South Eastern Region, Malta

Kalkara Beaches

Overview

Kalkara offers a unique Maltese coastal experience, perfect for those seeking a quiet holiday with a local feel rather than a bustling resort town. It provides a peaceful atmosphere ideal for relaxation and exploring the historic waterfront. While not a primary beach destination, it is home to Rinella Bay, the only sandy beach within the Grand Harbour area, making it a convenient spot for a swim.

Our editor's picks highlight the variety of swimming spots accessible from Kalkara. For a quick dip with fantastic views of Valletta, the local beach of Rinella Bay is your go-to spot. Adventurous swimmers will love St. Peter's Pool, a stunning natural limestone pool perfect for a thrilling plunge. To experience the coast like a local, head to St Thomas Bay to escape the main tourist crowds. For a classic day on a large, lively shore, the popular Golden Bay is also within reach.

While Kalkara's charm lies in its tranquil, authentic setting, a wider array of coastal experiences is just a short trip away. From dramatic rocky coves to expansive sandy shores, the region offers something for every type of beachgoer. For more inspiration and to discover other beautiful locations, be sure to explore our complete guide to the area's best beaches.

FAQ

Is Kalkara a good place for a beach holiday?

Kalkara offers a unique and authentic Maltese experience, different from the island's main tourist hubs. It's ideal for travelers seeking a relaxed, quiet holiday with a local feel. The town itself is charming and historic, with a beautiful waterfront. While it has a small sandy beach, Rinella Bay, it's not primarily a beach resort destination with large, bustling beaches. It's better suited for those who enjoy a peaceful atmosphere, coastal walks, and easy access to historical sites like the Three Cities and Valletta.
Rinella Bay
Rinella Bay

Can you swim in Kalkara?

Yes, you can swim in Kalkara. The main swimming spot is Rinella Bay, which is the only sandy beach in the Grand Harbour area. The bay features clear, relatively shallow water, making it suitable for swimming. It has a central sandy section, a quieter quay, and a rocky area. The water is generally clean, though its proximity to the harbour means occasional boat traffic.
Rinella Bay
Rinella Bay

What is Rinella Bay like?

Rinella Bay is a small, charming beach mostly frequented by locals. It has a sandy area in the middle, a quay on one side, and a rocky section on the other that is dog-friendly. The bay offers beautiful views of Valletta and Birgu. You'll find amenities like a public toilet, a shower, and a few restaurants and take-aways nearby. It's a great spot for a relaxed beach day away from the major tourist crowds.
Rinella Bay
Rinella Bay

Is Kalkara suitable for families with children?

Kalkara can be a good choice for families seeking a quieter holiday. Rinella Bay's sandy part and shallow waters are suitable for children. A major family-friendly attraction in Kalkara is the Esplora Interactive Science Centre. However, for families looking for large beaches with extensive facilities and classic resort entertainment, other locations in Malta like Mellieħa Bay might be more suitable.
Rinella Bay
Rinella Bay
Mellieha Bay
Mellieha Bay

Can I find beachfront accommodation in Kalkara?

Yes, there are some accommodation options, primarily apartments and guesthouses, located directly on or with views over Rinella Bay and the Kalkara waterfront. These properties offer the convenience of being just steps from the sea. Booking in advance is recommended, especially for properties with direct sea views, as options are more limited than in larger tourist resorts.
See the full list of accommodation options here.
Rinella Bay
Rinella Bay

What's the best time of year to visit Kalkara for swimming?

The best time for swimming in Kalkara is from June to September. During these summer months, the sea temperature is warm and pleasant, and the weather is consistently sunny. Late spring (May) and early autumn (October) can also be good, with comfortable water temperatures and fewer crowds, although the weather is slightly less predictable.

Are there other beaches near Kalkara?

While Rinella Bay is the only beach directly in Kalkara, several other popular swimming spots are a short drive or bus ride away. These include St. Thomas Bay in Marsascala, which has both sandy and rocky areas, and the famous St. Peter's Pool near Marsaxlokk, a natural rocky pool popular for diving and snorkeling. Xgħajra beach is another nearby rocky beach option.
Rinella Bay
Rinella Bay
St Thomas Bay
St Thomas Bay
St. Peter's Pool
St. Peter's Pool
Xgħajra Beach
Xgħajra Beach

How do you get to Kalkara's beaches from Valletta?

To get to Rinella Bay in Kalkara from Valletta, you can take the bus number 3, which runs regularly and stops close to the bay. Another option is to take the ferry from Valletta to Birgu (Vittoriosa) and then enjoy a scenic walk of about 15-20 minutes to Kalkara. Driving from Valletta takes around 15-20 minutes.
Rinella Bay
Rinella Bay

People Also Ask

Is it better to stay in Kalkara or Marsaxlokk for beaches?

Choosing between Kalkara and Marsaxlokk depends on your preferences. Kalkara offers a quieter, more residential feel with one small sandy beach (Rinella Bay) and is very close to the historic Three Cities. Marsaxlokk is a famous fishing village with a bustling market and is closer to stunning natural swimming spots like St. Peter's Pool and Kalanka Bay, which are rocky. If you prefer a sandy beach in town, Kalkara is a better choice, but for dramatic rocky coves, Marsaxlokk is a great base.
Rinella Bay
Rinella Bay
St. Peter's Pool
St. Peter's Pool
Il-Kalanka
Il-Kalanka

What is the vibe and atmosphere like in Kalkara?

Kalkara has a tranquil and authentic Maltese atmosphere. It's a small, quiet waterfront town that feels more residential than touristy. The vibe is laid-back and relaxed, especially compared to bustling areas like Sliema or St. Julian's. Evenings can be lively in a local way, with residents enjoying the waterfront and Rinella Bay, sometimes having barbecues.
Rinella Bay
Rinella Bay

Are there any hidden gem beaches or swimming spots in Kalkara?

Besides the main Rinella Bay, a lesser-known spot is the rocky coastline around Fort Ricasoli and the area known as Wied Għammieq. These areas don't have sandy beaches but offer tranquil spots for a dip in the sea with beautiful views, away from any crowds. They are more suited for adventurous swimmers who are comfortable with rocky access to the water.
Rinella Bay
Rinella Bay

What is the nightlife like in Kalkara?

Kalkara's nightlife is very low-key and relaxed, centered around a few local bars and restaurants along the waterfront where you can enjoy a drink with a view of the harbour. It is not a party destination. For a vibrant nightlife scene with clubs and busy bars, you would need to travel to areas like St. Julian's or Paceville.

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The fastest way to find the best Kalkara Beaches

Kalkara Beaches Map

Plan your day with the latest beach weather conditions

Kalkara: Weather Today

📅 Saturday, July 26, 2025
It's a fantastic day to be at the beach in Kalkara! The air temperature will reach a high of 36.9 °C. With very little cloud cover, expect plenty of sunshine. The UV index will reach 8.5, so be sure to apply sunscreen. The sea temperature is a balmy 28.5 °C, perfect for swimming. However, the waves are a bit high at 2.1 m, so exercise caution if you plan on going in the water. The wind might pick up at times, so secure your belongings.
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Air

Low / High26.5°C/36.9°C
Feels Like (High)41.4°C
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Sea

Sea Temperature28.5 °C
Wave Height2.1 m
🌧️

Rain

Rain Chance0%
Rainfall0 mm
Rain Duration0 h
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Sun

Sunrise / Sunset06:05/20:11
Sunshine Hours12.8 hrs
UV Index8.5
Cloud Cover18%
💨

Wind

Speed22.9 km/h
Gusts50.4 km/h
DirectionW

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Malta
Malta Beaches
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South Eastern Region Beaches