Kayak Tour Golden Hour at St Paul’s Island 2 hours 30 minutes

Discover Malta’s Coastline with a Golden Hour Kayak Tour to St. Paul’s Island

If you’re looking for a relaxed yet engaging way to explore Malta’s rugged coast, the Kayak Tour to St. Paul’s Island offers an excellent balance of adventure, natural beauty, and cultural sights. For around $50.71 per person, you’ll spend about 2 hours 30 minutes paddling along crystal-clear waters, stopping to marvel at ancient caves, a revered statue, and a peaceful island reserve. Led by friendly guides, this tour is particularly perfect for beginners, emphasizing safety and leisurely exploration.

What we love most about this experience is the opportunity to see vibrant marine life up close—purple and soft orange corals thrive in these unpolluted waters—and the chance to capture stunning photos during the golden hour as the sky turns fiery orange. The guided land break at St. Paul’s Island enriches the trip, offering a glimpse of Malta’s birdlife and a chance to relax on a secluded spot.

A small drawback to consider is that the tour’s success depends on good weather; wind or rain can sometimes lead to route changes or cancellations. Also, since you’ll be paddling 4-5 km at a gentle pace, some level of physical fitness and swimming ability are necessary. But if you’re comfortable with water and enjoy light exercise, this tour is a perfect fit.

This experience best suits travelers seeking an authentic and scenic outdoor activity that combines gentle adventure with cultural highlights. Whether you’re solo, a couple, or a small group, the varied stops and relaxed pace make it ideal for those wanting to see Malta from a different perspective—on the water, with plenty of time for photos and dips.

Key Points

• Beginner-friendly paddling with guided instructions and a relaxed group pace
• Stunning coastal views and access to caves with colorful coral
• Secluded St. Paul’s Island, featuring a statue, a cross, and peaceful nature
• Suitable for swimming and those with moderate physical fitness
• Flexible itinerary with route changes based on weather conditions
• Affordable value considering the inclusive stops and scenic beauty

An In-Depth Look at the Kayak Tour to St. Paul’s Island

Starting Point: Mistra Bay and the 18th Century Battery

Launching from Mistra Bay, we start with a quick introduction and a basic kayak lesson. This bay is not just scenic but also historically significant, with an 18th-century military battery guarding the area. The calm waters and gentle initial paddle make it an inviting way to warm up for the adventure. Our guides, like Alan, earn praise for friendliness and attentiveness—something you’ll really appreciate if you’re new to kayaking.

Exploring Rdum Il-Biez and the Cave

As we paddle along the rocky coast, we visit Rdum Il-Biez, a secluded bay that feels like your own private corner of Malta. Here, you’ll get to enter a tall, vertical cave—a highlight—and marvel at the marine life thriving within. The cave’s purple and soft orange corals, which only grow in pristine waters, add a splash of color to the underwater scenery. Comments from previous participants describe this stop as “superb,” with plenty of time to explore or just soak in the beauty.

St. Paul’s Island: Nature Reserve and Iconic Landmarks

The paddle across a short 100-meter channel leads us to St. Paul’s Island, a protected nature reserve. The island’s prominent statue of St. Paul and the large cross from 1845 are both fantastic photo opportunities—especially as the sky turns that magical orange hue. You’re free to walk up to the top or simply relax on the beach, enjoying the tranquility and spotting the many protected bird species. For those eager to cool off, a swim in the crystal-clear waters offers a refreshing break.

Optional Activities and the Sunset View

While the main plan is to visit St. Paul’s Island, weather can influence the route. If conditions aren’t ideal for the island, guides may instead paddle past nearby bays like Mgiebah, offering equally stunning scenery. As the tour winds down, you’ll paddle back in time for the sunset—an experience many reviewers described as “fiery” and “peaceful,” perfect for photos or just soaking in the moment.

Practical Details and Considerations

The tour’s small group size (maximum 23 participants) enhances the experience, making it feel personal and safe. You should be prepared with 2 liters of water and sun protection, and it’s best to wear shoes you don’t mind getting wet. Since swimming is optional, participants need to be comfortable in the water, although life vests are provided. The route is adaptable, with the guides prioritizing safety and weather conditions.

What Past Travelers Say

Reviews consistently highlight the helpfulness and knowledge of the guides, like Alan, who made the experience enjoyable and informative. One reviewer mentioned it was a “laid-back paddle” with plenty of time for a swim and sightseeing, while another praised the spectacular scenery and the “true moment of relaxation while staying active.” These comments underscore that this tour offers a calm but memorable way to see Malta’s coast.

Who Will Love This Tour?

If you’re a traveler who enjoys outdoor activities that don’t require advanced skills, this kayak tour is ideal. It’s perfect for families, couples, or solo adventurers looking for a peaceful exploration of Malta’s coast. The stops at caves and the island are brief but packed with visual and cultural interest, making it suitable for those wanting a slow, scenic, and engaging experience.

It’s especially appealing for nature lovers and photography enthusiasts who want to capture Malta’s stunning scenery during the golden hour. If you’re comfortable swimming and physically active, you’ll get the most out of this tour, but even beginners will find it accessible thanks to the guides’ support.

Final Thoughts: Is This Tour Worth It?

Absolutely. At just over two and a half hours, the Golden Hour Kayak Tour offers a blend of gentle adventure, scenic beauty, and cultural highlights—without the pressure of more intense water sports. The small group size, friendly guides, and stunning locations make it a great value, especially considering the stops at the caves, island, and the sunset.

If you’re seeking a calm, memorable activity that gives you a different view of Malta’s coastline, this tour fits the bill. It’s best suited for those who want a relaxed, authentic experience with plenty of opportunities for photos, swimming, and appreciating the natural surroundings.

FAQ: Your Practical Questions Answered

What is included in the tour?
The tour includes guided kayaking, a basic lesson, and stops at caves, St. Paul’s Island, and nearby bays. Life jackets and safety equipment are provided.

Do I need to be an expert kayaker?
No. The tour is beginner-friendly with a basic kayaking lesson, and the pace is leisurely, suited for people with moderate fitness.

How long is the total paddling distance?
You will paddle approximately 4-5 km in total, with frequent stops for exploration and rest.

What should I bring?
Bring 2 liters of water, sun protection, and shoes that can get wet. Water is not available at the bay, so come prepared.

Can I swim during the tour?
Yes, swimming in the crystal waters is optional. You’ll wear a life vest, and the water is considered safe and clear.

What happens if the weather is bad?
Routes may be changed or the tour canceled. If canceled due to weather, a full refund or alternative date will be offered.

Is the tour suitable for children?
Children aged 12-17 need to be accompanied by two adults. The physical activity level is moderate, so younger kids should be comfortable in water.

How far in advance should I book?
Most bookings are made about 10 days in advance, but availability can vary.

What is the cancellation policy?
You can cancel for free up to 24 hours before the tour for a full refund.

Where does the tour start and end?
Start point is Margo’s Mistra Bay, and the tour ends back at the same location.

This kayak tour offers a wonderful way to see Malta’s coast, combining gentle exercise, stunning scenery, and cultural highlights—all during the best light of the day. Whether you’re a first-timer or a seasoned paddler, you’ll appreciate the relaxed pace and the chance to truly connect with the island’s natural beauty.