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Dog Friendly Beaches in Malta and Gozo

Where Dogs Can Swim Around Malta and Gozo

Malta and Gozo have 16 officially designated dog-friendly coastal areas: 12 in Malta and four in Gozo. These are specific locations where dog owners can take their dogs to the sea, but rules differ at other beaches and swimming areas around the islands.

This guide brings together the official government rules and designated locations with practical information and issues raised by dog owners in Malta and Gozo. Below, you can find the official locations, understand where else dogs may be allowed to swim, and check the rules for sandy beaches, rocky shores and official bathing areas.

Last Updated: 12th September 2026

✍️ Written by Albert and Benjamin Magro, Malta locals sharing practical advice based on living on and exploring the islands.

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Table Of Contents

🐕 Quick rule: The 16 locations below are specifically announced as dog-friendly coastal areas. Elsewhere, the rules depend on the type of beach and whether the location forms part of an official bathing area.

At an official bathing site, dogs are not allowed in the bathing water. They may be taken onto rocky shores where the site is not Blue Flag, but they must remain on a lead. Dogs are also not permitted on sandy beaches under the bathing water regulations.

If you are unsure whether a particular stretch of coast forms part of an official bathing area, see our Malta swimming zones guide. We explain the different rules in more detail further down this page.

Official Dog-Friendly Beaches in Malta and Gozo

The Government of Malta announced 16 dog-friendly coastal areas in June 2023, comprising 12 locations in Malta and four in Gozo. The same 16 locations were subsequently confirmed in a parliamentary answer in July 2024.

These are the officially announced locations where dogs can swim. We will explain the rules for other sandy beaches, rocky coastlines and official bathing areas further down this guide.

North of Malta

  • Daħlet ix-Xmajjar, Armier
  • Ramlet it-Torri, Mellieħa
  • Imġiebaħ Bay, Selmun
  • Ramlet il-Qortin, Mellieħa
  • Ir-Ramla ta' Wied Musa, Ċirkewwa

Central Malta

  • Behind Splash & Fun, Baħar iċ-Ċagħaq
  • Tigné Point, Sliema

South of Malta

  • Rinella Bay, Kalkara
  • Żonqor Point, Marsaskala
  • St Thomas Bay, Marsaskala
  • Xatt is-Sajjieda, Marsaxlokk
  • Beach near the Sailing Club, Birżebbuġa

Island Of Gozo

  • Ras il-Ħobż, Għajnsielem
  • Il-Bajja ta' Gorgun, Mġarr
  • Il-Bajja tad-Dwejra, San Lawrenz
  • Il-Bajja tal-Qbajjar, Żebbuġ

North of Malta

Northern Malta has five officially announced dog-friendly coastal areas, with several concentrated around Mellieħa, Armier and Ċirkewwa. Be careful with nearby ordinary beaches: the dog-friendly designation can apply to a specific cove or section rather than the entire surrounding bay.

Daħlet ix-Xmajjar, Armier

Daħlet ix-Xmajjar is a relatively remote rocky swimming area at Aħrax, near Armier. You can reach it by car or on foot, and the rocks around the dog-friendly area are generally fairly level, although access can be more difficult for people with limited mobility.

A handrail also helps people enter and leave the water. As with the other locations in this guide, check the signs and the exact designated area when you arrive.

Ramlet it-Torri, Mellieħa

Ramlet it-Torri is close to Torri l-Abjad, or the White Tower, but the dog-friendly area does not cover all of White Tower Bay or the surrounding Armier beaches.

The designated location is a smaller inlet near the tower. Check this carefully on arrival, as local dog owners have also warned that people may mistakenly assume the main neighbouring beach is dog-friendly.

Imġiebaħ Bay, Selmun

Imġiebaħ is one of the more attractive natural options on the list and includes a small sandy section surrounded by an undeveloped coastline. It is also one of the dog beaches that dog owners in Malta mention positively.

The main drawback is access. The rural road leading towards the bay is very narrow, with limited room for vehicles to pass, and reaching the beach involves a further uneven descent on foot. It is therefore not the easiest choice for everyone, particularly people with reduced mobility or anyone uncomfortable driving along narrow rural roads.

There are no major beach facilities here, so bring water, shade, and anything your dog will need, especially during the hotter months.

Ramlet il-Qortin, Mellieħa

Ramlet il-Qortin is a small coastal cove near Armier Bay and was added to Malta's official dog-friendly list in 2023.

Because several popular swimming beaches are found around this part of Mellieħa, do not assume the designation extends to the surrounding Armier coastline. Use the specifically designated area and follow any signs present when you visit.

Ir-Ramla ta' Wied Musa, Ċirkewwa

Ir-Ramla ta' Wied Musa is a small coastal area at Ċirkewwa, close to Ir-Ramla tal-Bir and the northern end of Malta.

Central Malta

Central Malta has two officially announced dog-friendly coastal areas, at Baħar iċ-Ċagħaq and Tigné Point. Both are rocky rather than conventional sandy beaches and are comparatively convenient if you live around or are staying in the central part of Malta.

Behind Splash & Fun, Baħar iċ-Ċagħaq

The dog-friendly area at Baħar iċ-Ċagħaq is the rocky coastline behind Splash & Fun Water Park. Do not assume every nearby swimming area is included in the designation.

This is one of the larger dog-friendly coastal areas and is reasonably easy to reach by car or on foot. You can access the water at several points, with steps, ramps, and handrails available in parts of the coastline. However, some rock sections can be rough or sharp, so look for a suitable entry point rather than using the first place you reach.

Older local assessments have also noted that the dog-friendly area was not always clearly signposted. Because signage can change, check the exact designated section when you arrive rather than relying solely on an old marker or online map.

Tigné Point, Sliema

The official dog-friendly area at Tigné Point is under the pedestrian bridge, rather than the entire Tigné Point or Sliema coastline.

This is one of the more urban and accessible options on the list. Local assessments describe it as easy to reach on foot or by car, with parking nearby and steps that help people enter and leave the water. The rocky coastline also provides different places for dogs to enter the sea.

One useful feature is that parts of the area receive considerable shade, which may make it more comfortable than a completely exposed rocky coast during hot weather. However, sea conditions around exposed rocky parts of Sliema can change, so owners should still assess the water conditions before letting a dog swim.

At Baħar iċ-Ċagħaq, older reports mention limited signage. Use the designated area beneath the bridge, rather than assuming the surrounding Sliema shoreline is part of the dog beach.

South of Malta

Southern Malta has five officially announced dog-friendly coastal areas, spread between Kalkara, Marsaskala, Marsaxlokk and Birżebbuġa. Some are easy to reach, while others require more difficult sea access, so the experience can vary considerably by location.

Rinella Bay, Kalkara

At Rinella Bay, only the rocky section is dog-friendly, not the neighbouring sandy beach. Local information for Kalkara says the dog-friendly area is on the rocky side of the bay, so use the designated section.

Rinella is one of Malta's smaller dog-friendly areas, but you can reach it easily by car or on foot. A handrail is available for entering and leaving the sea, and the area overlooks the Grand Harbour and Valletta.

Żonqor Point, Marsaskala

The official location is L-Ilsien at Żonqor Point, on the rocky coastline around Marsaskala. Government records still list it as one of Malta's authorised dog swimming areas.

Żonqor is one of the larger rocky dog-friendly areas and is reasonably accessible on foot and by car. Previous assessments by the Commissioner for Animal Welfare described much of the rock as relatively smooth, with comparatively straightforward access to the water for both dogs and their owners.

As this is an exposed rocky coastline rather than a sheltered sandy beach, check the sea conditions before allowing your dog into the water.

St Thomas Bay, Marsaskala

The dog-friendly location at St Thomas Bay is on the Munxar side of the bay, not the entire St Thomas Bay coastline. The Commissioner for Animal Welfare identifies it specifically as Sant Tumas, in-naħa tal-Munxar.

Access deserves some caution. Older reports mentioned stairs and railings being installed, but more recent information from Marsaskala Local Council shows plans are still being developed to make the pet-friendly area at the innermost part of St Thomas Bay more accessible. We therefore would not describe this as one of the easiest dog beaches for people with mobility difficulties.

Check the signs and use the designated dog-friendly section, particularly because St Thomas Bay contains several different swimming areas.

Xatt is-Sajjieda, Marsaxlokk

Xatt is-Sajjieda is easy to reach from Marsaxlokk, but the shoreline itself can be awkward. Assessments of the dog beach have highlighted the large stones around the water's edge, which can make entering and leaving the sea difficult.

This can be particularly inconvenient for smaller dogs, and owners may also find it difficult to enter the water alongside their dog. It is therefore an official option, but not necessarily the most practical choice for every dog.

Beach Near the Sailing Club, Birżebbuġa

Birżebbuġa's official dog-friendly location is beside the Birżebbuġa Sailing Club, around Wied Buni Bay. Malta added it to its official list in 2023.

Be careful not to confuse this with Pretty Bay or the other nearby swimming areas. The designation refers to the coastal area close to the Sailing Club.

Island of Gozo

Gozo has four officially announced dog-friendly coastal areas, spread between Għajnsielem, Mġarr, San Lawrenz and Żebbuġ. As in Malta, the designation applies only to specific coastal areas, so don't assume every neighbouring bay or swimming spot also allows dogs.

Ras il-Ħobż, Għajnsielem

Ras il-Ħobż is a rocky stretch of coast between Xatt l-Aħmar and Mġarr ix-Xini. Divers know the area for its deep water and offshore underwater pinnacle, and dog walkers also use it.

This is more of a natural rocky swimming location than a conventional beach. Pay close attention to sea conditions and choose a safe entry point for your dog, especially because parts of the coastline are exposed and the water drops off quickly.

Il-Bajja ta' Gorgun, Mġarr

Il-Bajja ta' Gorgun is a small, relatively secluded rocky bay close to Mġarr Harbour. It sits away from the busier harbourfront and has a much more natural setting.

The shoreline is predominantly rocky, so suitable footwear can help owners when entering the water. As with the more remote dog-friendly locations, bring drinking water and anything your dog may need, rather than expecting full beach facilities.

Il-Bajja tad-Dwejra, San Lawrenz

Dwejra is one of Gozo's most distinctive coastal areas, and Il-Bajja tad-Dwejra is officially included among Gozo's dog-friendly locations.

However, Dwejra contains several separate swimming areas, including the Inland Sea and Blue Hole. The official designation we have verified refers to Il-Bajja tad-Dwejra, so we would not assume that every swimming spot around Dwejra is automatically dog friendly.

Check the local signs and use the specifically designated area when you arrive. This is particularly important at Dwejra because different parts of the coastline are used for swimming, diving and boat activity.

Il-Bajja tal-Qbajjar, Żebbuġ

Qbajjar lies on Gozo's northern coast, near Xwejni and just beyond Marsalforn Bay. It combines small pebbly sections with a mostly rocky shoreline and relatively shallow water near parts of the coast.

It is considerably less remote than some other dog-friendly locations and is reachable from either Marsalforn or Żebbuġ.

Be careful not to assume that Xwejni, Marsalforn and the whole Qbajjar coastline are one dog-friendly area. The official designation is specifically Il-Bajja tal-Qbajjar, so use the marked dog-friendly section.

What Dog Owners Should Know Before Visiting

Malta's official dog-friendly beaches vary considerably. Some are easy urban swimming spots, while others are remote rocky coves with limited facilities or awkward access. A little preparation can make a big difference, particularly during summer.

  • Check the exact dog-friendly area when you arrive. At some locations, only a particular section of the coastline is designated for dogs. Do not assume that the whole bay or neighbouring beach is included.
  • Take fresh drinking water for your dog. Several more remote locations have few or no nearby facilities, and seawater should not replace fresh drinking water.
  • Think about shade and the time of day. Malta can become extremely hot during summer. Early morning or later in the day is generally more comfortable than the hottest part of the afternoon, especially at exposed rocky beaches with little natural shade.
  • Watch the ground under your dog's paws. Rocks, concrete, tarmac and sand can become very hot in strong summer sun. Rocky coastlines can also be rough or sharp, so look for a suitable route to the water rather than assuming every entry point is safe.
  • Check the sea before letting your dog swim. Some dog-friendly areas are exposed rocky coastlines rather than sheltered bays. If the sea is rough or the entry and exit look difficult, it may be better not to let your dog enter.
  • Do not expect the same facilities everywhere. Some locations have steps, handrails or easier access, while others are much more basic. If you are visiting somewhere remote such as Imġiebaħ, it is sensible to bring everything you and your dog will need.
  • Rinse your dog after swimming where possible. Local veterinary advice recommends rinsing seawater from a dog's coat after swimming, particularly if your dog spends a long time in the sea.
  • Be considerate of other dogs and people. Even at a dog-friendly beach, not every dog wants another dog approaching it. Keep your dog under control and give other people and animals space.

The next section explains dog owners' legal responsibilities, including using leads, cleaning up after your dog, and the rules governing beaches and bathing areas.

Rules and Legal Obligations

Taking your dog to an official dog-friendly beach does not remove your normal responsibilities as an owner. Dogs must remain under proper control, and Malta's rules cover leads, dog fouling and the safety of other people and animals.

  • Keep your dog on a lead while on the shore and other public access areas. Malta's Control of Dogs Regulations include shorefronts within the public areas where dogs must be kept on a lead.
  • Always carry a dog waste bag. The law requires anyone in control of a dog in a public area to carry something suitable for removing dog faeces.
  • Clean up immediately after your dog. If your dog fouls the beach, shore or another public area, remove it straight away and dispose of it properly.
  • Do not allow your dog to stray or cause problems for other people or animals. A dog-friendly beach is still a shared public space.
  • Dogs that may be dangerous or cause harm must be muzzled in public. This applies where the person in control knows or suspects that the dog is temperamental, dangerous or capable of causing harm.
  • Follow signs at the location. Dogs must not be taken into areas where a sign or notice specifically prohibits their entry.

Breaching these rules can result in fines under Malta's dog control legislation. Separate bathing-water rules also determine where dogs may enter the sea and whether they are allowed on sandy or rocky beaches, which we explain in the next section.

Where Else Can Dogs Swim in Malta?

Dogs are not restricted only to the 16 official dog friendly coastal areas. They may also swim in parts of Malta and Gozo that are not designated official bathing areas, but it is important to understand the difference between rocky shores, sandy beaches, bathing areas and Blue Flag beaches.

Rocky Beaches

Dogs can generally be taken onto Malta and Gozo's rocky beaches, provided the area is not subject to another restriction.

If the rocky coastline is not an official bathing area, dogs may also swim there. Owners must still keep their dog under control, clean up after them and respect other people using the coast.

The situation changes if the rocky shore forms part of an official bathing area. In that case, your dog may be allowed to remain on the rocks, but must not enter the designated bathing water.

Sandy Beaches

The rules are much stricter at sandy beaches. Dogs are not permitted on sandy beaches or in their bathing water, regardless of the time of year.

The important exception is Imġiebaħ Bay, which is itself one of Malta's officially announced dog-friendly locations.

Do not assume that an empty sandy beach in winter automatically allows dogs simply because there are few or no swimmers present.

Official Bathing Areas

An official bathing area is not just any place where people happen to swim. These are designated areas where bathing water quality is officially monitored.

Dogs are not permitted to swim in official bathing areas unless the location has been specifically designated as a dog-friendly coastal area.

At an official bathing site with a rocky shore, dogs may remain on the rocks where the site is not Blue Flag, but they must be kept on a lead and out of the bathing water.

This distinction can be confusing because a rocky coastline may look perfectly suitable for a dog to swim from while still forming part of an official bathing area.

Blue Flag Beaches

Blue Flag beaches have additional restrictions. During the summer period, dogs are not permitted on Blue Flag beaches.

You can see which beaches currently hold the award in our Blue Flag beaches in Malta guide.

Because Blue Flag status can change from one year to another, check the current signs at the beach rather than relying entirely on an old list.

Bathing Areas and Swimming Zones Are Not the Same Thing

A final point that often causes confusion is that an official bathing area and a swimming zone are not necessarily the same thing.

Official bathing areas are locations where bathing-water quality is monitored. Swimming zones are generally marked areas that separate swimmers from boats and other marine traffic.

This means seeing swimming-zone buoys does not by itself tell you whether your dog is legally allowed to enter the water. If you are unsure, check whether the location is an official bathing area before allowing your dog to swim.

If you are planning other beach days during your stay, see our guide to the best beaches in Malta, Gozo and Comino.

Dog-Friendly Beaches FAQ

How many dog-friendly beaches are there in Malta and Gozo?

There are 16 officially announced dog-friendly coastal areas: 12 in Malta and 4 in Gozo. The current official list has been in place since July 2023.

Where else can dogs swim in Malta?

Dogs are not limited to the 16 official dog-friendly locations. They may also swim in areas that are not designated official bathing areas, as long as no other restrictions apply. Always check whether the particular stretch of coast forms part of an official bathing area before allowing your dog into the sea.

Are dogs allowed on Malta's sandy beaches?

Generally, no. Dogs are not allowed on sandy beaches or in the water of a sandy beach at any time of year. Imġiebaħ Bay is the exception because it is itself an officially designated dog-friendly beach.

Can dogs swim from rocky beaches in Malta?

Usually, but there is an important exception. Dogs may swim from a rocky coastline that is not an official bathing area, subject to any other local restrictions.

If the rocky shore forms part of an official bathing site, a dog may be allowed on the rocks where the site is not Blue Flag, but it cannot enter the official bathing water and must remain on a lead.

Are dogs allowed on Malta's Blue Flag beaches?

During the summer months, dogs are not allowed on Blue Flag beaches. Because Blue Flag status can change, check the beach signs and the latest list before you visit.

Is Gnejna Bay dog-friendly?

The main Gnejna Bay beach is not officially designated as dog-friendly. Gnejna is an official sandy bathing area, so dogs should not be taken onto the sandy beach or into its designated bathing water.

Rules may differ on the nearby rocky coastline outside the official bathing area, but the exact boundary matters. Do not assume the rocks beside Gnejna automatically form part of a dog-friendly swimming area; check the signs and location before allowing your dog into the sea.

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Official resources

For the latest official information about dog friendly beaches, bathing areas and the rules affecting dogs around Malta and Gozo, check the following government sources:

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Albert and Benjamin Magro, local Malta travel writers

We are Albert and Benjamin Magro, two Malta locals who enjoy exploring the island and sharing practical advice with visitors. Our guides combine local knowledge with first-hand visits to Malta's towns, beaches, attractions and accommodation areas. Follow us on Instagram, TikTok, YouTube and Facebook for more Malta tips, photos and videos.

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