San Ġwann Beaches

Overview

While San Ġwann is a quiet, residential town set slightly inland, it serves as an excellent and central base for discovering Malta's diverse and beautiful coastline. Visitors should know that San Ġwann itself does not have a beach. However, the nearest spots for a swim are just a short journey away, placing the island's best coastal experiences within easy reach and offering a peaceful retreat after a day in the sun.

From San Ġwann, you can easily access a variety of beach types to suit any preference. The closest sandy shore is St George's Bay, a lively town beach perfect for a quick and convenient dip. For a classic family day out, Malta's largest sandy beach, Mellieha Bay, offers vast shores and shallow waters. Those seeking dramatic scenery will appreciate the beautiful, reddish sands of Għajn Tuffieħa, a favorite among locals. For a truly unique swim, the famous natural rock pool of St. Peter's Pool and the stunningly clear waters of the Blue Lagoon on Comino island are essential day trips.

Beyond the editor's picks, the island’s popular sandy beaches in the north, such as the beautiful Golden Bay, are also readily accessible. Whether you prefer the convenience of a nearby bay, the adventure of a rock pool, or the expanse of a major sandy beach, San Ġwann's central location makes it simple to explore them all. For more inspiration, be sure to check out our complete list of the best beaches in Malta.

Top Beaches

FAQ

Does San Ġwann have a beach?

No, San Ġwann is a residential, inland town and does not have its own beach. The nearest coastal areas for swimming are in the neighboring towns of St. Julian's and Sliema, which are a short bus or taxi ride away.

How do you get to the nearest beaches from San Ġwann?

The most common ways to reach the nearest beaches are by public bus or ride-hailing services like Bolt or Uber. A trip to St. George's Bay or the Sliema coast usually takes 10-20 minutes, depending on traffic. Some parts of San Ġwann are also within a 25-30 minute walk to these bays.

St George's Bay

What is the closest beach to San Ġwann?

St. George's Bay in St. Julian's is generally the closest beach. It is a small, man-made sandy beach that is very popular with a younger crowd due to its proximity to the Paceville nightlife district.

St George's Bay

Are the beaches near San Ġwann sandy or rocky?

You can find both types nearby. St. George's Bay is a man-made sandy beach. Balluta Bay has a very small patch of sand but is mostly rocky. The long coastline of neighboring Sliema and Pembroke consists of flat rocky beaches, which are very popular with locals and feature ladders for easy access into the clear, deep water.

St George's Bay

Balluta Bay Beach

Is San Ġwann a good place to stay for a beach holiday?

San Ġwann is an excellent, quieter residential base for exploring the entire island of Malta. However, if your main priority is daily, easy access to the sea, you might prefer staying directly in a coastal town like Sliema, St. Paul's Bay, or Mellieħa.

See the full list of accommodation options here.

How far are the big sandy beaches like Golden Bay from San Ġwann?

Malta's largest and most famous sandy beaches, such as Golden Bay, Għajn Tuffieħa, and Mellieħa Bay, are located in the north of the island. From San Ġwann, this journey typically takes 30-45 minutes by car or taxi, and over an hour by public transport, which may require a bus change.

Golden Bay

Għajn Tuffieħa

Mellieha Bay

Is it better to stay in San Ġwann or St. Julian's?

Choose St. Julian's if you want to be in the center of the action, with direct access to St. George's Bay, a high concentration of restaurants, and the Paceville nightlife area. Opt for San Ġwann for a quieter, more affordable, and residential experience that is still central for exploring the whole island but requires travel to reach the sea.

St George's Bay

What are the Sliema rocky beaches like?

The Sliema coastline features a long promenade with stretches of flat, light-colored rock that are popular for sunbathing. Swimmers use ladders to access the deep, clear water. It's a very authentic Maltese summer experience, popular with locals, and you'll find many cafes and lidos (beach clubs) along the waterfront.

Explore More Local Beaches

📍 1.5km - San Ġwann

Balluta Bay Beach

Balluta Bay Beach is a small beach located in the heart of St. Ju...

📍 1.7km - San Ġwann

St Julian's Bay

St Julian's Bay is a beach located on the main street, making it ...

📍 2.3km - San Ġwann

Rock Beach

Rock Beach is a serene and picturesque location, known for its cl...

📍 2km - San Ġwann

Westin Rock Beach

Westin Rock Beach is a picturesque beach located in the central r...

📍 2.7km - San Ġwann

Stone Beach

Stone Beach is a popular spot for swimming and relaxation, known ...

📍 12.4km - San Ġwann

Golden Bay

Golden Bay is a picturesque beach located in Malta. It is one of ...

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