Maori Bar

Location Categories: Bar NightlifeLocation Tags: Lesbian Mixed

Queer bar · Valletta St Elmo Bay

Lesbian-run and right on the water below Fort St. Elmo: Maori Bar is a relaxed meeting place for Valletta’s queer and creative scene, off the tourist trail.

  • ★ 4.6 on Google (303)
  • by the sea
  • lesbian-run
  • Pride kick-off in September
Address
Triq il-Lanca, Il-Fossa
St Elmo Bay, Valletta
Opening hours
Wed–Sun about 6:30 pm–1 am
Mon/Tue closed
Crowd
queer mixed, women and men, artists, students and divers, mostly 25–45
Flirt factor
low to medium
Programme
Opening night of Malta Pride Week in September
Getting there
about a 10-minute walk from City Gate to the end of the peninsula

What makes Maori Bar stand out

The lesbian-run bar is below Fort St. Elmo, right on the water. There are mismatched chairs, murals and rainbow flags, and the drinks are simple and fairly priced.

Besides regular bar nights there are readings, live music and queer dance nights. For years it has hosted the opening night of Malta Pride Week in September.

Atmosphere and crowd

The crowd is a mix of artists, students, divers and queer locals, not a tourist crowd. Guests rave about the cosy atmosphere, the sea view and the beer, in summer and winter alike.

A good fit if you …

  • want to experience sunset by the sea
  • are looking for a relaxed, women-run queer bar
  • want to experience Valletta away from the tourist crowds

Not ideal if you …

  • are coming on a Monday or Tuesday
  • are looking for a party bar with a dance floor
Our tip: Come for sunset and briefly check it’s open beforehand, then move on to Cafe Society in the old town.

Editorially researched, as of October 2026. Sources: GayOut, Google reviews (4.6 stars, 303 reviews). Opening hours, prices and programme may change, please check before visiting.

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