Discovering the Magic of Malta's Coastline: A Kayaking Adventure
Updated: 5 days ago
Exploring Mistra Bay, Imġiebaħ and St Paul's Islands by Kayak
The plan was simple.
Paddle from Mistra Bay, explore the coastline, enjoy a swim stop at Imġiebaħ Bay, then continue towards the historic St Paul's Islands before returning to our launch point.
Conditions were calm, visibility was excellent, and the sea was alive with activity.
As we paddled beneath the cliffs and past hidden corners of Malta's northern coastline, we began noticing butterflies crossing the water around us. At first, there were only a few. Then dozens. Then hundreds!
Soon it felt as though a river of color was flowing gently above the sea.
The sight stopped many of us in our tracks.
Between Selmun, Imġiebaħ, and St Paul's Islands, the migration was visible throughout much of the route, giving our group a rare sea-level view of nature in motion.
What is the Painted Lady Butterfly Migration?
The Painted Lady butterfly (Vanessa cardui), known in Maltese as Farfett tax-Xewk, is one of the world's most successful migratory butterfly species.
Every year, millions of Painted Ladies travel between Africa and Europe, covering thousands of kilometers across deserts, mountains, and open sea.
Malta sits directly along one of these migration routes, making the islands an important stopover point during spring and autumn migrations.
While Painted Ladies can be seen in Malta every year, large migration events vary greatly depending on weather conditions, winds, and seasonal patterns.
Witnessing a major migration while sea kayaking is particularly special because it offers a unique perspective of these remarkable insects crossing open water.
A Shared Journey Across the Mediterranean
There was something deeply moving about watching these fragile butterflies making their way across the sea while we traveled alongside them by paddle.
Although our journeys were very different, we were all relying on the same wind, weather, and Mediterranean landscape.
Moments like these remind us that the sea is far more than a playground for outdoor activities.
It is a living corridor connecting wildlife, people, cultures, and ecosystems across continents.
Events like the Painted Lady migration are a powerful reminder of why Malta's coastal and marine environments matter. These places are not only beautiful paddling routes; they are part of a wider natural system used by wildlife traveling between continents.
Swim Stop at Imġiebaħ Bay
After taking in the spectacle, our group stopped at Imġiebaħ Bay for a swim, stretch, and well-deserved break.
The crystal-clear water, rugged coastline, and peaceful surroundings provided the perfect setting to reflect on what we had just witnessed.
From there, we continued towards St Paul's Islands, where the views opened beautifully across the surrounding coastline.
Combined with the butterfly migration, the entire morning felt almost surreal!
Why We Paddle
Days like this remind us why Get Out and Kayak Malta exists.
Not simply to paddle.
Not simply to explore.
But to slow down, observe, connect, and share Malta's wild places with others.
Every trip is different.
Some days bring caves, cliffs, and hidden bays.
Other days bring wildlife encounters that stay with us forever.
This was one of those days!
We were not the only ones enjoying the route either. Several four-legged paddlers joined us on the water, too! Cookie with Jurgen and Romina, Aeros with Marjohn, and Ace with Maya. Somehow, the dogs made an already special morning feel even more like a true GOAK family adventure.
What is the Painted Lady butterfly?
The Painted Lady (Vanessa cardui) is a migratory butterfly species found across Europe, Africa, and Asia. It is famous for undertaking some of the longest known butterfly migrations in the world.
When can you see the Painted Lady migration in Malta?
Painted Lady butterflies are most commonly observed during spring and autumn migration periods, although numbers vary significantly from year to year.
Why do Painted Lady butterflies fly over the sea?
These butterflies migrate between Africa and Europe and regularly cross large stretches of open water, including parts of the Mediterranean Sea.
Can you see wildlife while kayaking in Malta?
Yes! Depending on the season, kayakers may encounter seabirds, fish, jellyfish, dolphins, migrating butterflies, and a variety of marine life.
Where is Mistra Bay?
Mistra Bay is located on Malta's northern coast near St Paul's Bay and serves as a popular starting point for sea kayaking routes towards Imġiebaħ, Selmun, and St Paul's Islands.
Join Us on the Water
Join one of our guided sea kayaking tours in Malta and explore places like Mistra Bay, Imġiebaħ, Selmun, and St Paul's Islands with certified Paddle UK guides. Whether the day brings caves, cliffs, swim stops, wildlife, or something completely unexpected, no two GOAK paddles are ever the same!
Ready to explore Malta's coastline for yourself?
Join one of our guided sea kayaking tours and discover hidden caves, crystal-clear waters, historic landmarks, and unforgettable wildlife encounters around the Maltese Islands.
View upcoming tours and availability on our Book Online page!
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