Malta isn’t the first place that pops into your head when you think “surf trip,” but the island has a quietly growing surf scene. Sitting in the middle of the Mediterranean, Malta doesn’t have the constant ocean swell of Portugal or Morocco, but when the conditions line up, the waves here can be world-class. For locals, it’s all about reading the forecast and being ready to paddle out the moment it turns on.
If you’re planning a surf holiday with a mix of warm water, stunning landscapes, and authentic culture, here’s your ultimate guide to surfing in Malta.
When to Surf in Malta
The prime surf season in Malta runs from October through March, when the Mediterranean delivers consistent north and north-east swells. Winter storms create powerful surf, while spring and autumn offer smaller but still fun conditions. Summer tends to be flat, but it’s the perfect time for paddleboarding, snorkeling, and diving.
Water temperatures hover between 16°C in winter and 27°C in summer, so bring a 3/2mm wetsuit for the colder months and boardshorts or a springsuit for the warmer days.
The Top 5 Surf Spots in Malta
Ghajn Tuffieha Bay
Also called Riviera, this sandy beach is framed by dramatic cliffs and rolling clay slopes. It fires with north-west to north swells, and a south-east wind keeps the waves clean. Expect punchy beach breaks and some hollow sections on the right tide. Intermediate and advanced surfers will love the challenge here.
Golden Bay
Right next to Ghajn Tuffieha, Golden Bay is another sandy break that picks up plenty of swell. With a north or north-west swell and light south-east winds, this beach produces fun, rippable peaks. Mellow on smaller days, it’s a friendly option for intermediates, but can still pack a punch when it’s overhead.
St Thomas Bay
Down in Marsascala, St Thomas Bay is one of the most inconsistent surf spots on the island. It works best on north-east to east swells with offshore winds from the west or north-west. The break offers both lefts and rights, sometimes heavy and fast when the swell really kicks. A playground for shortboarders and bodyboarders alike and it also boasts the longest left of the island. It stays silent in summer but shows signs of life in the windier winter months.
Marley’s
This is Malta’s hardcore reef break, found near Bahar Ic Caghaq on the north facing coast. It needs a solid north-east swell and westerly winds to show its teeth. Expect heavy, powerful waves over shallow reef, with barrels on the right day. Not for beginners—this is where Malta’s core surf crew sharpen their blades.
Ramla Bay, Gozo
Gozo’s largest sandy beach and one of the most picturesque surf spots in the Maltese Islands. Best on north to north-east swells with a southerly wind, Ramla delivers long, rolling waves that suit longboarders and intermediates. With its wide sandy beach, it’s also a safe place for beginners when the surf is small. Just watch out for those boulders closer to the shore. aka ankle snappers.
The Surf Community & Vibe
It’s awesome, really. An interntional mix of people from all ages. We’ve got a super Brazlian crew, great surfers with a super taste in music. An Italian group who are always laughing, old school and new school locals… who don’t bite unless asked nicely to!
Most circulate around BOMBA events, so follow the page on insta. We hold events like WSL watch nights, parties, movie nights, and random get togethers!
Beyond the Waves
One of Malta’s biggest appeals for surf travelers is how much there is to do when it’s flat:
- Explore ancient sites like Mdina and the Ħal Saflieni Hypogeum.
- Go cliff diving or snorkeling in crystal-clear coves.
- Hop on the ferry to Gozo for hiking, climbing, and a slower island pace.
- Eat like a king—Maltese food blends Italian, North African, and Middle Eastern influences.
Final Word
Malta may not have endless surf like the Atlantic coast, but when the swells hit, these five spots—Ghajn Tuffieha, Golden Bay, St Thomas Bay, Marley’s, and Ramla Bay—deliver plenty of action. Combine that with warm water, rich history, and Mediterranean culture, and you’ve got a surf trip with a difference.
For those chasing adventure beyond the mainstream, Malta is a hidden gem worth paddling into.
