With dramatic coastlines, hidden coves, and sea caves, Malta offers stunning sites for fun and exploration. Dive into crystal-clear waters, discover shipwrecks, or take in the island’s rugged beauty while jet skiing, snorkeling, or paddleboarding. Whether you’re a thrill-seeker or looking for a fun way to cool off, Malta offers something for everyone.
credits: viewingmalta.com
Let our definitive top ten list guide you through the must-try water sports in Malta every tourist should experience throughout their visit. Before jumping into that, have a look at our map summarising the top spots worth visiting, including sandy and rocky beaches, coves, sea caves, and wrecks. Hopefully, it will serve as a helpful companion during your trip to the island, ensuring you don’t miss out on any of Malta’s must-see coastal gems.
Top Ten Water Sports In Malta
Malta is a paradise for those seeking thrills, water sports adventures, fun, exploration, or something in between. The following is our selection of the best water sports experiences available during a visit to the Maltese islands, tried and tested by locals.
Local Tip: Don’t forget to head to our Concierge section for a selection of hand-picked experiences available for booking throughout your visit.
Swimming
Swimming in Malta is a captivating experience. It offers crystal-clear Mediterranean waters and a warm climate that attracts swimmers year-round. The island’s rocky coastline, dotted with hidden coves and stunning sandy beaches, provides varied options for beachgoers and adventurers alike. Iconic spots like the Blue Lagoon in Comino and Għajn Tuffieħa Bay offer turquoise waters, making them ideal for snorkeling or simply floating and enjoying the scenery.
credits: viewingmalta.com
The calm seas and minimal currents make it perfect for swimmers of all levels. Malta’s vibrant marine life and transparent waters also enhance the swimming experience. This allows swimmers to observe colorful fish and sea creatures up close. Whether you’re looking to relax or explore, Malta’s beautiful seascapes make swimming here a memorable and appealing part of any visit. Have a look at the above map for popular sandy and rocky beaches.
Scuba Diving
Malta offers a world-class experience for scuba diving enthusiasts, attracting divers from around the globe. Crystal-clear waters offer excellent visibility, often exceeding 30 meters. Vibrant marine life and rich underwater landscapes offer divers a truly remarkable experience. There are currently 99 dive sites listed around Malta, of which 52 are Reef dives, 39 are Wreck dives and 30 are Cave dives. Popular dive sites are the Blue Hole in Gozo, the iconic wreck of the HMS Maori, and the MV Karwela wreck. More information on divint sites, training courses and dive shops can be found here.
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Diverse underwater experiences for divers of all skill levels are on offer. The variety of marine species, from colorful fish and octopuses to the occasional sea turtle, adds to the excitement of each dive. Malta’s temperate climate ensures that it is accessible year-round. Scuba diving in Malta offers an unforgettable journey into a vibrant underwater world.
Kayaking
Kayaking in Malta offers a scenic option to explore the island’s dramatic coastline, ideal for both beginners and seasoned paddlers. This activity provides adventurers access to hidden gems including remote beaches, sea caves, and secret coves that are often inaccessible by land. As you glide across the crystal-clear waters, you’ll be surrounded by Malta’s stunning cliffs, natural rock formations, and marine life. Beyond the views, kayaking offers a quiet retreat from the crowds, giving you a peaceful yet adventurous way to experience Malta’s natural beauty up close.
credits: viewingmalta.com
With numerous kayaking routes around the island, it’s a fantastic way to discover its coastal wonders from a fresh perspective. Whether you’re looking for adventure or relaxation, Malta’s waterways provide the perfect setting for both. Kayaks can typically be rented on the spot from the most popular beaches including Ghadira Bay, Gnejna Bay, and Ramla Beach.
Snorkeling
The island’s clear waters and rich marine life provide an amazing snorkeling experience in Malta at all skill levels. For starters, underwater visibility is usually excellent, often exceeding 30 meters. Given Malta’s temperate climate, the water remains warm enough for snorkelers to fully appreciate the vibrant underwater world for most of the year, barring the cooler months from December to March.
Iconic locations like the Blue Lagoon, St. Peter’s Pool, and Għar Lapsi boast shallow waters teeming with colorful marine life, octopi, and vibrant vegetation. Ancient shipwrecks and natural rock formations, make for a fascinating exploration for both casual snorkelers and marine enthusiasts alike. Snorkeling equipment is available for purchase or hire from numerous vendors around the island, you should not have any issue finding what you need once you get here.
Jet Skiing
Jet skiing in Malta offers an adrenaline-filled option to explore the island’s rugged coastline. With Malta’s expansive open seas, it’s an ideal destination for thrill seekers and water sports enthusiasts.
Popular spots like Mellieħa Bay, St. Julian’s, and the Blue Lagoon in Comino provide perfect settings for jet skiing. As you zip through the waves, you’ll also have the opportunity to explore sea caves and secluded areas that are only accessible by water. Grabbing a Jet Ski from Ghadira Bay or Mgarr also serves as a perfect springboard for exploring Comino’s numerous lagoons and hard-to-reach spots.
Jet skiing in Malta offers both excitement and the freedom to discover the island’s natural beauty from a unique perspective. It is a top attraction for visitors looking for an adventurous way to enjoy the Mediterranean Sea. Our Concierge section has a number of vendors where you can pre-book your Jet Ski experience in Malta.
Parasailing
Parasailing offers an adventurous way to take in Malta’s beauty from above. As you soar through the sky, harnessed to a speedboat, you’ll feel the cool sea breeze and enjoy sweeping views of the island’s waters and rugged coastline. It’s an experience that’s as exhilarating as it is peaceful while giving you a unique perspective.
Parasailing is accessible to all skill levels. It is an appealing activity for anyone seeking adventure without the need for intense physical effort. The gentle ascent and descent provide a smooth, enjoyable ride, while the thrill of flying high over the water adds to the excitement. Have a look at this vendor to pre-book your Parasailing experience.
Sailing
Sailing is a captivating experience that combines adventure with the beauty of the Mediterranean. Thanks to favourable winds, calm seas, and stunning coastal scenery, Malta provides a perfect backdrop for this elegant sport. It is also an ideal destination for beginners looking for a gentle entry and educational experience. The island’s rich maritime history and picturesque harbors provide a perfect backdrop for setting sail. For the expert sailors out there, Valletta also serves as the home and starting point of the Rolex Middlesea Race, a prestigious competition gathering some of the best sailors from around the world across a multi-day Mediterranean journey,
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Similarly to other sports, sailing also gives you access to beautiful destinations and coastlines around the country, including the Blue Lagoon. Apart from serving as a springboard for other water sports including swimming, snorkeling, or simply some relaxation, Sailing also offers an opportunity to witness breathtaking sunsets. This activity can be enjoyed by chartering a yacht or joining a sailing tour, with numerous options available in our Concierge section. Although typically available at higher price points, sailing in Malta uniquely combines adventure, elegance, relaxation, and stunning natural beauty, creating an exceptional Mediterranean experience.
Wind Surfing
Windsurfing in Malta offers a fantastic mix of excitement and challenge for water sports enthusiasts. With its steady winds and scenic spots, Malta provides ideal conditions for both beginners and experienced windsurfers. Locations like Mellieha Bay and Golden Bay are particularly popular, offering varied wave conditions and beautiful coastal views.
Whether you’re gliding across calm waters or carving through waves, windsurfing in Malta offers an exhilarating way to connect with nature while enjoying the island’s breathtaking beauty. Head over to surfingmalta.com to pre-book lessons or equipment to enjoy this sport while on the island.
Paddleboarding
Paddleboarding in Malta offers a perfect blend of relaxation and activity on the calm Maltese waters. The island’s ideal conditions make it suitable for paddlers of all levels, from beginners to more experienced enthusiasts. Paddleboarders can enjoy peaceful moments at sea or turn the experience into a full-body workout, depending on their pace and approach.
Paddleboarding in Malta also allows you to explore areas that are not accessible by boat or foot, such as sea caves and secluded bays. It combines relaxation, balance, and a bit of adventure. Ideal for providing a peaceful way to experience the island’s natural beauty while also getting a great workout. As above, surfingmalta.com offers both equipment rentals and paddleboarding tours for those interested in making an activity out of this sport. Paddleboarding equipment might also be available on the spot from some water sport vendors available at popular beaches, including Ghadira Bay and Gnejna Bay.
Water Skiing
Water skiing in Malta provides an adrenaline rush for thrill-seekers looking for a fun, high-energy activity. With professional instructors available, it’s a great option for both beginners and seasoned skiers. The sport combines the challenge of balance and agility as you skim across the water’s surface, pulled by a speedboat. Malta’s well-equipped water sports centers make it easy to find the right gear and guidance, allowing you to focus on the exhilaration of the ride and the challenge of mastering your technique.
For those looking to pre-book a water skiing adventure while traveling to Malta, have a look at the following vendors
Best Spots
Water sports are widely practiced across all the Maltese islands. These include Malta and its neighboring islands, Gozo and Comino. Various locations offer both calm, shallow waters as well as deeper, more challenging areas for adventure seekers.
Top – Mellieha (Għadira) Bay. Bottom Left – Għajn Tuffieha Bay. Bottom Centre- Blue Lagoon (Comino) Bottom Right- Ramla Bay as seen from Mixta Cave (Gozo) (credits: viewingmalta.com)
- Mellieħa Bay (Ghadira Bay) – The largest sandy beach in Malta, Mellieħa Bay is located in the north of the island. It boasts shallow waters and calm conditions, making it perfect for families and beginners. Plenty of water sports centers here offer rentals and lessons for visitors who want to try windsurfing, water skiing, jet skiing, and banana boat rides.
- Golden Bay & Ghajn Tuffieha Bay – Two of Malta’s most famous sandy beaches, located on the northwest coast right next to each other. Golden Bay is ideal for a range of water sports such as jet skiing, paddleboarding, and kayaking. The beach’s wide expanse and gentle waters make it a popular choice for both beginners and more experienced enthusiasts.
- Blue Lagoon (Comino) – The famous Blue Lagoon on the small island of Comino is one of the most picturesque water sports destinations in Malta. Its crystal-clear waters are perfect for snorkeling, scuba diving, and swimming. The stunning visibility under the water allows for excellent views of marine life. The calm conditions found here make it accessible to all skill levels.
- Ramla Bay (Gozo) – Famous for its unique red-golden sand and clear waters, Ramla Bay is probably Gozo’s most famous beach. It’s a great spot for swimming and snorkeling, with opportunities to explore the nearby underwater sites and caves. For those seeking more adrenaline-fueled activities, you’ll find kayaking, stand-up paddleboarding, banana rides, and boat rentals available at Ramla Bay. The surrounding area’s natural beauty and calm waters make it a perfect destination for both relaxing and active water sports experiences.
Top – Font Ghadir Bay in Sliema. Bottom Left – St George’s Bay in Paceville. Bottom Centre-St Peter’s Pool Bottom Right-St Paul’s Bay
(credits: viewingmalta.com)
- Sliema – One of Malta’s busiest coastal towns, Sliema offers a vibrant hub for water sports enthusiasts along its rocky coastline. Visitors can enjoy a variety of activities, from jet skiing and parasailing to kayaking and paddleboarding. Sliema’s location also makes it a prime spot for boat tours, including trips to nearby islands and the famous Blue Lagoon.
- St. George’s Bay – Located near St. Julian’s, this bay is a hotspot for tourists and water sports activities. In particular jet skiing, parasailing, and wakeboarding are available here. The vibrant area around St. George’s Bay is well-known for its entertainment options. This makes it a great place to combine water sports with a lively atmosphere.
- St. Peter’s Pool – A stunning natural swimming spot located near Marsaxlokk, St Peter’s Pool is famous for its crystal-clear waters and dramatic rock formations. While it’s not a typical hub for organized water sports, visitors often enjoy swimming, snorkeling, and cliff diving here. The surrounding rocky ledges provide perfect platforms for diving into the sea, making it a favorite spot for adventurous swimmers. For those looking for a laid-back experience, it’s an excellent place to relax, swim, and explore the underwater beauty.
- St. Paul’s Bay – A popular coastal town in the north of Malta, St Paul’s Bay is a hub for water sports enthusiasts. Here, visitors can indulge in a range of activities such as jet skiing, kayaking, and parasailing. The calm waters of the bay are perfect for snorkeling, offering an opportunity to explore the underwater beauty of the area. Boat rentals and guided tours are also available, allowing tourists to venture out to nearby attractions like St. Paul’s Island or the crystal-clear waters of the Blue Lagoon.
Top – Mellieha’s rugged coastline. Bottom Left – Qawra & Bugibba’s shoreline. Bottom Centre-Dwejra & Fungus Rock. Bottom Right-Mgarr Harbour
(credits: viewingmalta.com)
- Mellieha – The region around Mellieha – encompassing Malta’s northernmost coast – is a treasure trove for water sports activities. Paradise bay and little armier beach offer a laid-back sandy beach experience with crystal-clear waters. Mellieha’s rugged coastline offers amazing caves and reefs, perfect for kayaking and jet skiing. Ċirkewwa is a world-renowned spot for scuba diving. Here you can find amazing shipwrecks – both old and relatively more recent – offering some of the best diving experiences in the Mediterranean. Divers here can explore sites like the P29 Patrol Boat and the Rozi Tugboat, amongst other attractions in the area.
- Qawra & Bugibba – Neighbouring seaside towns within the region of St. Paul’s Bay. both Qawra and Bugibba are well-known tourist destinations with a lively promenade and a wealth of water sports activities. Although the beaches are mostly rocky in this area, they offer easy access to the sea and are a popular area for both recreational and adventurous water sports. Popular activities here include snorkeling, jet skiing, banana boat rides and water skiing
- Dwejra (Gozo) – Although the famous Azure window no longer stands, Dwejra remains a spectacular location known for its dramatic coastal landscapes and unique geological features like the Inland Sea and Fungus Rock. The area is a haven for diving enthusiasts, offering some of the best underwater experiences. Snorkeling and swimming are also popular here due to the clear, deep blue waters. Kayaking is another great option, allowing visitors to explore the impressive cliffs and hidden caves along the coastline.
- Mgarr (Gozo) – Mgarr is a southern harbor town that serves as Gozo’s gateway, and is ideal for exploring the surrounding waters. From here, visitors can embark on boat tours, including trips to the famous Blue Lagoon and Comino. For water sports enthusiasts, kayaking, snorkeling, and diving are popular choices, allowing you to discover Gozo’s rugged coastline and underwater wonders. This spot is also home to the MV Karwela wreck, one of the country’s most popular wrecks and diving spots.
Concluding Thoughts
Malta offers a wealth of thrilling water sports experiences for visitors to explore, from adrenaline-packed adventures to more tranquil activities. With such a diverse range of options and spectacular locations around the island, there’s something for every water sports enthusiast to enjoy. Whether you’re a seasoned pro or trying something new, these top spots and activities ensure unforgettable memories in Malta’s stunning marine landscape. So grab your gear, head to the best locations, and dive into Malta’s vibrant watersports scene!
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