Paola Beaches

Overview

While Paola is an inland town known for history rather than coastlines, it serves as an excellent and authentic base for discovering the beautiful beaches of southern Malta. Unlike the bustling tourist resorts in the north, the South Eastern Region offers a more local atmosphere. Paola's major transport links make it easy to reach the diverse coastal spots, allowing visitors to combine cultural sightseeing with relaxing beach days.

The nearby coastline offers a variety of swimming experiences. For a classic day on the sand, Pretty Bay provides a large, family-friendly beach right in the town of Birżebbuġa. In stunning contrast, St. Peter's Pool is a world-famous natural rock pool, perfect for adventurous swimmers and sunbathers who enjoy its deep, clear waters and flat limestone rocks. For a more local flavour, St Thomas Bay is a favourite with Maltese residents, offering a relaxed mix of small sandy patches and rocks. The most convenient option for a quick dip is Rinella Bay, the closest sandy beach to Paola.

The beaches in the south are generally more relaxed and less crowded than their northern counterparts, offering a glimpse into authentic Maltese life. They provide a charming alternative for those looking to escape the main tourist hubs. From iconic natural landmarks to quiet local hangouts, the shores near Paola are full of character. For more inspiration, be sure to explore our full guide to the region's many coastal gems.

FAQ

People Also Ask

Are there any beaches actually in Paola, Malta?

No, Paola is an inland town and does not have any beaches within its limits. However, it is located in the South Eastern Region of Malta, very close to several popular southern beaches, which are easily accessible by a short bus or car ride.

What are the closest beaches to Paola and how do you get there?

The closest beaches to Paola are St. Thomas Bay in Marsaskala, Pretty Bay in Birżebbuġa, and the natural swimming area of St. Peter's Pool near Marsaxlokk. All are typically within a 15-20 minute drive. Paola has a major bus interchange, making it easy to catch a direct or connecting bus to these coastal spots.

St Thomas Bay

Pretty Bay

St. Peter's Pool

How do the beaches near Paola compare to famous Malta beaches like Golden Bay?

The southern beaches near Paola, like St. Thomas Bay and Pretty Bay, are generally more popular with locals and offer a more relaxed, authentic atmosphere. They tend to be less crowded than the major tourist beaches in the north, such as Golden Bay or Mellieħa Bay. While the northern beaches are larger and have more extensive tourist facilities, the southern beaches provide a charming experience often connected to nearby fishing villages.

Which beach near Paola is best for families with children?

Pretty Bay in Birżebbuġa is the best choice for families. It features a large, man-made sandy beach with calm, shallow waters that are very safe for children. The area is also equipped with a children's playground, cafes, and other facilities right by the promenade.

Pretty Bay

Is Paola a good place to stay for a beach holiday?

Paola is not a typical beach resort town; it's a residential and commercial hub known for historical sites like the Ħal Saflieni Hypogeum. It can be a good base if you want excellent transport links to explore the southern beaches and historical sites while experiencing a more authentic, local Maltese town. However, if you're looking for a resort atmosphere with hotels on the seafront, towns like Marsaskala or Birżebbuġa would be more suitable.

See the full list of accommodation options here.

Is St. Peter's Pool a real beach? Can you swim and sunbathe there?

St. Peter's Pool is not a traditional sandy beach but a stunning natural swimming pool carved into flat limestone rock. It's famous for its crystal-clear, deep water, making it perfect for snorkeling and cliff jumping. You can sunbathe on the large, flat rocky areas surrounding the pool, but there are no facilities like sunbeds or umbrellas.

St. Peter's Pool

What's the vibe like at the beaches in the south of Malta?

The beaches in southern Malta, near Paola, have a distinctly local and more laid-back vibe. You'll find they are popular with Maltese families, especially on weekends, rather than being dominated by tourists. The atmosphere is less commercial and more connected to the daily life of the nearby towns like Marsaskala and Marsaxlokk.

Should I visit St. Thomas Bay or Pretty Bay?

Choose Pretty Bay for a classic, wide sandy beach experience with very shallow water, making it ideal for families and easy swimming. Opt for St. Thomas Bay if you prefer a mix of small sandy patches and flat rocks, a slightly more rugged feel, and opportunities for water sports. St. Thomas Bay is generally considered less commercialized.

St Thomas Bay

Pretty Bay

Are the beaches near Paola suitable for swimming?

Yes, the nearby beaches are very popular for swimming. Pretty Bay offers calm, shallow sandy shores. St. Thomas Bay has clear waters with a mix of sand and rock entry points. St. Peter's Pool is a deep natural pool with exceptionally clear water, ideal for strong swimmers and snorkelers.

Pretty Bay

St Thomas Bay

St. Peter's Pool

Can you find hotels with beach access near Paola?

While Paola itself is inland, you can find hotels and apartments with direct beach access or within easy walking distance in the nearby coastal towns. Marsaskala offers accommodation options close to St. Thomas Bay, and Birżebbuġa has hotels and guesthouses along the promenade at Pretty Bay.

See the full list of accommodation options here.

St Thomas Bay

Pretty Bay