Marsaskala is one of Malta’s quiet coastal gems. It’s a place where traditional life continues alongside rugged natural beauty and fascinating historical remains. Whether you’re planning a short stay or using Marsaskala as your peaceful base for a longer trip, here are 9 things you shouldn’t miss when visiting this charming town.
1. Visit the Salt Pans Near Munxar Point
One of Marsaskala’s most unique features is its historic salt pans, located along the coastline near Munxar Point. These rectangular pools carved into limestone are still used for traditional salt harvesting. The area is both peaceful as well as scenic. And in fact, it offers a glimpse into this centuries-old maritime practice. Reaching the salt pans is easy via a coastal walk from St. Thomas Bay, or a short ride if you’re driving and the city buses also have a stop nearby.
2. Explore Munxar Cave (Also Known as Munxar Window)
While you’re near Munxar Point, don’t miss the Munxar Cave, also known as the Munxar Window. This is a beautiful sea arch carved by nature, a characteristic that can be admired in various seaside spots around the Maltese Islands. You can admire this particular one on foot, but it’s even better experienced from the water by paddle boat, jet-ski, SUP, or canoe. It’s an ideal spot for nature lovers and adventurers alike.
3. Explore St. Thomas Bay
St. Thomas Bay is one of Marsaskala’s main natural attractions. It’s a wide, shallow inlet surrounded by rocky ledges and sandy shores. Locals swim here regularly, and the area is popular for kayaking and paddleboarding. Furthermore, it’s an ideal place to start your Marsaskala experience, with easy access to nearby walks, historic sites, and coastal views.
4. Venture Beyond St. Thomas Bay
Walk beyond the main beach to explore the wilder side of Marsaskala’s coast. Munxar Point, with its rugged cliffs and natural rock formations, offers some of the best coastal scenery in the area. This is where you can also find the previously mentioned Munxar Window. This part of the coastline feels untouched, providing a great contrast to Malta’s more built-up shores.
5. Relax in Sant’ Antnin Family Park
Not far from the bay you will come across the Sant’ Antnin Family Park. This modern park offers visitors with a green open space, which is not always super easy to find in Malta. Families, joggers, and dog walkers make use of this landscaped park, which includes walking paths, picnic benches, a children’s play area, and open fields. It’s a calm, shaded retreat perfect for a quiet break or morning stroll.
6. Step Back in Time at St. Thomas Tower
St. Thomas Tower stands proudly at the tip of the bay, overlooking the sea. Built by the Order of Saint John in the early 17th century to defend against Ottoman and pirate raids. The tower serves as a solid reminder of Malta’s military past. Though not always open to the public, the structure and surrounding battery can be admired from the outside, and it’s a great photo stop, especially at sunset.
7. Stroll the Promenade
The waterfront promenade in Marsaskala runs the length of the bay and beyond, curving past colourful boats, cafes, and old tenement houses, some beautifully renovated into apartments. It’s an easy, flat walk ideal for morning coffee runs, evening strolls, or stopping for a seafood dinner. If you’re staying in town, chances are you’ll have this promenade right outside your door.
8. Discover Riħama Battery
Tucked near the coast, the Riħama Battery (also known as Ducluseaux Battery, Tal-Franċiż Battery, or Tan-Naz Battery) was built by the Order of Saint John between 1714 and 1716 to protect St. Thomas Bay. The battery originally housed seven cannons and had a large blockhouse with 17 supporting arches. In fact, it is one of the largest ever built in Malta. Though part of it has collapsed into the sea, and the redan is missing, the structure still tells a story. Since 2013, a local volunteer group has taken on the challenge of restoring it.
9. Spot the WW2 Pillbox
As you explore this adorable seaside town, if you keep your eyes open along the coastline, you’ll spot a World War II-era pillbox. This is a small concrete bunker built by the British to defend against a potential Axis invasion. This structure is a subtle but important reminder of the island’s role in 20th-century conflict, and part of a much larger network of wartime fortifications that dot the Maltese coastline.
Your Call to Enjoy the Peace and Simplicity of Seaside Living
Life in Marsaskala moves at a different pace. There are no crowds, just friendly locals, calm streets, and the gentle rhythm of the sea. Within walking distance you’ll find shops, cafes, and restaurants serving excellent Maltese and Mediterranean cuisine from breakfast through dinner. It’s a perfect place to relax and recharge.
In fact, Marsaskala remains relatively undiscovered by mass tourism, making it an ideal destination for travelers seeking authenticity and calm. As more visitors begin to explore beyond Valletta and the Three Cities, Marsaskala’s quiet charm may not last forever. Now is the time to enjoy this hidden gem while it still feels like Malta’s best-kept secret.
Marsaskala offers more than meets the eye. From natural wonders and historic ruins to affordable, peaceful living. Whether you’re here to unwind or to explore, it’s a destination full of quiet surprises.
