There is no denying that summer is the best time to swim in Malta and Gozo, when the sea finally warms up to that perfect temperature. The catch? Everyone else knows it too. Come July, the best beaches in Malta and Gozo are packed with locals and tourists alike, and those dreamy photos of empty bays you saw online will feel like false advertising.

The smart move is to beat the rush. The last few weeks of spring, just before peak season kicks off, are when the islands' swimming spots are at their absolute finest. Yes, the water might still be a touch brisk, but you will have space to breathe, room for your towel and no queue for that perfect photo. Here are six of the best swimming spots in Malta and Gozo to tick off before the summer crowds descend.

1. Blue Lagoon, Comino

Probably the most famous swimming spot in the Maltese Islands, the Blue Lagoon lives up to its name with the clearest, brightest turquoise waters in the archipelago, glistening over a seabed of white sand. The surrounding rock formations are dotted with wild herbs, including the cumin that gave Comino its name.

Here is what you need to know for 2026: anyone stepping ashore at the Blue Lagoon must now book a free visitor pass in advance through the official online system at bluelagooncomino.mt. You choose one of three daily time slots, receive a QR code and get a wristband on arrival. The system caps visitors at 4,000 at any one time, a huge improvement on the 12,000 plus who crammed in at peak hours before it was introduced. Visiting in late spring means quieter slots, easier bookings and a far more peaceful lagoon. Fancy staying overnight? Camping on Comino is only allowed at the designated Tal Ful campsite, subject to Environment and Resources Authority rules.

2. Dwejra, Gozo

Dwejra was once home to the iconic Azure Window, which sadly collapsed in March 2017. Do not let that put you off, because this corner of Gozo remains one of the most dramatic swimming spots in the Mediterranean.

The Inland Sea is a shallow lagoon connected to the open water by a natural tunnel through the cliffs, perfect for a calm dip and a boat trip through the rock. Nearby, the famous Blue Hole plunges around 15 metres deep and turns into a swimming pool of sorts in calm weather, making it a magnet for divers and confident swimmers. Visit before peak season and you might just have this geological wonder to yourself.

3. Golden Bay, Malta

Golden Bay is perfect for bathers who love a lazy day at the beach. The soft golden sand is ideal for sunbathing, while the shallow waters suit families, water games and gentle wading under the sun.

Watersports and canoe rentals operate here too, and in late spring you will not be waiting hours for your turn. Start your day early, preferably on a weekday, to experience Golden Bay at its very best. If you fancy a wilder alternative, the neighbouring Ghajn Tuffieha bay is a short walk away over the headland

4. Ramla l-Hamra, Gozo

One could say Ramla l-Hamra in Xaghra is the Gozitan answer to Golden Bay. Gozo's largest sandy beach is famous for its rich red sand, deeper in colour than anything you will find in Malta, and it is framed by lush greenery fed by the nearby Ramla Valley. The shallow swimming area makes it a favourite with families.

Another perk of visiting before summer is exploring the famous Tal Mixta Cave without queueing for that breathtaking view over the bay. It is the perfect spot for a small picnic and a few enviable photos, minus the uninvited guests.

5. St Peter's Pool, Malta

Come summer, this spectacular natural pool at the tip of Delimara, near Marsaxlokk, becomes a hotspot for show off divers leaping from its limestone ledges. Hard to believe it was considered a secluded spot until a few years ago. The flat rock slabs are made for sunbathing, and the clear water is superb for snorkelling.

A word to the wise: there are no facilities here, the access road is narrow and the small car park fills up fast on warm weekends, so arrive early or hop on a boat trip from Marsaxlokk harbour for the most scenic entrance of all.

6. Wied iz-Zurrieq, Malta

Rounding off our list is Wied iz-Zurrieq, the narrow rocky inlet on Malta's south coast best known as the departure point for boat trips to the Blue Grotto sea caves. The sheltered creek itself is a brilliant swimming and snorkelling spot, with deep, clear blue water and fantastic visibility along the valley walls. Traditional boats run to the caves throughout the day in calm weather, so you can combine a swim with a tour of one of Malta's most magical natural sights.

Regulars of the south coast will know nearby Ghar Lapsi as another beloved swimming haunt. Following severe storm damage in early 2026, the area is undergoing a major reconstruction to restore safe access, so check its status before planning a visit and let Wied iz-Zurrieq work its charm in the meantime.

So there you have it. Pack your towel, brave the brisk water and enjoy the best swimming spots in Malta and Gozo while the crowds are still at home.