Mellieha Bay, also known as Ghadira Bay, is a picturesque beach located in the northern region of Malta, near the town of Mellieha. It holds the distinction of being the largest sandy beach in Malta, drawing in visitors with its crystal clear blue waters. The beach is renowned for its natural beauty and family-friendly environment.
The bay's shallow waters are safe for children and swimmers of all skill levels. The water remains ankle-deep for about 50 meters from the shore, and the seabed is sandy, making it comfortable to walk on barefoot. The bay is generally free of underwater currents and doesn't often experience rough seas, further enhancing its reputation as a safe beach. However, some seaweed may accumulate on the northern end of the beach, but it is regularly cleared to maintain the cleanliness of the beach.
The beach at Mellieha Bay is divided into three sections by short rocky areas. The middle beach is the most popular, boasting the widest and longest stretch of sand. Visitors seeking a quieter and more relaxing environment often prefer the right-hand side beach. Despite its popularity, Mellieha Bay is spacious enough to avoid overcrowding, except during peak summer weekends.
Mellieha Bay offers a variety of amenities for visitors. These include food and drink stands, restrooms, and the rental of chairs, umbrellas, and water sports equipment. Windsurfing, kite surfing, canoeing, and water-skiing are among the activities that visitors can enjoy at the beach. For children, there is a blow-up water platform for additional fun. Lifeguards are on duty during the day to ensure the safety of beachgoers.
Across the road from the beach is the Ghadira Nature Reserve, a sanctuary for small mammals, reptiles, and migratory birds. This adds to the natural charm of the area and provides an additional point of interest for visitors.
Despite its popularity, Mellieha Bay manages to maintain a high standard of cleanliness and has earned the status of "Beach of Quality". Its warm, clear waters are home to a variety of sea life, including small fish, crabs, and jellyfish, adding to the overall beach experience.
