Hi, I’m Kim, born and raised in Malta, and I’ve recently started a series where I try different activities around the islands to share whether they’re really worth your time and money. If you’ve been following my posts, you’ll already know that my husband and I love staying active and are always chasing our next little adventure. So naturally, kayaking and hiking are completely up our alley and this experience turned out to be one of our favourite outdoor activities in Malta so far.
If you’re searching for the perfect mix of adventure and relaxation, kayaking to Coral Lagoon is an absolute must. This scenic experience along Malta’s northern coastline combines crystal-clear waters, dramatic rock formations, hidden caves, and the freedom to explore parts of the island that are impossible to fully appreciate from land.
What makes this adventure even better is that it’s incredibly affordable. Kayak rentals start from just €29 per person for two hours. Whether you’re planning a half-day escape or a full beach day, this is one of those experiences that combines adventure, relaxation, and unforgettable scenery all in one.
Starting Point: Little Armier Bay
Your journey begins at Little Armier Bay, a peaceful spot away from the busier tourist beaches. Before setting off, take some time to enjoy a swim in the incredibly clear water and soak up the calm atmosphere.
To secure your kayak, it’s best to book a 2-hour rental in advance, especially during the summer months. The paddle towards Coral Lagoon takes around 30 minutes depending on sea conditions, but this isn’t a journey you’ll want to rush.
As you kayak along the coastline, you’ll pass towering limestone cliffs, rugged rock formations, and sea caves carved naturally into the coast over thousands of years. One of my favourite parts was simply floating near the cliffs. The sea changes colour constantly; from deep blue to bright turquoise, especially when the sunlight hits the water.
What I loved most about kayaking here is how peaceful it feels once you move away from the shore. There’s something incredibly freeing about being out on the water with nothing but the sound of the waves and open coastline around you. It gives you a completely different perspective of Malta that most visitors never experience.
The route is suitable for beginners too, as long as the sea conditions are calm. You can paddle at your own pace, stop for photos whenever you like, and even take short floating breaks to simply enjoy the surroundings.
Important Safety Note
The sea can be unpredictable, and conditions may become dangerous for less experienced swimmers or kayakers. Always check the weather and water conditions before setting off, and avoid kayaking when the sea is rough or windy.
While cliff jumping may look tempting, it is strictly prohibited due to several recent accidents in the area.
Discovering Coral Lagoon
Arriving at Coral Lagoon is an unforgettable reward. This natural sea cave, famous for its circular opening and glowing turquoise water, is easily one of Malta’s most breathtaking hidden gems. Seeing it from sea level by kayak makes the experience even more magical compared to simply viewing it from above.
Take your time here to float, relax, and admire the dramatic cliffs surrounding the lagoon. The sunlight reflecting inside the cave creates incredible colours in the water, making it one of the most photogenic spots on the island.
If you arrive and find the lagoon crowded with kayaks, don’t worry; people are constantly coming and going, so it’s worth waiting a little while for more space to properly enjoy the experience. Most visitors simply paddle around, stop to take photos, or jump in for a quick swim before heading back out.
Even with a 2-hour kayak rental, there’s more than enough time to paddle comfortably to Coral Lagoon, spend around 45 minutes to an hour inside the lagoon itself, enjoy a swim, relax on the water, and still make your way back at an easy pace.
Not into kayaking? No problem! You can still admire Coral Lagoon from above. Simply enter “Coral Lagoon” into Google Maps and park around 150 metres away. From there, follow the rocky path on foot and enjoy the view safely from a distance. The terrain can be uneven, so wear proper shoes and avoid getting too close to the cliff edges.
Optional Stop: Mellieha Bay
After exploring Coral Lagoon, head back to shore and continue your adventure by driving to Mellieha Bay. With its wide stretch of golden sand and shallow, family-friendly waters, it’s the perfect place to unwind after kayaking.
The beach is well-equipped with sunbeds, umbrellas, cafés, and restaurants nearby. If you’re feeling hungry afterwards, I highly recommend trying the pizzas at Vecchia Napoli or Il Pirata. For something more upscale, book a table at One80, a restaurant renowned for its outstanding dishes and the best desserts on the island.
More Malta Adventures
I truly hope you enjoy exploring Malta as much as I love discovering these hidden gems in my own country. Experiences like this remind me how lucky we are to have such beautiful nature and coastline right on our doorstep.
If you enjoy days out like this, don’t miss my other guides:
- Mġarr Malta Bays Kayaking, Hiking & Beach Hopping: A Complete Day Guide
- Southern Malta Travel Guide: Top Kayak Spots, Viewpoints and Easy Hikes
Happy Travels! x
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