Paddle boarding in Malta offers a unique way to enjoy the island’s beauty. There are many wonders to discover, from caves to coves to hidden gems. The calm and clear waters make it feel like walking on glass. Throughout this guide, I will share the best places to paddle board, where to rent equipment, and some tips for beginners.
Why is Paddle Boarding in Malta so Popular?
Recent years have seen paddle boarding gain popularity because of its accessibility and versatility. People of all ages and fitness levels can benefit from this low-impact exercise. You can use a stand-up paddle (SUP) almost anywhere, from calm lakes to choppy oceans. Paddle boarding brings you close to nature, offering a peaceful and serene experience. Additionally, it is easy to learn and provides a full-body workout.
There is also a growing interest in paddle boarding in Malta. Several places rent equipment, and tours are also available. Malta offers the best paddle boarding conditions due to its calm seas. There is almost no time of year when you cannot do this. The water always stays warm. Malta has a beautiful coastline, so paddle boarding is a great activity.
Best Locations for Paddle Boarding in Malta
Listed below are some of the best paddle boarding spots in Malta:
St Thomas Bay
St Thomas Bay is a beautiful paddle boarding site located in Marsaskala, southeast of the island. The water there is shallow and calm most of the time. Therefore, it’s easy to learn how to use the stand-up paddle.
Once you have mastered paddling, you can head towards the Munxar Window. There is a hole in it that you can swim through.
You can also explore Munxar Bay. Stunning white cliffs and caves around the bay provide a beautiful backdrop for your adventure. I love how blue the water is there. Due to the shallow water, this bay cannot be accessed by foot or boat. The whole bay is yours to enjoy.
Equipment rental: there is a rental shop at St Thomas Bay. Click here to rent a SUP at a discounted rate. You need to book in advance.
Ghadira Beach
Mellieha’s Ghadira Bay is ideal for beginners to practice paddle boarding because of its wide sandy beach and shallow waters. After mastering paddle boarding, you can try various water sports activities in the bay.
If you want to take a more extended trip, you can paddle to Imgiebah Beach (also called Selmun Beach), arguably Malta’s most beautiful beach. It’s natural, quiet, and rarely crowded. The paddle to Imgiebah Beach takes around 30-40 minutes. Follow the coast on the right-hand side.
You can also go to Slugs Bay if you go left. Slugs Bay is a small natural, protected by large boulders from the rough seas. It’s a lovely spot for a dip and snorkel. It’s nice to paddle there and spend some time relaxing. It should take 40-50 mins to get there.
Equipment rental: you can rent SUP from Surfing Malta, but you need to book in advance to have it delivered to Ghadira Beach.
Ghajn Tuffieha Beach
Located on the west coast of Malta, Ghajn Tuffieha Beach is a stunning sandy beach surrounded by natural beauty.
The scenery is beautiful and wild. You can paddle around the rocky peninsula to the left and explore Gnejna Bay. There is an inaccessible beach behind the clay cliffs and the rocky plateau called Ta Babu Cove.
Further along the shoreline, you will reach Gnejna Bay, where you can explore the boathouses.
Due to its higher waves and currents, Ghajn Tuffieha Beach is more challenging. Stay inside the bay on windy days. It’s safer that way.
Equipment rental: available on the beach; no booking is required.
Golden Bay
Known for its golden sands and crystal-clear waters, Golden Bay is located next to Ghajn Tuffieha.
As cliffs shelter the bay, it provides a calm environment for beginners to practice their skills. However, when the sea is rough, you should avoid leaving the bay.
You can explore hidden coves and rocky coastlines along the right side of Golden Bay. Left will take you to Ghajn Tuffieha, from which you can paddle to Gnejna Bay.
During sunset, paddle boarding in Golden Bay or Ghajn Tuffieha is breathtaking. You can see the golden glow of the sky reflecting off crystal-clear water, silhouettes of people, and the rocky coastline.
Equipment rental: there is a water sports rental shop on the beach; there is no need to book in advance.
Tips for Beginners
Keep these tips in mind when you start paddle boarding to make sure it’s fun and safe:
Choose the right board: You’ll have more stability and balance if you pick a longer, thicker board as a beginner.
Wear appropriate clothing: Wear a t-shirt and a hat while paddle boarding to protect yourself from the sun. While learning, consider putting on a life jacket.
Learn the proper technique: If you want to paddle well, you should get familiar with the proper technique. You’ll want your feet shoulder-width apart and your knees slightly bent. Hold the paddle with one hand about halfway down the shaft while holding your feet shoulder-width apart. To paddle, reach forward, submerge the paddle entirely in the water, and pull it back towards you.
Practice standing up: Kneel on the board and then slowly stand up. Keeping your knees bent and maintaining a low centre of gravity will help you maintain balance.
Use your core: Engaging your core muscles when paddle boarding is essential for better control and stability. Use your core to power your paddle strokes instead of relying on your arms only.
Keep your eyes on the horizon: It’s better to look at the horizon than down at your feet or the board if you want to keep your balance.
Fall safely: Whenever you feel you are losing your balance, try to fall away from the board to avoid injury. Avoid diving headfirst.
Use a leash: Attach your leash to your ankle or calf while paddle boarding so you can get back on if you fall off.
This guide should have given you a better understanding of paddle boarding in Malta. It’s a great way to discover Malta’s natural beauty, whether you’re a beginner or an expert. Check out my guide on snorkelling and scuba diving in Malta if you’re into water sports and want to explore the undersea world.
