A family adventure filled with sun, sand, and sea

Less than 3.5 hours from UK airports in the heart of the shimmering Med, Malta and its sister islands Gozo and Comino are blessed with gorgeous beaches and bays to discover, some with an array of different water sports to suit all tastes, ages, and moods, from tots to thrill seekers.

 A family adventure filled with sun, sand, and sea

The size of these islands and regular ferry connections make them easy and fun to explore or you can hop aboard a private boat trip to discover hidden caves, try your hand at snorkelling, and watch the sunset from the deck. Other coastal adventures on these islands’ rugged shorelines include sea kayaking, paddle boarding, and diving – this is a destination famous for its marine life and its shipwrecks.

All these islands’ beaches are family-friendly. Malta’s largest sandy beach is Mellieha Bay in a peaceful spot in the northwest of the island, while remote Ghajn Tuffieha Bay with its reddish-golden sand is also lovely and quiet. St Peter’s natural rock pool in Delimara is superb for secluded swimming and sunbathing, and don't miss Serene Dingli Cliffs, the highest point in Malta, which is the perfect spot for a picnic.

Malta also has some brilliant water parks that will appeal to everyone, especially Popeye Village Bay (the set where the 1979 musical was filmed). It includes enormous water trampolines, boat rides, and restaurants galore. In the south of the island, the fishing village of Marsaxlokk is known for its colourful boats, Sunday fish market, and seafood lunches.

Meanwhile, let the whole family learn more about the aquatic life of the islands in the fantastic Malta National Aquarium, and the excellent Esplora interactive science centre has more than 200 indoor and outdoor exhibits and hands-on workshops, including water displacement experiments and outdoor water play, perfect for curious children who love hands-on experiences.

Elsewhere, there are amazing views of Malta’s spectacular Grand Harbour and the daily firing of a cannon from Valletta’s Upper Barrakka Gardens – plus the delight of riding a traditional water taxi across the glorious harbour to the Three Cities with their palaces, forts, and bastions, and glamorous marina filled with super-yachts. Why not take the Malta Fun Trains? These are an exciting way to see much of Valletta and the harbour without tiring out the kids with long walks.

On Gozo, the best beach is Ramla il-Ħamra (‘Red Sandy Beach’). It has fabulous swimming and snorkelling, as well as protected dunes thought to conceal Roman ruins. Meanwhile, Dwejra Bay has boat trips to the Blue Hole and Fungus Rock. It is also home to unique boathouses converted from natural caves and ledges at the bottom of the cliffs at Daħlet Qorrot, a small bay in the north, with soft limestone studded with fascinating fossils, perfect for young historical explorers. 

Lastly, Gozo has some fantastic places to hike and climb by the water, especially Ramla Bay, Ta’Cenc Cliffs, and the Tal-Mixta Cave, along with its famous salt pans and the Inland Sea.

Don't miss the beautifully peaceful, car-free Comino. Head to the Blue Lagoon, a sheltered inlet with white sands that is perfect for cave-swimming, snorkelling, kayaking, and windsurfing, plus wildlife spotting – yelkouan shearwaters, dolphins, and seals inhabit this nature reserve and bird sanctuary.

To book your family trip to Malta, call your Travel Counsellor today.

Discover the magic of the Pacific with Regent’s 2028 World Cruise

23 April 2025

If you’re someone who dreams about oceans stretching to the horizon, exotic ports of call, and the kind of luxury that feels effortless, Regent’s ‘Legends of the Pacific’ 2028 World Cruise might be for you. Setting sail on 5th January 2028, this incredible 133-night voyage aboard the Seven Seas Splendor weaves together an itinerary of jaw-dropping destinations and onboard comforts. With prices starting at £70,000 per person, this all-inclusive adventure offers unparalleled value for world travellers seeking once-in-a-lifetime experiences. Here’s a closer look at what makes this voyage more than just another cruise across the Pacific.

A Greek island-hopping holiday you'll never forget

22 April 2025

There’s a reason Greece is one of the most sought-after holiday destinations, and this itinerary offers the perfect mix of relaxation and the opportunity to explore. Whether you’re soaking up the ancient wonders of Athens, enjoying the peaceful charm of Paros, or capturing iconic snapshots in Santorini, this holiday will refresh your soul and provide memories to last a lifetime.

Why Scenic’s European river cruises are unlike any other

21 April 2025

Few travel experiences allow you to immerse yourself in the heart of Europe like a river cruise. Gliding along shimmering waterways, you’ll pass rolling vineyards, medieval castles, and bustling cities brimming with culture. Whether you’re dreaming of tasting wines in Bordeaux, uncovering the history of the Rhine Valley, or indulging in the tranquillity of winter sun on the Douro River, Scenic offers you a world of discovery in unrivalled elegance.