
Manoel Island
A historic island with a star fort, offering tranquil walks, harbor views, and a debate about its future.

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful exploration

Manoel Island
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful exploration

Highlights
Must-see attractions
A historic island with a star fort, offering tranquil walks, harbor views, and a debate about its future.
"One of the few places in Malta not as yet being developed. I really hope it never is."

🐾 Feed the Strays
Bring wet cat food for the friendly stray cats that roam the island. They appreciate the snacks!
🚶♀️ Explore the Fort
While interior access is limited, walk around Fort Manoel's exterior for impressive architecture and views.

Quick Facts
Rating
4.3 · 269 reviews
Type
Natural Feature
Address
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Fort Manoel
Manoel Island
Explore this impressive 18th-century star fort, offering stunning views of Valletta and the surrounding harbor.

Harbor Views
Manoel Island Promenade
Enjoy panoramic vistas of Valletta's skyline and the bustling Marsamxett Harbour from the island's edge.

Tranquil Walks
Manoel Island Causeway
Stroll along the causeway and island paths for a peaceful escape, observing local wildlife and serene surroundings.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Future of Manoel Island
Exploring the Fort & Wildlife
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🐾 Feed the Strays
Bring wet cat food for the friendly stray cats that roam the island. They appreciate the snacks!
🚶♀️ Explore the Fort
While interior access is limited, walk around Fort Manoel's exterior for impressive architecture and views.
☀️ Sunbathing Spots
Find secluded spots for sunbathing, but note the lack of amenities like bars or shade.
📸 Capture the Views
The island offers fantastic photo opportunities of Valletta and the harbor.
Tips
from all over the internet
🐾 Feed the Strays
Bring wet cat food for the friendly stray cats that roam the island. They appreciate the snacks!
🚶♀️ Explore the Fort
While interior access is limited, walk around Fort Manoel's exterior for impressive architecture and views.
☀️ Sunbathing Spots
Find secluded spots for sunbathing, but note the lack of amenities like bars or shade.
📸 Capture the Views
The island offers fantastic photo opportunities of Valletta and the harbor.
💧 Stay Hydrated
Drinks machines are available on site, but it's wise to bring your own water, especially in warmer months.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Manoel Island is praised for its peaceful and tranquil atmosphere, offering a welcome escape from Malta's busier areas. Visitors appreciate the historical significance of Fort Manoel and the scenic harbor views. However, some note the island's slightly derelict feel and limited amenities, with ongoing debates about its future development being a significant talking point.
"I really like this island.
So nice, so peaceful, tranquil.
One of the few places in Malta not as yet being developed. I really hope it never is.
It should be declared a national park"
Peter Sprot
"Manoel Island lies between Sliema and Valletta, connected to the former by a causeway along which you can walk.
The island has a slightly derelict feel, with many signs warning that you must obey the security guards and that you must not stray from the path. Visiting feels transgressive. Naughty.
Anyway, after walking along the causeway you come to the edge of a large fort, built by the Knights of St John – this is currently being restored so you cannot enter. You can, on the other hand, walk all the way around the outside – this includes right up to the ornate entry door.
The fort itself is an impressive, chunky thing and the island offers excellent views of Valletta and the citadel there. I think if we’re open, this would be a five star place to visit.
The island seems to be popular with those looking for a secluded spot to sunbathe, to drink and to wander. There are several drinks machines on site so you can buy water."
Rich Deerdog
"When you are coming at Manoel Island , please bring some wet cat food as there are many stray cats there 🙏 they can be petted and they are friendly ❤️"
Anna K
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Manoel Island is connected to Sliema by a causeway, making it easily accessible by walking. You can also reach it via a short taxi or bus ride from Sliema or Valletta.
Parking directly on Manoel Island is limited. It's recommended to park in Sliema and walk across the causeway or use public transport.
While there isn't a regular ferry service, boat tours often pass by Manoel Island, offering views from the water. Some private boat rentals might allow docking.
Public buses are a cost-effective way to travel between major towns like Sliema and Valletta. Consider purchasing a multi-day bus pass for convenience.
The causeway and main paths are generally accessible, but some areas around the fort might be uneven. Check for specific accessibility information if needed.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Generally, exploring the exterior of Manoel Island and Fort Manoel is free. However, access to the fort's interior is restricted and may only be available on specific dates or for guided tours.
Manoel Island is typically accessible during daylight hours. Specific access to Fort Manoel may vary, so it's best to check for any scheduled open days or events.
While the island itself is free to access, there might be a fee for guided tours or special access to the interior of Fort Manoel when available.
The island is generally open for exploration during daylight hours. However, access to certain areas, especially within the fort, is restricted and subject to availability.
Visitors are advised to stay on marked paths and obey security guards. Some areas, particularly within the fort, may have restricted access due to ongoing restoration.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
You can explore the exterior of Fort Manoel, enjoy peaceful walks along the causeway and paths, sunbathe in secluded spots, and observe local wildlife like stray cats and lizards.
Yes, the waters around Manoel Island are good for swimming, offering a natural and secluded experience. However, there are no facilities like bars or shade.
Manoel Island offers excellent views of Valletta, the Grand Harbour, and the surrounding coastline, making it a great spot for photography.
There are a few drinks machines available on the island for water. Otherwise, amenities are scarce, so bring your own supplies if needed.
There's an ongoing debate about developing Manoel Island, with some advocating for it to become a public park and others for residential or commercial projects.
📸 📸 Photography
The exterior of Fort Manoel, the harbor views towards Valletta, and the causeway offer excellent photographic opportunities. The island's natural beauty and historic architecture are very photogenic.
Absolutely! The scenic harbor views, historic fort, and tranquil atmosphere make Manoel Island a popular and beautiful location for engagement and couple photoshoots.
Late afternoons offer beautiful golden hour light for photography, casting a warm glow on the fort and harbor. Mornings can also be good for softer light and fewer people.
Drone usage regulations can vary. It's advisable to check with local authorities or the relevant aviation bodies in Malta before flying a drone over Manoel Island or any protected areas.
Keep an eye out for the stray cats, lizards, the impressive architecture of Fort Manoel, and the stunning panoramic views of Valletta and the surrounding seascape.









Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit