Things to Do in Malta with Kids

Malta is an exceptional family destination — warm, safe, compact, and genuinely interesting for children as well as adults. The challenge most families face is cutting through the generic tourist suggestions to find the things that will actually land well with kids. Here’s what actually works, starting with the best activity on the island.

1. Private Boat Charter — The Best Family Day in Malta

If there’s one activity that consistently gets the most enthusiastic response from families in Malta, it’s a private boat charter. The Axopar 37 is stable and spacious, with a shaded seating area so younger children aren’t baking in full sun. The skipper adjusts the itinerary for families — shallower anchoring spots, calmer bays, and plenty of time to swim and jump off the back of the boat.

Children love the freedom of it. Jumping off the back into clear blue water, snorkelling over rocky seabeds, spotting fish from the bow — it’s genuinely exciting and screen-free. Most families say it was the highlight of their Malta holiday.

2. Blue Lagoon, Comino

The Blue Lagoon is spectacular and children love it. The shallow, crystal-clear water is perfect for swimming and snorkelling, and the turquoise colour is unlike anything most kids have seen. The key is how you get there — the ferry experience can be crowded and exhausting with young children. By private charter, your skipper anchors in a quieter section and the children can swim directly from the boat.

3. Popeye Village, Anchor Bay

Originally built as a film set for the 1980 Popeye movie, this colourful collection of wooden buildings at Anchor Bay has been turned into a family-friendly attraction. It’s cheerful, slightly chaotic, and children enjoy it — especially the swimming in the bay itself, which is calm and clean.

4. Malta National Aquarium, Qawra

A well-maintained aquarium with Mediterranean and tropical species, including sharks, rays, and sea turtles. Excellent for a hot afternoon when you need to be indoors. The tunnel walkthrough is a particular hit with younger children.

5. Mdina — The Silent City

Malta’s ancient walled capital is car-free, compact, and genuinely atmospheric. Children respond well to the narrow medieval streets, the views from the walls, and the horse-drawn carriage rides around the perimeter. Keep the visit to a couple of hours — it’s small but impactful.

6. Marsaxlokk Fishing Village

The most colourful and photogenic village in Malta, with traditional painted luzzu boats lining the harbour. The Sunday market is particularly lively. Children enjoy the boats and the seafront atmosphere. The fresh fish restaurants are excellent for families with older children.

Practical Tips for Malta with Kids

The sun is intense from May onwards — pack high-factor sunscreen, hats, and rash vests for water days
Most of Malta’s beaches in Malta are rocky rather than sandy — water shoes are essential for younger children
Book your boat charter early — family-friendly dates in July and August fill up weeks in advance
Malta is compact — you can drive coast to coast in under an hour, which makes it easy to combine activities

If you’re planning a family day on the water, get in touch with Nautiful and we’ll tailor the charter to your children’s ages and interests. We’ve taken everyone from toddlers to teenagers and know exactly how to make it work for every age group.