Marsaxlokk (mar-sa-shlok) is Malta's most picturesque fishing village, famous for its traditional luzzu boats painted in vibrant colors and decorated with the protective "Eye of Osiris."
The Luzzu Boats
Marsaxlokk's harbor is filled with traditional wooden fishing boats called luzzu. Painted in bright blues, reds, yellows, and greens, each boat features the ancient Phoenician symbol – eyes on the bow believed to protect fishermen at sea. These boats are still used daily by local fishermen.
Sunday Fish Market
The famous Sunday market transforms the waterfront. Open from 7am-1pm, it's Malta's largest open-air market featuring:
- Fresh fish and seafood direct from night fishing
- Fruits and vegetables
- Local honey and olives
- Handicrafts and souvenirs
- Clothing and household items
Arrive early (8-9am) for best selection and fewer crowds. Locals shop here for freshest catch.
Seafood Restaurants
Marsaxlokk boasts Malta's best seafood restaurants lining the harbor. Most serve catch of the day – ask what came in that morning.
Top Restaurants
- Tartarun: Best harbor views, excellent fish platters
- Pisces: Family-run, authentic Maltese seafood
- Roots: Modern take on traditional dishes
- La Nostra Padrona: Local favorite, great prices
What to Order
- Lampuki: Maltese national fish (dolphinfish/mahi-mahi), best August-December
- Aljotta: Traditional fish soup
- Grilled catch of the day: Usually sea bream, sea bass, or red mullet
- Octopus stew: Slow-cooked with wine and tomatoes
- Seafood platter: Mixed grilled fish and shellfish
Things to Do
Waterfront Walk
Stroll the promenade past colorful boats, restaurants, and local fishing nets drying in sun. Best at sunset for photographs.
St. Peter's Pool
Natural swimming spot 15-minute drive away. Flat rocks for sunbathing, deep clear water perfect for swimming and cliff jumping.
Delimara Point
Nearby peninsula with rocky coves, walking trails, and windswept landscapes. Less crowded swimming spots.
Church of Our Lady of Pompei
Distinctive dome visible from harbor. Inside, maritime-themed decorations and model boats hung as offerings.
History
Marsaxlokk means "south-east port" in Arabic. Historically Malta's main harbor:
- Phoenicians and Romans used it as trading port
- Turkish fleet landed here during 1565 Great Siege
- Napoleon landed here in 1798 to conquer Malta
- British naval base in WWII
- 1989 Bush-Gorbachev summit held offshore
When to Visit
- Sunday morning: Market atmosphere, busiest but most vibrant
- Weekday lunch: Quieter, locals-only vibe, fresh fish still available
- Evening: Romantic sunset dinner setting
- Avoid: Sunday afternoon after market closes (many restaurants also close)
Getting There
Bus: Routes 81, 85 from Valletta (45 minutes)
Car: 30 minutes from Valletta, parking near harbor
Taxi: €20-25 from Valletta
Tours: Many southern Malta tours include Marsaxlokk stop
Photography Tips
- Early morning light (7-9am) for luzzu boats
- Capture eye symbols on boat bows
- Waterfront reflections in calm water
- Church dome from harbor
- Market colors and activity (Sunday only)
- Sunset over fishing fleet
Combine With
- Blue Grotto (15 minutes drive)
- St. Peter's Pool (natural swimming)
- Ħaġar Qim temples (20 minutes)
- Għar Dalam Cave (prehistoric site, 10 minutes)
Local Tips
- Sunday market best for atmosphere and photos
- Weekdays better for relaxed meals
- Check daily specials – always freshest option
- Prices higher on Sunday due to market crowds
- Many restaurants close Monday
- Swimming near harbor not recommended – use St. Peter's Pool instead
