Marsaskala

Wied il-Għajn, better known as Marsaskala, sits on a deeply indented bay in southeastern Malta. A vacation in Marsaskala is quieter than in the big resort towns in the north: Maltese families spend their summer weekends here, and in the evening the waterfront promenade fills with strollers and families.

Fishing Village and Residential Town

The Maltese name means Valley of the Spring, while Marsaskala refers to an old harbor, probably used by Sicilian fishermen. Until the 20th century the area was barely inhabited; today it is one of the fastest-growing communities on the island. Colorful luzzu boats bob in the harbor, and the parish church of St. Anne stands close to the water. At the edge of the bay rises the watchtower Torri ta’ San Tumas, built in 1614 under Grand Master Wignacourt as protection against pirate attacks. That same year, Ottoman troops had landed in St. Thomas Bay and plundered villages in the south, which prompted its construction. Today the town is primarily a residential area for families from the greater Valletta area who appreciate the calmer pace. In summer, tents, coolers, and the smell of barbecue spread along the shore, and in the evening older men sit on benches along the promenade watching the fishermen mend their nets.

Sights Around Marsaskala

South of town, St. Thomas Bay opens up with a small sandy beach and shallow water, popular with families and windsurfers. To the north, coastal paths lead across rock platforms to the salt pans, where sea salt is still harvested, and to Żonqor Bay. Just a few miles away you'll find Marsaxlokk with its Sunday fish market and many colorful boats, as well as the cave of Għar Dalam with Ice Age animal bones and the Tarxien Temples. In the evening, the fish restaurants along the promenade are well worth a visit, serving lampuki, sea bream, and seafood.

Getting There and Best Time to Visit

Marsaskala is about a 15-minute taxi ride from Malta Airport, and buses run to Valletta. The best time for a beach vacation is May through October; spring and fall are mild enough for hikes along the coast.