The island of Malta and the surrounding islands are bits of a Mediterranean masterpiece. Summer in Malta consists of cooling dips in the Mediterranean and refreshing licks of delicious gelato. We were lucky enough to get recommendations from a friend who spent several years living on this tiny, special island. So, I’ve rounded them up and combined them with some newfound treasures we experienced. Here’s what to eat, where to stay and what to do in Malta.

I’m just going to start by saying: St. Barts is worth the hype. No question about it. Of course, any island in the Caribbean is beautiful, but what is so special about this one?? I don’t even know if I can answer that fully. You might have to just see it for yourself. No matter what draws you in, you’ll want to go back. I promise.