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Ghadira Bay Boat Rentals

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Ghadira Bay Boat Rentals (Malta)

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Ghadira Bay, also known as Mellieha Bay, is the largest sandy beach in Malta and a major hub for water sports and boat rentals in the north of the island. The bay spans approximately 800 meters and is characterized by its very shallow waters, making it exceptionally safe for recreational activities. Numerous operators along the shore offer small motorboats, kayaks, and paddle boats for rent, allowing visitors to explore the nearby coastline and the St. Paul’s Islands. Historically, the bay is guarded by St. Agatha’s Tower, commonly known as the Red Tower, which was built in 1649 to defend the northern approaches. Behind the beach lies the Ghadira Nature Reserve, a critical wetland habitat for migratory birds. The bay features excellent infrastructure, including jetties for larger excursion vessels heading towards Comino. Its geographical position provides shelter from most winds, ensuring calm waters throughout much of the year.

Best time to visit & climate

The most pleasant time to visit is May–Jul.

JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec
Avg °C151415161923262725232016
Rain mm74655133171141063829582

📋 Practical info

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What is this place?
Boat rentals at Ghadira Bay offer tourists the opportunity to enjoy water sports such as kayaking, paddle boating, and small motorboats. For the region, it is a key attraction for beach visitors who want to explore the sea.
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Visiting
The rental service is located directly on Mellieha beach and is accessible to everyone during opening hours. The boats can be seen from the beach, and availability can be checked on site.
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Where to view it
From the beachfront, you have a direct view of the rental watercraft and the open sea. The nearby promenade provides an elevated view of the bay and activities in the water.
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Local products
Beach kiosks and surrounding shops sell snacks, ice cream, and refreshments. Popular seasonal Maltese products include pastizzi (filled pastries) and Kinnie (local lemonade).
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Active season
The main usage period is during the warm summer months from May to October when the weather is convenient for water sports. In winter, opening hours are reduced or the rental is closed.
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Nearby
Combine boat trips with a visit to the Mellieha Parish Church and the Mellieha Grotto. Golden Bay beach is also just a short drive away.

Geography

Coordinates
35.96900, 14.35000

Facts

  • Ghadira Bay has a total length of approximately 800 meters.
  • St. Agatha's Tower (Red Tower) was completed in 1649.
  • The water depth remains very shallow for up to 50 meters from shore.
  • The Ghadira Nature Reserve is located just across the main road.
  • Mellieha village sits on a hill 150 meters above sea level.
  • The bay area was historically used for significant salt production.

Explore nearby

Notable places around

Għadira Nature ReserveGħadira Nature Reserve<1 km · NWExplore →
L-Aħrax tal-MellieħaL-Aħrax tal-Mellieħa2 km · NEExplore →
MellieħaMellieħa2 km · SEExplore →
Qammieh PointQammieh Point2 km · WExplore →
CirkewwaCirkewwa2 km · NWExplore →
Ghajn Tuffieha BayGhajn Tuffieha Bay3 km · SExplore →
Is-Simar Bird SanctuaryIs-Simar Bird Sanctuary3 km · SEExplore →
St. Paul's IslandsSt. Paul's Islands4 km · EExplore →

Route planner — Car & Motorhome

Where do you start? We build the route here, with stops and country notes along the way.

Vehicle
Only stops with (optional):

© OpenStreetMap contributors · OpenRouteService

Sights in the town Ghadira Bay Boat Rentals (10)

Għadira Bay

Sandy beach on Malta's north coast, popular with families.

Għadira Nature Reserve

Nature reserve with salt marshes, birdwatching spot.

🕒 Oct-May: Mo,We,Fr 13:30-17:00; Sa,Su 10:00-16:00; PH off; Se

Maya Beach

Beach section with sunbed rental and cafés.

♿💶

Tunnara Museum🏛 museum

Former artillery battery in Mellieħa, Malta, now a museum.

Red Tower

Built during Grandmaster Lascaris' reign, paid by the Università of Mdina.

Air Raid Shelter

World War II air raid shelter in Mellieħa.

Calypso's Caves

Archaeological site, linked to Homer's Odyssey.

Popeye Village

Former film set for Sweethaven town in the 1980 movie 'Popeye'.

View on Popeye Village

Viewpoint overlooking Popeye Village and the bay.

Santwarju tal-Madonna tal-Mellieħa

Church building in Mellieħa, Malta.

Sights nearby

Frequently asked questions

Do I need a license to rent a boat?
For smaller motorboats below a certain horsepower, no license is required.
What kinds of boats can you rent in Ghadira?
You can rent pedalos, kayaks, and small motorboats for excursions.
Is Ghadira Bay safe for watersports?
Yes, the bay is shallow and mostly protected from strong currents.
How much does it cost to rent a motorboat?
Prices vary depending on the duration, but they often start at €50 per hour.
Should I book the rental in advance?
In peak summer, it is advisable to book in advance to avoid waiting times.
Ghadira Bay Boat Rentals: where is it located?
Ghadira Bay Boat Rentals is located in Malta.
Ghadira Bay Boat Rentals: what is there to see?
Highlights include Għadira Bay, Għadira Nature Reserve, Maya Beach.
Ghadira Bay Boat Rentals: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is May, Jul.
Ghadira Bay Boat Rentals: why is it worth visiting?
Ghadira Bay, also known as Mellieha Bay, is the largest sandy beach in Malta and a major hub for water sports and boat rentals in the north of the island.
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Nature

Coral Lagoon (Malta) — Ghadira Bay Boat Rentals (Malta)
Coral Lagoon (Malta)
A large sea cave with a collapsed roof, forming a hidden lagoon.
Qammieh Point — Ghadira Bay Boat Rentals (Malta)
Qammieh Point
A rocky headland with great views towards Ghadira Bay and Gozo.
Golden Bay — Ghadira Bay Boat Rentals (Malta)
Golden Bay
One of Malta's most popular sandy beaches.
🗺️
Mistra Bay
A sheltered bay near St.
Għajn Tuffieħa Bay — Ghadira Bay Boat Rentals (Malta)
Għajn Tuffieħa Bay
A beautiful sandy beach surrounded by clay slopes and cliffs.
Blue Lagoon (Comino) — Ghadira Bay Boat Rentals (Malta)
Blue Lagoon (Comino)
Famous for its crystal clear, turquoise water.

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City Sightseeing Hop-On-Hop-Off Bus — Ghadira Bay Boat Rentals (Malta)
City Sightseeing Hop-On-Hop-Off Bus
An easy way for families to explore Malta's main attractions on an open-top bus.
Three Cities Ferry Service — Ghadira Bay Boat Rentals (Malta)
Three Cities Ferry Service
A ferry service connecting Valletta to the Three Cities (Birgu, Senglea).
Bouncy Castles at Ghadira Bay — Ghadira Bay Boat Rentals (Malta)
Bouncy Castles at Ghadira Bay
Inflatable water parks set up in Mellieha Bay during the summer.
Ghadira Nature Reserve — Ghadira Bay Boat Rentals (Malta)
Ghadira Nature Reserve
An important bird sanctuary and wetland, especially during bird migration seasons.
L-Rdum tal-Madonna — Ghadira Bay Boat Rentals (Malta)
L-Rdum tal-Madonna
A protected area known for its colony of Yelkouan shearwaters.
Marfa Ridge — Ghadira Bay Boat Rentals (Malta)
Marfa Ridge
A ridge at the north-western end of Malta, overlooking Comino and Gozo.
Foresta 2000 — Ghadira Bay Boat Rentals (Malta)
Foresta 2000
A reforestation project that is recreating a Mediterranean woodland, providing habitat for wildlife.
Popeye Village Fun Park — Ghadira Bay Boat Rentals (Malta)
Popeye Village Fun Park
The original film set of the 1980 Popeye movie, now a theme park for families.