A Guide to Marsaskala – Malta’s Southeastern Coastal Town

Marsaskala Map

Below is a Wanderlog map of the places in this post. Each place has a colour-coded pin. You can zoom in, tap a pin for details and open the map in the Wanderlog app to see where everything is before you go.

Is Marsaskala a Good Place to Stay During Your Holidays?

If you’re looking for a calm holiday away from a busy life, you will love Marsaskala. This is a relaxed place with a small-town feel. In the evenings, locals love to hang out on the promenade. You’ll see families, couples and friends enjoying the cooler night air, eating pizza and drinking sodas. And they’re sitting on benches, watching the sea. The promenade has been refurbished recently, so it’s even nicer for a slow evening walk.

The town is by the sea, making Marsaskala an ideal spot. You’ll have many chances to take lovely walks and swims. It’s a quiet place to relax, away from the crowded tourist areas.

But Marsaskala might not be for everyone. The town is in the southeast of Malta, away from the main tourist spots. If you’re relying on public transport, it might be difficult to get around the island, so it’s a wise idea to rent a car to visit other attractions. For the best price and choice, use Discover Cars. You can pick up a car at the airport and use it throughout your stay. Parking is easier here than in Sliema or Valletta, but it still gets quite packed.

If you’re after lively nightlife or a 5-star resort, Marsaskala might not suit you. The town is about quiet nights by the sea, not wild parties. Explore my comparison guide of the best areas to stay in Malta to help you decide on the most suitable town for your stay.

In short, Marsaskala is a lovely choice if you want a quiet, real Maltese experience. It’s perfect for those who want calm instead of busy tourist spots.

Is There a Beach in Marsaskala?

Marsaskala’s coast is mostly rocky, and you can swim anywhere except in the boat area. It’s a different kind of beach that some people love. The rocks are pretty, and there are ladders to help you get into the sea. If you love snorkelling, remember your gear. The waters are clear and full of local marine life. For more spots, see my snorkelling guide for Malta, Gozo and Comino.

If you prefer sandy beaches, there’s good news. St Thomas Bay is nearby, with two small sandy beaches. It’s not crowded with tourists, and locals love to go there to relax, swim and enjoy the sun. Both sandy areas are small. This one is about 7 metres wide, and you can swim from the rocks on its left. The other is more spacious and in front of Zion Bar. Both are shallow and safe for kids. Make sure you stay in the swimmers’ area and watch out for the boats in the bay.

Fun Things to Do in Marsaskala

Take a walk on the Marsaskala promenade: The waterfront here is amazing for slow strolls, and it has recently been refurbished. The path is full of palm trees and places to sit. It’s a spot to chill and soak in the local vibes.

Jump into the sea: Marsaskala’s rocky shores invite a refreshing swim. There are ladders to get in and out of the clear blue water.

Try water sports at St Thomas Bay: There are tours and rentals from St Thomas Bay. You can go kayaking or try paddle boarding. If you’d like a kayak trip with a guide, this Ultimate Kayak Adventure starts in Marsaskala. For something faster, there is a private jet ski experience along the Marsaskala coast. The water sports shop is still operating, but only in season. Also explore Munxar Point and the white cliffs of Munxar Bay.

Explore the underwater world: Marsaskala has a dive centre, Divemed, where you can join a guided dive or learn to scuba dive.

Go hiking: Marsaskala has some solid hiking options. A very enjoyable hike is from St Thomas Bay to St Peter’s Pool. Check out this hiking guide for the route.

Have fun at playgrounds with kids: If you bring kids along, they’ll have fun in Marsaskala. There are well-kept playgrounds for them to enjoy. One is near the promenade and another is just a short walk away.

My Go-To Food and Drink Spots

Here are my top three recommendations.

Zion: A bar and restaurant with a cool reggae vibe and a lovely green yard. Sit among the olive trees, enjoy tasty pizza, and check what’s on, because Zion hosts lots of music events, from reggae to dance. It’s a popular place. They also have vegan dishes, pasta and fresh fish.

Coffee Circus: This tiny café is a coffee lover’s paradise. Not just for their coffee, but for their sandwiches, salads and cakes too.

Nargile Lounge: For fans of Indian and Arabian food, this is your spot. Their dishes are top-notch, offering unique tastes you’ll love.

Marsaskala, Malta: Frequently Asked Questions

Marsaskala is a quiet place, and it’s real. It’s Malta without the crowds. If you’re curious about other towns in Malta, check out my posts on Sliema, St. Julians, Gzira, Ta’Xbiex, Msida, Naxxar and Mellieha. You can also find guides for Valletta and the Three Cities.

Thinking about where to base yourself? My Malta trip-planning guide compares the main areas.