Marfa Bay
Marfa Bay, Malta: Gateway to island adventures and home to the expansive Mellieħa Bay, offering sandy shores and stunning Mediterranean views.

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Enjoy calm waters and fewer crowds
Marfa Bay
Best Time
Enjoy calm waters and fewer crowds

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Marfa Bay, Malta: Gateway to island adventures and home to the expansive Mellieħa Bay, offering sandy shores and stunning Mediterranean views.
"Magical view of Comino and Cominotto."
🏖️ Beach Essentials
Pack sunscreen, hats, and plenty of water for a day at Mellieħa Bay. Beach chairs and umbrellas are available for rent.
🚤 Book Boat Trips Early
Secure your spot for Comino/Gozo trips from Marfa Bay, especially in peak season.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Mellieħa Bay (Għadira Bay)
Marfa Bay
Malta's largest sandy beach, perfect for swimming and sunbathing with shallow waters.

Boat Trips to Comino & Gozo
Marfa Bay Jetty
Embark on a scenic journey to the crystal-clear waters of the Blue Lagoon and beyond.

Riviera Spa Resort Views
Overlooking Marfa Bay
Enjoy breathtaking sea views of Comino and Gozo from this adults-only resort.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Beat the Crowds for Beach Bliss
Island Hopping Hub
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🏖️ Beach Essentials
Pack sunscreen, hats, and plenty of water for a day at Mellieħa Bay. Beach chairs and umbrellas are available for rent.
🚤 Book Boat Trips Early
Secure your spot for Comino/Gozo trips from Marfa Bay, especially in peak season.
🎶 Live Music Evenings
Some spots near Marfa Bay offer live music, adding to the evening ambiance.
☀️ Sun Protection is Key
The Maltese sun is strong; reapply sunscreen often, especially during boat trips.
Tips
from all over the internet
🏖️ Beach Essentials
Pack sunscreen, hats, and plenty of water for a day at Mellieħa Bay. Beach chairs and umbrellas are available for rent.
🚤 Book Boat Trips Early
Secure your spot for Comino/Gozo trips from Marfa Bay, especially in peak season.
🎶 Live Music Evenings
Some spots near Marfa Bay offer live music, adding to the evening ambiance.
☀️ Sun Protection is Key
The Maltese sun is strong; reapply sunscreen often, especially during boat trips.
🌊 Inflatable Water Fun
Mellieħa Bay features inflatable water games for added fun, great for families.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Marfa Bay is praised for its beautiful, family-friendly beach and its role as a convenient departure point for island hopping to Comino and Gozo. Visitors appreciate the stunning sea views and the range of accommodation options available. However, the Blue Lagoon can get extremely crowded, detracting from its natural beauty for some.
"A beautiful hotel, the rooms are top-notch, and the cleanliness is top-notch! The cleaning lady named Angela on the 4th floor did a fantastic job. Our room was clean every time, and the beds were made."
Christina Kallo
"Magical view of Comino and Cominotto."
Adriana Milena
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istvánné Varga
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
You can take a direct bus from Valletta to Mellieħa Bay (Għadira Bay). The journey takes approximately 1 hour. Taxis and ride-sharing services are also available.
Yes, Marfa Bay is well-served by Malta Public Transport. Several bus routes stop directly at or very near the bay, making it convenient to reach.
Yes, there is parking available near Marfa Bay, though it can get busy during peak season. Consider arriving early if you plan to drive.
The most popular way is by taking a boat tour directly from the jetty at Marfa Bay. Many operators offer day trips to Comino and the Blue Lagoon.
While Marfa Bay is a departure point for Comino, the main ferry terminal to Gozo is in Cirkewwa, which is a short distance away. You can often arrange combined trips.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, Mellieħa Bay (Marfa Bay) is a public beach and does not have an entrance fee. You only pay for optional services like sunbed rentals.
Prices vary depending on the operator and duration, but expect to pay around €20-€40 per person for a day trip to Comino. Booking in advance can sometimes offer discounts.
It's highly recommended to book boat tours in advance, especially during the summer months, to guarantee your spot and avoid disappointment.
The Riviera Spa Resort is a hotel. Day passes or access to specific facilities might be available, but generally, it's for guests.
Boat trips typically run from morning until late afternoon. It's best to check with individual operators for their specific schedules.
🎫 ☀️ Onsite Experience
Mellieħa Bay offers swimming, sunbathing, and water sports like inflatable water games. Boat trips to Comino and Gozo are a major attraction.
Yes, Mellieħa Bay is very family-friendly due to its shallow, sandy waters and inflatable water games.
Capture stunning shots of the bay, the clear blue waters, and the islands of Comino and Gozo. The sunset views are also spectacular.
Yes, there are several restaurants and cafes along Mellieħa Bay, offering a range of local and international cuisine.
The water at Mellieħa Bay is typically calm, clear, and shallow, making it ideal for swimming and families.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, you'll find several dining options along Mellieħa Bay, from casual beachside cafes to restaurants offering fresh seafood and Maltese specialties.
Expect a variety of options including Mediterranean dishes, fresh seafood, and local Maltese cuisine. Some resorts also offer diverse dining experiences.
Prices can vary. Beachside cafes are generally more affordable, while resort restaurants might be pricier. Eating away from the immediate beachfront can also offer better value.
Many restaurants in Malta are increasingly offering vegetarian and vegan options. It's always a good idea to check menus or ask staff.
Yes, several bars and cafes along the bay offer stunning sea views, perfect for enjoying a drink, especially during sunset.
📸 📸 Photography
The golden hours around sunrise and sunset offer beautiful light. Midday can be harsh, but the vibrant blue of the water is always photogenic.
The expansive beach itself, the boats departing for Comino, the views of Comino and Gozo, and the dramatic sunsets are all excellent subjects.
Drone usage in Malta is regulated. Always check the latest regulations and obtain necessary permits before flying a drone near beaches or populated areas.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive bay and sea views. A telephoto lens can be useful for capturing details on Comino and Gozo.
Generally, photography is allowed in public areas. However, be mindful of privacy when photographing people.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
For a change of scenery, short boat trips to Comino can be an adventure, but be mindful of the crowds at the Blue Lagoon. Many resorts in the Marfa Bay area are family-friendly and offer amenities that cater to children, making it a comfortable base for your holiday.
💑 Couples & Relaxation Seekers
While the Blue Lagoon can be crowded, seeking out quieter coves on Comino or exploring the less-visited parts of Gozo can offer more intimate experiences. Enjoying dinner with a view or experiencing live music at a local venue can add a special touch to your evenings.
💰 Budget Travelers
While boat tours to Comino can add up, look for operators offering competitive prices or consider group deals. Eating at local eateries away from the main tourist strips can also provide more budget-friendly dining options.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring the Islands: Comino & Gozo
For those seeking a more substantial island experience, a trip to Gozo is highly recommended. While the main ferry to Gozo departs from Cirkewwa (a short distance from Marfa Bay), many boat tours from Marfa Bay offer combined excursions that include a visit to Gozo. Gozo offers a more rural and tranquil atmosphere compared to mainland Malta, with its own unique historical sites, charming villages, and beautiful coastline.
When planning your island hopping adventure, consider the time of year. During peak summer, the Blue Lagoon can become extremely crowded, as noted by some visitors who found it 'super crowded, loud, and way too commercial'. Opting for an early morning tour or visiting during the shoulder seasons can provide a more serene experience. Remember to pack essentials like sunscreen, hats, and plenty of water, as shade can be limited on the islands.
Accommodation and Relaxation at Marfa Bay
Another notable option is the Labranda Riviera Hotel & Spa, also situated in Marfa Bay. Reviews praise its spacious rooms, attentive staff, and diverse dining options, including four different restaurants. This hotel emphasizes a complete holiday experience, from poolside relaxation to enjoying meals with a view.
For travelers seeking a more budget-friendly option, Malta generally offers affordable holidays, with some 4-star stays available at competitive prices, as highlighted by one travel deal. Whether you're looking for a luxurious adults-only retreat or a family-friendly resort, the Marfa Bay area provides a solid base for exploring the north of Malta and enjoying the coastal scenery.
The Beach Experience at Mellieħa Bay
Beyond simple beach activities, Mellieħa Bay is also equipped with inflatable water games, adding an extra layer of fun, particularly for younger visitors. While the beach is popular, visiting during weekdays or opting for early mornings and late afternoons can help avoid the peak crowds, allowing for a more peaceful experience.
Essential beach gear such as sunbeds and umbrellas are available for rent, ensuring comfort for a full day by the sea. Remember to stay hydrated and protected from the sun, as the Maltese climate can be quite warm, especially during the summer months.

Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit