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

Imagine paddling along rugged coastlines, exploring caves filled with vibrant coral, and soaking in a fiery sunset over the sea—all without needing prior kayaking experience. That’s precisely what this Kayak Tour Golden Hour at St. Paul’s Island promises, and from the glowing reviews, it delivers a memorable, relaxed adventure suited for those craving outdoor fun and authentic nature encounters.

What we love about this tour is how it combines easy-to-follow guidance with opportunities for swimming and sightseeing. The friendly guides, like Alan — praised for his kindness and local knowledge — make all the difference when navigating Malta’s scenic coastline. Plus, the stunning views of the sunset and the chance to visit a secluded island with historical and natural sights add a special touch.

One thing to keep in mind is the moderate physical activity level required. It’s a leisurely paddle, but you should be comfortable with a bit of movement and able to swim, as the tour involves some paddling and optional swimming breaks. This experience suits adventurers who enjoy light outdoor activities and want a peaceful yet engaging way to see Malta’s coast from a different perspective.

Good To Know

• Beginner-Friendly: Guided kayak routes tailored for all skill levels, with basic lessons included.
• Stunning Scenery: Explore caves, crystal-clear waters, and scenic coastlines while paddling.
• Secluded Land Visit: Land break on St. Paul’s Island, featuring a notable statue and panoramic views.
• Flexible Experience: You’ll paddle about 4-5 km at a relaxed pace, with stops for exploration and rest.
• Incredible Sunset: The tour ends with paddling back as the sky turns a fiery orange, perfect for photos.
• Value for Money: At around $50, this tour combines natural beauty, outdoor activity, and cultural sights.

A Deep Dive into the Experience

Starting Point and Ease of Access

The adventure begins at Mistra Bay, easily reached near public transportation options. You’ll meet your guides, who provide a basic kayak lesson—perfect for beginners or those needing a quick refresher. The small group size (up to 23 travelers) ensures personalized attention, and reviews highlight the friendly staff, particularly Alan, whose helpfulness and local insights receive high praise.

The Coastal Journey: From Mistra Bay to Rdum Il-Biez

Paddling along the rugged coast, you’ll hug the shoreline, taking in views of blue waters and rocky cliffs. The route includes a stop at Rdum il-Biez, a relatively secluded bay known for its vertical cave and lively pigeon population. Here, the water teems with colorful coral species—purple at the waterline and bright orange a few centimeters below—thriving in Malta’s unpolluted waters.

This part of the trip is especially appreciated by reviewers who mention how peaceful and scenic the paddle is, with plenty of time to soak in the surroundings. One reviewer notes, “Laid back paddle to St Paul’s Island with plenty of time for a swim and to walk up and see the statue,” which underscores the tour’s relaxed pace and focus on enjoying nature.

The Land of St. Paul: A Land Break with a View

Crossing a narrow 100-meter channel, you’ll arrive at St. Paul’s Island. This small, protected nature reserve is famous for its statue of St. Paul and an ancient Cross from 1845—both excellent photo opportunities. The walk to the top offers sweeping views of the Selmun cliffs and saltpans, perfect for capturing the moment as the sun begins to set.

The island also provides a swimming opportunity for those who want a refreshing dip in its clear waters. Reviewers like Andy describe the experience as “relaxing,” appreciating the peacefulness and the opportunity for a photo with the statue against a glowing sunset.

Optional Extras and Flexibility in the Route

Depending on weather conditions, the tour may include an extra paddle past the coasts of Selmun and Mgiebah, exploring tiny, quiet bays. In case of bad weather, the guides might opt for a different route, ensuring safety and comfort.

The timing of the stops allows for rest, exploration, or swimming, and the short duration (about 25 minutes on the island) keeps the pace manageable. Reviewers frequently mention how Alan and other guides calibrate the pace to suit the group’s ability, making it a welcoming experience for all.

Paddling Back at Sunset

The return journey is equally scenic, with the sky changing colors as you paddle back toward Mistra Bay. Many reviews highlight how beautiful and serene the sunset paddling experience is, elevating the trip from a simple water activity to a truly picturesque moment.

Practical Details and What You Need to Know

Duration and Group Size

The trip is approximately 2 hours 30 minutes, covering about 4-5 km at a leisurely pace. The small group size ensures everyone receives attention, and the guides are praised for their helpfulness and local knowledge.

Pricing and Value

At around $50.71 per person, this kayak tour offers good value, considering the inclusion of guided instruction, multiple stops, and land exploration. The price reflects the overall experience—combining gentle physical activity, natural scenery, and cultural sights—making it a worthwhile choice for those seeking a balanced outdoor adventure.

What to Bring and Wear

Travelers are advised to bring 2 liters of water, sun protection, and shoes suitable for getting wet. Since water isn’t available at Mistra Bay, packing enough hydration is essential, especially in warm weather. The tour is suitable for people with moderate physical fitness and who can swim, as swimming is optional but not supervised.

Accessibility and Safety

Participants should be comfortable with paddling and able to communicate in English. The guides retain the right to modify the route or decline participation if safety considerations dictate. Sharing a kayak, whether double or single, is possible, and the floatation vests provided are suitable for all participants.

Cancellation and Weather Policy

This tour features free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, offering flexibility in case of sudden weather changes. If canceled due to poor conditions, travelers receive either a new date or a full refund.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This kayaking experience is perfect for beginners, nature lovers, and those seeking a laid-back outdoor activity with cultural highlights. It’s especially appealing for travelers who enjoy photo opportunities, peaceful landscapes, and sunset views. The guided element makes it accessible for all levels, and the focus on relaxation and exploration ensures it’s not overly strenuous.

Final Thoughts: Is This Tour Worth It?

If you’re after a calm, scenic adventure that combines water, nature, and history, this tour ticks many boxes. It’s a great way to see Malta’s coast from a different perspective, away from the crowded beaches and busier sightseeing spots. The reviews consistently mention the friendly guides, especially Alan, and the beautiful scenery—making it clear that this experience leaves a lasting impression.

This trip provides excellent value for money, with the chance to swim, explore, and snap photos all within a manageable time frame. It’s suitable for families, couples, and solo travelers alike, particularly those who enjoy light outdoor activities with a cultural twist.

In summary, this kayak tour offers a relaxed, picturesque, and culturally interesting way to spend a few hours in Malta. It’s perfect for those looking for a small-group adventure that emphasizes nature, history, and sunset magic.

FAQ

• Is this tour suitable for beginners? Yes, the tour is beginner-friendly, with a basic kayak lesson included and a guided route.
• How long does the tour last? The entire experience takes approximately 2 hours 30 minutes.
• What is the distance paddled? Expect to paddle about 4-5 km at a relaxed pace.
• Can I swim during the tour? Yes, swimming is optional at St. Paul’s Island, and there’s time allocated for a swim break.
• What should I bring? Pack 2 liters of water, sun protection, and shoes you don’t mind getting wet.
• Is water available at Mistra Bay? No, travelers should bring their own water, as it’s not sold at the meeting point.
• What fitness level is required? Moderate fitness is recommended, as you should be comfortable paddling and able to swim.
• Are children allowed? Youth aged 12-17 must be accompanied by two adults.
• What happens if the weather is bad? The tour can be canceled for safety, with options for a different date or a full refund.
• How do I book? The tour is popular, booked on average 10 days in advance, and confirmation is provided within 48 hours.

To sum it up, this kayak tour at St. Paul’s Island offers a relaxed, scenic, and culturally enriching experience. Whether you’re an outdoor lover or simply want a peaceful way to see Malta’s coastline, it’s hard to go wrong with a trip that ends with a sunset paddle and a touch of history.