Where to go in Malta This Weekend
St Paul's Bay
From sandy beaches and seaside swims to shopping, pool days, foam parties and authentic village escapes, discover where to go and what to do in Malta this weekend as locals prepare for the traditional Santa Marija summer break.
August weekends in Malta are made for enjoying everything the island has to offer. Whether your perfect day involves jumping into the sea, browsing shops before cooling off by a pool, dancing until late or exploring traditional villages, the island has plenty of ways to enjoy the summer.
This weekend is also the start of the famous Santa Marija summer period for many locals. The Santa Marija feast on 15 August, celebrating the Assumption of Our Lady, is a public holiday in Malta and is one of the biggest dates in the Maltese calendar.
For many people, the summer shutdown begins on Monday. Offices slow down, businesses take a well-earned break and locals swap their work routines for beach towels, family gatherings, long lunches and late-night outings. In other words, it’s officially time to switch off.
So, if Malta feels a little more relaxed over the coming weeks, that’s why. The island is in holiday mode, a time to chill, celebrate, swim, eat well and enjoy the long summer evenings.
Here are some ideas for your weekend plans.
For a proper beach day: Mellieħa Bay or Golden Bay
Mellieħa/ Għadira Bay
Mellieħa Bay: Malta’s sandy beach classic
If your idea of a perfect weekend involves a sunbed, a refreshing swim and not moving too far from the sea, head to Mellieħa Bay (Għadira Bay).
This is Malta’s largest sandy beach and one of the island’s most popular spots for a reason. The shallow waters make it ideal for families with children, while the wide stretch of sand gives you plenty of space to settle in for a full day of swimming and sunbathing.
There are also several cafés, restaurants and kiosks nearby, meaning you don’t need to pack an entire picnic basket to survive the day.
A little local advice: arrive early. During August weekends, parking spaces fill up quickly and the best sunbeds are usually snapped up before lunchtime.
Best for: families, easy swimming and a classic Malta beach day.
Golden Bay
Golden Bay: dramatic views and sunset magic
If you prefer your beach day with a little more scenery, Golden Bay is a beautiful choice.
Surrounded by cliffs and countryside, this sandy beach feels more like a coastal escape. The views are spectacular, especially towards sunset, when the golden light gives the bay its name.
There is a kiosk and a restaurant nearby, but you won’t find the same choice of cafés and eateries as Mellieħa Bay. Consider bringing snacks or planning dinner afterwards in nearby Mellieħa or Xemxija.
The sea can sometimes be a little rougher here, but the views are hard to beat.
Best for: couples, sunset lovers and anyone looking for that postcard Malta moment.
For shopping, cooling down and a pool day: Sliema & St Julian’s
Corinthia St George's Bay
Not everyone wants to spend their weekend searching for parking with a beach bag over their shoulder. Sometimes the perfect summer day involves air-conditioning, shopping and a comfortable place to take a dip.
That’s where Sliema and St Julian’s come in.
Spend the morning browsing:
- The Point Shopping Mall in Sliema
- The Plaza Shopping Centre in Sliema
- Mercury Shopping District in St Julian’s
- St George’s Mall in St Julian’s
Then swap your shopping bags for swimwear.
After exploring St Julian’s, you can head down to St George’s Bay for a swim, or treat yourself to a more relaxed pool experience with one of the day packages available at nearby hotels, including the Corinthia hotels.
It’s the perfect solution when the August heat is at its strongest: shop, cool down, swim and finish the day with dinner or drinks.
Best for: couples, friends, shopaholics and anyone who prefers comfort over sand.
Mercury Shopping Mall
For swimming, eating and strolling: Bugibba & St Paul’s Bay
Café del Mar
For a relaxed seaside day with plenty happening around you, head north to Bugibba and St Paul’s Bay.
This popular resort area is packed with swimming spots, from rocky bathing areas to small sandy stretches. You can easily spend the day hopping between the sea, cafés and restaurants without needing to get back into the car.
While Bugibba is a favourite with tourists, it is also very much a local summer hangout. Maltese families, couples and groups of friends regularly head here during the warmer months to enjoy the promenade and seaside atmosphere.
The recently renovated Bugibba square has become a pleasant place to sit with a coffee or an ice cream, while the surrounding streets offer a huge choice of restaurants, from seafood and Maltese favourites to casual bites and international cuisine.
During the day, the vibe is relaxed and family-friendly. As the sun goes down, the area changes character. The back streets come alive with bars, pubs and karaoke venues, many of which are popular with British visitors.
And if you’re looking for something more energetic, nearby Café del Mar regularly hosts pool parties, events and sunset sessions.
Best for: swimming, eating, strolling and a little bit of everything.
Saturday night plans: get covered in foam at FLIRT
If your weekend plans involve music, dancing and a little summer madness, Saturday night has you covered.
FLIRT Foam Party at Aria Complex is one of the island’s biggest weekly party events, bringing together music, pools and plenty of bubbles.
Expect:
- a huge outdoor venue,
- two dancefloors,
- a shallow pool where you can dance,
- high-powered foam cannons,
- DJs, LED screens and special effects.
It’s exactly the kind of over-the-top summer party that feels made for August in Malta, just remember that your outfit will probably not survive the foam.
Best for: groups of friends, party lovers and anyone looking for a memorable night out.
Sunday escape: Marsaxlokk & Blue Grotto guided tour
Marsaxlokk
After a busy Saturday, Sunday is a great chance to slow things down and discover a more traditional side of Malta.
A Marsaxlokk and Blue Grotto guided tour combines some of the island’s best-known sights with a taste of authentic Maltese village life.
Highlights include:
- visiting the colourful fishing village of Marsaxlokk,
- exploring the famous Sunday market,
- admiring the Blue Grotto and surrounding caves,
- enjoying spectacular coastal views,
- discovering a traditional Maltese village.
Marsaxlokk is famous for its colourful traditional fishing boats, known as luzzus, and its lively waterfront. On Sundays, the village fills with market stalls selling local produce, souvenirs, clothing and handicrafts.
The tour continues to the Blue Grotto, where visitors can admire Malta’s dramatic coastline and famous crystal-clear waters. Weather permitting, an optional boat trip through the caves is available.
The final stop takes visitors into a traditional Maltese village, with a guided walk through narrow streets, the village square, parish church and band club, offering a glimpse into the island’s everyday culture.
Duration: around 5 hours including transport
Includes: licensed guide, transport, guided visits and taxes
Not included: optional Blue Grotto boat trip (€10 per person, weather permitting), food, drinks and gratuities
Get your tickets here.
Best for: first-time visitors, culture lovers and anyone wanting something beyond the beaches.
Thinking of Comino? Yes, but prepare for crowds
No summer trip to Malta is complete without mentioning Comino and the famous Blue Lagoon.
The turquoise waters are stunning, and it is easy to see why this tiny island is one of Malta’s biggest attractions.
However, here comes the important August disclaimer: Comino will be busy… very busy.
With the Santa Marija holiday period approaching, expect crowded boats, packed swimming areas and plenty of people trying to capture that perfect Blue Lagoon photo.
It is still absolutely beautiful and worth experiencing, especially for first-time visitors, but don’t arrive expecting a hidden island paradise all to yourself.
If you go, head out early, plan your transport and pack plenty of water.
Best for: ticking Malta’s most famous swimming spot off your list.
Less ideal for: anyone looking for peace and quiet.
