. Peter's Pool offers a natural swimming pool experience. Many visitors also explore the nearby rocky coastline of Pembroke, popular for snorkeling.

Beyond these highlights, Malta boasts a variety of other beautiful beaches. For instance, Għajn Tuffieħa, often found in top beach guides, offers stunning sunsets and is located near Golden Bay. Whether you're seeking expansive sandy shores or secluded rocky coves, our longer list of beaches in this guide provides more options to help you discover the perfect coastal experience during your Maltese holiday. From Is-Swieqi, these diverse beaches are accessible by public transport or car.

FAQ

Are there any sandy beaches in Is-Swieqi itself?

Is-Swieqi is primarily a residential town and does not have its own sandy beaches directly within its administrative borders. However, the popular St. George's Bay, which is a sandy beach, is within easy walking distance, typically a 10-15 minute walk from central Swieqi.
St George's Bay
St George's Bay

How far is St. George's Bay from Is-Swieqi and can I walk there?

Yes, you can easily walk to St. George's Bay from Is-Swieqi. It's generally considered a short walk, around 10-15 minutes from the central part of Is-Swieqi. Some apartment rentals even advertise being less than a 1 km or a few minutes' walk away.
St George's Bay
St George's Bay

Is St. George's Bay water quality good for swimming?

The water quality at St. George's Bay can vary. While it is a popular swimming spot, there have been instances where authorities have advised against swimming due to contamination, such as E. coli. However, these are usually temporary, and the Environmental Health Directorate conducts regular testing. It's always a good idea to check for any current advisories before swimming.
St George's Bay
St George's Bay

What are some other beaches I can visit near Is-Swieqi besides St. George's Bay?

Besides St. George's Bay, you can explore the rocky coastline and natural pools at Pembroke, which is also very close to Is-Swieqi and popular for snorkeling. Further afield, but accessible, are larger sandy beaches in the north of Malta like Mellieħa Bay (Għadira Bay), Golden Bay, and Għajn Tuffieħa. You can also find smaller coves and rocky beaches along the coast.
St George's Bay
St George's Bay
Mellieha Bay
Mellieha Bay
Għadira Bay
Għadira Bay
Golden Bay
Golden Bay

Are there accommodations in Is-Swieqi with direct beach access?

Is-Swieqi itself is a residential town set slightly inland, so properties within Is-Swieqi generally do not offer direct private beach access. However, many accommodations are within a short walking distance (5-15 minutes) of St. George's Bay. Some hotels located directly on St. George's Bay (technically in St. Julian's but very close) would offer more direct access.
See the full list of accommodation options here.
St George's Bay
St George's Bay

Is Is-Swieqi a good place for a family beach holiday?

Is-Swieqi can be a good base for a family holiday if you prefer a quieter residential area while still being close to a sandy beach like St. George's Bay. Many apartments in Is-Swieqi cater to families. For a wider selection of family-friendly sandy beaches with shallow waters, you might consider trips to Mellieħa Bay or Paradise Bay.
St George's Bay
St George's Bay
Mellieha Bay
Mellieha Bay
Paradise Bay
Paradise Bay

What's the best way to get to beaches from Is-Swieqi?

St. George's Bay is within walking distance from most parts of Is-Swieqi. For beaches further afield, like those in the north (e.g., Mellieħa Bay, Golden Bay), using public transport (buses) or a rental car are common options. Taxis and ride-sharing services are also available.
St George's Bay
St George's Bay
Mellieha Bay
Mellieha Bay
Golden Bay
Golden Bay

Are there quiet or less crowded beaches near Is-Swieqi?

While St. George's Bay can get busy, the nearby Pembroke coastline offers rocky areas and natural pools that can be quieter, especially outside peak times. For more secluded sandy beaches, you might need to travel further, for example to Imġiebaħ Beach, though accessibility can be more challenging.
St George's Bay
St George's Bay

People Also Ask

What is the vibe like at St. George's Bay?

St. George's Bay is a managed sandy beach located in a lively area, close to Paceville, Malta's main nightlife hub. This means it can be quite active, with beach clubs, restaurants, and water sports available. It attracts a mix of tourists, language students, and locals.
St George's Bay
St George's Bay

Can you swim at Pembroke Pools? What's it like?

Yes, Pembroke Pools are popular for swimming and snorkeling. It's not a sandy beach but a stretch of rocky coastline with natural pools and clear waters. It offers a more rugged and natural swimming experience compared to sandy beaches.

Is Is-Swieqi more for a party holiday or a quiet getaway?

Is-Swieqi itself is primarily a quiet residential area. However, its immediate proximity to Paceville, St. Julian's vibrant nightlife district, means that entertainment and partying are just a short walk away. This makes it a versatile base, offering peace within the town but easy access to lively entertainment.

Are there any beach clubs or facilities at St. George's Bay?

Yes, St. George's Bay has beach clubs and lidos offering facilities such as sunbeds, umbrellas, and access to pools, often alongside restaurants and bars. Some hotels in the area also have their own beach facilities accessible to guests or sometimes for a fee.
St George's Bay
St George's Bay

When is the main swimming season for beaches near Is-Swieqi?

The official bathing season in Malta, including for beaches near Is-Swieqi, traditionally runs from the third week of May to the third week of October. During this period, water quality is regularly monitored. However, people often swim outside these months too, as Malta has a mild climate, though water temperatures will be cooler.

What are the main differences between staying in Is-Swieqi versus St. Julian's for a beach holiday?

Is-Swieqi is predominantly a quieter, more residential area, offering a calmer atmosphere, while still being very close to the action. St. Julian's, particularly the Paceville area, is the heart of Malta's nightlife and entertainment, and can be much busier and noisier. St. George's Bay is located within St. Julian's but is easily accessible from Is-Swieqi. Accommodation in Is-Swieqi might offer more of a local residential feel, whereas St. Julian's has a higher concentration of hotels directly on or very near the bays.
St George's Bay
St George's Bay

Are the beaches near Is-Swieqi suitable for watersports?

Yes, St. George's Bay, being a popular and managed beach, typically offers various watersports activities. You can often find options for activities like jet-skiing, paddleboarding, and diving. The Pembroke coastline, with its clear waters, is also excellent for snorkeling.
St George's Bay
St George's Bay

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The fastest way to find the best Is-Swieqi Beaches

Is-Swieqi Beaches Map

Plan your day with the latest beach weather conditions

Is-Swieqi: Weather Today

📅 Saturday, July 26, 2025
Today is shaping up to be a very good day for the beach. Expect a hot day with a maximum air temperature of 35.3 °C. The sun will be strong, so make sure to apply sunscreen, as the UV index will reach 8.55. The sea temperature is a pleasant 28.3 °C, ideal for swimming. However, be mindful that the waves are high today. There will be some wind, which might be strong at times.
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Air

Low / High26.5°C/35.3°C
Feels Like (High)37.6°C
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Sea

Sea Temperature28.3 °C
Wave Height2.2 m
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Rain

Rain Chance0%
Rainfall0 mm
Rain Duration0 h
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Sun

Sunrise / Sunset06:05/20:12
Sunshine Hours12.8 hrs
UV Index8.55
Cloud Cover18%
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Wind

Speed27.5 km/h
Gusts59.4 km/h
DirectionW

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