One-Day Beach Getaway to Malta in the Mediterranean

I know, I know — this is quite the extreme travel tip. And before the environmentalists jump on me, let me just say: this is meant more as food for thought than a serious recommendation. But I can’t help myself — this is simply how my mind works.

As I was heading from the beach to the airport in Malta, sat on the bus, it occurred to me how ideal this lovely island country could be for a quick seaside escape — even for just a single day. Of course, that only applies if you’re genuinely open to a bit of adventure and have a good sense of humour.

You fly in the morning, and head home in the evening

Of course, this depends on where you live and how the flight schedules line up. Last time we visited Malta from Budapest, I noticed a pattern that also applies here. On certain days, you can fly in first thing in the morning and return late at night — all in the same day.

Let’s take London as our example.

Every Wednesday, there’s an easyJet flight from London Gatwick (LGW) that departs at 06:15 and arrives in Malta (MLA) at 10:30. The return flight leaves at 21:45 and lands back at Gatwick at 00:05.

All you need is to book off one Wednesday. Work on Tuesday, swim in the Mediterranean on Wednesday, and be back at your desk Thursday morning like nothing happened.

Quite the thrill, isn’t it?

From the airport to the beach

The simplest option is to hop on Bus 119 from the airport (check the timetable online). It runs every hour and takes you directly — with no changes — to the beaches in Birżebbuġa or Marsaxlokk.

In Birżebbuġa, the bus stops practically beside Pretty Bay — it’s only a one-minute walk to the water. And really, could there be a better name for a beach than Pretty Bay? Keep in mind this beach is right in the centre of a small town, and it does get busy. But it’s sandy, convenient, and set within a peaceful bay.

If you carry on to Marsaxlokk, you can either get off near Ballut ta’ Marsaxlokk beach — which also overlooks the bay and offers calm waters — or walk roughly 1 km uphill to reach stunning beaches facing the open Mediterranean. One particular highlight is the famous St Peter’s Pool, a natural rock formation and popular spot for cliff diving among both locals and tourists.

Here’s your one-day itinerary

It’s honestly amazing that, with an early flight — and no car rental — you could literally be in the sea by 11:30.

Here’s a sample itinerary that includes time to unwind on a quieter beach and enjoy a swim at the cliff-diving favourite, St Peter’s Pool.

💡 Tip: Use Google Flights to search for same-day return trips to Malta from London or other cities.

🔔 Note: While Malta has an excellent bus network, delays are fairly common. The airport is small, so arriving two hours before departure is more than enough. Still, if you’re worried about missing a bus — or delays — just take an earlier one to be safe.

And what about the environmental impact?

It’s a fair question. Flying all that way for just one day at the beach might seem environmentally questionable.

Here are a few thoughts that might put your mind at ease:

• Remember, you don’t have to take everything seriously. Treat this idea with a pinch of salt — it’s meant to entertain. It’s a quirky possibility; do it if you like, or don’t.
• Environmental impact is far more complex than some make it out to be. These flights are running whether or not you’re on board. One extra passenger doesn’t significantly increase emissions. Unless this article somehow triggers a stampede of one-day Malta trips — which is unlikely given the costs involved — no extra fuel will be burned.
• Enjoy life! That’s what we’re here for. To do good for others and enjoy what we do ourselves. This travel and food blog exists to share those joys. You don’t have to take everything seriously — maybe, just maybe, it’s alright to fly to Malta for a dip in the Med. Just once.