Things to Do in MarsaskalaMalta's Best Fishing Village — Complete 2026 Guide
Everything to see, do and eat in Marsaskala — water sports, beaches, restaurants, day trips and insider tips.
About Marsaskala
Marsaskala (also written Marsascala or Marsaskala) is a fishing village and resort on the south-east coast of Malta, set around a long, narrow inlet that opens into the Mediterranean. It's one of the more authentic Maltese towns — less touristy than St Julian's or Sliema, with a genuine local fishing community, a wide seafront promenade, and a relaxed pace that visitors consistently describe as a highlight of their Malta trip. The town sits about 25 minutes by car from Valletta and 20 minutes from the airport.
Water Sports at St Thomas Bay
The best outdoor activity in and around Marsaskala is water sports at St Thomas Bay. The bay, about 1km south of the town centre, is one of Malta's best-protected natural bays — sheltered from open sea swells, with crystal-clear water and rocky limestone coastline. Malta Explorers operates from St Thomas Bay and offers jet ski hire, self-drive boat rental, kayak and SUP rental, guided boat tours to the Blue Grotto and south coast, Gozo & Comino full-day trips, and dolphin watching tours. You can book any of these activities online with instant confirmation.
Beaches Near Marsaskala
Marsaskala's main swimming areas are the rocky inlets along the seafront promenade and at St Thomas Bay. The bay has a mix of flat limestone rocks and small sandy patches — ideal for sunbathing and entering the water, with excellent snorkelling over the rocky seabed. Further afield, Marsaxlokk Bay has a wide, flat rocky shoreline and is popular with locals. For sandy beaches, the nearest is St George's Bay in Birżebbuġa (15 min drive). Pretty Bay in Birżebbuġa has a long sandy beach. The best sandy beaches in Malta are on the north coast (Golden Bay, Mellieħa Bay — about 45 min drive).
The Marsaskala Promenade
The 2km seafront promenade is the heart of Marsaskala's social life. It follows the edge of the inlet from the town centre all the way to the old salt pans and the small chapel at the tip. In the evenings it fills up with families, joggers, dog walkers and people sitting outside the bars and restaurants along the water. The promenade is flat and easy to walk, and gives good views across the inlet to the fishing boats and the hills on the other side. It's one of the most pleasant evening walks in Malta.
Restaurants in Marsaskala
Marsaskala has a good selection of restaurants along the seafront. Specialities include fresh fish — the local fishermen bring in swordfish, lampuki (mahi-mahi), tuna and octopus in season. Ta' Felieg is a long-established locals' favourite known for fresh fish. Il-Barri near the promenade is popular for traditional Maltese cooking. For something lighter, the gelaterias and pastizzerie along the promenade are open late and always busy.
Day Trips from Marsaskala
Marsaskala's location on the south-east coast makes it a good base for day trips. Valletta is 25 minutes by car — allow a full day. The Blue Grotto is 20 minutes to the west; it's best visited by boat (from St Thomas Bay, about 10 minutes on the water). The prehistoric temples at Mnajdra and Ħaġar Qim are a 25-minute drive. Marsaxlokk, Malta's main fishing village, is 10 minutes south. Gozo is reachable by ferry from Ċirkewwa in the north — about 45 minutes by car.
Water Sports at St Thomas Bay
We're based right at St Thomas Bay. Book any water sport activity — jet ski, kayak, boat tour, dolphin watching — online with instant confirmation. Available daily May–October.
See All ActivitiesMarsaskala Malta — FAQ
Where is Marsaskala in Malta?
Marsaskala is on the south-east coast of Malta, about 25 km from Valletta (25 min by car) and 20 km from Malta International Airport (20 min drive). It sits on a long, narrow inlet and has a population of around 12,000. It is one of the most picturesque fishing towns in Malta.
What is Marsaskala known for?
Marsaskala is known for its relaxed fishing village atmosphere, its long seafront promenade, fresh seafood restaurants, and proximity to St Thomas Bay — one of Malta's best water sports locations. It is less commercialised than the resort towns of St Julian's and Sliema and is popular with both locals and visitors looking for an authentic Malta experience.
Is Marsaskala good for families?
Yes. Marsaskala is one of the most family-friendly towns in Malta. The promenade is safe for children, the swimming areas are calm and shallow, and there are plenty of gelaterias, cafes and restaurants suitable for families. St Thomas Bay's water sports are also family-friendly — kayak, SUP and the 28ft boat tours are all suitable for children.
How do I get to Marsaskala from Valletta?
By car, Marsaskala is about 25 minutes from Valletta via the Coast Road (IC2). By bus, the 81 bus runs from Valletta Bus Terminus to Marsaskala town centre. The journey takes about 50–60 minutes. Taxis and Bolt/Uber are also available.