Summer in Malta makes me want to slow down and savor every moment. I love to enjoy long, lazy days with my family and my pets. It is very hot here during the summer months. The sea is the only place where I feel cool and refreshed. I used to worry about leaving my dog at home. However, I found out that dogs like to splash in the water as much as people do. It is good for them to swim because it helps their joints and lungs. It also helps their little hearts stay strong. I believe that sharing outdoor adventures is the best way to bond with a furry friend.
You need to know the legal rules before you head out with your pup. Malta has very strict laws about where dogs can go. There are 16 official dog friendly beaches malta offers right now. You will find 12 of these spots on the main island. The other four are on the sister island of Gozo. I found a dog friendly beaches malta map once, and it helped me plan my trips. First of all, do not take your dog to a Blue Flag beach in the summer.
These beaches have a special flag to show they are clean and high-quality. Malta usually has 10 to 12 Blue Flag beaches every year. Dogs are not allowed on these specific beaches to keep the water quality high. If you break this law, the police might give you a big fine. For a first offense, you could pay between €232 and €4,658.
That would certainly ruin a beach day! On top of that, repeat offenses can cost as much as €11,646. Therefore, I always check if I am at the right spot before I let my dog out of the car. Plus, most of these spots are Free dog friendly beaches malta residents and visitors can access without any fees.
1. Imġiebaħ Bay (Selmun)
Imġiebaħ Bay is a special place because it is the only sandy dog friendly beach in Malta. Most people call it a “hidden gem”. I agree with that name because it is very beautiful and quiet. Additionally, the water is shallow and perfect for dogs that are just learning to swim. However, it is very hard to reach this bay. You must drive down a very narrow rural road near Selmun Tower.
This road is so tight that two cars cannot pass each other easily. The walk down is also quite steep. I do not recommend this beach for older dogs or people who have trouble walking. Once you get there, the view is stunning. There are no toilets or cafes at this spot. You must bring your own food and lots of fresh water.
2. Daħlet ix-Xmajjar (Armier)
Daħlet ix-Xmajjar in Armier is another great choice. It is very close to the main campsites on the island. The ground here is mostly flat rocks. This terrain is perfect for a dog to run around after a swim. I call these “post-swim zoomies”. There are handrails to help humans get in and out of the sea safely. This is a very remote and peaceful area. Later, you can explore the cliffs nearby for some great photos.
3. Tigné Point (Sliema)
Tigné Point in Sliema is very easy to find. It is located right under the Tigné Pedestrian Bridge. One of the best things about this beach is the shade. It is shaded for most of the day. This is very important because the Malta sun can burn a dog’s paws. Additionally, you get a beautiful view of Valletta from here. Plus, there is a large shopping center and many cafes nearby. It is a great spot for an urban beach day.
4. Zonqor Point (Marsascala)
Zonqor Point is in the south of Malta. It is possibly the largest dog-friendly beach on the islands. The rocks here are very smooth. Therefore, it is easy for dogs of all sizes to walk on them. There are ladders and handrails to help you get into the water. It is a very spacious and quiet area. Similarly, it is perfect for families who want to swim together with their pets.
5. Rinella Bay (Kalkara)
Rinella Bay has a special section for dogs. Though this section is the smallest on the island, it has a great view of the Grand Harbour. It is very easy to get there by car or on foot. There is parking nearby, which makes it very convenient. The water is sheltered, so it is perfect for dogs that are not very brave in the waves. On top of that, there are a couple of restaurants in the area if you get hungry.
6. Horizon Bay (Gozo)
Horizon Bay is in Gozo near Xwejni Bay. It is one of only four official dog beaches on the sister island. This rocky beach is right under the Horizon Restaurant. It is the most accessible dog beach in Gozo. You can park your car just across the road. Additionally, the area is famous for its unique salt pans. It is a very quiet and relaxing place to swim.
7. Baħar iċ-Ċagħaq
Baħar iċ-Ċagħaq has a dog-friendly area behind the Splash & Fun Water Park. It is a very popular spot for local pet owners. There is a lot of space for dogs to play. However, you must be careful because some of the rocks are very sharp. There are several ramps and railings to help humans get into the water. It is a family-friendly atmosphere that I enjoy very much.
8. Ramlet it-Torri (Mellieħa)
Ramlet it-Torri is located near the 17th-century White Tower. This is a quiet and less-crowded spot. I love to go there for the clear water and the historical view. There is a car park about 50 meters away from the beach. However, there are no signs to show it is a dog beach, so you must know where to go. The ground can be uneven, so watch your step.
9. Ir-Ramla ta’ Wied Musa (Ċirkewwa)
Ir-Ramla ta’ Wied Musa is right next to the Gozo ferry terminal. It is a small cove with crystal-clear water. People often use this spot before or after they take the ferry to Gozo. It is a convenient place for a quick dip. Similarly, the views of the sea are very pretty.
10. Ramlet il-Qortin (Mellieħa)
Ramlet il-Qortin is another quiet cove in the north. It is near an old historical building from the year 1715. Local residents prefer this beach because it is very peaceful. First of all, it is a great place to escape the big crowds. The water is very clean and clear.
11. Qui-Si-Sana (Sliema)
Qui-Si-Sana is an urban rocky shore in Sliema. It is very well-kept and easy to reach. Plus, it is close to many restaurants and cafes. I like this spot because I can get a coffee or lunch right after my dog has finished his swim. It is a social hub for pet owners in the central area.
12. St. Thomas Bay (Marsascala)
St. Thomas Bay has a designated dog area on the Munxar side. The water here is very shallow and calm. Therefore, it is the best place for small breeds or dogs that are new to swimming. Plus, there is plenty of space for owners to relax on the rocks. It is a very welcoming environment.
13. Xatt is-Sajjieda (Marsaxlokk)
Xatt is-Sajjieda is in the famous fishing village of Marsaxlokk. It is a quiet spot with very clear water. However, there are many large stones on the beach. This can make it hard for owners to swim with their pets. I think it is better for larger dogs that are confident on rough ground. You should avoid this spot when it is very hot because there is not much shade.
14. Il-Magħluq (Marsaxlokk)
Il-Magħluq is another official spot in the south. It is a secluded area with a peaceful environment. Though it is a bit rugged, it offers a nice escape from the busier parts of the coast. I find it to be a very calm place for a morning walk and swim.
15. Birżebbuġa Sailing Club
Birżebbuġa has a dog area located next to the local sailing club. This spot serves pet owners in the southernmost part of the island. It is a simple rocky area where dogs can legally swim. I think it is a great local resource for people living in that area.
16. Mġarr ix-Xini (Gozo)
Mġarr ix-Xini is a very famous and beautiful inlet in Gozo. It has a pebbly beach and crystal-clear water. I remember that a famous movie with Angelina Jolie was filmed here. However, access can be a bit tricky. You must walk a long way from the parking area to reach the water. It is a very peaceful and quiet spot once you arrive.
17. Ras il-Ħobż (Gozo)
Ras il-Ħobż is also known as Trejqet Mġarr ix-Xini. It is a popular spot for divers too. The rocky terrain is good for dogs that like to explore. Plus, it offers a different view of the Gozo coastline. It is one of the four official spots in Gozo.
18. Dwejra (Gozo)
Dwejra is home to the area where the Azure Window used to be. There are many coastal rocks where dogs can enjoy the sea. It is a very dramatic and beautiful landscape. However, you must be very careful of the strong currents in this area. I only let my dog swim here when the sea is very calm.
Dog friendly beaches malta 2025 rules say that you must always clean up after your pet. I always carry a waste bag with me. Similarly, you must keep your dog on a leash when they are not in the water. This keeps everyone safe and happy.
Gradually, I learned how to get around the island with my pup. I do not recommend using the public bus for large dogs because they are only allowed in carriers. However, small dogs can ride if they are in a bag or a carrier. Plus, you can use a ferry to cross between Valletta and Sliema. Dogs can travel for free on these ferries if they are on a leash. Also, the Gozo Fast Ferry allows dogs. I often use a taxi service like eCabs because they have a special “Pet” category. This is the most flexible way to reach remote beaches.
If you are coming from another country, you need to follow some health rules. Your dog must have a valid EU Pet Passport. On top of that, they need an ISO 15-digit microchip. They also need a rabies vaccine and a tapeworm treatment. I suggest that you check the official website for all the documents you need.
I always bring a bag of essentials for my beach days. First of all, you need a portable water bottle and a bowl. Dogs get very thirsty in the sun. Additionally, I bring a cooling vest or a damp towel. I also recommend a sun hat for your dog if they have a flat face or thick fur. You must check the ground before you let your dog walk. I use the 5-second hand test. If the pavement is too hot for my hand, it is too hot for my dog’s paws. Finally, I always bring an umbrella for shade.
Are there any other places where dogs can swim? Yes, but it is a bit confusing. Dogs can be on the rocks of most official bathing sites, but they cannot enter the water there. There are 87 official bathing areas in Malta and Gozo. I think it is better to stick to the 16 official dog beaches to avoid any trouble. I remember a username “bossehotdog” on Instagram who shares great poodles adventures in these spots. They always look like they are having so much fun!
I believe that Malta is a great place for a pet holiday if you plan ahead. The best time to visit is in the spring or the autumn. The weather is cooler then, and the beaches are not so crowded. Though it can be a lot of work, it is worth it to see my dog happy in the waves. Why wait? Start planning your trip today.
Swimming with a dog is like sharing a dance with a friend in the ocean. It is a moment of pure joy and freedom that you will never forget.
Numerical Summary Table:
| Stat | Value |
|---|---|
| Official Dog Beaches | 16 |
| Dog Beaches in Malta | 12 |
| Dog Beaches in Gozo | 4 |
| Official Bathing Sites | 87 |
| Fine for 1st Offense | €232 – €4,658 |
| Max Summer Temp | >40°C |
| Hand Test Duration | 5-7 Seconds |
| Microchip Digits | 15 |
FAQ
Are dogs allowed on beaches in Malta?
Yes, you can take them to the coast. However, they are strictly prohibited on Blue Flag beaches and almost all sandy areas during the summer. You must stick to the 16 official dog friendly beaches malta provides to stay legal. Though some people risk other spots, the police can issue massive fines if they catch you.
Which beach dogs are allowed?
You are allowed to take your pet to designated spots like Rinella Bay, Tigne Point, and Zonqor Point. Additionally, you can find official zones in Gozo like Xwejni Bay and Dwejra. First of all, always look for the official government signs at the entrance of the bay.
What beach is the most dog-friendly?
Imġiebaħ Bay is often called the most friendly because it is the only official sandy dog beach on the islands. Most other spots are rocky and can be hard on a pet’s feet. Therefore, if your dog loves to dig and run on soft ground, this is the place to be.
Which beach is best for dogs?
The best spot depends on what your pet needs. St. Thomas Bay is excellent for small breeds because the water is shallow and calm. On top of that, Zonqor Point is the best choice for families who need a lot of space. If you have a heat-sensitive dog, Tigné Point is the best because it has natural shade for most of the day.
Can I take my dog on a beach?
You can take them if the beach is one of the 16 official zones. Similarly, you can walk them on rocky coastlines that are not human bathing areas. But you must keep them on a leash when they are on the shore. A quick dip in the sea? Only at the official spots.
Which side of Malta has the best beaches?
The North has the most variety and includes the famous Imġiebaħ Bay. However, the South has the largest rocky areas where dogs can run freely. Later, you might decide that Gozo has the most peaceful and secluded options.
Is it okay to bring my dog to the beach?
It is perfectly okay as long as you follow the local rules. You must clean up all waste immediately and carry waste bags at all times. Plus, you need to ensure your dog does not bother other people who are trying to relax.
Is it safe to walk your dog on the beach?
It is safe if you prepare for the environment. You must watch out for sharp rocks or sea urchins that could hurt their paws. Additionally, the sun is very strong in the Mediterranean. I suggest that you avoid the beach during the hottest hours of the afternoon.
Can a dog swim in the beach?
Dogs can only swim in the water at the 16 official dog beaches. They are not allowed in the water at any of the 87 official human bathing zones. If you break this rule, you could pay a fine as high as €4,658 for a first offense.
What is the 7 second rule for dogs?
This is a critical safety test for the hot Malta sun. You must press the back of your hand against the pavement or rocks for seven seconds. If it is too hot for your skin, it is too hot for your dog’s paws. Therefore, you should wait until the ground cools down.
Concluding Words
Malta is a beautiful place for a pet holiday if you stick to the 16 official dog friendly beaches malta offers. You must follow the rules by keeping your pup on a leash on land and cleaning up all waste to avoid heavy fines. Though most spots are rocky, Imġiebaħ Bay provides a rare sandy escape for active pets. Plan your trip during the cooler shoulder seasons for the best experience. Always bring fresh water and shade to keep your furry friend safe and happy in the sun.
