From 1st January 2026, smoking will be banned on two of Malta’s most popular beaches – Golden Bay in Malta and Ramla l-Ħamra in Gozo – except in designated smoking areas. The move, announced by Environment Minister Miriam Dalli and Health Minister Jo Etienne Abela, marks the start of a pilot project aimed at curbing cigarette waste and promoting public health.
The ban will see special smoking zones set up with ashtrays that will be cleaned regularly, while smoking elsewhere on the beaches will carry a fine of €150. Enforcement will involve the Environment and Resources Authority, the Health Department, the Malta Tourism Authority, the Local Enforcement System Agency, and the Police.
Ministers described the initiative as both an environmental and health measure. Cigarette butts remain one of the most common types of beach litter, posing a threat to marine life and Malta’s natural landscape. Minister Dalli emphasised that the measure was partly inspired by conversations with children, highlighting the long-lasting harm caused by cigarette waste. Minister Abela framed it as the first step in creating smoke-free public spaces, aligned with broader efforts to reduce smoking-related diseases.
The ban follows similar policies in other countries, positioning Malta within a growing movement to safeguard beaches and coastal environments while encouraging healthier lifestyles.
Mellieħa Nationalist Party councillor Gabriel Micallef, who has long campaigned for cigarette-free beaches, today welcomed the announcement on Facebook, recalling his earlier efforts to push the initiative forward.
“Five years ago, a parent told me how her children went to the beach and ended up decorating their sandcastles with cigarette butts. This was not only an environmental hazard but also a serious concern for health and hygiene. More recently, concerns have also been raised about the smell of cannabis smoking on public beaches,” he wrote.
Back in 2020, Micallef launched a public survey that drew 1,228 responses, with more than 80% supporting the proposal. At the time, he had appealed to the Government to adopt measures similar to those already implemented in Italy.
“Today, I welcome with satisfaction the fact that Għajn Mixquqa / Golden Bay will be launching a pilot project of a ‘cigarette-free beach.’ As a Council, we must support initiatives like this, and I will ensure that we contribute our ideas and suggestions to make this project a success,” he added.
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