If you are looking for the best places to snorkel in Malta, you have plenty of choices. The Maltese Islands are surrounded by clear Mediterranean water, rocky coves, limestone cliffs, underwater caves and sheltered bays, with excellent snorkelling spots spread across Malta, Gozo and Comino.
From easy-access beaches for families to dramatic coastal areas better suited to confident swimmers, each location offers something different. Some are best explored from shore, while others are much more enjoyable when reached by boat.
This guide covers 18 of the best places to snorkel in Malta, Gozo and Comino, including what to expect, who each spot suits and a few practical tips for planning your day on the water.
A Local Tip Before You Start
The most famous snorkelling spots in Malta are not always the best ones for every swimmer.
Sea conditions, wind direction, access, crowds and your own swimming ability can make a big difference. A spot that feels calm one morning may be less comfortable later in the day.
If you are travelling with children, older family members or anyone who is not a confident swimmer, prioritise easy entry and sheltered conditions rather than simply choosing the most photogenic location.
And if you are comfortable in the water, do not be afraid to look beyond the famous names. Some of Gozo and Comino’s smaller coves can be much more rewarding than spending the entire day at one busy swimming area.
Best Places to Snorkel in Malta
1. Ghar Lapsi
Located on Malta’s southwest coast near Siġġiewi, Għar Lapsi is a rocky coastal area known for clear water, limestone formations and an attractive natural setting.
The coastline here is better suited to confident swimmers than complete beginners because entry is mainly over rocks rather than a sandy beach. Water shoes can be useful, particularly when getting in and out.
The surrounding cliffs also make this a scenic place to combine swimming with coastal sightseeing.
Best for: Confident swimmers, rocky-coast snorkelling and scenery.
2. St. Peter’s Pool
Near Marsaxlokk in southeastern Malta, St Peter’s Pool is one of the island’s best-known natural swimming areas.
The distinctive rock formations create several places to enter the water, although the location is more appropriate for confident swimmers. There is no traditional sandy beach, so take care when moving over the rocks.
The clear water makes it attractive for snorkelling, but conditions can vary depending on wind and swell.
Best for: Confident swimmers and underwater exploration.
3. Paradise Bay
Paradise Bay sits in northern Malta close to Ċirkewwa, where ferries depart for Gozo.
Unlike some of Malta’s more rugged swimming locations, Paradise Bay has a sandy beach and relatively straightforward access to the water. This makes it a practical option if your group includes people with different swimming abilities.
The rocky edges of the bay provide opportunities for snorkelling beyond the main swimming area.
Best for: Families, beach days and easier access.
4. Imġiebaħ Bay
Imġiebaħ Bay is a hidden gem located on Malta’s northern coast. This bay is away from tourist crowds. It has calm waters with rocky outcrops, seagrass beds, and plenty of marine life. Expect to see octopuses, small reef fish, and crabs.
Reaching the bay requires a short hike, so bring essentials like water and snacks. The secluded nature of the beach makes it an ideal spot for those looking for a quiet snorkelling experience.
5. Blue Grotto
Blue Grotto is a stunning snorkelling destination known for its deep blue waters and impressive underwater caves. The visibility in Blue Grotto is excellent. It’s ideal for spotting marine life like moray eels, groupers, and schools of small fish.
The best way to explore Blue Grotto is by joining a Malta boat tour that stops at the caves. Snorkelling is best done early in the morning when the waters are calm and sunlight creates a mesmerising glow inside the caves.
6. Anchor Bay
Anchor Bay is located on the northwest coast of Malta, near Mellieha. It’s famous for being home to Popeye Village, the former film set of the 1980 Popeye movie. It has now turned into a charming seaside attraction. The bay features a mix of shallow and deep waters. It’s suitable for both beginner and experienced snorkellers. The underwater caves, tunnels, and rock formations create an exciting environment to explore.
You can find small schools of fish, octopuses, sea urchins, and even moray eels in Anchor Bay. Visit Popeye Village after snorkelling for a unique experience. You can also relax at the nearby cliffside sunbathing areas with breathtaking views of the Mediterranean.
Best Places to Snorkel in Gozo
7. Hondoq ir-Rummien
Hondoq ir-Rummien is a hidden gem on Gozo’s southeastern coast. It offers calm and shallow waters, perfect for casual snorkellers. The seagrass beds in the area create a rich underwater ecosystem. This attracts a variety of marine life such as octopuses, sea bream, and even cuttlefish. That’s why it’s considered as one of the best places to snorkel in Malta.
Hondoq ir-Rummien is also great for kayaking and paddleboarding after snorkelling. If you want to explore Hondoq without the crowds, visit early in the morning or late in the afternoon. It’s when most Comino boat trips are heading back.
8. Xwejni Bay
Xwejni Bay is located on Gozo’s north coast, near Marsalforn. It has calm and shallow waters with plenty of rock formations and fish species. It’s an ideal spot for beginners and families with kids. You can expect to see small schools of colourful fish, crabs, and occasional seahorses.
The coastal landscape is unique, with stunning salt pans nearby. After snorkelling, take a short walk to the salt pans, where locals have been harvesting sea salt for centuries. It’s a great spot for photography and learning about Gozo’s traditions! For those exploring by boat, you can reach Xwejni Bay as part of a Gozo boat tour. It often includes other snorkelling stops around the island.
9. Xlendi Bay
Xlendi Bay is a picturesque inlet surrounded by towering limestone cliffs. It offers one of the most scenic snorkelling spots in Gozo. It is a great spot for both beginners and experienced snorkellers. You’ll come across hidden underwater caves, sea arches, and diverse marine life.You can find zoanthids and red starfish on the rock walls.
You’ll see a tunnel near the cliffs, where sunlight creates a mesmerising play of colours in the water. The seabed varies between sandy patches and rocky outcrops. Some Gozo boat tours include stops at Xlendi Bay.
10. Mgarr Xini
Mgarr Xini is a secluded bay with crystal-clear water. It’s one of the best snorkelling site in Gozo. The rocky seabed provides a habitat for cuttlefish, octopuses, and moray eels.
This bay is also known for its peaceful atmosphere, away from crowded beaches. If you want to learn more about Mgarr Xini, read this blog, “Mġarr ix-Xini Bay: Gozo’s Best-Kept Secret You Can’t Miss!”
11. Xatt L-Ahmar
Xatt L-Ahmar is famous for its underwater shipwrecks, making it a fascinating snorkelling destination. The marine life includes groupers, scorpionfish, and barracudas. While it is a great snorkelling spot, some areas are better suited for scuba diving.
12. Tal-Fessej
Tal-Fessej is a lesser-known snorkelling site in Gozo with rich marine biodiversity. The underwater landscape includes rocky formations, seagrass meadows, and plenty of colourful fish.
It is a peaceful spot, ideal for those looking to explore Gozo’s marine life without the crowds.
13. Dwejra Blue Hole
Dwejra Blue Hole is one of Gozo’s most famous diving and snorkelling spots. The underwater rock formations, caves, and tunnels create a spectacular environment for exploration.
Marine life includes ornate wrasse, rainbow wrasse, and large schools of damselfish. The waters here are deep, making it better suited for experienced snorkellers.
14. Kantra
Kantra Bay, near Xlendi, is a hidden snorkelling spot with crystal-clear waters and dramatic cliffs. The area is home to various fish species and unique underwater rock formations.
15. Wied il-Ghasri
Wied il-Ghasri is a narrow, fjord-like inlet on Gozo’s north coast. The area has excellent snorkelling opportunities, with underwater caves and rock formations. Marine life includes crabs, starfish, and small schools of fish.
The steep staircase leading down to the inlet adds to the adventure of reaching this hidden snorkelling paradise. Read our blog about “Wied il-Għasri: Gozo’s Natural Canyon by the Sea” to learn more.
16. Ramla Bay
Ramla Bay, located on Gozo’s northern coast, is known for its distinctive red sand and clear waters. It is an excellent snorkelling destination with a mix of sandy seabeds and rocky formations.
One of the highlights of snorkelling at Ramla Bay is the shipwreck of the “Karwela,” which lies nearby. Although primarily a diving spot, snorkellers can still enjoy glimpses of the wreck and the marine life surrounding it, including groupers, sea bream, and octopuses.
Best Places to Snorkel in Gozo
17. Blue Lagoon
The Blue Lagoon is Malta’s most famous snorkelling destination. The crystal clear water offers exceptional visibility of up to 30 metres. You can spot marine life even from the surface. The white sandy seabed reflects the sunlight beautifully. It creates an almost surreal, glowing effect in the water.
The easiest way to reach the Blue Lagoon is via a Blue Lagoon trip Malta or a Comino Malta boat tour. Many Gozo boat tour operators like GOZOblu offer half-day and full-day excursions. It’s often combined with stops at Crystal Lagoon and hidden sea caves.
18. Crystal Lagoon
Crystal Lagoon is a hidden gem with deep waters, underwater caves, and excellent visibility. It’s a less crowded alternative to the famous Blue Lagoon. You can find Crystal Lagoon on the southwest side of Comino. You can snorkel through a network of caves and tunnels, home to moray eels, octopuses, and shoals of fish.
The best way to reach Crystal Lagoon is via a Malta private boat tour or a Comino boat trip. Many private boat trips Malta operators offer customised snorkelling tours. You can also paddle from Blue Lagoon to Crystal Lagoon in just a few minutes.
Snorkelling Equipment and Rentals in Malta
If you don’t have your own snorkelling gear, most shops in Malta and Gozo sell affordable snorkelling sets. It is best to buy a mask with tempered glass for durability and, if you want better quality, choose one made of silicone for a better fit.
If you are in Gozo, you can visit our shop, where we offer a selection of masks and fins for sale.
What You Should Bring for Snorkelling?
- Mask and snorkel (or rent one)
- Fins for better swimming efficiency
- Reef-safe sunscreen (to protect marine life)
- Water shoes for rocky areas
- Waterproof bag for valuables
Snorkelling Safety Tips in Malta
To have a safe and fun snorkelling experience, keep these tips in mind:
- Check the weather to avoid snorkelling in rough seas.
- Stay close to shore if you are not an experienced swimmer.
- Watch out for boats, especially in busy areas like the Blue Lagoon Malta.
- Don’t touch marine life, you should respect the ecosystem and avoid damaging corals.
- Ensure your snorkel, mask, and fins are in good condition. A well-fitting mask and snorkel can make a big difference in comfort and safety.
- Always snorkel with a buddy, especially if you’re new to the activity. It’s safer and more fun to explore together.
- Be mindful of any strong currents and always swim in the direction that allows you to return to shore easily.
- If you’re not a strong swimmer or plan on snorkelling for an extended period, consider using a buoy or floatation device to help you stay afloat.
Experience Exclusive Snorkelling with GOZOblu Private Boat Tours
Want to make your snorkelling experience extra special? Explore hidden snorkelling spots with the GOZOblu Private Boat Tour! Here’s why you should choose GOZOblu for your snorkelling trip.
- Our experienced skippers know the best places to snorkel in Malta. GOZOblu can access secluded snorkelling spots that are off-limits to larger boats. You will have the chance to explore quiet coves and hidden caves that most tourists miss.
- Our private Malta boat tours offer flexible itineraries. You can snorkel at the famous Blue Lagoon, Crystal Lagoon, or other hidden snorkelling spots. You have the option to choose the spot that suits your experience level and interests.
- As one of the best Malta boat tours, we offer personalised experiences for tourists. We cater to smaller, private groups where you can get a relaxed and intimate experience.
- GOZOblu Private Boat Tours has expert skippers. They know the best places to snorkel in Malta.
Book Your Private Snorkelling Adventure Today!
GOZOblu Private Boat Tours offer an unforgettable way to explore the best places to snorkel in Malta. To create your perfect itinerary, contact GOZOblu today! We will help you plan the ultimate private boat trip in Malta!
Dive into Malta’s Snorkelling Paradise!
Malta and Gozo are true snorkelling gems in the heart of the Mediterranean. The Maltese island has breathtaking underwater landscapes, crystal-clear waters, and diverse marine life. These islands offer unforgettable snorkelling experiences for all skill levels of divers.
For the ultimate adventure, consider booking a Gozo boat tour or a private boat trip Malta. Booking a private boat tour gives you access to the best places to snorkel in Malta.
If have plans to visit Malta this 2025, check out our Malta travel guides.
FAQ
Where is the best snorkelling in Malta?
Some of the best snorkelling spots in Malta includes:
• Ghar Lapsi
• St. Peter’s Pool
• Paradise Bay
• Blue Grotto
• Imġiebaħ Bay
• Anchor Bay
• Blue Lagoon
• Crystal Lagoon
• Hondoq ir-Rummien
• Xwejni Bay
• Xlendi Bay
• Mgarr Xini
• Xatt L-Ahmar
• Tal-Fessej
• Dwejra Blue Hole
• Kantra
• Wied il-Ghasri
• Ramla Bay
Each offers unique underwater landscapes, marine life, and crystal-clear waters.
Where is the prettiest place to snorkel?
The Blue Lagoon in Comino is often considered the prettiest snorkelling spot in Malta due to its turquoise waters and excellent visibility. Crystal Lagoon and the Blue Grotto also offer stunning underwater views.
Are there coral reefs in Malta?
Malta does not have extensive coral reefs like tropical destinations, but it does have vibrant underwater ecosystems with rocky reefs, seagrass meadows, and caves teeming with marine life.
Is it safe to swim around Malta?
Yes, swimming around Malta is generally safe. The waters are calm, and most snorkelling sites are sheltered. However, always check local conditions, avoid rough seas, and be mindful of boat traffic.
What fish can you see snorkelling in Malta?
Common fish species include wrasses, bream, parrotfish, scorpionfish, and the occasional octopus. If you snorkel near seagrass beds, you might spot cuttlefish and seahorses.
Can you see dolphins in Malta?
Dolphins can be spotted in Maltese waters, but they are more commonly seen offshore during boat trips rather than while snorkelling.
Can you snorkel in the Blue Lagoon, Malta?
Yes, the Blue Lagoon is one of the best places to snorkel in Malta. Its clear, shallow waters make it ideal for observing marine life from the surface.
Is Blue Lagoon worth it in Malta?
Absolutely! The Blue Lagoon’s breathtaking waters, white sandy seabed, and excellent snorkelling make it a must-visit. However, it gets crowded, so visiting early or booking a private boat tour is recommended.
Is there jellyfish in the Blue Lagoon, Malta?
Jellyfish can occasionally be found in Maltese waters, including the Blue Lagoon. It’s always good to check jellyfish reports before swimming, as some species can sting.
