What to Expect in Malta as August Arrives

As July winds down, summer in Malta is hitting its absolute peak! If your holiday extends into late July and August, you are entering the hottest, sunniest, and most vibrant stretch of the Mediterranean season.

Whether you're currently staying at the Bella Vista Hotel or put the finishing touches on your upcoming August travel plans, here is what you have to look forward to in the weeks ahead:

1. Warmest Sea Temperatures of the Year

By late July and early August, the Mediterranean waters surrounding Malta reach a tropical average of 26°C to 28°C (79°F – 82°F). It is the best time of year for long snorkeling sessions, paddleboarding, and swimming at nearby spots like Ta' Fra Ben (Qawra Point) or Paradise Bay.

2. Santa Marija Feast (August 15th)

If you are in Malta around mid-August, you will experience Santa Marija, one of the biggest public holidays and cultural celebrations on the island. Almost every village goes all-out with brass bands, street decorations, and world-class pyrotechnic shows. The fireworks display over the Grand Harbour and in Mosta on August 15th are legendary!

3. Perfect Conditions for Late-Afternoon Sunset Cruises

Because August daytime temperatures can be intense, smart travelers swap midday boat tours for late-afternoon sunset cruises. Boats leaving from the nearby Bugibba Jetty offer trips to the Blue Lagoon and Comino that head out around 4:00 PM, letting you swim in cooler, less crowded waters right as the sun sets over the cliffs.

4. Vibrant Open-Air Night Markets & Dining

As daytime heat settles into balmy evening breezes, Malta’s nightlife shifts completely outdoors. Late summer is the prime season for seaside night markets along local promenades, where vendors sell hand-crafted goods, local sweets, and art. Sidewalk dining also takes center stage, there’s nothing quite like enjoying fresh local seafood at an outdoor table in Bugibba or St. Paul's Bay after dark.

5. Stargazing at the Perseid Meteor Shower (Mid-August)

August brings one of nature's coolest shows to the Mediterranean sky: the peak of the Perseid Meteor Shower! Because Malta has dramatic, undeveloped coastal cliffs along the west coast (like Dingli Cliffs or Golden Bay), taking a night drive away from city lights gives you a front-row seat to catch dozens of shooting stars lighting up the clear night sky.

Pro-Tip for Late Summer Travelers:

Be sure to stay hydrated, make restaurant reservations a day or two in advance for peak weekend nights, and don't hesitate to ask our front desk team at Bella Vista Hotel for assistance with excursion bookings!