If you were hoping to squeeze in one final summer swim this Friday, nature might have other plans. Strong easterly winds have whipped up rough seas across the islands, leading to the suspension of ferry services in Valletta and making many popular bays unsafe for swimming due to strong currents.

Only a handful of beaches are currently considered suitable for a dip. In Malta, swimmers can safely head to Marfa, Ramla l-Bir, Little Armier, Armier Bay, Rinella Bay, Ġnejna Bay, Għajn Tuffieħa, Golden Bay, Anchor Bay and Paradise Bay. Meanwhile, over in Gozo, the only recommended spots are Xlendi, Dwejra and the Dwejra Inland Sea.

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by J Ü R G E N S (@jurgens.film)

Unfortunately, most other bays across both Malta and Gozo are not advised for swimming today. In Malta, this includes Mellieħa, Imġiebaħ, Mistra Bay, St Paul’s Bay, Qawra, Baħar iċ-Ċagħaq, St George’s Bay, Sliema, Marsaskala, St Thomas Bay, Ħofriet, Marsaxlokk, Pretty Bay, Wied iż-Żurrieq, Għar Lapsi and Fomm ir-Riħ. In Gozo, Wied il-Għasri, Xwejni Bay, Qbajjar, Marsalforn, Ramla l-Ħamra, San Blas Bay, Daħlet Qorrot, Ħondoq ir-Rummien and Mġarr ix-Xini are all currently marked as unsuitable.

So if you’re chasing that last swim of summer, better check before heading out – options are limited, but a few safe spots are still waiting for you! As always, use your best judgement while at sea, follow the advice of lifeguards present and keep a lookout for any red flags.

Hoping for one final swim before autumn starts?