The Maltese sun is high in the mid-July sky, the air is warm, and the Mediterranean Sea is calling. Right now, at the peak of summer, the waters surrounding our islands are a shimmering spectacle of deep blues and translucent turquoise, boasting bath-like temperatures and crystal-clear visibility. This isn’t just a sea to be looked at; it’s a vast, sun-drenched playground waiting for you to dive in. From high-octane thrills that get your adrenaline pumping to serene explorations that soothe the soul, Malta offers a water sports adventure for every mood and every traveller.
Whether you’re looking to feel the power of a jet ski beneath you, soar high above the coastline, or silently glide into a hidden sea cave, this guide will walk you through the best ways to get out on the water and make a splash during your Maltese holiday.
For the Thrill-Seekers: High-Adrenaline Action
If your idea of a holiday involves speed, heights, and a serious dose of adrenaline, Malta’s commercial bays are ready to deliver.
Jet Skiing
There is a unique sense of freedom that comes from hitting the throttle on a jet ski, skipping across the waves with the coastline blurring past you. It’s a powerful and exhilarating way to experience the open water. You can rent them for short, thrilling bursts of 15-20 minutes or book longer “safaris” that take you further along the coast.
- Best Locations:
- Mellieħa Bay (Għadira): As Malta’s largest bay, it offers a vast, relatively safe area to open up the throttle. Numerous operators line the beach.
- Golden Bay & Għajn Tuffieħa: These beautiful bays on the west coast are popular hubs, offering the chance to ride against the stunning backdrop of cliffs and red sands.
- St. George’s Bay, St. Julian’s: For those staying in the bustling central area, this is a convenient spot to get your jet ski fix.
Parasailing
For the best possible view of the islands, you need to get above them. Parasailing offers a surprisingly serene yet thrilling experience as you’re gently lifted high into the air, towed behind a speedboat. From your bird’s-eye view, the world goes quiet, and you can see the intricate patterns of the reefs below, the dramatic lines of the cliffs, and the stunning contrast of the golden land against the azure sea.
- Best Locations: This activity is most common in the northern tourist hubs where the bays are large and open. Look for operators in Mellieħa Bay, St. Paul’s Bay (Buġibba), and some larger hotels in the St. Julian’s area.
Flyboarding & Hoverboarding
If you’ve ever wanted to feel like a superhero, this is your chance. Flyboarding uses a powerful stream of water to propel you into the air, allowing you to hover, dive, and perform aerial tricks. It’s a challenging but incredibly rewarding experience that is guaranteed to be the most talked-about part of your trip.
- Best Locations: Due to the specialised equipment, this is offered by fewer operators. You’ll typically find them in the larger, busier bays like Mellieħa or specialist water sports centres in the St. Julian’s area.
For the Explorers: Discovering the Coast at Your Own Pace
If you prefer to connect with the sea on a more intimate level, these human-powered activities allow you to discover the hidden nooks and crannies of Malta’s magnificent coastline.
Kayaking
A kayak is your key to unlocking parts of the coastline that are completely inaccessible by land. It allows you to silently glide into cathedral-like sea caves, discover tiny, deserted coves, and get up close with the magnificent cliff formations. The beauty of kayaking is that you can choose your own pace, making it both a great workout and a meditative experience.
- Best Locations & Routes:
- Circumnavigating Comino: This is a classic full-day adventure for experienced paddlers, allowing you to see the famous Blue Lagoon, the more peaceful Santa Maria Bay, and the spectacular Santa Maria Caves.
- Gozo’s North Coast: Starting from bays like Marsalforn or Qbajjar, you can paddle west towards the stunning Wied il-Għasri sea canyon.
- The South-West Coast of Malta: Launching from Għar Lapsi or Wied iż-Żurrieq offers the chance to explore the sea caves around the Blue Grotto from a completely different perspective.
Stand-Up Paddleboarding (SUP)
SUP offers a unique vantage point, allowing you to stand on the water and gaze down into the clear depths below. It’s a fantastic core workout and a wonderfully peaceful way to explore. The feeling of gliding effortlessly across a calm, glassy bay as the sun warms your skin is pure bliss.
- Best Locations:
- Mellieħa Bay (Għadira): The bay’s shallow, calm, and protected waters make it the absolute best place in Malta for beginners to find their balance and learn the basics.
- Pretty Bay, Birżebbuġa: Another wide, sandy, and sheltered bay in the south that is excellent for a relaxed paddle.
- Xlendi Bay, Gozo: The enclosed, fjord-like nature of this bay makes it a beautiful and safe spot for SUP, with stunning cliffs surrounding you.
Lessons and Guided Tours: Your Gateway to Adventure
If you’re new to water sports, Malta is the perfect place to learn.
- Getting Started: Most rental operators for SUP and kayaking will happily give you a quick 10-minute briefing on the shore to get you started with the basics of paddling and safety. For more advanced sports like windsurfing or sailing, dedicated schools offer multi-day courses.
- The Value of a Guide: While renting your own gear offers freedom, a guided tour, especially for kayaking, is invaluable. A local guide will not only ensure your safety but will also lead you to the best, often hidden, spots—the secret caves, the secluded beaches, and the most dramatic arches that you would almost certainly miss on your own. They can share stories about the local history and geology, turning a simple paddle into a rich, educational, and unforgettable experience.
During this busy peak season, it’s always a good idea to book your chosen activity, especially guided tours or specialised rentals like flyboards, a day or two in advance to avoid disappointment. So, whether you choose a gentle glide or a full-throttle ride, the warm, inviting waters of the Mediterranean are ready to play.