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

Discovering Malta from the Water: An Honest Look at the Kayak Tour to St. Paul’s Island

If you’re seeking a peaceful way to explore Malta’s stunning coastline, the Kayak Tour to St. Paul’s Island during the golden hour offers a wonderful blend of gentle paddling, scenic beauty, and authentic adventure. Clocking in at about 2 hours 30 minutes and costing around $50.71 per person, this guided journey promises beginner-friendly paddling, captivating cave exploration, and a secluded island stop that’s often praised by travelers. The tour, operated by Kayak Tours Malta, is mostly booked ten days in advance, which suggests it’s popular among those looking to combine active fun with serene moments at sunset.

Two things that stand out about this experience are the informative guidance and the beautiful scenery. Many reviewers highlight Alan, the guide, as exceptionally friendly and helpful, making the start of the trip smooth and enjoyable. I also appreciate how the route hugs the rugged coast, revealing features like a vibrant underwater coral display and remnants of WWII, adding a touch of history and ecology to a relaxing paddle. The stop at St. Paul’s Island is especially loved; visitors get to stroll up to the impressive statue of St. Paul, take photos of the big cross from 1845, or float in the crystal-clear waters—an undeniably peaceful way to unwind and witness Malta’s natural beauty during that golden sunset light.

A small consideration is that this tour requires a moderate level of physical fitness and the ability to swim, as you’ll be paddling approximately 4-5 km and swimming is optional but not supervised. For those who prefer a more passive experience or are less confident in the water, it’s worth noting that the trip involves some paddling effort and group pacing will be adaptable but still leisurely. Plus, since water isn’t sold at the bay, bringing at least 2 liters of water per person is essential for comfort.

Key Points

• Beginner-friendly guided kayaking, suitable for most fitness levels.
• Stunning coastal scenery, including caves, coral, and remnants of WWII.
• Secluded island stop with a notable statue of St. Paul and free time for photos or swimming.
• Flexible itinerary with potential alternative stops if weather is uncooperative.
• Authentic small-group experience often led by knowledgeable guides like Alan.
• Affordable value for a scenic, active adventure with plenty of photo opportunities and relaxation.

An In-Depth Look at the Experience

The tour begins at Mistra Bay, where the guide provides a basic kayak lesson. If you’re new to paddling, this is a good chance to get comfortable with your boat and the water. The group then sets off at a relaxed pace, hugging the rugged coastline toward Rdum Il-Biez Bay. The route itself is thoughtfully chosen to showcase Malta’s natural charm, with bright blue waters and a vertical cave that’s home to purple and orange soft corals—species that only thrive in clean, unpolluted waters.

Travelers rave about the fish and coral sighting opportunities here, as well as the lively pigeons inhabiting the cave. One reviewer, Michael, highlighted the friendly and helpful staff, noting that the experience was ideal for exploring the coastline on the water. The paddle is leisurely enough for almost everyone, yet enough to feel like a proper adventure.

The highlight of the trip is crossing the 100-meter channel to reach St. Paul’s Island. Most visitors agree that this stop is the main draw, offering a 25-minute land break. Here, you can take a short walk to the top of the island, enjoy the peaceful bird reserve, or simply relax by the magnificent statue of St. Paul. The views of the Selmun cliffs and saltpans are gorgeous, especially as the sky turns a fiery orange during sunset. The water here is perfect for a quick swim, although it’s unsupervised, so swimmers should exercise caution.

On the way back, depending on weather conditions, the tour might include a paddle past Isle Imieba and the surrounding bays. This alternate route offers more isolated bays and a different perspective on Malta’s coastline. Reviewers like Magali described the scenery as superb, and the experience as a perfect moment for both relaxation and light exercise.

Throughout the trip, the group size of up to 23 travelers means it remains intimate enough for personalized attention from guides, yet lively enough for a shared adventure. The cost of about $50.71 per person seems reasonable for a scenic half-day activity, especially considering how many travelers mention how Alan and other guides go above and beyond to ensure everyone has a memorable experience.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This kayaking experience is best suited for travelers who enjoy outdoor activities, serene natural surroundings, and moderate physical activity. It’s ideal for beginners or those who want a relaxed paddle without the pressure of advanced skills. If you’re traveling with kids aged 12-17, they’ll need to be supervised by adults, and all participants should be comfortable swimming (or at least have flotation aids). It’s also a great choice for photographers or nature lovers eager to capture Malta’s coast at sunset.

Practical Tips

• Bring at least 2 liters of water—there’s no water for sale at the bay.
• Wear sun protection and shoes suitable for getting wet.
• Arrive prepared to sign on-site terms and conditions and provide ID.
• Moderate fitness is recommended—think of it as a 2-hour walk with stops, not a strenuous workout.
• For those shy about sharing, double-seater kayaks are provided, but occasionally, sharing might be necessary.

FAQs

Is this tour suitable for absolute beginners?
Yes, the guide provides a basic kayak lesson before setting out, and the paddling is done at a leisurely, group-friendly pace, making it perfect for beginners.

How strenuous is the paddling?
While the route covers about 4-5 km, the pace is slow and adaptable. It’s roughly equivalent to a light walk, but you should be comfortable with moderate activity.

What should I bring?
Water (at least 2 liters), sun protection, and shoes that can get wet. Remember, there’s no water available at the bay, so plan accordingly.

Can I swim during the stop at St. Paul’s Island?
Yes, swimming is unsupervised but encouraged if you want to cool off. Wear a flotation vest if you’re not a confident swimmer.

What if the weather is bad?
The tour is weather-dependent. If poor weather cancels the activity, you’ll get a full refund or an alternative date.

Is this a guided tour?
Absolutely. Guides like Alan are praised for their helpfulness and knowledge, making the trip informative as well as fun.

Are there any age restrictions?
Participants aged 12-17 need to be accompanied by adults. Everyone should be capable of swimming and reasonably fit.

All in all, this kayaking trip to St. Paul’s Island offers a wonderful taste of Malta’s coast, combining gentle adventure, scenic beauty, and a peaceful island stop. It’s perfect for those who want to experience Malta’s natural side without too much fuss, especially during the magic hours of sunset. Whether you’re traveling solo, as a couple, or with family, you’re likely to come away with memories and photos that will remind you of Malta’s rugged charm and azure waters. Just remember to bring water, wear sun protection, and come ready for a relaxed but active afternoon on the water.