Lombok Island is a volcanic island surrounded by coral reefs and dotted islets within the Indonesian archipelago. It’s often referred to as Bali’s sister island, but I like to call it Indonesia’s adventure island.

There’s an abundance of incredible things to do on Lombok, offering raw and memorable travel experiences.

After spending six weeks on the island, I’ve compiled this huge Lombok travel guide to help you plan your visit. I’ve given you a rundown on how to get here, what to expect, where to stay, and of course, a massive list of what to do on Lombok!

Quick Answer: Best Sightseeing Tours & Unmissable Experiences on Lombok

Below is a list of the most popular and worthwhile experiences that you can book on the island. If you're up for sightseeing on Lombok, don't go past these 3 must-dos.

• Gili Islands Snorkeling Trip - an epic small-group tour visiting the best snorkeling and swimming spots on the Gili Islands from Lombok
• Rinjani Volcano Trekking - the most epic adventure experience on Lombok is to climb to the summit or crater ridge of Rinjani Volcano
• Secret Gili Islands Boat Trip - get off-the-beaten-path and explore the Secret Gili Islands of Lombok

About Lombok Indonesia

Lombok is an Indonesian island located just east of Bali, across the Lombok Strait in Southeast Asia. While Lombok has its own international airport and solid tourism infrastructure, it is sadly often overlooked as a travel destination in favor its neighboring tourism powerhouse.

However, thanks to adventurers slowly making a drift to Lombok from Bali via the Gili Islands and Nusa Penida, more and more people are slowly starting to discover this hidden gem.

The island of Lombok is home to the indigenous Sasak people, some of the kindest and most welcoming people I've ever come across in my travels. They are very proud of their sacred mountain; Gunung Rinjani, which is an active volcano with hot springs and an incredible crater lake.

In the coastal areas, you'll find both volcanic black beaches with calm waters, and pumping surf hotspots with white sands and a laid-back vibe. Conversely, the central regions of Lombok is dense with tropical jungle and many impressive waterfalls.

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How to Get to Lombok

Where is Lombok Indonesia?

Lombok Indonesia is located within the Nusa Tenggara Barat province. This volcanic island is one of the Lesser Sunda Islands, which is found just east of the popular tourist island of Bali. The sea separating the two islands is called the Lombok Strait.

Wondering how to get here? Below is a quick up-to-date guide on the best ways to get to the island.

By Boat
As of 2023, there's a new convenient fast boat service from Bali that goes to Lombok each day. This journey takes roughly 1.5 hours.

Instead, you could book a cheap fast boat to Gili Trawangan, and spend a day or two on Gili T, Gili Meno, and Gili Air. Then, take the shuttle boat or public boat from Gili T to Lombok ($1 USD). In my opinion, this is the best way to get to Lombok from Bali as it's cheap and allows you to see the coral reefs of the Gili Islands as well.

Lombok International Airport (LOP)
There are daily flights between Lombok and Denpasar, as well as many other direct routes within Indonesia and internationally (including direct flights from Perth). Airlines flying into Lombok include Garuda, Lion Air, Silk Air, and Trans Nusa.

You can compare the best flights across all of these airlines using CheapOAir for great deals.

25 Best Things to Do on Lombok Indonesia

Without further ado, let's dive into this epic list of the best things to do on Lombok Indonesia! I haven't ranked this list in any order. So, it'll be up to you to choose your own adventures!

Remember, at the bottom of this post, you'll also find useful information on where to stay during your visit.

1. Mount Rinjani Volcano Trekking

Usually, you'll find Mount Rinjani trekking at the top of nearly everybody's list of what to do on Lombok, and rightly so!

Trekking Mount Rinjani was hands down one of the most epic adventures we had on Lombok.

In fact, I believe that climbing Rinjani is one of the most incredible hiking experiences you can have in South East Asia. The volcanic rim is breathtaking and the spectacular views of the crater lake makes you feel like you're on another planet!

Most treks leave from Senaru, however, less-popular routes are also completed from Tete Batu and Sembalun. If you're chasing the summit, I'd suggest trying to negotiate with local trekking guides in Senaru or in Sembalun.

Otherwise, you can book a hike to the most epic attraction on Lombok Indonesia below.

More Info: Rinjani Trekking

2. Visit The Lombok Waterfalls

Just like Bali, Lombok has its own fair share of incredible waterfalls to visit– what do you expect, this is Indonesia!

The best part is that many are flowing year-round, despite the hot Lombok climate in the dry season. In my opinion, the natural beauty of Lombok is its primary attraction. And, checking out some of the waterfall trails is a sure way to experience it.

Some of my favorite adventures in Lombok were the waterfalls. Here are my top seven:

• Batu Santek & Tibu Bunter
• Benang Stokel
• Benang Kelambu
• Kilwun & Sesere
• Sendang Gile
• Tiu Kelep
• Mangku Sakti

Below I've outlined three of my absolute favorites from that list to get you inspired.

Sendang Gile and Tiu Kelep Waterfalls

I'd put money on the fact that you've already seen the impressive Tiu Kelep waterfall before. This incredible waterfall amphitheater has made the rounds on social media and even across waterfall tour banners as far as Bali and Java.

Located in Senaru, in the north of Lombok, Sendang Gile and Tiu Kelep waterfalls are two falls on the same, short jungle hike. Out of all of the things to do on the incredible island of Lombok Indonesia, I'd place a visit to these two waterfall attractions near the top.

Book: Epic Lombok Waterfall Trip

Benang Stokel and Benang Kelambu Waterfalls

Another set of waterfalls that is value for time and money are Central Lombok highlights, Benang Stokel and Benang Kelambu. Although they are located in the same geopark, the two waterfalls are vastly different.

Benang Kelambu is a curtain-like layer of flowing water and dense jungle plants. The other, Benang Stokel is a set of three plunging waterfalls in a wide jungle clearing.

Book in advance: Benang Kelambu & Benang Stokel Waterfall Trek (from Senggigi or Mataram)

Even if you have heard of these waterfalls before, you might be surprised to hear that there are actually another 3 hidden waterfalls here too.

Mangku Sakti Waterfall

Visiting Mangku Sakti waterfall ended up being one of my favorite things to do on Lombok Indonesia. Located in the north close to the trekking town of Sembalun, Mangku Sakti has several levels of fast-flowing rapids and a large main waterfall.

The best part about this one is that you can climb inside and behind the waterfall in a small rocky cave!

3. Explore the Senggigi Coastline

Senggigi was once the tourist capital of Lombok. However, the main tourist hub has now shifted from the west coast to the south (Kuta Lombok).

These days, you'll discover a chill beach vibe with plenty of small cafes and warungs. There's a main street wrapping along the coastline which is the perfect place to explore if you feel like beach hopping.

To see the best of Senggigi, I'd suggest renting a motorbike or scooter (with drop-off), which costs between 50,000-70,000 Rupiah per day and riding to all the beautiful beaches near Senggigi.

While you can catch a wave on a good day, the Senggigi beaches are more reserved for chilling, with calm, clear waters. Nevertheless, it's one of my favorite coastlines in Indonesia, and definitely worth an entry on your list of Lombok things to do and places to visit.

4. Visit the Tete Batu Rice Terraces

I've said it before but, Tete Batu is as close to Ubud as you'll get on Lombok. Complete with rice terraces, small cafes, waterfalls, and short hikes, Tete Batu is one of the most scenic Lombok tourist attractions.

Tete Batu is a small village that is the best place on Lombok to relax and unwind. Here, you'll also catch a great view of Rinjani but there are also plenty of opportunities for waterfall chasing.

Book: Tetebatu Rice Terraces Private Tour (includes waterfall and Monkey Forest)

5. Visit The Gili Islands

Since they're super easy to reach from Bali, The Gili Islands of Gili Trawangan, Gili Meno, and Gili Air are often mistaken for Balinese islands.

However, the Gili Islands are located on the northern coast of Lombok, which makes these islands a convenient transit location from Bali.

On the tiny island of Gili T, you'll find great snorkeling and scuba diving, abundant marine life, calm, white sand beaches, lively bars, night markets, and some magical sunsets.

Book: Best of Gili Islands Snorkeling Day Trip (from Lombok)

There are loads of day trips available to book from Lombok, which works out well if you want to cram as much adventure into your trip as possible.

6. Discover the "Secret" Gili Islands

Want island vibes but looking for what to do on Lombok that are more off the typical gringo trail? The "Secret Gili" Islands in the south of Lombok Indonesia will be your answer.

Many people are surprised to hear that Lombok actually has several islands all around its coast. The three I'd recommend are located off the quiet shores of Sekotong.

Book in advance: Secret Gili Islands Trip

There are several tours running here from Kuta beach, or you can make your way to Sekotong yourself and hop on a shared island-hopping trip to Gili Kedis, Gili Nanggu, and Gili Sudak.

7. Gili Kedis Camping Trip

One of my absolute favorite experiences on Lombok was a camping trip to the tiny sandbar island of Gili Kedis.

The island is so tiny that you'd almost assume it would disappear at high tide! We finished off a great island-hopping day at the "Secret Gilis" by playing guitar and cooking a fresh BBQ at our private sandbar campsite. If you're looking for a raw, off-the-beaten-path travel experience in Lombok, make sure to spend a night out on Gili Kedis.

You can contact Feel Lombok and tell you that Olly from We Seek Travel sent you for a good deal.

8. Lombok Pink Beach

One of the most unique beaches on Lombok is Pink Beach, wedged in the southeast corner of Lombok, in the Ekas Peninsula.

A visit to Pink Beach will mean that you'll get to see a rare phenomenon only possible in select parts of the world. The other Pink Beach is in Komodo, but you don't have to go that far to see one!

The water at Pink Beach Lombok is crystal clear, and there are some nice little jump rocks too.

This beach takes over an hour to reach from Kuta Lombok, so a visit will most likely be a whole-day trip. Even so, if you've got the time, I'd suggest making the effort. Even with the pink sand aside, this part of Lombok is one of the most scenic in terms of coastal landscapes.

Book: Pink Beach and Southeast Gilis Day Tour (from Senggigi, Kuta, or Mataram)

9. Pergasinginan Hill Sunrise Hike

Mount Rinjani isn't the only opportunity on Lombok for some epic mountain views. Another favorite hike is Pergasingan Hill, located in the mountain town of Sembalun.

The trek itself is quite steep, but shouldn't take more than a few hours for the return trip. I'd suggest leaving early since the sunrise views from the top are incredible!

You won't require a guide to reach the top of Pergasingan Hill. However, you can choose to camp at the top with the help of some local tour guides. This blog has some useful information for camping on Pergasingan Hill.

Or, Book locally: Pergasingan Hill Trek

10. Bukit Selong Ricefield Viewpoint

While we're on the topic of hikes and viewpoints why not consider the Bukit Selong viewpoint over the carpeted Sembalun ricefields?

Unlike the previous two, this Lombok viewpoint doesn't require much hiking, just a quick walk up the hill at the back of town.

Bukit Selong is a great place to visit for either sunrise or sunset, and even though it's not very high, the views are pretty spectacular.

11. Explore the Rest of Sembalun and Senaru - North Lombok

You may have noticed that many of the items on this list of epic things to do on Lombok have been in the north. In terms of adventure travel, the north of Lombok has plenty of variety and countless things to do.

For off-the-beaten-path travel, I'd suggest spending a couple of days in Sembalun to explore the waterfalls, rice fields, and epic hikes and viewpoints.

11. Malase Hill Sunset Viewpoint

Although not typically visited by tourists, Malase has both beaches and viewpoints worth visiting.

The coastal village of Malase is situated only a few minutes south of Senggigi center. To reach the Malase Hill (Bukit Malase) sunset viewpoint, you'll need to follow the winding roads up and behind the village.

Viewpoint 1: 8° 30' 51.81" S 116° 5' 29.796" E
Viewpoint 2 (Bukit Marese): 8° 30' 44.232" S 116° 4' 29.184" E

There are two great spots to visit where you can enjoy the sunset over the water. However, these aren't pinned on Google Maps. If you have a motorcycle or scooter, you'll have time to visit both viewpoints - just copy and paste these coordinates into Google Maps.

12. Try Kopi Rachik (Spiced Lombok Coffee)

If you make the short coastal trip from Senggigi to Malase, then I'd highly recommend stopping by at Henry's Warung, on Google as "Kedai Mamiq" for some lunch and coffee.

Here, you'll be able to buy great food at a local price and have the opportunity to taste Henry's secret spiced coffee recipe. Through Henry, I met some of my best friends on Lombok who taught me a lot about local culture and showed us some amazing spots.

I've written a full coffee article and made a video about the traditional coffee-making practices if you're interested in learning more about this unique cultural experience on Lombok Indonesia.

12. Lombok Monkey Forest

Similarly to Bali, Lombok has its own thriving populations of Macaque and also a few Javan Lutung (black monkeys). If you're planning to stay or make a day trip to Tete Batu, then you'll nearly be certain to spot a few macaques.

If not, then you could also visit the Lombok Monkey Forest, (Baun Pusuk) located roughly 45 minutes from the main beach at Senggigi. This is a relatively new Lombok attraction but one that is quickly gaining popularity. The road here is sealed and in good condition, and you'll have plenty of opportunities to stop and take some photos of the rice fields and local villages on the way.

The Lombok Monkey Forest can be found at the top of a mountain pass, with plenty of places to park a car or motorbike. Even if you're not that interested in the Macaques, the view from the top and the ride here is worth the effort.

13. Explore the Sekotong Peninsula - (Lombok Hidden Gem)

Although it's arguably one of the least visited regions of Lombok, Sekotong is a place full of adventure.

From white sandy beaches, thousands of islands with crystal clear water to explore, and one of the best coastal roads to drive on in Lombok, Sekotong should definitely be added to your Lombok itinerary.

14. Surfing at Kuta Lombok

Since it's one of the closest tourist hubs to the new International Airport, Kuta Lombok has become the go-to travel destination on Lombok. Since the southern coast of Lombok gets the best waves, the best things to do here usually involve surfing and water sports.

There are plenty of beaches and breaks that cater to both advanced and beginner surfers.

While Kuta Lombok beach on the southern coast is one of the most popular, I recommend checking out Segar, Gerupuk, Are Guling, Mawi, and Selong Belanak beaches for good breaks. You'll be able to rent a board for a few hours or even a week if you want at most beaches.

14. Check Out the Best Beaches in South Lombok

Even if you're not surfing, Kuta Lombok and the southern peninsula is still a treasure trove of epic beaches.

The best part is that most of the beaches aren't packed or busy. In fact, some of the best beaches on Lombok island that were only a short moped ride from Kuta Lombok were completely empty! d

16. Semeti Hills

The Semeti Hills, also known as Bukit Semeti, is a set of jagged coastal cliffs and natural pyramids on the south coast of Lombok. It's one of the most beautiful parts of the southern coastline and in my opinion one of the best Lombok tourist attractions worth visiting when in the south.

Visiting the Semeti Hills viewpoint is a great way to end a beach-hopping trip from Kuta Lombok, as it's a great option to watch the sunset. There's also a good little cliff-jumping spot around the corner, as well as a small beach cave.

18. Bukit Merese Viewpoint

In terms of sunset spots in Kuta Lombok, the Merese Hill viewpoint near Tanjung Aan beach is easily the most popular– and for good reason.

Bukit Merese only takes about 15 minutes to reach via moped from the main strip on Kuta Lombok. The viewpoint itself is actually several hills, each looking over the ocean, with views across the southern coastline.

Since the area is quite spread out, it doesn't ever feel like a crowded sunset spot, even though at times it looks as if all of Kuta Lombok is there. Besides the wild monkeys, you'll almost certainly be able to watch the sunset in peace if you venture off to find a remote spot on the hill.

19. Kuta Lombok Bat Cave - Bangkang Cave

If you thought that you'd seen all the attractions and things to do on Lombok Indonesia, think again. Other than epic beaches, viewpoints, hikes, and tourist attractions, Lombok also has its very own cave systems too.

Although quite small, the Kuta Lombok Bat Cave is home to thousands of small nocturnal bats. Located only 10 minutes from Kuta Lombok, the bat cave is a perfect attraction stop on the way to some of the popular beaches like Pantai Mawun or Selong Belanak.

20. Nambung Beach Waterfall

Here's something a little unique yet again. Approximately an hour's ride from Kuta Lombok is a strange phenomenon that is famous amongst locals.

As the tide rushes out and waves pound the rocky shores of Nambung Beach, a natural "beach waterfall" appears. While it's not a freshwater waterfall, it's still a pretty cool spot to check out. If you do, make sure you bring a mask and snorkel, as there are literally dozens of turtles swimming around Nambung Beach!

21. Mekaki Beach

In my opinion, one of the best beaches in Lombok is Mekaki Beach. This beach reminds me a little of those on Nusa Penida, with thick, deep sand and jagged, Jurassic cliffs edged by amazing turquoise waters. I'm serious- the water here is seriously blue. However, it can get a little rough when the swell picks up.

Mekaki Beach is located on the southern shores of Sekotong, which requires a little long, but well-worth ride if you're staying in Kuta Lombok.

Even if you don't swim, checking out the beach is still one of the best free things to do on Lombok!

Related:

How to Get to Nusa Penida (Best Ways)

22. Drive the Epic New Coastal Road

Just before the road to Mekaki Beach is a newly constructed, long, winding coastal road. Known as "the new road", it makes for one of the most scenic drives in Lombok.

The road is in incredible condition. This means you’ll be excused if you divert your eyes to enjoy the coastal views! There are plenty of opportunities to park your bikes and grab some panoramic shots from the mountains.

My advice is to take the road east after leaving Pantai Mekaki. Then, follow it all the way around before diverting North back to Lembar.

23. Malimbu Hill Viewpoint

If you're staying in Senggigi, then you'll actually get a better sunset than those in Kuta Lombok, since the sun will set right out on the ocean's horizon.

The best sunset viewpoint in Senggigi is Malimbu Hill. This is a small, barren headland with a few leaning palms and one of the best attractions in Lombok Indonesia for those searching for unbeatable sunsets. Like most of the places in Senggigi, it's usually pretty quiet, and the view is spectacular!

24. Take the 4-Day Boat Trip to Komodo

If you're traveling Lombok on an open schedule, and you've got some time in Indonesia, then I'd highly recommend taking the 4-day 3-night boat trip from Lombok to Komodo Island. This is definitely one of the best experiences you can have in Lombok and maybe even in all of Indonesia!

This trip was one of the most epic experiences I had in Indonesia, and was ridiculously good value for money. Costing only 2.3 million Rupiah, the boat includes accommodation, food, transport, access to all the Komodo highlights (including Padar Island and seeing the amazing Komodo Dragons) as well as all National Park fees.

You can book directly with Wanua Adventures, or, alternatively, let the guys at Feel Lombok organize it for you for the same price.

Read More: Lombok to Komodo Boat Guide

25. Go White Water Rafting at Jangkok River

Visiting Lombok during the dry season? You're in luck because this is the best time to go rafting at Batu Mekar.

This is a beautiful clean river running through tropical rainforest surroundings on a 6.5-kilometer route. The river offers class III rapids, meaning this is a fun and appropriate activity for beginners!

Book Your Tour Now

Lombok Accommodation Guide - Where to Stay

So, now that you've got some good ideas for things to do on Lombok Indonesia, why not save some travel cash by booking these accommodation options in advance?

I've broken this accommodation guide into sections for each area of Lombok Island so you can better orientate yourself. I've also listed several hotel and hostel options ranging from luxury hotels and resorts to budget dorms and guest houses.

However, each is close to the best Lombok attractions, activities, and hidden gems in each of the main Lombok tourist areas.

South Lombok

South Lombok is all about awesome surf spots and picturesque beaches. Here are the best picks.

Where to Stay in Kuta Lombok

• Rascals Hotel - Adults Only - the 3-star hotel features an outdoor swimming pool, restaurant, and terrace. It offers a quiet and relaxing atmosphere being an adult-only hotel. With a great location, Rascals Hotel ticks the boxes for a great place to stay. 
• Martas Windows - boasting authentic Indonesian bungalow villa-style rooms. This is any Instagrammer's dream place to stay. The rooms are large and the outdoor swimming pool is the perfect place to relax. Located in the heart of Kuta it really doesn’t get much better!
• Origin Lombok  - Origin has a swimming pool with a sun terrace as well as lush gardens to relax by. This spot is centrally located and features an on-site restaurant. One of the best picks in Kuta Lombok for sure!

More Hotels in Kuta Lombok

West Lombok

West Lombok is often a gateway to Lombok for travelers coming in from Bali or the Gili islands via boat. Senggiggi is often the best place to stay, with awesome resorts, hotels, and backpacker hostels dotting the coast.

However, if you're looking for a more remote location, you'll find great deals on accommodation in Sekotong.

Where to Stay in Senggigi

• Katamaran Hotel & Resort - those wanting a resort experience go no further! The Katamaran Hotel & Resort ticks all the boxes, boasting a swimming pool, wellness center, and on-site restaurant you won't ever want to leave.
• Cozy Cottages Lombok - this villa-style cottage accommodation screams relaxation. It is located just 600 m from Mangsit Beach and has an on-site restaurant. The outdoor swimming pool is surrounded by luscious gardens that provide a  tranquil experience.
• Bale Mandala Villas - a great option for those traveling in large groups or families. The villas can sleep up to 10 people and some include a private pool. A fully equipped kitchen and beautifully designed lounge areas make this a perfect choice. It is a short 1.6km walk to Senggigi beach.

More Senggigi Hotels & Resorts

Where to Stay in Sekotong

Since this regency is a little tucked away. To save money on transport, I’d recommend staying in this largely unexplored part of Lombok Indonesia for a couple of nights to check out all the best things to do. Here are my top picks for budget accommodation.

• Cocotinos Sekotong Lombok - The property overlooks the incredible secret Gilli islands, has a large outdoor beachfront pool, a wellness center, and has its very own digital nomad video editing room. A great choice for those wanting a quiet location.
• Krisna Bungalows and Restaurant - located in Pelangan, not too far from Sekotong harbor. Each double room is equipped with a fan and bathroom and is conveniently located in a quiet area. You’ll also get a free breakfast.
• Silver Fern Beach Retreat if you’re looking for a place in Lombok Indonesia to escape the crowds, meet some great people and unwind by the swimming pool, then this is it. Breakfast is included and the owners can organize loads of tours and activities in Lombok. 

More Sekotong Accommodation

North Lombok

The two main areas to stay in north Lombok are Senaru and Sembalun. These are two great places to stay for hiking, especially if you want to climb Mount Rinjani or Pergasingan Hill.

You’ll also find some of the best waterfalls in this region, including Tiu Teja, Sendang Gile, and Mangku Sakti waterfalls.

Where to Stay in Senaru

• Rinjani Lodge - the perfect option for those wanting a luxurious experience surrounded by mountains. Boasting 2 outdoor swimming pools and breakfast delivered to your room Rinjani Lodge sits at the top of the list. 
• Pondok Guru Bakti Cottage - the homestay you didn’t know you needed! With incredible views over the mountains from the infinity pool Pondok Guru Bakti Cottage is a hidden gem with Tiu Kelep Waterfall just a short 1 km walk from the property.
• Tiu Kelep Homestay - This one is located literally across the road from Tiu Kelep and Sendang Gile waterfalls. The owner is super friendly, offers free unlimited coffee and tea, breakfast, and can also organize waterfall, or Rinjani trekking tours. A double room is the cheapest in Senaru at only $7 per night.

More on Booking.com

Where to Stay in Sembalun

Sembalun village isn’t exactly the most touristy location on Lombok. However, that doesn’t mean that there aren’t any great guest houses or hotels available.

• Bukit Tiga Lima Boutique Hotel - the location is hard to beat with impeccable views over the surrounding rice fields. The 3-star hotel features triangular rooms with BBQ facilities and an included breakfast. Perfect for couples wanting to relax away from the bustling center.
• Radiya Guesthouse - one of the best-value accommodation options in Sembalun. The rooms are small, but very clean and have everything you need. There’s unlimited free coffee and tea, as well as a free breakfast included.
• Sembalun Kita Cottage - set among the mountains the Sembulan Kita Cottage offers its guests incredible views from its rooms, hot water, free breakfasts, and the option of sleeping in a 100-year-old traditional Indonesian house.

More Picks for Semablun

Lombok Indonesia Guide: Travel Tips & Info

I hope you enjoyed that long list of epic adventures and attractions on Lombok. Before you head out and explore the island, check out some of the useful travel tips and information below to better plan your visit.

When is the Best Time to Visit Lombok?

The climate in Lombok island is distinguished by two primary seasons; the dry season and the rainy season. It has a tropical climate meaning temperature stays relatively the same all year round.

While Lombok is Bali's sister island, it doesn't receive as much rainfall and is generally drier.

Dry Season: April to October
Locals refer to this period as "summer" even though it is technically in the southern hemisphere. That's because the weather is generally drier and more beach-friendly.

Rainy Season: October to March
The best time to explore Lombok if you want to get the most out of the epic waterfalls! The weather during these months are a little sticky and humid but enjoyable!

The best time to visit Lombok would fall between July and August. However, this is the peak travel season, so visiting in the shoulder season of October and March is also a good idea!

Getting Around on Lombok

Lombok is generally quite easy to get around. I choose to rent a motorbike because it is cheap and this is how most of the local people get around.

However, you can also rent a car, pay a taxi driver, arrange a private driver for the day, or book organized day tours to the best places on the island. Unfortunately, there is a lack of bus transport on Lombok Indonesia. But, thankfully renting a bike or car is quite cheap.

If you'd prefer to book organized tours, I recommend searching Get Your Guide and Klook. They are the two most trusted booking sources on Lombok and since the pandemic, they offer free cancellations on all bookings.

Is Lombok Worth Visiting?

If you can't guess my answer by now, then I'll assume you've skipped the article altogether. Yes, of course, Lombok is worth visiting! In fact, I'd recommend it over Bali and other famous Indonesian islands for a few reasons.

• Lombok is still somewhat a hidden gem - there aren't crowds of tourists yet
• The people of Lombok are some of the friendliest on earth
• Lombok is one of the best surf destinations in Indonesia

More Lombok Photos

Did you enjoy this guide to visiting Lombok? It's one of my favorite adventure travel destinations on earth. Here are some more Lombok photos that I've captured during my visit.

After Lombok Indonesia: More Things to do & Travel Guides

I really hope that you've enjoyed this comprehensive travel guide to the best things to do on Lombok Indonesia! My goal as always is to inspire you to adventure and make the most of your trips.

If you have any suggestions for epic adventures in Lombok including more attractions, activities or hidden gems, or if you have any questions about visiting Lombok, then make sure to leave them in the comments below.

For now, why not check out some of my other travel guides and blogs for Indonesia below?

• 7 Best Waterfalls in Lombok - Indonesia
• Nusa Penida Island Guide - 12 Top Things to do in 2023
• Padar Island Hike - Best Sunrise Viewpoint in Indonesia?
• Pink Beach Komodo Island - Pink Sand Beach and Epic Snorkeling
• Rinca and Komodo Island: Komodo Dragon Island in Indonesia - TRAVEL GUIDE
• Traditional Sasak Coffee Making Practices in Ampenan, Lombok

The post 25 Best Things to Do on Lombok Indonesia in 2023 (Travel Guide) appeared first on We Seek Travel.

If you’re visiting Cartagena de Indias and looking for the absolute best day trip to the small coral islands of the Colombian Caribbean Coast, then look no further.

The Rosario Islands in Colombia are one of the top destinations for those seeking a true Caribbean paradise. Here, you’ll find crystal clear waters, white-sand beaches, and coral reef-lined coastlines. Best of all, taking a day trip to the Corles Isla del Rosario from Cartagena city is very easy and actually quite affordable!

In this guide, I’ll give you a rundown of everything you need to know to visit this true Caribbean paradise!

First: The Best Rosario Islands Day Trip From Cartagena

Before I get into the guide, let me fill you in on the best Rosario Islands day trip from Cartagena.

The trip I'm recommending (and the one that I took) is run by a local company and takes you to the beautiful Rosario Islands aboard the 50 ft catamaran called "Bona Vida"– link below.

I booked this trip because it is ranked as the best tour in the city, with over 300 5-star reviews! This is also one of the most cost-effective options. It's priced at under $50 which is really good value since it includes:

• Visit Isla Grande on the Rosario Islands
• Visit to Playa Blanca or Isla Baru
• Free snorkel equipment hire
• 7.5-hour excursion (full-day trip)
• Fast sailing/motor-sailing to the islands (more time at Rosario)
• Lunch
• Free drinks and snacks throughout
• Small group tour (not too many people)

Book Your Tour Now

Where Are the Colombian Rosario Islands?

The Colombian Rosario Islands are located approximately 22 miles (36 kilometers) southwest of Cartagena de Indias in the Caribbean Sea. There are a total of 28 islands in this group, which are located within the Corales del Rosario National Park (Rosario Islands National Park).

Slower boats take roughly 2-3 hours to get here. Fortunately, if you pick the boat trip aboard the luxury catamaran above, you'll get to Isla Grande (the largest island in the chain) in under 1.5 hours.

Notable Islands of Islas Del Rosario, Colombia

As mentioned there are a total of 28 islands within the Rosario Islands group. The largest is Isla Grande but below I've listed some more of the main islands that tourists tend to visit.

• Isla Marina
• Isla Gigi
• Isleta (Carolina Island)
• Isla Rosa
• Isleta del Pirata (Pirate Island)
• Bendita Beach

It's important to know that the very popular Playa Blanca and Isla Barú are protected within the Rosario Islands National Park, but they are not part of the main island chain since Isla Baru was technically a peninsula before the man-made canal was first dug in 1582.

More Options For Getting to the Rosario Islands

Below are a few more options for how to get to the Rosario Islands from Cartagena.

Hire a Private Boat

For travelers arriving in Cartagena in a large group, it's possible to book a private boat tour or even a private yacht to head out to the Rosario Islands.

The private speed boats available will actually work out cheaper if you split the cost between a group of 10. Furthermore, you'll get your own driver who can help you plan an island-hopping itinerary from the Coast of Cartagena.

This is a popular option for people who want to take a "booze cruise" and check out popular party spots like Cholón. If you want to splurge, you could also check out GetMyBoat to find options to book a larger private yacht.

Bonus: Resort Day-Pass Option

Don't have the budget or the time to spend a night in the luxury Rosario Island resorts? Luckily, it's also possible to book a "day pass" at many of the best ones. This includes your speed boat transfer to the resort and provides access to facilities like the bar, pool, hot tub, and more.

These are the Rosario Island day passes you can book online (with Viator).

• Isla del Sol Day Pass
• Bora Bora Beach Club
• Bendita Beach

Why Visit Islas Del Rosario?

The main reason why people visit Islas del Rosario is that these islands have the clearest water and the best white-sand beaches near the popular tourist city of Cartagena.

While many more people choose a trip to Playa Blanca instead, the Rosario Islands are much prettier and less crowded.

Also, not only will you find pristine beaches in this natural park, but it's also a fun place to travel to for water sports and scuba diving! You can also rent a jet ski for an hour or so if you book one of the Rosario Island day trips from Cartagena.

Tip: you might see the dolphin show advertised on some of the tour signs around Cartagena. However, I highly recommend you avoid this for animal welfare reasons.

Rosario Islands Day Trip From Cartagena: What to Expect

Okay, with all of the basic logistics out of the way, here is my Rosario Islands blog where I recap my experience on a day trip from Cartagena, Colombia.

Again, I booked this boat trip with Bona Vida, and I honestly couldn't recommend it enough!

Boarding the Catamaran in Cartagena Harbor

Most boat trips will depart from somewhere in Cartagena harbor. This particular tour leaves from a convenient location at the waterfront pier near Muelle de los Pegasos. Upon boarding, we were offered a welcome drink and then set sail for the Rosario Islands!

Bahia de Cartagenas (Cartagena Bay)

Before heading out to the open Caribbean, the catamaran sails through Cartagena Bay. This offers excellent views of the upper-class skylines of Bocagrande and Castillo Grande. Furthermore, we passed the cruise terminals where a huge ship was docking just as we sailed through!

Arriving at The Rosario Islands from Cartagena

After approximately 1.5 hours of steady motor sailing at top speed, we arrived at the Rosario Islands. Our captain tied up to a buoy in a shallow section in a protected area between Isla Grande and Isla Marina.

The water color here was a beautiful shade of translucent blue and we didn't hesitate to jump straight in! We spent just over 2 hours here snorkeling, swimming, and jumping off the yacht into the clear turquoise water.

Sailing to Playa Blanca

To break up the trip, our captain set sail for the popular beach of Playa Blanca. Of course, since this particular beach is very busy, we anchored just a few hundred meters away, which was the perfect place to enjoy lunch.

Lunch on board the Bona Vida consisted of fresh fish, rice, salads, and tropical fruits. Alternatively, there was a vegetable rice option for vegans and vegetarians.

After a hearty lunch, we spent more time lazing on the deck and enjoying the Caribbean sun. The stop near Playa Blanca also gave us lots of time to swim over to the nearby beach which was lined with tropical palm trees.

This was also another great place to do some more snorkeling, although the visibility was considerably better at the Rosario Islands.

Don't Miss:

San Andres Island, Colombia (A Must-Visit!)

Back to Cartagena

After an awesome day exploring the Rosario Islands of Colombia, we set sail back to Cartagena! The journey back was a little bumpy, but the 50-foot motor sailing catamaran cut through the waves with ease.

We were particularly glad that we chose this tour during this leg of the trip as we watched smaller speed boats smash up and down against the waves.

More Photos from the Rosario Islands, Colombia

More Colombia Travel Guides & Blogs

I hope you've found this short guide to visiting the Rosario Islands from Cartagena, Colombia useful!

I recently spent close to three months exploring Colombia and documenting my adventures on this blog. If you're looking for more adventure travel inspiration, make sure to check out some of my other blog posts below.

• 15 Awesome Things to do in Palomino Colombia - 2023 Travel Guide
• 15 Things to Do in Tayrona National Park Colombia - 2023 Travel Guide
• 21 Best Things to do in Minca, Colombia - 2023 Travel Guide
• 25 Things to do on San Andres Island, Colombia - 2023 Guide
• 30 Best Things to do in Medellín Colombia - 2023 Travel Guide
• 37 Things to do in Guatapé Colombia - 2023 Travel Guide
• Guatapé Rock - Complete Guide to Climbing La Piedra del Peñol (Colombia)
• Where to Stay in Medellín - 5 Best Neighborhoods + Hotels & Hostels

The post Rosario Islands Colombia – Plan an Epic Cartagena Day Trip in 2023 appeared first on We Seek Travel.

I think it’s safe to say that the tiny island of San Andrés is one of the best travel destinations in Colombia.

However, if you ask most backpackers or travelers on the Colombian gringo trail, they probably won’t even know it exists!

So, congratulations, you just stumbled upon the best-kept secret in the Colombian Caribbean (at least among foreigners)!

In this guide, I’ll fill you in on absolutely everything you need to know about visiting this small island paradise. First up is a quick travel guide on how to get here, followed by an awesome list of the best things to do in San Andres, Colombia!

About San Andres Island in Colombia

If you check it out on Google Maps, you'll see that the island of San Andres (Isla San Andrés in Spanish) is actually quite far from the Colombian mainland and geographically much closer to Nicaragua!

As with many of the Caribbean Islands, San Andres Island has a long history of colonization (mostly by the British). Today, although the native people of San Andres, the Raizal people, don't consider themselves Colombians, the island is part of Colombian territory.

This makes this hidden gem a very unique Colombian travel destination since almost everyone speaks English (and Caribbean Creole).

Best of all, if you're already traveling in Colombia, it's very easy (and cheap) to get here from major cities. This means that you can add a beautiful coral reef island to your Colombia travel itinerary!

Where is San Andres Island?

San Andres Island is located in the Caribbean Sea, approximately 750 kilometers (466 miles) northwest of the Colombian mainland. The closest city (and the place offering the cheapest flights) is Cartagena.

As you'll notice on the map below, this is quite a remote island, at least 190 kilometers (118 miles) from the closest land in Nicaragua. However, you do also have another beautiful island next door called Providencia, which forms a part of this tiny archipelago.

How to Get to San Andres Island from Mainland Colombia

By far, the easiest way to get to San Andres Island is to fly. I'm not aware of any boats that make the long journey here, and I wouldn't say there's any point in looking either.

You'll find direct flights to San Andres Island from most major cities in Colombia, including Cartagena, Medellín, and Bogotá. As this is a popular travel destination among Colombians, you'll find that flights are very cheap!

We ended up scoring flights for less than $30 USD each way (that's under $60 for a return flight). And, we only booked a week in advance. I believe the cheapest place to fly from is Cartagena, which takes just over an hour in the air.

One thing to know is that most Colombian airlines charge ridiculous fees for baggage. That's why I recommend leaving your larger baggage with your accommodation and just taking a small day bag (we left ours with our accommodation in Cartagena).

Tip: You can also find direct flights to San Andres from Panama city. However, flying here from other parts of Latin America is much more costly and involves some immigration hurdles.

About the San Andres Tourist Entry Tax (Tourist Card)

Unfortunately, there is a tourist entry tax that is called the Tourist Card. This seems to go up every year but currently costs 124,000 Colombian pesos (around $30) as of 2023.

When I was planning my trip, it was difficult to find a reliable source on where to actually buy this. However, I can confirm that you do need to purchase this card at your airport of departure. This isn't very clear, but your airline is responsible for selling this tourist card to you.

I flew with an airline called LATAM, and there was a separate desk at Cartagena airport (next to the check-in desk), where I was able to pay the tax by card or cash.

Although it seems that this tax has been around for quite some time, the policies are still very chaotic. On my flight, several tourists didn't seem to be aware of the tax, which held up boarding. Another annoying grievance I have with this tax is that after speaking with several Raizal people on San Andres Island, they told me that the majority of the money goes straight to Bogatá, and the people see very little of the funds.

Tip: Although tiny, San Andres Airport (Aeropuerto Internacional Gustavo Rojas Pinilla) is the 6th busiest airport in Colombia! This means lines can get long and very hot.

25 Fun Things to do on San Andres Island, Colombia

Okay, with the basic logistics out of the way, let's dive into this awesome list of the best things to do in San Andres Colombia!

To make things easy for you, I've included a small San Andres Island map below with all of the best spots, tourist attractions, and worthwhile things to do pinned.

1. Hire a Golf Cart Or Motorbike To Explore the Island

By far, the best way to explore San Andres Island is to rent a motorbike or Golf Cart. That's because the tiny Caribbean Island of San Andres covers an area of just 26 km² (10 sq mi). As a result, you can actually drive around the whole island in under an hour!

Prices vary depending on the season and the quality of the vehicle. However, generally speaking, motorbikes (moped/scooters) are much cheaper.

Since it was just Haylea and me, we rented a 115 cc moped, which we paid 100,000 COP per day for. This is a little pricey but was the best price we could find on the island after wasting a fair chunk of time looking around.

If you want to save time, you can reserve a moped or a hire golf cart online in advance with Viator, which includes drop-off at your hotel.

Tip: San Andres Island is an adventure playground! If you're planning to rent motorbikes or scooters, I highly recommend travel insurance by WorldNomads. I swear by them as they are one of the only companies offering adventure insurance with cover for things like moto & scooter rental.

3. El Acuario & Haynes Cay

If you're looking for white-sand beaches, crystal clear water, abundant sea life, and healthy coral reefs, then you'll want to check out this small island duo.

El Acuario and Haynes Cay are two small islands on the east coast of San Andres. If you take the VIP boat tour (above), you'll visit this spot. However, you can also get here by taking a boat transfer from Spratt Bight beach (read my guide in the link for more information).

El Acuario is a small but very popular sand bar island surrounded by clear, turquoise water. There isn't any vegetation here, but instead, you'll find a few small bars and seafood restaurants. This is one of the best places on the island for swimming and snorkeling!

Just over 100 meters from El Acuario is Haynes Cay, a larger, rocky island dotted with palm trees and green, tropical vegetation. The fun part about this trip is that visitors can actually walk between the islands by wading through waist-deep water!

4. JOHNNY CAY NATURAL REGIONAL PARK

Perhaps the biggest attraction and the most popular thing to do in San Andres, Colombia is to take a day trip to Johnny Cay.

This is another tiny island directly out from the main beach in town (Spratt Bight). Again, a visit to this beautiful tropical island is included in the VIP tour but you can also get here with a boat transfer.

Johnny Cay is a little larger than Haynes Cay and has an epic white-sand beach with deep, clear waters. The island is full of coconut palm trees and all-around great island vibes.

One thing to know about this attraction is that it has its own protective designation as "Johnny Cay Natural Regional Park", which means you have to pay an extra cost of 15,000 COP to get here.

6. Mar de 7 Colores (Sea of 7 Colors)

The shallow coral waters surrounding San Andres Island is nicknamed the Mar de 7 Colores, translating to the Sea of 7 Colors.

If you're lucky enough to get a window seat on the plane in, then you'll already get a glimpse of this before arriving. However, you can also make it out if you head out on one of the boat tours.

The colors are most visible on the north and east sides of the island, where the ocean hues range from a deep green to a light aqua blue. This is due to the many sand spits, deep sections, and patches of coral reefs.

Below are some photos that I captured with my drone to illustrate the famous Sea of 7 Colors!

7. La Piscinita

Being a popular travel destination, many of the best beaches in San Andres are unfortunately a little crowded. If you're looking to escape the crowds, then take your moped or golf cart over to La Piscinita on the southwest coast.

La Piscinita translates literally to "the little pool". And, this beautiful natural gem is exactly that! It's a tiny but deep, round natural cove formed by the surrounding coastal rocks. The water here is among the clearest on the island and it's a great place for swimming.

However, while there was once a bit of infrastructure here, everything was pulled down due to a 2022 Shark attack that tragically occurred here. After speaking with a local who was there at the time of the incident, he claims that this was very out of the ordinary. He explained that this was the first shark attack on the island in over 35 years and was likely caused by an anchored cruise ship chumming up the sea nearby.

Sadly, the diving board and pool ladder were removed as a result which doesn't make much sense as West View is still open– literally a few hundred meters away!

8. ParaSailing

Perhaps one of the funnest and most exciting adventure activities on San Andres Island is to go parasailing!

If you've never done this, then this Colombian Caribbean island is one of the best places to try it, since it's super affordable (just $65 USD).

Most parasailing activities run on the east coast. This is perfect since it offers the best views of the Sea of 7 Colors!

Book: Parasailing Activity over Mar de 7 Colores

9. San Andres Island Mangroves (Parque Nacional Manglares de Old Point)

Another interesting attraction on the beautiful island of San Andres is its protected mangrove reserve. This is known as the Parque National Manglares de Old Point and you'll find it just south of the main town in San Andres.

If you're driving up to town from San Luis or Cocoplum Beach, you'll see the entrance on your right. There are often many tour guides sitting here who offer kayak trips down the mangroves.

10. El Hoyo Soplador (Blow Hole)

Yes, San Andres even has its own blowhole! This is a very small hole located on the southern shores and is usually quite a popular place to visit.

If you time your visit well, you'll get a chance to see the explosion of water reaching far into the sky through the tiny hole in the rock. It's best to visit during high tide and when there is a bit of swell coming in.

At the El Hoyo Soplador blowhole, you'll also find some small rasta cafes and even a large restaurant. We visited during a popular time and there was a long line of Colombian tourists waiting for their turn to stand above the hole.

11. The San Andres Island Botanical Gardens

The San Andres botanical gardens, known as Jardín Botánico de San Andrés is located just north of San Luis on a steep road leading to La Loma.

The entrance fee is 7,000 COP for Colombian nationals and 10,000 for foreigners. Inside the gardens, you'll get an opportunity to learn all about native Caribbean plant species and walk up to the viewpoint which offers a great panoramic view of the island.

12. Rocky Cay & Cocoplum Beach

For visitors looking to relax and unwind by the sea, checking out Playa Cocoplum and Rocky Cay is one of the best things to do on San Andres!

Cocoplum Beach is a popular beach with white sand and tropical palm trees. This is one of the best beaches for swimming on the island. There are also resorts and small beach eateries all the way along.

Just opposite Cocoplum Beach is the smaller island of Rocky Cay. Appropriately named, this rocky outcrop is not more than 10 meters long and harbors just a few palm trees. Just next to it is a prominent shipwreck called Barco Encallado which ran aground here many years ago.

Apparently, it used to be the case that you could walk all the way out to the cay from the beach. However, due to the eroding sandbar, this is no longer possible.

However, if you want to make it out to this small island, you can rent a kayak from one of the resorts or shops along Cocoplum beach. The distance is just over 200 meters, which makes it an easy paddle.

13. West View

On San Andres Island, you'll notice that the East Coast is full of white sand beaches while the west side of the island is mostly rocky. In my opinion, the west coast has the most tranquil waters, especially when the prominent easterly winds blow.

One of the most popular attractions on the west coast of San Andres is a small little area called "Eco Parque West View". This is a perfect place for swimming and jumping off the diving board into crystal clear water. There's even a large water slide and the onsite bar sells beers and snacks.

The entrance fee to West View is 4,000 pesos.

One thing to know is that this can be a very popular spot! If you want to escape the crowds, head a bit further north to a small reggae bar just a few hundred meters up the road. The entrance fee to this spot is 3,000 pesos and we had the entire place to ourselves from afternoon to sunset.

14. Cueva de Morgan (Morgan's Cave)

Cueva de Morgan is another tourist attraction on San Andres Island that is best suited to families with small kids. When I first got here, I was expecting to find a cave to explore. However, Morgan's Cave is more of a small amusement park, with characters dressed up in pirate outfits and housing a replica ship.

Entrance fee: 20,000 per person

Of course, there is a small cave here as well but it's hardly the main attraction.

15. Spratt Bight Beach

Spratt Bight Beach, or Playa Spratt Bight, is the main beach on San Andres Island. It's a beautiful white sand beach with crystal clear waters on the east coast of San Andres town.

Its popularity mostly stems from the fact that it is very close to the majority of the hotels in town. You'll find its shores lined with small sunshade tents and the main road just behind it full of street vendors.

While Spratt Bight is the most popular beach on the island, it's still worth visiting. From the shore, you'll also get an awesome view of Johnny Cay.

16. La Regatta Restaurant

If you ask a foodie what to do on San Andres Island, they'll tell you to reserve a table at La Regatta Restaurant.

This is universally known as the best restaurant on the island and offers fine dining with a spectacular beach view. They serve mostly seafood with a steep price tag. Since I don't eat a lot of seafood, I missed out on this one.

However, I did walk in to sneak a peak and kind of wish I reserved a table just for a drink at least!

17. Coco Loco Bar

If you're looking for some nightlife on San Andres, make sure to visit Coco Loco Bar. This has the most vibrant nightlife scene on the island and is located right near the northern tip.

This club is named after the popular cocktail "Coco Loco" which is a mix of rum, tequila, vodka, lime, and coconut and is claimed to have been invented on San Andres.

18. Visit Providencia Island (Back Open as of 2023)

Did you know that there are two main islands in this remote Caribbean group? The second is known as Providencia Island and is apparently even more pristine than San Andres! This island is slightly smaller but has a world-renowned dive site on its attached Santa Catalina island.

Unfortunately, the terrible storm "Lota", destroyed much of Providencia in 2021, canceling trips up until 2023. Thankfully flights from San Andres to Providencia have resumed, meaning travelers can take a day trip or an overnight trip from San Andres via a short, 20-minute flight.

Most people recommend to stay at least one night, but make sure to book your hotel on Providencia in advance.

19. Primera Iglesia Bautista Hispana (First Baptist Church)

On one of the highest points on the island, you'll find the Primera Iglesia Bautista Hispana the first Baptist Church. This was the first church built way back in 1847. There's also a small school which runs in the church. To enter, there's a donation required.

If you're lucky enough to climb to the top of the tower, you'll get awesome panoramic views of the coast.

20. Hang Out in the Villages of San Luis & La Loma

Tired of the nightlife? Looking for the perfect place to just chill out and do nothing at all? Make sure to visit the small local towns of San Luis and La Loma.

In the small town of San Luis, you'll find a more local scene with a few tiny shops and seaside restaurants. La Loma on the other hand is located on the "mountain" as the locals call it.

There are a few great hotels and hostels up here with great views over the coast.

21. "El Mirador" Epic San Andres Viewpoint

Okay, San Andres isn't exactly the tallest island in the world. However, if you're looking for things to do on San Andres for sunset, make sure to add "El Mirador" to your list. This is the best viewpoint that I was able to find. It's a local spot right near the old baptist church and has a large terrace with chairs and tables.

I had to pay an entrance fee of 2,000 Colombian pesos to enter which was well worth it! We were able to see all the way out to Johnny Cay and Acuarius, as well as the mangrove forest and beaches running from the north to the south.

22. Alligators at Laguna Big Pond

One of my favorite attractions on San Andres is the Laguna Big Pond. This is a small man-dug pond housing over 100 alligators (caymans). The entrance fee to the Laguna Big Pond is 5,000, which includes a local guide.

Our guide showed us around the pond and explained all of the different plants and vegetables they grow there (including a suspicious green weed).

Apparently, the alligators are not native to the island but were brought here when an illegal wildlife trade flight had to make an emergency landing on the island.

We had a blast photographing the caymans and having a chat with our awesome guide.

23. Go Sailing

Is there a better place to go sailing than in the Caribbean?

While most of the boat trips and island hopping adventures on San Andres are small motorized vessels, there is one particular trip onboard an awesome catamaran that makes the experience much more fun.

You can book this sailing trip in advance on Viator but make sure to get in early as it's only a small-group trip that is capped to 8 passengers.

24. I Love San Andres Island Sign

Okay, this is probably the most touristic thing you can do on San Andres Island. However, if you want to take an iconic vacation flick, head down to the I Love San Andres Sign (Letras I Love Sai), which you'll find on the palm-lined southwest coast.

25. Coconut Palm Tree Road

To round off this San Andres Island travel guide, I have one more attraction for you. This unofficial photo spot is known as the "Calle de las Palmeras", or Palm Tree Road.

If you've got yourself a scooter or golf cart, head down to the southern tip of the island. You'll find this iconic road between the El Hoyo Soplador (the blowhole) and El Mateo Beach.

Where to Stay on Isla San Andres

San Andres Island Packing List

Still in the planning stages of your island adventures? Before you go, make sure to pack appropriately. Below is a quick packing list to San Andres.

• Grayl Water Bottle - you can't drink the tap water on this island. I've used this awesome filter bottle for the past few years and have saved thousands of plastic bottles from landfills in the process.
• Sunscreen - is much more expensive on San Andres than on mainland Colombia. Try to get a reef-safe one to avoid damage to the underwater ecosystems.
• Bug spray - while there isn't any Malaria here, dengue fever does exist. It's best to wear bug spray, especially at dawn and dusk
• Water shoes - this is a good idea to bring when visiting the rocky cays
• Snorkel set - otherwise you will need to rent this if you would like to snorkel on the islands
• Hat - it gets hot here!
• Swimmers - a no-brainer
• Travel towel - a light and compact drying solution. Great if you're trying to squeeze on the plane without checked baggage
• Flip flops - no need for anything fancy here!

More Travel Tips for Visiting San Andres Island

Need more travel tips? This section should answer all your questions about traveling on San Andres!

• Duty-free shopping - due to the location and some strange tax laws, this is a popular place for Colombians to come to do some duty-free shopping. Visitors will find loads of fancy stores in the heart of town (El Centro)
• Vendors - unlike many other parts of Colombia and Latin America, the vendors on San Andres are not pushy at all. These people are a very laid-back and friendly bunch!
• Internet connectivity - unfortunately, the wifi on the island is usually a bit lacking. However, if you get yourself a local Colombian sim card, the 4G is more than adequate and quite affordable. Claro is the best one since they fitted a 726-kilometer undersea data cable to the island.
• Food - there's certainly no shortage of places to eat on San Andres Island. Besides La Regatta, my favorites were the Jerk Chicken Spot (San Luis) and Eat Alley (El Centro).
• Baggage - trust me, the best way to travel to San Andres is to take carry-on luggage only. This makes things much cheaper and easier. If you're traveling in Colombia, leave your larger bag at your hotel or hostel before flying.
• Expenses - while San Andres is certainly more expensive than other parts of Colombia, the prices really aren't that bad, especially in comparison to other parts of the Caribbean.
• Getting around - there's a public bus that runs from El Centro down both coasts. The price is fixed at 3600 Colombian pesos (no matter where you get off). Alternatively, you can also get a moto-taxi for a little more (depending on the destination). However, moto-taxis have an absolute max price of 9,000. Taxis also run on the island but are much more expensive.
• Popularity - San Andres island is a very popular holiday destination for Colombians and other people from Latin America. However, you won't find many gringos here.

When is the Best Time to Visit San Andres?

San Andres is a great place to visit all year round! The average temperature is 27 degrees Celsius, making it an awesome holiday spot!

While San Andres does experience a rainy season, this is usually pretty tame with just a nice shower in the afternoons. Regardless, most people will tell you that the best time to visit is April to May or November to December.

How Many Days Should I spend on Isla San Andres?

This is a subjective question and will definitely depend on what you want to do on San Andres Island. I spent 5 days here and, as you can see, I got to explore quite a bit! Since this isn't a very big island, you can easily cover most of the attractions in under a week.

In saying that, if you're looking for some downtime or to simply relax, I'd say 4-7 days is more than adequate.

More South America & Colombia Travel Guides & Blogs

I hope you've enjoyed this comprehensive travel guide featuring the 25 best things to do in San Andres, Colombia!

While you're here, make sure to check out some of my other travel blogs and articles to Latin America. If you're planning your backpacking adventures in Colombia, make sure to check out some of my favorite destinations including Minca, Palomino, Cartagena, Medellín, and the mind-blowing Tayrona National Park!

Otherwise, here's some more travel inspiration below.

• 15 Awesome Things to do in Palomino Colombia - 2023 Travel Guide
• 15 Things to Do in Tayrona National Park Colombia - 2023 Travel Guide
• 21 Best Things to do in Minca, Colombia - 2023 Travel Guide
• Cerro Kennedy Hike Near Minca Colombia - Everything You Need to Know
• Marinka Waterfalls in Minca - Complete Guide (Colombia)
• Palomino Beach Colombia - Where the Mountains Meet the Caribbean
• Rosario Islands Colombia - Plan an Epic Cartagena Day Trip in 2023
• Where to Stay in Medellín - 5 Best Neighborhoods + Hotels & Hostels

The post 25 Things to do on San Andres Island, Colombia – 2023 Guide appeared first on We Seek Travel.

Although the Maltese archipelago is one of the smallest countries in the Mediterranean Sea, the islands are packed with adventure!

Picture crystal clear water lagoons, epic sea caves, rich sandy beaches and rocky coves, dramatic cliffs, and world-class scuba diving and snorkeling. Malta is truly an adventure playground.

After spending several weeks exploring and photographing every inch of this incredible island nation, I’ve written this Malta travel guide. Here, I cover all of the best activities, must-see places to visit, and some off-the-beaten-path hidden gems in Malta.

My goal is to share with you my personal experience and photography of these beautiful islands in aim to inspire you to visit this amazing European travel destination. So, without any time to spare, let’s dive into my guide to the 70 Things to do in Malta!

70 Best Things to do in Malta (the Ultimate List)

From swimming in the famous Blue Lagoon to exploring ancient megalithic temples, here are the best things to do in Malta!

1. Walk the Streets of Valletta

Valletta (or Il-Belt), is the tiny capital of Malta, a beautiful walled city adorned in baroque architecture and recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site for its spectacular Grand Harbour, John's Co-Cathedral, and fantastic museums.

This vibrant city is the perfect place to stroll down its iconic narrow streets, taking you back nearly 500 years of history to the time of the Knights of St. John. This was a Roman Catholic order responsible for the city's construction following the notorious Great Siege of 1956.

Here are the top highlights and attractions in the Maltese capital of Valletta:

• St. John's Co-Cathedral - the heart of Valletta. The Co-Cathedral contains rich baroque art and frescos, impressive marble floors, and incredible vaulted ceilings.
• Upper Barrakka Gardens & Saluting Battery - great views of the Grand Harbour. Make sure to visit the Saluting Battery, a daily artillery battery display originating from the 16th century.
• Barrakka Lift - an amazing lift connecting the Valletta waterfront to the Upper Barrakka Gardens (1 euro per person).
• Traditional Boat to the Three Cities (Għaqda Barklori l-Isla) - hop on a luzzu or dgħajsa across the Grand Harbour to explore the Three Cities of Birgu (Vittoriosa), Senglea, and Cospicua.
• Fort St. Angelo - an impressive bastioned fort in Birgu at the center of the Malta Grand Harbour.
• Fort St Elmo - far-reaching fort at the tip of the Sciberras Peninsula.
• Museums - National Museum of Archeology, MUŻA - National Museum of Art, the Lascaris War Rooms, and the National War Museum.
• Grandmaster's Palace - beautiful former palace of the Grand Master of the Order of St. John.
• Casa Rocca Piccola - 16th century Maltese palace

Did you know? Valletta held the title of European Capital of Culture in 2018. The city is also one of the best places to stay in Malta, especially if you're interested in culture and heritage.

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2. Explore Comino Island

One of the best ways to spend a day trip in Malta is to visit the small island of Comino.

At just 3.5 square kilometers (1.35 sq mi), Comino is the smallest inhabited island in Malta. However, adventure travelers and nature lovers will find that this amazing limestone island is easily the most beautiful.

Known for its astonishing sea caves, crystal clear blue waters, and secluded bays, a visit to Comino should be on everybody's Malta travel itinerary.

The easiest way to see all of the attractions on Comino including the Blue Lagoon, Crystal Lagoon, and Santa Marija Caves is to book a Comino Island boat trip online. These are trips on shared boats and are very affordable. Alternatively, travelers in a group have the option of booking a private tour. I've had a great experience with Outdoor Explorers and highly recommend them.

4. The Three Cities

The Three Cities refers to the three fortified cities of Birgu (Vittoriosa), Senglea, and Cospicua, located directly across the Grand Harbour from Valletta.

These cities are some of the oldest in Malta, Birgu being the oldest as it was constructed during the Middle Ages.

The best way to visit the Three Cities is to take a boat trip from Valletta in a traditional Maltese boat called a dgħajsa. From the water, you'll get to see all of the amazing fortifications and iconic churches. Most tours will also stop by in Birgu, where you can wander the narrow streets and head up to the Fort of Saint Angelo.

5. Day Trip to Gozo

Gozo Island is the more relaxed sister island located in the north of the Maltese archipelago. At around a third of the size of the main island, Gozo is the perfect place to explore on a day trip.

In my opinion, Gozo is one of the most beautiful places in the Mediterranean. Picture pristine coastlines, untouched country trails, quaint villages, and amazing scuba diving sites. Gozo is a must-visit destination for anyone traveling in Malta.

A popular and adventurous way to explore the island is to book a full-day Quad Bike tour from Malta island. This includes powerboat transport and a visit to some of the most iconic attractions on Gozo including:

• Ramla Bay
• Dwejra Bay
• Calypso Cave
• Marsalforn & the Salt Pans
• Powerboat back to Malta via the Blue Lagoon and Comino Caves

Travel Tip: While a day trip to Gozo is an excellent way to see the island, I highly recommend spending more time here. There are so many things to do and see on Gozo, so if you have a couple of days to spare, I highly recommend it!

6. Ħaġar Qim and Mnajdra Temples

Did you know that on the islands of Malta lie megalithic stone temple structures predating even the Great Pyramids in Egypt?

Two of the best examples of prehistoric Maltese structures are the Ħaġar Qim (pronounced adge-ar-eem) and Mnajdra Temples (mm-nigh-dra), located high on the southern Malta coastline overlooking the nature reserve of Flifla Island. These temples were constructed by a lost and forgotten prehistoric civilization that inhabited Malta as far back as 3600 BCE (that's roughly 1000 years older than the oldest Pyramid in Egypt).

Both temple structures were constructed using massive limestone blocks, some weighing more than 20 tonnes! Very little is known about the site's purpose, but its massive combined effort and intricate attention to detail suggest that these were once very important religious sites.

The two temples are separated by a short 700-meter track and can be visited from the same entrance.

7. Water Sports at Ġnejna Bay (Ta' Marija Cave)

While all the tourists know about Mellieħa Bay and Sliema, few make it out to the spectacular Ġnejna Bay.

This is a local sandy beach situated beneath the historic Ta' Lippija Tower. On the beach, you can rent a kayak, SUP, or jet ski quite cheaply from Ġnejna Watersports.

We decided to rent a kayak and explore the surrounding bay and nearby cliffs. One of the top attractions we found was the Ta' Marija Cave, a deep sea cave located just a short paddle around the southern headland past Pullicino's Cove.

8. Sunset at Dingli Cliffs

The Dingli Cliffs are a long stretch of towering limestone cliffs on Malta’s southwest coast. This area is the highest point in Malta and offers dramatic views of the Mediterranean Sea from its many viewpoints and cliffside hiking trails.

If you're looking for the best way to wind down a long day of exploring the Maltese Islands, head over to Dingli Cliffs for a spectacular sunset.

9. Scuba Diving

Scuba diving is one of the primary draws for many travelers visiting the Maltese Islands.

In fact, Malta is well regarded as one of the best scuba diving destinations in Europe. Dive sites include intricate networks of caves, reefs, and an abundance of shallow wrecks.

The two most popular dives are the Blue Hole dive site on Gozo and the P31 Wreck off Comino. Both of these dives are quite shallow and accessible to even basic open water divers. Some other popular sites include:

• El Faroud Oil Tanker - best wreck dive, Malta Island
• MV Karwela - wreck famous for its staircase, Gozo Island
• Double Arch - popular cave dive, Gozo Island
• Santa Maria Caves - Comino Island
• Inland Sea - tunnel towards the open sea, Gozo Island
• Blenheim Bomber - underwater plane wreck on Malta Island

I dived with St. Andrew's Divers Cove on Gozo and OrangeShark divers from Malta. I highly recommend both of these centers if you're looking for a shop to plan a day of diving or even to get your open water certification.

10. The Blue Grotto

Malta’s Blue Grotto (Taht il-Hnejja) is one of the most beautiful natural caves in the country. Located on the majestic southern coastline, this cave has gained international attention for its sweeping limestone arch above radiant turquoise waters.

Visitors can witness this cave for free from the adjacent viewpoint on the outskirts of the fishing harbor called Wied iż-Żurrieq.

However, the best way to experience this remarkable cave is from the water on board a traditional and colorful luzzu fishing boat. These depart from the Wied iż-Żurrieq village and go all the way through the Blue Grotto cave, plus an additional six surrounding sea caves.

If you're staying in one of the popular tourist areas like St Julian's, Valletta, Salina Bay, or Mellieħa, then the easiest way to get to the Blue Grotto is via a full-day overland tour.

11. Popeye Village & the Anchor Bay Sunset Viewpoint

What was once a film set for the famous 1980 musical 'Popeye' starring Robin Williams has now grown to be one of the most unique tourist attractions in Malta.

The Popeye Village, also known as Sweethaven Village is located in Anchor Bay, just a short drive from the resort area of Mellieħa.

The village is open for tourists to visit from around 10 am during the summer months, usually from June to October. The cost is roughly 16.50 euros for adults, and 12.50 euros for children.

This is one of the most unique things to do in Malta for families and includes access to the film set, use of sun beds, animation shows, a cinema, and even a nine-hole mini-golf course.

While I didn't access the set, I did head down to the famous Anchor Bay sunset point just opposite the village. This is one of the best sunset locations in Malta and offers a great view of the village as well.

12. The Crystal Lagoon

While everyone who visits Malta knows about the Blue Lagoon, few realize that there's an equally beautiful clear water lagoon right around the bend.

Known as Crystal Lagoon, this picturesque sheltered cave is located just south of the Blue Lagoon on Comino Island. This is the perfect place for swimming, snorkeling, cliff jumping, and exploring the many nearby sea caves.

A unique feature of the Crystal Lagoon is the famous tunnel cave. This is a 30-meter-long natural tunnel carved into the nearby rock face. During calm weather conditions, this is a great place to swim through and admire the amazing blue glow.

13. Cafe del Mar

Okay, I'm going to admit it. I'm not the biggest party animal. In fact, you're more likely to find me on one of the many Malta hiking trails than at a beach club.

However, there is one particular club that I would recommend anyone visit– the Cafe del Mar.

This bar/restaurant is located next to the Malta National Aquarium in St Paul's Bay and features an incredible cliffside infinity pool and relaxed summer vibes.

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14. Horse Riding at Golden Bay

Chasing a unique outdoor activity in Malta? Book a sunset trail ride in Golden Bay.

The company I went with is called Golden Bay Horse Riding, they are the leaders in the market and have been running guided trail rides for over 30 years!

I recommend the later session, especially during the summer to avoid the heat and catch a beautiful sunset at the same time.

15. St. John's Co-Cathedral

Lovers of history and remarkable architecture shouldn't miss the spectacular St. John's Co-Cathedral. For anyone who's been traveling through Europe, the cathedral looks just like any other. However, it's not until you step inside that you realize just how incredible this unique Maltese baroque architecture really is.

St. John's Co-Cathedral was built between 1573 and 1577 by Girolamo Cassar and contains masterful works of art. Entrance to the cathedral costs 15 euros per person and is well worth it when in Valletta.

16. Hiking at Għajn Tuffieħa & the Clay Cliffs (Il-Majjistral)

Many tourists visit the famous fine sands of Golden Bay but unfortunately never make it to the beautiful beaches and cliffs right around the corner!

One of my favorite hiking areas in Malta is called the Il-Majjistral Nature & History Park. This is located in the northwest region of Malta Island and forms an area encompassing Golden Bay to Il-Prajjet.

If you're up for a scenic sunrise or sunset hike, I recommend taking one of the trails leading from Għajn Tuffieħa, another beautiful beach. A highlight spot is the famous Clay Cliffs, which is a great place to snap some unique landscape photos.

17. The Underground Tunnels of Valletta

The Knights of St. John didn't build Valletta as a city. Its original purpose was as to serve as an impenetrable fortress to defend the island.

The city walls and prominent fortifications surrounding the Grand Harbour are impressive but It wasn't until 2009 that another extensive defense system was discovered. Beneath Valletta, an unknowing archeological survey to build a new parking lot revealed the extent of a vast underground tunnel system!

The Maltese people used some of these tunnels during World War II's heavy bombings. However, this was just a fraction of the undergrown network.

Today, visitors can visit this underground labyrinth by booking a tour well in advance. Keep in mind that there are only a few tours a week, and there is a long waiting list.

18. Għar Lapsi Hike

Apart from the famous Blue Grotto, the south coast of Malta Island is largely missed by tourists. It's a shame because this region offers some amazing rocky coves and picturesque sea caves.

If you're looking to escape the resort town crowds and head out for a scenic coastal hike to some secluded coves, don't miss the Lapsi hiking area.

There is a free car park and bus stop just a little further on from the Lapsi Reverse Osmosis plant.

From here, you can hike past the scenic Għar Lapsi cave and dive site towards Għar Hxixa and Għar Neffied. This part of the coast is very beautiful and you'll find some excellent swimming spots too.

19. Malta Hop-On-Hop-Off Bus

While I didn't do this tour, I thought it would be a good suggestion to recommend the Malta hop-on-hop-off bus to travelers who want to go sightseeing to all of the best places to visit in Malta, including some amazing beaches and the most significant historical places in a single day.

Tip: there's also a similar bus tour on Gozo as well.

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20. Għar Dalam Cave

Għar Dalam Cave is a must-visit prehistoric site for travelers fascinated by ancient history. This is Malta's oldest site, where archeologists have unearthed remains of animals that have been long lost on these islands.

Included in the discoveries were several bones of dwarf elephants, hippopotamus, and even giant swans. There were also bear and wolf bones found in the cave alongside evidence of human settlement in Malta dating back 7,400 years ago!

Attached to the Għar Dalam cave is a small museum housing many of these findings.

Visiting this significant site is a good idea if you're planning on exploring attractions on the west coast of Malta like Marsaxxlok fishing village, Pretty Bay, and Delimara Point.

21. Il-Kalanka and Delimara Point

Delimara point is a small peninsula stretching out to the easternmost point of Malta. This region is quite remote but definitely worth visiting if you have your own car to get around.

Stop by the Il-Kalanka Lighthouse for a great view, especially during sunset. Alternatively, head down to the Il-Kalanka rocky beach for a local swimming spot without the crowds.

22. St. Peter's Pool

St. Peter's Pool is a natural rocky pool located on the far eastern coast of Malta, just above Il-Kalanka.

This site is great for swimming, relaxing, and cliff jumping into crystal clear water. The pool is quite deep and has a useful steel ladder bolted into the limestone, making it easy to get in and out of the pool.

Many locals and tourists visit the St. Peter's Pool to jump in from the rocky platform. The jump height is roughly 4 meters, which isn't huge but a fun jump!

23. Mountain Biking at Munxar Cliffs

The Munxar Cliffs is another off-the-beaten-path location in Malta worth visiting. These towering limestone cliffs are situated north of Delimara Point and offer breathtaking views over the Meditteranean Sea and large sea caves below.

I explored the Munxar Cliffs on a mountain biking tour from Marsaxlokk to Marsaskala with MC Adventures. This was a fun way to experience all of the beautiful sites around this region, with plenty of stops for great photos.

24. Marsaxlokk Fishing Village (Market)

The village of Marsaxlokk is a colorful fishing town located in the southeast part of Malta. Famous for its colorful traditional fishing boats and vibrant Sunday markets, visiting this picturesque village is a must!

I highly recommend stopping by on a Sunday, where you can stroll the markets traditionally selling fresh fish, but now sell all sorts of handmade crafts and souvenirs.

25. Fort St. Angelo (Valletta)

Staring out into Valletta's Grand Harbour, the impeding Fort St. Angelo is often what first steals your attention.

This bastioned fort is located in Birgu (one of the Three Cities) and was originally built during the medieval period as a castle.

Today, visitors can cross the harbor to explore Saint Angelo's fort, which offers some of the best views of Valletta.

26. Upper Barrakka Gardens & The Saluting Battery

Chasing the best views of the Grand Harbour in Valletta? Head over to the Upper Barrakka Gardens, a historic garden area near Castille Place.

These gardens have a rich history dating back to the Italian Knights, who used this place as private gardens.

One of the most fascinating things to do at the Upper Barrakka Gardens is to watch the explosive saluting battery display. This occurs every day around 11 pm and is recognized as being one of the oldest saluting battery's still in operation.

27. Coral Lagoon

Chances are you might have seen photos of the iconic collapsed roof sea cave with crystal clear water. This is known as the Coral Lagoon, and while one of the most beautiful natural attractions in Malta, few actually make it here.

That's because the only access inside this cave is via the sea, requiring entry by boat or kayak.

To get here, I recommend renting a kayak at the nearby Armier Bay Beach and visiting around midday when the sun shines directly into the deep water.

Alternatively, there is a boat trip that makes a stop at the Coral Lagoon, as well as other attractions like the Blue Hole and St. Paul's Islands.

28. Sunset at the Chapel of Immaculate Conception (Mellieħa)

The Chapel of Immaculate Conception is a tiny church chapel situated on the tip of Mellieħa Bay, just near the Coral Lagoon.

This headland is a great spot to sit and watch the sunset, and I guarantee that you won't find any other tourists here! As the sun sets, watch the warm summer glow light up the boats and buildings in the distance.

This is one of my favorite places to visit in Malta!

29. Traditional Dgħajsa or Luzzu Ride on the Grand Harbour (Valletta)

Don't have time to explore the Three Cities? Head down to the Valletta Grand Harbour, just across the street from the Barrakka Gardens lift.

Here, you'll find local boat drivers offering a ride around the Grand Harbour for a cheap fee.

30. Sunset Hike at Mtahleb

The small village of Mtahleb is another hidden gem in Malta that I highly recommend any adventure traveler check out!

This rural enclave is located in the remote western regions of the main island of Malta. You won't find many buildings, just a few farmhouses and a single church dotting the coast. I've been told that even Maltese locals hardly make it out here!

However, if you're into hiking or just chasing one of the best sunset locations, then exploring the coastal tracks of Miġra l-Ferħa is one of the best ways to spend an afternoon in Malta!

31. Wied il-Mielaħ Window (Gozo Island)

Yes, the famous Azure Window has collapsed. However, did you know that there is another impressive natural arch on Gozo Island?

Admittedly, this arch isn't as spectacular as the original Azure Window, but the amazing Wied il-Mielaħ is certainly a worthwhile stop when touring Gozo Island.

This arch is tucked into the cliff line and only really visible after walking down a set of rocky steps. The water below the arch is a deep shade of turquoise and great for photos.

The Gozo arch is located in the far northwest of the island and accessible via a country road. The best way to get here is to have your own car. However, some of the tours recommended in this blog post also make a stop here, including the self-drive ATV tour.

32. Rock Climbing On Gozo

Did you know that the island of Gozo is one of the best rock climbing destinations in Europe? Whether you're a pro looking for some insane overhangs and epic deep-water soloing crags or a beginner wanting to try a new adventure activity in Malta, Gozo is the spot!

We spent an afternoon climbing and abseiling at Wied il-Mielaħ (above) with 'Didi' from Gozo Climbing and organized by Gozo Adventures. This was one of my favorite outdoor activities on the island and one of the best things to do in Malta for young adults.

32. Kayak from Gozo to Comino

Adventure travelers staying on Gozo will want to skip the regular boat tour to the Blue Lagoon. Instead, book a kayaking adventure across the channel and explore not only the Blue Lagoon but many other clear water bays and epic sea caves of Comino Island.

Even if you are an experienced kayaker, local rules state that tourists must be accompanied by a professional guide to cross the channel. Gozo Adventures organized my Comino kayaking trip, departing from the beautiful Ħondoq ir-Rummien Beach on the south side of Gozo.

The trip takes less than 15 minutes in good weather conditions, allowing for a full day to explore Comino. This kayak trip is one of the best adventure experiences in Malta and easily the best way to explore the hidden gems of these spectacular islands.

33. Ġgantija Megalithic Temple Complex (Gozo Island)

When visiting Gozo, make sure to stop by the ancient Ġgantija Temple Complex– the oldest neolithic site in Malta. This megalithic temple resembles the Ħaġar Qim and Mnajdra Temples, with huge limestone boulders and intricate rock carvings dating back to roughly 3600 BCE!

This makes Ġgantija Temple the second oldest religious structure in the world after Göbekli Tepe in Turkey. And, therefore this is one of the most popular tourist attractions in Malta for lovers of ancient history.

Together with the other Megalithic Temples of Malta, this complex is designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Visitors will find a newly renovated museum at the entrance, housing some incredible treasures.

34. Visit Rabat (Victoria) on Gozo Island

Rabat, also known as Victoria, is the capital of Gozo and is famous for its imposing hilltop Cittadella (Citadel) standing tall on the geographical nucleus of the island.

While the city is the most populated on Gozo, only around 7000 people are living here, a testament to the laid-back nature of this island.

When in Gozo, visiting Victoria is a must, here are some of the top highlights & worthwhile attractions you won't want to miss:

• The Cittadella
• Grand Basilica of St. George
• Republic Street (main commercial heart of the city)
• The Old Prison
• Folklore Museum
• Citadel Armoury
• Independence Square

Fun Fact: Historians believe that Rabat (which translates to suburb in Arabic) has maintained settlement for as long as 7000 years.

35. Ta' Ċenċ Cliffs and Sanap Cliffs Sunset Points (Gozo Island)

Island life is all about adventures and chasing sunsets. When visiting Malta's sister island, Gozo you'll want to head down to the south coast to wrap up your day.

Here, you'll discover two amazing sunset viewpoints, the Ta' Ċenċ Cliffs and the Sanap Cliffs. These locations are just a short drive apart and both offer dramatic coastal cliff vistas that'll blow you away!

36. Beach Hopping on Gozo Island

While Malta island has some amazing beaches and secluded coves, my favorite sandy beaches are found on Gozo Island.

If it's fun in the sun you're chasing, then one of the top things to do in Malta is to get yourself a quad bike or rental car and go beach hopping on Gozo.

Some of my favorite beaches include:

• Ramla Beach (famous red sand)
• Hondoq ir-Rummien (picturesque sandy beach)
• Mġarr ix-Xini (secluded hidden gem)
• Xlendi Beach
• Inland Sea
• Wied il-Għasri (amazing snaking cove)

37. Calypso Cave

Calypso's Cave (L-ghar ta' Calisso) is one of the most popular and most famous mythological sites in Malta. Located near Ramla Bay on Gozo Island, Calypso Cave is believed to be the cave mentioned in Homer's ancient poem "The Odyssey".

The legend has it that the nymph Calypso kept Odysseus there for seven years after shipwrecking on Gozo.

Today, the cave is closed to visitors due to a partially collapsed roof. However, this doesn't mean it should be missed, especially if you are interested in ancient Greek mythology. There's also an excellent viewing platform above the cave, offering remarkable views of Ramla Beach and the northern Gozo coastline.

Travel Tip: Calypso's Cave is commonly confused with the more popular Tal-Mixta Cave (number 48 below), which is located on the opposite side of Ramla Bay.

38. Try Pastizzi (Maltese Street Food)

Maltese culture and cuisine are largely a reflection of its long and contentious history. From Arab to French rule, among others, the island nation has developed a truly unique mix that is entirely their own.

However, sometimes, even with all of the complexities of mixing cultural influences simplicity emerges.

And it doesn't get much simpler (or more delicious) than the humble pastizzi.

This is a local Maltese street food item made from traditional savory pastry and stuffed with delicious ricotta or curried peas filling. You can pick these up for less than a euro in most villages across the islands.

Food tip: For those visiting Gozo, I highly recommend the Crystal Palace (Is-Serkin) pastizzi shop.

39. The Malta Blue Hole

Everybody knows about the Blue Hole in Belize and Dahab. But, did you know that Malta has its very own Blue Hole?

This natural geological formation is a 15-meter (roughly 50 feet) deep cylindrical coastal tube located in Dwerja Bay, on the west coast of Malta.

The Blue Hole is arguably the most famous dive site in Malta, and an absolute must for all scuba diving enthusiasts. It features an imposing underwater arch and wide cave and divers can enjoy visibility of up to 40 meters!

40. Fungus Rock

While not as famous as the Blue Hole and nearby Inland Sea (number 43 below) the protruding Fungus Rock is another impressive geological feature worth checking out in Dwerja Bay (Gozo).

This tiny islet is a huge chunk of limestone rock on the outside of the perfectly circular Black Lagoon. While most people glance by it, I believe this icon to be one of the best photography subjects on Gozo.

Did you know? The name "Fungus Rock" (which is also sometimes called Mushroom Rock, or Il-Ġebla tal-Ġeneral) comes from a time when the Knights Hospitaller discovered a unique plant growing on top of the rock. At first, this discovery appeared to be a mushroom but turned out to be a parasitic flowering plant. The Knights used this plant (despite the repugnant odor) as a medical cure for dysentery for many years.

41. Book a Romantic Gozo Picnic

Considering visiting Malta on a honeymoon? If so, one of the best things to do in Malta for couples is to book an organized, romantic Gozo Picnic.

Ana, a Gozo local, is well-known on the island for arranging amazing outdoor dinner spreads in stunning and secret coastal regions of Gozo for over four years.

Whether it's your honeymoon, anniversary, birthday, or any other excuse to plan one of the most romantic evenings of your life, message Ana on Instagram (your second half will thank you).

42. See the Remains of the Azure Window (Gozo)

If you google natural attractions in Malta, the first answer will likely be the Azure Window (Dwejra Window), a remarkable natural rock arch sitting beside Gozo's famous Blue Hole and featured in the world-famous Game of Thrones series.

Unfortunately, this Maltese icon met its fate when it collapsed into the sea in 2017. This was a tragic loss for locals and past visitors alike.

Nevertheless, there is an upside to this tragic event. If you never got a chance to see it standing like myself, you can now explore its underwater remains on an extended dive from the Blue Hole.

43. The Inland Sea (Gozo Island)

The Inland Sea (sometimes called Qawra in Maltese) is another unique natural formation in Malta attracting beachgoers and divers alike.

This is perhaps the most unique beach in Malta since its pebbly shores are separated from the Mediterranean sea by a thin natural tunnel carved through a rocky headland in Dwerja Bay.

On a fine day, travelers can swim or scuba dive through the tunnel from the saltwater lagoon, which makes for a thrilling adventure!

44. Wied il-Għasri Beach on Gozo Island

Wied il-Għasri is a unique natural gorge carved into the northern coast of Gozo Island. Here, travelers can find a long, snaking stream of pristine turquoise water, towered by steeply sloping limestone cliffs.

This location is edged into a scenic valley and offers a unique and incredibly picturesque location for swimming, snorkeling, or hiking.

45. Għar ir-Riħ - Cathedral Cave (Gozo)

While Wied il-Għasri (above) is gaining popularity, many travelers still aren't aware of the nearby Għar ir-Riħ, also known as Cathedral Cave.

This stunning sea cave is one of the most beautiful in the archipelago and a popular dive site for experienced divers. What makes this dive site so spectacular is its amazing domed vault, accessible only via a large opening at 6-18 meters under the water.

While I didn't get a chance to dive at this site or experience the Cathedral Cave myself, I did jump and swim into the sea cave one calm afternoon to explore the sea opening. I recommend only doing this if you are a very experienced swimmer and only in superb conditions, as this location can get quite rough in bad weather.

46. Gozo Salt Pans

Did you know that in ancient times, due to its unique use for food preservation, salt was so highly valued that it was used as a currency?

While we might take regular table salt for granted in modern times, the ancient Gozitans sure didn't.

To gather this life-sustaining mineral, the people of Gozo carved large, square salt pans along the coast. These are shallow, artificial dishes used to collect and dry sea water, leaving behind a thin layer of pure sea salt.

Today, these salt pans are still in use as far back as Phoenician and Roman times. You can find the best examples of these famous salt pans in the north of Gozo Island (the Xwejni Salt Pans), and on the west coast (the Xlendi Salt Pans).

47. Go Sailing Around Malta

Looking for an amazing Mediterranean sailing experience? With its pristine coastlines, secluded coves, and calm, turquoise waters, Malta is up there with the best sailing destinations in Europe.

Charter and skipper your own vessel, or jump on board a private boat charter, visiting sparsely-visited gems and iconic Maltese coastal attractions like the Blue Lagoon.

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48. Tal-Mixta Cave at Ramla Beach, Gozo

While I mentioned Calypso Cave above, Tal-Mixta Cave is another cliffside cave in Ramla Bay (Gozo Island).

Tal-Mixta is a large, open cavern accessible via a back and side tunneled entrance. Its wide, open front face makes for excellent views over Ramla Beach and is one of the best sunset viewpoint locations in Malta.

49. Santa Maria Cave (Comino Island)

Ready to experience the most spectacular, bluest, and outright translucent water you've ever seen? That is exactly what you will find at Santa Marija Cave (Santa Maria Cave) on Comino Island.

This beautiful natural sea cave is accessible only via the sea and is usually included on all of the best Comino and Blue Lagoon boat tours.

Again, I've had a great experience on the Comino boat tour with Outdoor Explorers and highly recommend booking this option if you want to enter the Santa Maria Cave.

50. Elephant Head Rock (Comino Island)

Elephant Head Rock, also called Elephant Rock, or Elephant Arch, is a spectacular natural arch located on the east side of Comino Island. You don't need to look too closely to figure out where this rocky arch got its name.

Again, you'll likely visit this spot if you book the Comino island boat tour above. So, look out for it, and make sure to snap a photo!

51. Visit Mdina - The Former Capital of Malta

While Valletta is the modern capital of Malta, the original capital was Mdina, located near the center of Malta.

This is a tiny fortified city with many significant historical sites. Originally built in the medieval period, this hillside location has been fortified for nearly 3000 years but has been inhabited since prehistory!

However, upon the arrival of the Knights of the Order of St. John, Birgu (opposite Valletta) became the new administrative capital. As a result, Mdina never regained its pre-1530 significance, hence its famous nickname, The Silent City.

Today, visiting Mdina is a must, with its spectacular Baroque architecture, maze-like narrow streets, and impressive city walls making it one of the top tourist attractions in Malta.

52. Rabat

I know what you're thinking, you've already included a visit to Rabat on this list of Malta things to do!

Yes, you're right, but remember, Rabat simply translates to suburb in Arabic, and hence is the traditional name for the capital of Gozo and the townships outside of Mdina.

You'll likely pass Rabat when heading to the Main Gate of Mdina. But, I recommend exploring the local streets beyond as well. If you're up for a local experience, head down to Crystal Palace for some one-of-a-kind pastizzi or one of the main local eateries for some traditional Rabbit Stew.

53. Hire a Jet Ski or go Parasailing

After an adrenaline-fueled water activity? One of the most fun things to do during good weather in Malta is to rent a jet ski and explore the coastline.

Some of the best places to do this are:

• Armier Bay (North Malta)
• Mellieħa Bay
• Maraskala (South Eastern Region)

Alternatively, if you're feeling super adventurous, another popular adventure activity is parasailing from St. George's Bay (near Paceville).

Travel Tip: Prefer to be shown the best spots coastal with a local guide instead? Check out this Jet Ski Experience tour in the south of Malta.

54. St Paul's Island

St Paul's Island, also known as Selmunett is a tiny islet straddled near the northeast tip of Malta Island, near the town of Selmun. While this tiny island remains uninhabited since the end of World War II, it does make for an off-the-beaten-path destination worth checking out.

Of course, you'll need a boat, jet ski, or kayak to reach it. But, when you do, you'll likely find a deserted island dropping into clean water. The only remaining landmark on St Paul's Island is the Statue of Saint Paul beside the ruined 1649 tower by Grand Master Giovanni Paolo Lascaris.

Did you know? St. Paul's Island is sometimes referred to as St. Paul's Islands (the plural form). This is because at first glance, it looks like there are two islands. However, it is only one, connected by a thin isthmus.

55. Tarxien Temples and Ħal Saflieni Hypogeum

By now, you'll already know that Malta is a top destination for all fans of ancient history. The final megalithic temple site on this Malta travel guide is the incredible Tarxien Temples and Ħal Saflieni Hypogeum, located near the modern capital of Valletta.

The Tarxien Temple is an archeological complex comprising of three temples dating back to roughly 3150 BCE. While similar to the other temple structures on Gozo and Malta islands, the Tarxien Temples are particularly interesting due to several intricate stonework pieces depicting domestic animals.

Additionally, visitors will want to check out the Ħal Saflieni Hypogeum, also called the Tarxiem Hypogeum. This is a neolithic subterranean structure from around roughly the same time. Interestingly, this underground sanctuary is believed to have been some type of significant necropolis, housing more than 7,000 ancient bodies.

56. The Markus Divinus Zafrana Boutique Winery

To experience the very best of local Maltese wine, produced with indigenous grape varieties and reflecting Malta's unique heritage, make sure to try Markus Divinus' wine.

Better yet, arrange a visit to the Markus Divinus Zafrana Boutique Winery, located near the famous Dingli Cliffs on the main island of Malta.

On my visit, we were lucky enough to visit this quaint winery during a special wine tasting event. We were blown away by the hospitality and quality of wines on offer, highly recommend!

57. Ninu's Cave & Xerri's Grotto (Gozo Island)

At Xagħra, near the middle of Gozo Island lies two impressive underground caves with a unique twist– both are accessible by walking downstairs in a private residence!

That's because both of these caves were individually discovered by unexpecting locals digging wells. Xerri's Grotto and Ninu's Cave feature incredible limestone stalactites and a local guide will show you the most interesting ones at each.

Xerri's Grotto is the largest of the two and is entered via a 10-meter spiral staircase.

58. Sunset at Saint Agatha's Tower (It-Torri L-Aħmar)

When visiting the beautiful Mellieħa Bay (Għadira), it's hard to miss the striking red castle-like tower standing tall on the nearby hillside.

This tower is called It-Torri L-Aħmar, Saint Agatha's Tower, or simply the Red Tower of Mellieħa. This is a considerable bastioned watchtower on a strategic hill overlooking the entire northern peninsula, with panoramic views out to Comino and Gozo Islands.

The Red Tower is one of the best places to visit in Malta for sunset, due to its close proximity to popular hotels and resorts and expansive views on offer.

Did you know? The people of Malta used Saint Mary's Tower on Comino and Saint Agatha's Tower on Malta Island to send warnings of pirate and enemy invasions between the islands by lighting fires in the tallest bastions.

59. Time Your Visit With a Maltese Village Feast

It's true, perhaps the only thing the Maltese like more than food and fireworks are their patron saints. And, if you're lucky enough to time your visit to Malta with one of the nearly 100 village feasts, you'll get to see all of these three determining cultural cornerstones come together.

These religious and traditional events happen every year, with each village celebrating a different patron saint (or sometimes more). The feasts, or festas started under the rule of the Knights of St John and include religious processions, lively band marches and performances, delicious street foods, and of course, elaborate firework shows.

The Maltese are extremely proud of their traditions and are very excited to share them with tourists. We visited several feasts during our time traveling in Malta but one of the best was the Feast of Our Lady of the Lilly in Mqabba. This was easily one of the most fantastic fireworks displays I've ever experienced!

60. Visit the Game of Thrones Filming Locations

While everyone knows Dubrovnik as King's Landing, many don't realize that the original Game of Thrones filming location for several first-season scenes took place in Malta.

Without giving away too many spoilers for those who still haven't watched the greatest TV show ever made, here are some of the main GoT filming locations in Malta.

• Rabat (Malta) - Season 1 Red Keep's Garden
• Mdina Gate - King's Landing
• Fort Saint Angelo - Red Keep Prison
• Mtahleb Cliffs - Famous Daenery's baby dragon scene
• Azure Window (now collapsed) - Dothraki Wedding

61. The Mosta Rotunda

The Rotunda of Mosta, also known as the Mosta Dome, or the Sanctuary Basilica of the Assumption of Our Lady is one of the most impressive neoclassical basilicas in Malta.

Even with architectural masterpieces like Valletta's St. John's Co-Cathedral, the Mosta Rotunda is still the largest and most famous church in Malta. Its design is based on the famous Pantheon in Rome and has the largest unsupported dome in the world.

Whether you visit the interior or photograph it from afar, visiting this remarkable building is a must-do activity for your Malta itinerary!

62. Visit Sliema & St Julian's

The region just north of Valletta is Malta's primary hotel and resort strip. These regions are comprised of Sliema, St. Julian's, and Paceville. If it's nightlife, shopping, or scenic coastal bars and cafes you're after, you'll want to visit this tourist area.

Better yet, some of Malta's best accommodation options are found here including the Marriot, Hilton, and the famous 1926 Hotel & Spa. So, if you're still in the process of planning your travels in Malta, this neighborhood might be your best pick for accommodation!

63. Hike the Victoria Lines

Colloquially known as the 'Great Wall' of Malta, the strategically constructed Victoria Lines are a 12-kilometer (7.45 mi) long fortification front built by the British Empire during the late 1800s.

This long wall runs all the way from Madliena in the east to Binġemma and the limits of Rabat in the west. During the cooler and greener months, hiking Victoria Lines is one of the best things to do in Malta for young adventurers and outdoor enthusiasts.

The trail follows the old wall structure running along the geographical barrier called the Great Fault. Along the way, you'll pass significant landmarks like Fort Mosta, the Targa Battery, the Dejra Lines, and Fort Bingemma.

64. Eat Traditional Maltese Cuisine (Best Places to Eat)

While I've already mentioned Malta's traditional street food, pastizzi, the truth is that Malta is a culinary paradise, with a huge variety of delicious cultural dishes to discover.

In fact, many consider Malta one of Europe's gastronomical capitals, with over 31 Michelin restaurants on the islands. But, you don't have to fine dine to get a real taste of authentic and delicious Maltese cuisine.

Based on my experience in Malta, here are the must-visit restaurants and cafes to try

• Don Berto - Birgu
• Coast at Cassarini - Wied iż-Żurrieq (Blue Grotto township)
• The Fat Rabbit - Gozo
• Makren's Bakery - Gozo
• Ta' Rikardu - Gozo
• Cafe del Mar - St Paul's Bay
• Diar il-Bniet - Dingli
• Nenu The Artisan Baker - Valletta
• Il Pirata - Mellieħa Bay
• Fontanella Tea Garden - Mdina
• No 43 - Valletta

65. Museum Hopping in Valletta

For lovers of culture, history, and art, you won't want to pass up some of the excellent museum visits on offer in Malta's capital.

Some of the best museums worth visiting include

• National Museum of Archaeology
• MUZA - Museum of Fine Arts
• Palace Armoury
• National War Museum - St Elmo Fort
• The Lascaris War Rooms
• Malta Maritime Museum

Budget Travel Tip: For travelers looking to check out multiple museums in Malta, I recommend purchasing a Heritage Malta Multisite pass for 25 euros in person at any Heritage Malta site.

66. Għar Ħasan Cave

Looking for an off-the-beaten-path hidden gem in Malta that not even most locals know about?

For travelers with their own car, drive down to the Għar Ħasan cave, located in the south of Malta near the Malta Freeport. This site is technically closed and not an official tourist site, but is easily accessible via a large gap in the fence near a parking area beside 'MaritimeMT'.

While access to the deepest parts of this beautiful sea cave is off-limits, we were able to explore some tunneled sections by turning at the steel gate once inside. The view from the entrance of this cave is also phenomenal!

Careful though, being a closed site, the walkway and barriers are not maintained!

67. Party

Visiting Malta with friends? Or, want to make new ones? With its many vibrant bars and eclectic clubs, Malta is well-known as a great party destination in Europe.

You'll find many great venues stretched out around Valletta, Sliema, St Julian's, and Paceville. But, if you're after a true island party experience, don't look past the famous 5-hour Lazy Pirate Boat Party aboard the Fernandez 2.

68. Unwind at Mellieħa

Mellieħa Bay is a beautiful village in the north of Malta. This region offers a more laid-back beach vibe than the dynamic and animated neighborhoods north of Valletta.

Famous for having the longest sandy beach in Malta, this area is great for families or couples looking for a relaxed Maltese holiday experience. The beach also has quite shallow waters far out into the bay, making it one of the best beaches for children.

Whether you're staying at one of the resorts or boutique hotels, or just visiting for a day trip from other regions, there's plenty to do! Lounge at the famous Mellieħa Bay beach (Għadira Bay), cafe hop on the waterfront, hike up to the famous Red Tower via the Foresta 2000 Nature Reserve or take the bus to the quaint northern beaches like Armier Bay & Ramla tal-Bir.

69. Stare Out to Filfla Island

When visiting the top southern attractions on Malta Island like the Blue Grotto, Ħaġar Qim, or the Dingli Cliffs, you might notice the tall rocky outcrop in the distance.

This is Malta's fourth unofficial island called Filfla. Unlike the main islands, this tiny speck is an uninhabited and mostly barren island with a Marine Protected designation. Additionally, it's home to the endemic wall lizard, door snail, as well as one of the world's largest colonies of European Storm Petrel.

Due to its protected nature, tourists are not able to explore the island on foot. However, it is a beautiful landmark and makes for some great photos from the southern shores.

70. Hiking in tal-Inwadar National Park

Sadly, tourists hardly make it out to the little-known tal-Inwadar National Park (Il-Park Nazzjonali tal-Inwadar), situated on the easternmost tip of Malta Island.

This quiet coastal region complete with easy trails and amazing Azul-water cove is only a relatively new National Park, receiving its status in 2016.

If you're looking for a quiet place for an evening walk near Marsaskala, don't miss this hidden gem in Malta!

Where to Stay in Malta

While visitors will find hotels and resorts scattered all over Malta's islands, the most popular neighborhoods to base yourself in Malta include Valletta, Sliema & St Julian's, Mellieħa Bay, and Gozo Island.

Travelers also have a broad variety of accommodation types, from 5-star resorts to traditional terraced boutique hotels. To save you time searching, below are the four best accommodation picks for Malta, based on location, reviews, and my personal experience.

• St Julian's & Sliema Area: The Hilton
  This is Malta's premiere resort, located at the heart of the picturesque Portomaso Marina. This is a great pick if you're trying to balance great location with utmost luxury.
• Valletta: Iniala Harbour House
  Perched atop Valletta's stunning St Barbara Bastion, this incredible boutique experience is well-regarded as one of the best accommodation options in Malta. The experience offers stunning views of the Grand Harbour and the Three Cities from traditional Maltese balconies.
• Mellieħa - db Seabank Resort
  The db Seabank is well-regarded as the best resort in the calmer Mellieħa area. Situated just feet from the white sandy shores of Malta's longest beach, this complete all-inclusive hotel offers features five restaurants, a fitness center, a spa, multiple pools, and even a bowling alley!
• Gozo - Quaint Boutique Hotel (Nadur)
  Accommodation on Malta's quieter sister island should reflect its more peaceful and traditional ambiance. This beautifully renovated boutique hotel is situated directly beside the Nadur Parish Church, with spacious balcony terraces looking over the town square.

View more on Booking.com

Travel tip: Accommodation in Malta sells out quickly, especially for the summer vacation period. This is a location where you do not want to book at the last minute!

How to Get Around in Malta

While this island nation is the fifth smallest country in Europe, as you know by now, there are so many attractions and interesting things to do in Malta scattered over the three islands.

For those lucky enough to secure one in advance, the best way to get around is to rent your own car. Driving in Malta is quite easy and you can take the vehicle across to Comino cheaply on the ferry. However, being a small country, rental cars often sell out during the busy period.

Therefore, it's a good idea to check availability and prices across dealerships using DiscoverCars well in advance.

Alternatively, if you don't want to drive, you can use Malta's well-connected bus service to the main tourist areas. This is a very affordable and reliable way to get around Malta.

Final Roundup: The Top 5 Things to do in Malta

In this comprehensive travel guide, I've provided you with over 70 amazing things to do in Malta! But, if that's too many, here are the top 5 must-do highlights and popular places that I believe every traveler needs to experience at least once in their lifetime.

1. The Blue Lagoon
2. Exploring Gozo Island
3. Visiting one of the megalithic temple ruins
4. A traditional Għaqda Barklori l-Isla boat ride in the Grand Harbour
5. Experience the famous Malta sunsets

Faqs About Travel in Malta

More Malta Travel Guides & Adventure Inspiration

And, that's a wrap for this ultimate travel guide summing up the 70 best things to do in Malta! I hope this guide has inspired you to visit the beautiful islands of Malta, Comino, and Gozo, I guarantee you won't run out of fun activities & mind-blowing natural attractions!

Even with this long guide, I urge you to go off the beaten path and discover some amazing hidden gems of your own! If you find something you feel like sharing with other travelers, leave a comment below!

Otherwise, here are some more useful guides & inspiring blog posts which will be a great tool for planning your trip.

• 10 Amazing Boutique Hotels in Gozo (Where to Stay in 2023)
• 16 Things to do on Comino Island Malta - Top Sites & Attractions
• 26 Awesome Things to do in Valletta, Malta
• 35 Best Beaches in Malta, Gozo & Comino - Ultimate Guide With Map
• 40 Amazing Things to do on Gozo Island, Malta
• 8 Things to do in Marsaxlokk Malta (Colorful Fishing Village)
• Blue Grotto Malta - Complete 2023 Travel Guide
• Blue Lagoon Malta (Comino Island) - How to Get Here & What to Do

The post 70 Awesome Things to do in Malta – 2023 Travel Guide appeared first on We Seek Travel.

Cairns and Far North tropical Coral Coast is where the rainforest meets the reef. It’s one of the most beautiful, diverse and naturally rich destinations on earth. If you’re planning a visit to Cairns, then you need to head offshore and experience at least one of the many incredible islands dotting the coast.

I’ve been fortunate enough to spend close to a year documenting, photographing and exploring the best destinations, attractions and Great Barrier Reef islands near Cairns and Far North Queensland.

Below is a summary of what I believe to be the most comprehensive and up-to-date list of the best islands off Cairns that you should visit this year!

Island Resorts Near Cairns - Staying on the Great Barrier Reef

Out of all of the nearby Cairns islands, there are only three islands that you can actually spend the night on. If you're looking for island accommodation near Cairns, you'll want to check out:

• Fitzroy Island
• Green Island
• Lizard Island
• Bonus: Great Barrier Reef Pontoon (more details below)

In my opinion, Fitzroy Island has one of the best offshore resorts and is also the closest island to Cairns. I've visited Fitzroy several times and can highly recommend the famous Fitzroy Island Resort.

It features everything you need for a once-in-a-lifetime island getaway including a pool, snorkelling opportunities off the beach, a restaurant and a cocktail bar!

Read: My review of Fitzroy Island Resort (with photos)

View on Booking.com

Green Island features a resort with luxurious suites. It's an eco-resort with 2 pools and a poolside bar. The Green Island Resort is top-end, with a day spa, massage and beauty treatments and a restaurant.

View on Booking.com

Lizard Island is arguably one of the most incredible islands in Far North Queensland. It also has a 5-star luxury resort which is voted one of the best island resorts in Australia. The only catch is that to get here, you will need to get on a 1-hour scenic flight from Cairns.

That's because Lizard Island is located 200 kilometres north of Cairns. But hey, if you wanted to see the Great Barrier Reef from the sky, this might be a win-win. This option isn't exactly a budget-friendly one, but definitely the most amazing for those of you looking for a honeymoon escape or an extra-special experience.

Book: Lizard Island Resort (free flight from Cairns if staying more than 5 days)

The Great Barrier Reef Pontoon experience is a great option for visitors looking to spend a night on the reef. While not technically a Cairns island resort, the pontoon offers the opportunity to spend a night floating just off the reef and includes snorkelling and an optional 10-minute helicopter flight.

Book: Great Barrier Reef Pontoon Experience

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Related: The 11 Best Cairns Tours & Experiences

Don't Miss This Cairns Packing List

Preparing a trip to Cairns? Don't miss these must-bring items on your list!

Cairns Packing List

Cairns Islands: 8 Islands Off Cairns

Below you'll find my list of the 8 best islands off Cairns. But, just keep in mind that I haven't ranked them in any particular order. Therefore, you should use this list to compare each island's flares and reasons to visit to make a choice for yourself.

1. Green Island

Reasons to visit: Great snorkelling, several beaches and a rainforest interior.

Green Island is probably one of the most popular islands near Cairns. It's one of the closest to the Cairns coast and a fast boat only takes about an hour.

Highlights include snorkeling at the incredible fringing reef and at "the pinnacle". You can also explore the island on foot, checking out the incredible tropical flora and white-sand beaches that line its shores.

Furthermore, Green Island is one of the only islands off Cairns with its own rainforest ecosystem. This makes it one of the most unique options for a day trip from Cairns. However, you can also stay here if you book a return ticket below (open-ended).

The Green Island Resort is one of the best tropical resorts off Cairns, especially for those looking for a luxury offering out on the reef.

Stay here: Green Island Resort

2. Fitzroy Island

Reasons to visit: Cheapest island from Cairns, incredible resort, hiking.

Another incredible tropical paradise just around the corner from Cairns is Fitzroy Island. The fast boat to Fitzroy will only take you about 45 minutes, and you can choose to spend a day or even stay overnight at the Fitzroy Island Resort.

In my opinion, the best thing about Fitzroy Island is the incredible turtle population. I counted up to 13 turtles during my first time snorkelling, which is the most I've seen anywhere on the Australian East Coast.

Also, if you like a good hike, there are plenty of walks to choose from. The highest of which takes you to one of the best viewpoints on the Cairns Coast; The Fitzroy Island Summit. I've featured this walk in my list of the best hikes in Cairns!

Since these first two Cairns Islands are the most popular, I've also written a comprehensive comparison guide to Fitzroy Island vs Green Island to help you choose. Otherwise, keep reading to find more islands off Cairns to visit.

3. Frankland Islands (Normanby Island)

Reasons to visit: Incredible snorkelling, healthiest reef, river cruise included

Although a little further than some of the other islands around Cairns, the tropical archipelago of the Frankland Islands are definitely a must-visit when in the Tropical North!

These islands include High Island, Russel Island, Mabel Island, Round Island and Normanby Island. All of them are definitely less popular than the others on this list, but let me tell you, the Frankland Islands are amazing!

The best island to visit is Normanby Island. In fact, I honestly believe that the coral reef system here is healthier and richer than many of the popular spots on the outer reef!

If you're looking to see a real slice of the Great Barrier Reef on a nearby Cairns Island, don't miss out on this one!

Related: How to Spend 5 Days in Cairns - Itinerary

50+ More Cairns Bucketlist Items

• Visit the Cairns Islands
• Kuranda Railway & Skyrail
• Rusty's Markets
• Day trip to Cape Tribulation
• ... +51 more things to do in Cairns!

Read the Full List

4. The Low Isles - Epic Islands off Port Douglas

Reasons to visit: 15-minute fast boat from Port Douglas, loads of guided snorkelling options.

Located closer to Port Douglas than Cairns, The Low Isles are still one of the best islands worth checking out from Cairns. The great thing is, Port Douglas is just an hour north of Cairns and is worth at least a day trip in its own right.

The Low Isles is a set of two smaller islands; Low Island and Woody Island. Woody Island is reserved for bird nesting so Low Island is the only accessible part of the Low Isles.

On the island, you'll find a picturesque lighthouse and a far-reaching fringing reef to explore. The snorkelling is not quite as good as what you'll find on Green Island, but it's still an epic Great Barrier Reef Island not to miss!

How to get to Low Isles

You can get to the Low Isles by taking a speed boat, which is ridiculously fast - only 15 minutes to the islands from Port Douglas! However, if you'd prefer to visit this Cairns island on an organised snorkelling or sailing trip, then check out these options below:

Book: Low Isles Luxury Catamaran

Book: Lowe Isles Sailing & Snorkelling Trip: Wavedancer

HEADING NORTH?: Guide to the Great Barrier Reef Drive | Things to do in Cape Tribulation

5. Dunk Island

Reasons to visit: awesome sand spit, hiking trails and lookouts

Another must-visit and one of my personal favourite islands off Cairns is Dunk Island. This one is located a little further south of Cairns, accessible from the Mission Beach area.

On the island, there is an abandoned resort, an old airstrip, plenty of hikes, great snorkelling and an incredible reaching sand bar that's a favourite on Instagram.

If you decide to visit Dunk Island, don't miss Mound Island, which sits just opposite the main beach. You'll need a kayak or boat to get over there, but if you do, you'll get a small taste of isolated island life.

How to get to Dunk Island

Dunk Island is popular with both Innisfail and Mission Beach locals, as well as the many backpackers and travellers that visit the Tropical North every year.

While there aren't many ways to get to Dunk Island on an organised trip from Cairns, you can book a fairly cheap and quick boat if you're driving south to Mission Beach anyway.

Update: As of 2022, there's now a brand new ferry running to Dunk Island from Mission Beach!

6. Michaelmas Cay

Reasons to visit: Outer reef cay, great snorkelling, sea bird population

Want more of a taste of the outer Great Barrier Reef? If you're in Cairns, then you're in luck. Fortunately, Cairns is one of the best places in Australia to access the Great Barrier Reef, with both epic islands and reef cays just off the coast.

One of the best island cays on the outer reef is Michaelmas Cay. Compared to the other islands off Cairns, Michaelmas Cay and the surrounding reef has the best snorkelling and diving you'll find.

This cay doesn't have much in terms of things to do on land. But, let's face it, Cairns island hopping is all about the underwater world! There is also a sea-bird population that returns to nest each afternoon on Michaelmas, which is great for nature lovers and bird watchers.

7. Vlasoff Cay

Reasons to visit: most scenic Cairns island cay, epic snorkelling.

Vlasoff Cay is perhaps the most famous and iconic cay on the Great Barrier Reef off Cairns. You'll often find it on promotional posters and tourism campaigns. That's because it really is the most perfect, iconic little patch of white sand that has to be seen to be believed.

A similar size to Michaelmas Cay, Vlasoff offers similar snorkelling but without the sea bird population.

8. Lizard Island

Reasons to visit: Epic resort, large island to explore, great snorkelling & diving

Lizard Island is perhaps the most remote island off Cairns, located 200 kilometres to the north. Chances are you won't meet too many people who've been here but that hasn't stopped Lizard Island's international acclaim. It's been featured in several Hollywood films and is often featured on Cairns travel posters and ads.

There are loads of things to do on Lizard Island. From exploring the many beaches and coral-lined bays to hiking around to the viewpoints, there's no way you'll run out of things to do.

Also, as I mentioned above, Lizard Island is home to one of the best Cairns Island resorts. So, if you make the effort to see this tropical gem, it'd be a shame not to spend at least a night here.

Book: Lizard Island Resort

How to get to Lizard Island

Being the most remote island off Cairns, you'll need to book a scenic flight to get here. I recommend searching SkyScanner for great deals or checking the Cairns airport website for up-to-date departure information.

The flight from Cairns international airport takes just under an hour and isn't just a regular commercial flight. It's a low-flying scenic flight that also passes some of the best aerial views of the Great Barrier Reef. Currently, there's a promotional deal where if you book at least 5 nights at the resort, you can get a free return flight to Cairns.

The Best Islands off Cairns: A Summary

After reading this island list, I'm sure you're itching to get out and explore the tropical beauty of the Far North. If you're still tossing up which Cairns island to visit, then below is a quick summary that might help you make the call.

1. Closest islands to Cairns: Fitzroy Island & Green Island
2. Best snorkelling & diving: Frankland Islands & Vlasoff Cay
3. Cairns Islands for a road trip: Dunk Island & Low Isles
4. Best cay for bird-spotting: Michaelmas Cay & Green Island
5. Healthiest Coral Reef: Frankland Islands

To save you time and money, I've selected the best-rated and most cost-effective options to get to each island from Cairns above.

Update: BackpackerDeals.com also has some great last-minute deals at the moment. I've partnered with them to give my readers $5 off all their tours and tickets when using code: OLLY5.

Cairns Accommodation Guide – Where to Stay

Visiting Cairns? The best places to stay are near the Cairns Esplanade or on the sunny Northern Beaches. Below are the top 4 options for varying budgets.

• Crystalbrook Riley - If luxury and location are what you're after, you can't beat the Crystalbrook Riley. This is the best 5-star resort in Cairns and features absolutely everything you'd expect from a Crystalbrook resort.
• Fitzroy Island Resort - Sleep out on one of the picturesque Great Barrier Reef Islands at Fitzroy Island Resort. Spending the night on the island can work out cheaper than staying in town and means you get more time to explore the reef, coral beaches and rainforest walking trails.
• Gilligan's Backpackers - The best backpacker option for a great vibe in Cairns. Great place to meet like-minded travelers and has facilities including a pool. air-con, a huge shared kitchen, and a great common area!
• Pepper's Beach Club - stay at the best beach resort in the heart of Palm Cove on the Cairns Northern Beaches!

More on Booking.com

More on HostelWorld

For a bigger list, don't miss my Cairns accommodation guide or as an alternative stay in FNQ, read my Port Douglas Accommodation guide too.

Sailing or boating on the Coral Coast? Read about my sailing adventures on our homebuilt yacht up the East Coast of Australia.

More Cairns Travel Guides and Adventure Inspiration

I hope that this travel guide to the best islands off Cairns has given you a better understanding of what to expect from the paradise that is the Far North.

Below are some more Cairns travel guides and inspiration that I think you'll love.

• 23 Best Things to do in Cairns Australia - UPDATED 2020
• 5 Things to Know BEFORE Booking Cairns Scenic Flights on the Great Barrier Reef
• 8 Things to Know Before Booking Cairns Helicopter Tours on the Great Barrer Reef
• Babinda Boulders and Devils Pools, Cairns
• Barron Falls Kuranda - Largest Waterfall Near Cairns
• Cairns Beaches: 11 Best Beaches in Cairns & The Tropical North
• Hot Air Balloon Cairns - Everything You Need to Know in 2023
• Kahlpahlim Rock Hike (Lambs Head) Cairns Hiking Guide (2023)
• Milla Milla Falls - Incredible Waterfall in the Atherton Tablelands Near Cairns
• Mount Bartle Frere Hike: Hiking Queensland's Tallest Mountain
• Nandroya Falls, Wooroonooran National Park - Cairns
• Packing List for Cairns: Essential List of What to Pack for Cairns & Why
• Skyrail Rainforest Cableway Experience Cairns - 2023 Guide
• Walsh's Pyramid Hike in Cairns - Complete Hiking Guide 2023

The post Cairns Islands: 8 Islands Off Cairns You Need to Visit in 2023 appeared first on We Seek Travel.

Koh Tao is one of my favorite places on earth, and an Island that I’m constantly drawn back to. I lived here for over two months as I completed my PADI Dive Master Certificate, and have been back several times since. However, this island is so much more than just a diving destination!

During my time on Koh Tao, I’ve explored the entire island, visiting the best places from its epic beaches to its secluded hiking trails and hidden viewpoints.

So here it is, my ultimate travel guide to Koh Tao, Thailand, enjoy!

31 Best Things to Do on Koh Tao Island

You'll never be short of things to do on Koh Tao. Although the island is a mere 21 km², it definitely packs in a huge chunk of adventure!

1. Island Hop to Koh Nang Yuan

One of the most famous spots on Koh Tao isn't actually on the island itself. Koh Nang Yuan island is a short 10-minute longtail ride from Sairee Beach and absolutely a must-visit.

This double-headed island is connected via a thin, white stretch of sand surrounded by pristine coral reefs. A day trip here is usually filled with snorkeling, swimming in crystal clear water, lounging on the beach, and exploring its jungle viewpoints.

The best and easiest way to visit Koh Nang Yuan is to jump on a speedboat island hopping trip, which also visits some of the best snorkeling spots around Koh Tao.

Book Your Koh Nang Yuan Speedboat

Travel Tip for Koh Nang Yuan: The island has some pretty stringent environmental restrictions, with no plastic bottles or waste being allowed on the island (they will search your bags).  There is also a 100 baht environmental protection fee per person to gain entry. 

2. Go Scuba Diving

Koh Tao is also known as turtle island and is famous for being the Scuba Diving mecca of South East Asia.

This is one of the cheapest places on earth to complete your open-water scuba course.

The diving on Koh Tao is excellent, with clear water, healthy reefs, and very consistent conditions. Due to the island's geography, there is usually a few decent dive sites that are calm, no matter the weather. 

Additionally, travelers will find many reputable dive centers all over the island where you can jump on a guided dive (if you're certified), or do your Open Water, Advanced, Rescue, Dive Master, or even Instructor course!

3. Go Beach-Hopping on Koh Tao

It wouldn't be a tropical Thai island without some epic beaches.

There are many great sandy beaches and secluded, rocky coves with crystal clear water and coral reef for swimming or snorkeling. So, whether you're into water sports or lounging on white sand, Koh Tao has you covered.

I recommend renting a scooter from one of the shops in Sairee Beach for 150 Thai Baht and exploring the beautiful bays, shallow waters, and popular beaches on the tiny island including:

• Freedom Beach
• Sai Daeng Beach
• Tanote Bay
• Shark Bay
• Hin Wong Bay
• Sai Nuan Beach
• Chalok Baan Kao bay

4. John Suwan Viewpoint

If you're looking to get away from the craziness of Sairee and the scuba hum, there are some decent hikes to be had just a short scooter ride away. For such a small island, Koh Tao has its fair share of viewpoints and short hikes. 

One of the best hikes is John Suwan View Point. Although this is a fairly short hike, you will be rewarded with some of the most spectacular views on the island. Walking only 10 minutes up from the entrance to Freedom Beach, you will reach a rocky outcrop that stretches out at the southernmost point of Koh Tao.

The view spans over the adjacent bays, with a thin section of tropical jungle with palm trees in between.

The entrance fee for John Suwan Viewpoint is 100 Thai Baht.

Wondering How to Get to Koh Tao?

The cheapest and best way to get to Koh Tao is to take the Lomprayah Ferry. You can book this online in advance using the links below.

• Ferry from Surat Thani
• Ferry from Chumphon
• Book Bus & Ferry Combo from Bangkok

5. The Koh Nang Yuan Terrace Sunset Viewpoint

Island life means epic sunsets. You'd be hard-pressed to witness a bad sunset on Koh Tao. However, a great spot to catch the sunset is a secret sunset place just in front of a popular tourist resort. 

Nang Yuan Terrace offers you views of the sun setting on the water, right beside Koh Nang Yuan. You can also witness Sairee Beach nightlife come alive from this terrace! Truly one of the best viewpoints on Koh Tao!

6. Snorkel with Black Tip Reef Sharks at Shark Bay

If you've come to Koh Tao to check out the marine life, then you might have heard about the famous Black Tips at Shark Bay.

This is a small bay on the South East side of the island. You can snorkel with these sharks every day from 6:00 to 9:00 am in the shallows of the bay. 

There are also plenty of turtles that hide in Shark Bay, seemingly to get away from the craziness of Sairee. I recommend visiting in the early morning for the highest chance of swimming with these amazing sea animals.

7. Koh Tao Snorkeling Trip

If you don't want to go scuba diving but still want to experience the underwater world, then a great way to do so is to jump on board the popular Koh Tao snorkeling trip.

This is a full-day boat trip visiting some of the top snorkeling locations on Koh Tao, including:

• Koh Nang Yuan
• Hin Wong Bay
• Aow Leuk Bay
• Shark Bay
• Mango

This is a fully decked out boat, complete with an upstairs deck and even a water slide.

Book A Snorkeling Trip

8. Love Koh Tao Viewpoint

Many of the viewpoints have small bars and restaurants that are set up at the top, including the famous "Love Koh Tao" viewpoint.

This is a great place to catch the sunset, and accessible via a steep road leading up from nearby Tanote Bay. At the top, there's a famous love heart selfie sign, which is where the name comes from.

Wondering Where to Stay on Koh Tao?

I've written a comprehensive hotel & accommodation guide covering all the best places to stay on the island for all budgets. Don't miss it!

ACCOMMODATION GUIDE

9. Cliff Jumping at Tanote Bay

Koh Tao also has opportunities for cliff jumping. One of the best spots to do this is in Tanote Bay. Although it's not the tallest drop, Tanote Bay has a modest rocky outcrop situated in the center of the bay.

The jump is roughly 5m into crystal clear water filled with pristine reefs. 

We chose to come to Tanote Bay several times in between diving to relax on the big rock and enjoy the relative calmness of the area. 

10. Go Freediving

Freediving is absolutely taking the underwater world by storm. There are loads of freediving shops and schools popping up everywhere in Koh Tao.

One of the best and most well-renowned is Apnea Total. Similarly to the scuba diving scene, you can find very cheap prices for world-class freediving training. They offer programs from beginner all the way to competitive-level freediving.

Although I didn't sign up at any schools, I have spoken to a few people who were undertaking their master-level training and swore by the quality of freediving schools in Koh Tao. 

If you've already done some freediving and just want to head out with a buddy. I can recommend an awesome secluded freediving spot tucked-away training grounds on the Eastern Side of Koh Tao, just in front of Moondance Magic Resort. 

However, it takes a bit of local know-how to get down there.

11. Visit Koh Phangan

Koh Phangan (Ko Pha Ngan) is another popular island located close to Koh Tao and famous for its crazy Full Moon Party which happens on the night and on either side of the full moon.

However, other than the party, there are plenty of fun things to do on Koh Phangan, including some epic beaches and viewpoints.

It's quite easy to get to Koh Phangan– simply book your Lomprayah Ferry ticket online and show up at Mae Haad port. Although it is possible to visit on a day trip, I recommend spending at least a night here.

Ferry to Koh Phangan from Koh Tao

12. Visit the Only Animal Clinic on the Island

Although this is undeniably one of the most un-touristy things that you could do on Koh Tao, if you're an animal lover, definitely visit the animal clinic in Cha Lok. Koh Tao Animal Clinic is a not-for-profit organization that operates completely on donations and volunteer support. 

This is the only clinic and veterinary facility on the island. For such a small clinic with little funds, they do a great job of desexing and caring for the thousands of animals on the island.  

If you have a few dollars left from lunch, why don't you go down and sponsor a stray? It doesn't cost a lot to help an injured or sick dog or cat, and a little change goes a long way. 

If you're staying for a longer period of time and looking to volunteer, head in and ask for Yo or Jae and see if they have anything for you to do.

13. Hike to the Abandoned Resort

If you're looking for a day of adventure to a secluded spot, the abandoned resort is one of the most underrated spots to visit on Koh Tao. The resort is tucked away on the far Eastern Corner of Koh Tao at Laem Thian Beach.

You will need to hike through the jungle for an hour to reach the resort. Once you get there, you can explore the empty rooms, reception area, and rooftops. The beach is also one of my favorite beaches on Koh Tao. This is a great spot to swim, snorkel, and cliff jump.

You might even be lucky enough to spot some famous Koh Tao turtles.

14. Grab Some Koh Tao Street Pad Thai at Sairee Beach

If you're looking for a cheap meal in between dives, look no further than the Pad Thai street vendors in Sairee. You can find the best ones just near the 7/11 on the Northern side of Sairee Beach. 

For 50 Baht, you can pick up a decently sized Pad Thai with peanuts. Not bad.

15. Mango Viewpoint

Mango Viewpoint is another epic lookout spot situated on the north end of Koh Tao. This one is just a short 15-minute drive from Sairee Beach, following a sealed but very steep road to the top of the hill.

At the top, you'll find a small bar, where you'll need to pay the 100 baht entrance fee.

However, the views are definitely worth it, especially if you make the trip for sunset!

16. Join the Famous Koh Tao Pub Crawl 

It's no secret that the nightlife in Koh Tao can get pretty wild and it all starts on the Koh Tao Pub Crawl. If you're anywhere near Sairee after 6:00 PM then it's impossible to miss the black singlet gang moving from pubs to cabaret shows across Sairee.

The pub crawl is actually one of the top three biggest in the entire world. For its size, it's pretty well run and stops at some cool bars. If you're looking to join in, meet at Choppers Bar around 6:00 pm. 

17. Relax on Freedom Beach

Freedom Beach is one of my favorite beaches on Koh Tao. While it takes just 10 minutes or so to ride here on a scooter, it definitely feels like you're on a different island.

The white sand and orange rocks make for a perfect palette when mixed with the clear, turquoise water. There are usually very few tourists at Freedom Beach, making it the perfect place to relax and unwind.

18. Rent SUPs on Sairee Beach

In my opinion, the best way to see the sunset on Sairee Beach is from a stand-up paddleboard. It won't be difficult for you to find a place to rent a SUP on Sairee. Just walk around to any of the beachfront dive shops and they will most likely have them.

A SUP on Sairee will cost anywhere from 100 to 200 baht per hour. If you're diving on Koh Tao, ask your dive shop to see if they will give you a discount on board hire.

19. Watch the Fire Dancers on Sairee Beach

There's no better way to end a long day of scuba diving and hiking than to relax on the beach with a Chang and watch the nightly fire dance performance. The local Thai performers head down to Sairee every night to perform for the crowds.

The best place to catch them is at Lotus Bar just after sunset. 

20. Snorkel at Hin Wong Bay

Visiting Hin Wong Bay is one of the top things to do for travelers looking to get off the beaten path on Koh Tao Island.

Ao Hin Wong is a rocky beach with a small bar and a narrow stretch of orange sand. The bay is a popular dive site, but is also great for snorkeling as you can explore the coral and schooling fish just meters off the shore!

21. Try Muay Thai

Like most of the Thai Islands, Koh Tao has a Muay Thai gym, as well as regular Muay Thai fight nights. I've trained at both of the gyms on the island, but my favorite is Monsoon Gym, found on the main road running from Sairee to Mae Haad.

Muay Thai is the bloodline of Thai culture and a must-do experience when in Southeast Asia. Just be prepared for a hard workout!

22. Visit Koh Samui

Koh Samui is one of the most popular islands in the Gulf of Thailand. As the second largest Thai Island, this vacation spot is lined with beach bars, beautiful beaches, and luxury resorts.

This is a huge island and it would take more than just a day to explore all of the popular activities. However, if you have the time, it's certainly worth visiting. The average ferry crossing time is just 2 hours and 45 minutes from Mae Haad.

23. Baby Rasta Bar

Looking for one of the coolest bars on Koh Tao? If you're into live music and chill vibes, make sure to stop by Baby Rasta– a treehouse bar serving everything you'd expect to find at a Reggae Bar.

24. Sunset Viewpoint

Known as "Little Viewpoint", "High Rock View Point", and "Koh Tao Sunset Viewpoint", this off-the-beaten-path viewpoint at the back of Sairee is a great place to catch the sunset. The large outcrop offers panoramic views of Sairee Beach from above.

This is a west-facing viewpoint with a huge boulder that is perfect to catch the last sunrays. You'll find it pinned on Google as "Sunset Point View", and there is no entrance fee here.

25. Thai Massage at Sairee

After a long day of scuba diving, hiking, or exploring the fun things to do on the island, a great option is to opt for a Thai massage from one of the many parlours along Sairee Beach.

Prices are very reasonable, ranging from 150-250 Thai Baht per hour.

26. Thai Longtail Boat Tour

Looking for an easy and cheap way to explore the island? Head down to Sairee Beach in the morning and speak to one of the Longtail boat drivers. Many will offer to take you over to Koh Nang Yuan for around 150 Thai Baht.

27. High Bar

High Bar is a small reggae bar at the very top of Koh Tao in the Chalok Baan Kao district.

This bar is quite difficult to get to due to a very steep road leading right up the mountain. However, this is definitely one of the funnest places to hang out, and sports some pretty great views if you get here early for sunset.

28. Take a Thai Cooking Class

Want to learn how to cook delicious Pad Thai or Penang curry.

The famous Thai cooking class with Parawan is a home-style cooking lesson where travelers get the opportunity to learn how to cook delicious, and authentic Thai food.

With close to 100 5-star reviews on Viator, this is definitely one of the most popular activities on Koh Tao!

29. Koh Tao Night Market

Just across from the Koh Tao leisure park (mini golf) is an awesome local night market. Here you'll get the chance to pick up some small crafts like jewelry and purses, as well as some delicious food and fresh produce for a great price!

30. Wat Koh Tao Temple

On the main road connecting Sairee to Mae Haad, there is a beautiful Buddhist temple perched on the coast side of the road.

Named Wat Koh Tao, this modern Thai temple is worth a quick visit since it's the only Buddhist temple on the island!

31. Dive at Sail Rock - The Best Thing to do on Koh Tao for Scuba Divers

While there are plenty of great dive sites on Koh Tao like the Chumphon pinnacle, Lighthouse, White Rock, Shark Island, and the HTMS Sattakut wreck, none even come close to Sail Rock!

This is considered the diving highlight in the Gulf of Thailand and is a frequent whale shark hot spot. However, it is quite deep and far from Koh Tao, meaning most dive schools don't visit every day, and you'll need your Advanced Open Water ticket.

So, if you want to dive at Sail Rock and its epic Chimney, I recommend contacting several dive shops in advance.

Where to Stay on Koh Tao - Accommodation Guide

There are several options for travelers wondering where to stay on Koh Tao island. Generally speaking, most people like to stay near Sairee Beach to be close to all the highlights and things to do. However, you can also stay near Mae Head, or a bit further up the mountain from Sairee as well.

To save you time searching the web, I've listed some of the best options for where to stay on Koh Tao below.

• Best Luxury Pick: Jamahkiri Resort & Spa - a really great bang-for-buck luxury resort. Guests will find this one on the beachfront of Shark Bay in a quiet and secluded location away from the hustle and bustle.
• Best self-catering villa: Phandara Pool Villas - a luxury option for those who want their own kitchen & pool.
• Best Backpacker Hostel: Summer Guesthouse - located within walking distance of the dive shops on Sairee beach and of course, the nightly pub crawls– this is the top budget option with a great vibe.

View on Booking.com

View on HostelWorld

Long-Term Accommodation on the Island

If you're staying on the island for a while, then I'd highly recommend getting a monthly lease.

There are dozens of apartments available for under $300 per month. They typically have a balcony view, their own kitchen, and aircon.

If you're going to take this route, look up the Koh Tao Rooms for Rent Facebook group.

How to Get to Koh Tao

There are several options available for travelers wanting to get to Koh Tao. The fastest way is to get a flight to neighboring Koh Samui and then take a quick ferry to Koh Tao.

However, unless you score a cheap flight ticket to Koh Samui, this option is most likely going to be the most expensive.

The Cheapest Option to get to Koh Tao: Bus and Ferry

Usually, flights to and from Bangkok and Phuket are going to be the cheapest in Thailand. Luckily, there are also several buses that run from Phuket and Bangkok and connect to Koh Tao via a bus.

Book: Bus & Ferry Kombo from Bangkok
Book: Ferry from Surat Thani

Stitching together a bus and ferry combo is completely possible by yourself. However, if you want to save time and pay the same money, then I'd recommend just buying a combined bus and ferry ticket from Bangkok. For travelers coming from Phuket, simply book a bus to Surat Thani, then get the ferry from there.

These combined tickets are the faster-speed catamarans and air-conditioned coaches that will take you the whole way. You also won't get ripped off for an expensive transfer at the ferry terminal as this is also included.

When is the Best Time To Visit Koh Tao

Koh Tao enjoys hot tropical weather patterns and travel will depend on the monsoon season. If you're going to spend a lot of time in the water, then the best time to visit Koh Tao is from March to May, when the weather is hotter and the visibility is good.

This is also the best time to visit Koh Tao if you're looking to spot a whale shark!

May to October is also another great time to visit Koh Tao. This season sees the start of the stronger winds sweeping across the island. However, the weather is still hot, at around 32 degrees and you'll enjoy some light evening showers.

More Koh Tao & Thailand Travel guides

I hope that this comprehensive guide to the best things to do in Koh Tao has been useful in planning your adventures. For more Thai travel inspiration, make sure to check out some of the links below.

• 7 Best Things to do in Khao Lak, Thailand - Complete Travel Guide
• 7 Easy Ways How You Can Reduce Plastic Waste on your South East Asia Trip
• Best Secret Sunset Viewpoint on Koh Tao, Thailand
• Fighting Muay Thai In Thailand as a Foreigner
• Sai Rung Waterfall in Khao Lak, Thailand
• Ton Chong Fa Waterfall, Khao Lak, Thailand
• Where to Stay on Koh Tao - 2023 Accommodation Guide

The post 31 Awesome Things to Do on Koh Tao Island, Thailand in 2023 appeared first on We Seek Travel.

Fitzroy Island is one of the best tropical islands in North Queensland.

Located just a short ferry ride from Cairns, there’s no reason why anyone should miss this tropical gem when visiting Cairns and the Tropical North.

Whether you’re looking to spend an action-packed day trip from Cairns, or if you’d like to spend several days on Fitzroy Island exploring, you certainly won’t be disappointed.

There are plenty of activities, attractions and things to do on Fitzroy Island, including hiking, snorkelling among the amazing coral reef and swimming with turtles.

In this guide, I aim to arm you with all of the information you need to visit Fitzroy Island on either a day trip or a multi-day visit from Cairns. I’ve visited Fitzroy Island countless times and therefore can share with you everything you need to know about how to get here and what to do!

About Fitzroy Island

Fitzroy Island is a tropical island with its own National Park designation and is protected as Fitzroy Island National Park. In fact, 97% of the 3.39 square kilometres of land that makes up Fitzroy land is considered National Park!

Additionally, it's also part of the Great Barrier Reef Marine Parks (Queensland Government), which ensures its nature is preserved for everybody to enjoy.

The only section that is privately owned is a stretch of land in Welcome Bay. This area is run and maintained by the Fitzroy Island Resort, the official operator of the resort and the only accommodation option on the island.

Welcome Bay is a great spot to visit as it provides a sanctuary in the calm sheltered waters of the Great Barrier Reef. This beach has seriously clear water and is edged by a beautiful fringing reef.

Besides Welcome Bay, visitors are able to explore the many spectacular walking tracks to highlights like Nudey Beach, the lighthouse, and the summit of the island's mountain chain.

Read: What It’s Like Staying at Fitzroy Island Resort

How to Get to Fitzroy Island

The beautiful island of Fitzroy is only a short 45-minute ferry from Cairns ferry terminal (Cairns Reef Fleet Terminal). This makes it the most easily accessible Great Barrier Reef Island with the shortest trip from Cairns.

There are two main Fitzroy ferry companies running from Cairns:

• Fitzroy Flyer
• Sunlover

Currently, the most cost-effective ferry to visit Fitzroy Island from Cairns is to book a return ferry ticket with Sunlover on GetYourGuide. This is currently the best price you will find online and only includes the fast-ferry catamaran transfer (fastest boat).

Book Your Fitzroy Island Trip

I recommend booking the earliest ferry and returning on the 5 pm boat. This way, you'll get to spend more time exploring this special slice of paradise and check out all of the epic things to do on Fitzroy Island.

Save $$$ With a Half-Day Trip

Only got time to visit the island for a few hours?

Currently, there's a great deal you can snag with BackpackerDeals, offering cheaper half-day return ferry tickets. Use code OLLY5 to save yourself an extra $5.

Book a Half-Day Trip

The Best Fitzroy Island Day Trip

If you don't have your own snorkelling equipment (and you want to see the glass-bottom boat), then the other option for getting to Fitzroy is booking a full-day adventure tour.

This includes:

• Fitzroy Island catamaran transfer (return)
• Snorkel equipment hire
• Glass bottom boat experience on Fitzroy
• All beach-hire equipment including paddle skis

This trip costs $139 per person with discounts for families and includes everything you need to experience the best activities and things to do on Fitzroy Island during a day trip from Cairns. Keep in mind that snorkel rental gear from the resort costs $20 alone so you'll save big by booking the full package in advance.

Best price online for the all-inclusive tour: Full-Day Adventure Tour

Note: If you want to stay on the island, you just use your return ticket at a later date. You'll need to let the boat operators know that you're staying and they will organise your return transfer.

Travel tip: If you're planning to visit the island from Palm Cove, I suggest taking the Route 110 bus to Cairns and walking to the ferry terminal from there.

Staying at the Fitzroy Island Resort

Of course, if you'd rather spend a few days exploring all of the activities and best things to do on Fitzroy Island, you could also stay at the Island Resort.

This Resort Studio is the only accommodation on Fitzroy Island but they offer en suite rooms, rainforest bungalows, beach cabins, a pool bar, and even full ocean suites to suit every budget and travel style.

All rooms at Fitzroy Island Resort have access to air conditioning, en suite bathroom, shower and fridge. Booking accommodation on Fitzroy Island also means visitors get access to beach rental equipment as well as the resort swimming pool, bar and in-house cinema.

The sea view restaurant also serves great meals all made with Aussie produce.

View on Booking.com

If you're a couple, or in a group or family, staying at Fitzroy Island Resort is one of the best ways to experience the island and can be really cost-effective.

In fact, it's one of the cheapest luxury accommodation options in Cairns by far! The cheapest room is only $130 a night. You'd be hard-pressed to find a luxury island resort with those prices anywhere else in Australia.

I stayed in the Welcome Bay Suite and this waterfront accommodation with ocean views was absolutely amazing!

Fitzroy Island Camping

If you're not one for fancy resorts and you'd prefer to rough it, then it's also possible to camp here. Located right next to the Fitzroy Island Resort is a large campsite area where you can pitch a tent and spend the night.

A tent site costs $37 per night which seems a little steep at first, but not too bad considering you can split it with up to four people.

The campground is managed by the resident resort and you can book a site through them.

Things to do on Fitzroy Island on a Trip from Cairns

With the basics out of the way, let's dive straight into this list of what to do on Fitzroy Island!

As I mentioned in the introduction, I've visited this amazing tropical island countless times.

Therefore I can share with you the best list of things to do on Fitzroy Island including walking trails, the best beach activities, where to snorkel to see green sea turtles and tropical fish, as well as where to find the best beaches on the island!

1. Snorkelling on Fitzroy Island

Perhaps the first thing that crosses your mind when thinking about tropical Cairns islands is seeing the underwater world. Fitzroy Island lies within the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park, meaning snorkelling is one of the best things to do here!

While the coral reefs aren't quite as impressive as what you'll find on the nearby Frankland Islands or at the outer reef, it's still amazing, especially if this is your first time seeing the Great Barrier Reef!

Luckily, there are a few reefs that are easy to access from the main beach at Welcome Bay.

While you can spot a turtle or two in Welcome Bay itself, it's best to head over to the north end to see the best coral formations and marine life. Here you'll find large parrot fish species, plenty of small schooling fish, healthy coral reefs, and the occasional cruising green or hawksbill turtle.

Where Are the Best Fitzroy Snorkelling Locations?

Welcome Bay
The reef on either side of the ferry wharf at Welcome Bay has some pretty decent snorkelling, especially for beginners. While the hard corals aren't too impressive here, you can spot the occasional cruising turtle.

However, if you swim a little further out, the coral bombies start looking healthier. Be careful though, there is a lot of boat traffic in this area. If you continue reading below you'll find the better sites.

White Rock
White Rock is the name of the obvious, large white boulder located on the northern end of Welcome Bay. While you might be wondering why this particular formation is so white, the answer is quite trivial– it's coated with bird poo!

However, it's not the rock itself that draws the crowd. The coral surrounding White Rock is a well-known turtle-spotting area. You'll also find some healthy stag coral formations and the "trees" planted by the Reef Restoration Foundation.

Shark Fin Rock
Shark Fin Rock is located around the northern end of Welcome Bay. You can swim around the rocks from the point, or walk around and enter the water from the rocks.

Don't worry, its name comes from the shape of the rock on the shore, you (probably) won't find any great whites lurking here. The Shark Fin Rock snorkelling area has a much healthier reef and coral than Welcome Bay. This is the site that the reef glass bottom boat and snorkel tours visit.

Nudey Beach Point
Nudey Beach isn't only one of the most beautiful beaches in Australia on land, it's also got some pretty great snorkelling opportunities. Swim out from the beach or from the rocks at the point and keep a lookout for the cruising turtle and the occasional blacktip reef shark!

2. Hike the Fitzroy Island Walking Tracks

Second to snorkelling, the famous Fitzroy Island walks are up there with the best things to do on the island. There are a total of 5 main bush walks which all depart from the beach at Welcome Bay.

Below I've outlined the three spectacular walking trails on Fitzroy Island that I believe are worth your time. These include:

1. Fitzroy Island Summit Walk - one of my favourite hikes in Cairns.
2. Lighthouse walk
3. Nudey Beach Walk

Fitzroy Island Summit Walk (Lookout Track)

The longest Fitzroy Island walk takes you to the highest point in the National Park. The track is approximately 3.6 kilometres return from Welcome Bay and climbs to a total elevation of 265 metres.

You can pick up the trail at the northern end of Welcome Bay, just after the campground. There are signs indicating the route for the entire walk, so you won't have a problem finding your way.

From the top, you'll experience the best view on the island. Panoramic views pan across the Coral Sea and around to the southern bays of Fitzroy Island. From the summit, you'll also get a glimpse of Nudey Beach from a unique perspective.

If hiking and walking are what you're into, then definitely add the lookout track to your list of what to do on Fitzroy Island!

Fitzroy Island Lighthouse Walk

Another Fitzroy Island walk takes you to the lighthouse. This walk continues on the main summit track but continues straight before the trail turns up the hill to the summit.

The path to the lighthouse is much flatter and only takes about 10 minutes on a sealed road from the base of the summit track.

Overall, the lighthouse isn't the most impressive one near Cairns or the Tropical North. But, the view from the cliff is worth the walk. If the season allows, you might also spot a migrating humpback whale from this point!

A good idea would be to head over to the lighthouse after you climb up Fitzroy summit since it's only a short detour before heading back to Welcome Bay.

The Nudey Beach Track

A shorter, equally scenic Fitzroy Island walk leads in the opposite direction (right from Welcome Bay wharf) towards Nudey Beach.

This walk is completed on a short 15-minute track through dense tropical rainforest.

At the end, you'll be rewarded with views of one of Australia's best beaches! I highly recommend heading over to Nudey Beach for sunset or sunrise, especially if staying on the island!

3. Visit Nudey Beach - One of Australia's Most Beautiful Beaches

Okay, you already got a spoiler to this attraction but this beach definitely deserves its own spot on this list of the best things to do on Fitzroy Island.

Nudey Beach is a small white-sand beach wrapping around the southern coastal bend. The clear water is an incredible shade of turquoise and a perfect place to soak up the tropical North Queensland vibes.

This particular beach is the star attraction at Fitzroy, and definitely worth a visit.

Don't Miss This Cairns Packing List

Preparing a trip to Cairns? Don't miss these must-bring items on your list!

Cairns Packing List

4. Swim With Green Turtles

Initially, unbeknownst to me, Fitzroy Island is somewhat of a turtle hotspot! I honestly couldn't believe how many turtles cruise around this stop the first time I visited. Now, each time I visit Fitzroy Island, one of the things I always do is go swimming with turtles.

You'll almost always find these guys feeding on the algae growing on the corals in the shallows of Welcome Bay.. I also commonly see them cruising past the point near Nudey Beach and at Shark Fin Rock.

Truthfully though, I'm sure you'll see a turtle wherever you choose to snorkel so add it to your list of what to do on Fitzroy!

Not Sure Which Cairns Island to Visit?

Read my comprehensive guide breaking down the top 8 Islands off Cairns to help you decide!

Compared: Fitzroy VS GREEN Island

5. Visit the Turtle Sanctuary

Fitzroy Island also has an in-house turtle sanctuary known as the Fitzroy Island Cairns Turtle Rehabilitation Centre (CTRC). This is a non-profit program run by the Island Resort. The facility dedicates time and resources to rehabilitating sick and injured turtles around the island and the larger Great Barrier Reef Marine Park.

When visiting Fitzroy Island, add it to your list of things to do. You can either drop by and say hello, join in on a tour or leave a donation!

6. Jump off the Wharf

The tide differences on Fitzroy Island can get pretty drastic. This means that at high tide, the top of the wharf is only just out of the water. But, at low tide, you can jump off the wharf into the crystal clear waters below. It's only a 3-4 metre drop at low tide, but still, a fun little activity to do on Fitzroy Island.

Just be aware that there are several boats and ferries that use this wharf daily. Make sure not to get in the way of any marine traffic and use common sense!

50+ More Cairns Bucketlist Items

• Visit the Cairns Islands
• Kuranda Railway & Skyrail
• Rusty's Markets
• Day trip to Cape Tribulation
• ... +51 more things to do in Cairns!

Read the Full List

7. Join in on a Fitzroy Glass-Bottom Boat Tour

While snorkelling and free diving on the island is by far the best ways to immerse yourself in the underwater world, I understand that there are those who would prefer to see the reef from the comfort of a boat.

Luckily, there is one tour provider that offers glass-bottom boat experiences on Fitzroy Island. However, this is an activity you'd do well to book beforehand.

The tour is run by the Fitzroy Island Resort but is also open to those on a day trip. If you're in the planning stages of your trip and you'd think you'd like to jump on a Glass Bottom Boat Tour, consider booking the "Full-Day Adventure Tour". This includes the Glass Bottom Boat, as well as snorkel/gear hire and is cheaper than if you book it separately.

8. Experience a Fitzroy Whale-Watching Tour

During the whale migration seasons, you can also book a full-day tour that takes you to Fitzroy Island and out for a day of whale watching.

This trip includes 4 hours to explore Fitzroy Island, before heading out to spot the migrating humpback whales. This tour costs $99 per person, which is less than $15 more than the actual return boat ticket.

So, if you don't mind spending less time here in favour of spotting some whales, then this tour will offer the best of both.

Best price: Whale Watching & Island Stop Day-Package (seasonal)

9. Hire a SUP or Sea Kayak From "FISH"

Whether you're visiting Fitzroy Island on a day trip from Cairns or if you have a full few days to spend exploring, renting a SUP or Kayak s a great way to do it.

If you're visiting Fitzroy for the day, you will find gear rental just in front of the resort. Here, you can rent snorkelling equipment, SUPs, Kayaks and anything else you might want for water activities. Go check out FISH (the dive shop) for diving tours and extra gear like wetsuits, stinger suits and fins.

Below are the current prices for rental:

• SUP Rental Price: $25 per hour
• Kayak Rental Price: $25 per hour
• Snorkeling Equipment Rental Price: $20 per day

10. Go Scuba Diving On Fitzroy Island

If you'd like to take it up a notch from regular snorkelling, then you can also spend a day scuba diving. This costs $60 for the first dive and $40 for any additional dives.

These dives begin at the beach, just 30 metres from the resort. This makes it an easy entry-level dive. There is only one dive shop that is licensed to run commercial scuba operations on Fitzroy, and they run out of the resort.

There are plenty of great dive sites, including welcome bay, and Little Fitzroy Island just off the north side.

If you don't have your PADI open water certificate, then now's the time to get it! One of the best deals for a 5-day Open Water Certificate in Cairns is run by Pro Dive.

11. Unwind at Welcome Bay

After a long day of hiking, snorkelling and experiencing all of the epic activities on Fitzroy Island, I can understand if you want to just spread out a towel and relax.

A thing to know is that the beach at Welcome Bay is mostly hard coral as opposed to soft white sand. These large smooth pieces of coral skeletons that have formed the beach over thousands of years.

If you prefer soft, white sand, head over to Nudey Beach!

12: Grab a Cocktail at Foxy's Bar

If you're taking the time to unwind in Welcome Bay, make sure to stop by Foxy's Bar on the way to Nudey Beach. This restaurant/bar combination serves fresh food and cold drinks. his makes it the perfect place to wind down the day with a sunset cocktail or meal.

Also, visitors will find a general store just a bit further south from the resort. This is run by the resort but is open to all visitors.

Bonus: For Resort Guests

Those staying on Fitzroy Island at the iconic resort will have access to the epic beachside pool and bar facilities.

If you're making the most out of your trip to Fitzroy Island, relax by the pool and grab a cocktail to wind down after a long day of adventuring and exploring this incredible place.

How Long to Stay on Fitzroy Island

Have you already decided that this is exactly your kind of destination and now you're wondering how long to stay on Fitzroy Island?

If I had to pick, I would recommend 2 days and 1 night to explore the entire Island. However, it is possible to do all of the walks, snorkel with the turtles and enjoy all of the great things to do on Fitzroy Island in one big day.

With that said, staying at the resort is an experience in itself. If you're a visitor to Cairns, seriously consider at least a night here to break up the accommodation in town.

I have seen some "half-day" island tours pop up but I'd discourage you from these as the ferry itself takes 45-minutes each way. Don't shoot yourself in the foot, you'll want at least a full day here.

How to Get Around Fitzroy Island

There is no transport available on the island. To get around, you'll have to walk.

However, most Fitzroy Island must-see attractions and activities are easily accessible on foot from Welcome Bay. Once you arrive, you'll see an island map that illustrates the network of the island's roads.

Cairns Accommodation Guide – Where to Stay

Visiting Cairns? The best places to stay are near the Cairns Esplanade or on the sunny Northern Beaches. Below are the top 4 options for varying budgets.

• Crystalbrook Riley - If luxury and location are what you're after, you can't beat the Crystalbrook Riley. This is the best 5-star resort in Cairns and features absolutely everything you'd expect from a Crystalbrook resort.
• Fitzroy Island Resort - Sleep out on one of the picturesque Great Barrier Reef Islands at Fitzroy Island Resort. Spending the night on the island can work out cheaper than staying in town and means you get more time to explore the reef, coral beaches and rainforest walking trails.
• Gilligan's Backpackers - The best backpacker option for a great vibe in Cairns. Great place to meet like-minded travelers and has facilities including a pool. air-con, a huge shared kitchen, and a great common area!
• Pepper's Beach Club - stay at the best beach resort in the heart of Palm Cove on the Cairns Northern Beaches!

More on Booking.com

More on HostelWorld

For a bigger list, don't miss my Cairns accommodation guide or as an alternative stay in FNQ, read my Port Douglas Accommodation guide too.

FAQs About Visiting Fitzroy Island

More Cairns and Far North Queensland Travel Guides

And, that's a wrap. I hope that this travel guide to the best things to do on Fitzroy Island has inspired you to visit this tropical gem! Armed with the information from this blog, I'm sure you'll be up for an epic island day trip or multi-night stay from Cairns. For more Cairns travel guides and blogs, take a pick from the list below.

Otherwise, why not check out this guide to Green Island too, or this comprehensive guide to an epic 5-day Cairns Itinerary!

Or, scroll down to see some more photos from my trips to Fitzroy Island!

• (Review) Best Daintree Crocodile Tour In Cairns/Cape Tribulation
• 14 Awesome Things to do in Kuranda, Australia in 2023
• 20 Top Things to do in Cape Tribulation & the Daintree - 2023 Cape Trib Guide
• 60 Best Things to do in Cairns, Australia - Top 2023 Guide
• 8 Things to Know Before Booking Cairns Helicopter Tours on the Great Barrer Reef
• Complete Guide to The Low Isles, Port Douglas, Australia
• Exploring Dunk Island: Best Things To See And Do in 2023
• Exploring Orpheus Island - Snorkeling and Hiking
• Green Island, Cairns – Complete Guide with 7 Things to Do & See
• Hot Air Balloon Cairns - Everything You Need to Know in 2023
• Kahlpahlim Rock Hike (Lambs Head) Cairns Hiking Guide (2023)
• Michaelmas Cay - Exploring the Best of the Outer Great Barrier Reef
• Wankaroo Falls Hike in Wooroonooran National Park
• What It's Like Staying at Fitzroy Island Resort Near Cairns in 2023 (Review)

More Fitzroy Island Photos to Inspire Your Trip

The post Fitzroy Island Guide 2023 – 12 Things to Do & See appeared first on We Seek Travel.

Koh Tao, also known as Turtle Island, is located in the Gulf of Thailand and is one of my absolute favorite destinations in the world!

I lived on the island for several months as I completed my PADI Dive Master course and I often recommend it to many people all over the world as an incredible place to visit in Thailand for diving, jungle exploring, beach hopping, and meeting like-minded travelers.

In this detailed guide, I’ll provide a rundown of the best places and specific areas to stay on Koh Tao, with up-to-date recommendations on hotels, hostels, and affordable bungalows to help you plan your visit.

Best Areas to Stay on Koh Tao

1. Sairee Beach

Known as the longest beach on Koh Tao Sairee Beach has lots to offer. From blue calm waters to beach bars this area is a known tourist hub for travelers. Many hotels and resorts line this beach and boat tours to and from Ko Nang Yuan Island leave from here.

Find Accommodation in Sairee Beach

2. Mae Haad

This is the main port of entry onto Koh Tao. Mae Haad Pier brings ferry loads of people to the Island daily. If you're arriving late and need an easy first night, this is a great place to stay.

Another reason people choose this area is the convenience as there are loads of restaurants and bars close by and the sunset over the ocean at night is also a bonus.

Find Accommodation in Mae Haad

3. Shark Bay

Shark bay also known as Thian Og Bay is an incredible bay. Known as one of the best snorkeling spots on the entire island, this area is quiet, scenic, and surrounded by beautiful tropical jungle.

It is even possible to spot a reef shark here during the early morning hours!

Find Accommodation in Shark Bay

4. Chalok Baan Kao

Located on the south of the island Chalok Baan Kao is a small area with the third largest beach.

Many people stay in this area for its dive centers and small bungalow-styled accommodation options. Furthermore, Chalok is also a much quieter area which is great if you want to relax.

Find Accommodation in Chalok Baan Kao

5. Tanote Bay

Tanote Bay is located on the eastern side of the Island just around the corner from Shark Bay.

It is known for its large rock formation that is used as a jumping platform into the ocean. Also, for snorkelers, the reef here is full of life and the swell is minimal with little wind– so it is a great place to explore the underwater world.

Find Accommodation in Tanote Bay

The Best Hotels & Resorts on Koh Tao

Below are our top picks when staying on Koh Tao Island. With a list of high-end luxury hotels and resorts to budget-saving accommodation choices for those with a lighter wallet.

Koh Tao Luxury Hotels & Villas

	Accommodation Option	Price
	Perfect View Pool Villa	$$$$
	Phandara Luxury Pool Villas	$$$$
	Over The Moon Luxury Pool Villas	$$$
	Cape Shark Villas	$$$
	The Fisherman's Villas	$$$
	Jamahkiri Resort & Spa - SHA Plus	$$$

Perfect View Pool Villa

Perfect View Pool Villa is at the top of the list for incredible stays on the island of Koh Tao. This villa is located in the area of Ko Tao and is within walking distance of Sairee Beach and many restaurants and bars.

The location is quiet and is surrounded by the sound of the jungle. It sleeps up to 10 guests at a time so this is perfect for large groups or families or those wanting an extended stay.

The rooms are spacious with incredible views over the ocean from the private balconies. Throughout this luxury villa, there is free wifi, multiple living spaces, a fully equipped kitchen, and a large outdoor private pool.

A transfer can be arranged to pick up and drop off at the pier.

View on Booking.com

Phandara Luxury Pool Villas

Looking for a luxury Villa on Koh Tao? The best pick is the Phandara Luxury Pool Villas. This accommodation choice has absolutely everything you need from spectacular views over the ocean to relaxing on the terrace surrounded by palm trees with your very own hot tub.

Phandara Luxury Pool Villas offers its guests a fully equipped kitchen, large outdoor seating area, and living areas and can accommodate up to 5 people. The modern-styled rooms are beautifully decorated and will have you feeling like you never want to leave.

The villa is just a short walk from Sairee Beach and 1km from Mae Haad Pier. The surrounding areas offer hiking, snorkeling, and bird watching.

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Over The Moon Luxury Pool Villas

Over the moon luxury pool villas is an excellent self-catering option for your next stay on Koh Tao. These private villas are located in a quiet area surrounded by incredible palms and boasting magnificent views over the ocean.

Ideal place for those wanting to explore the white sand beaches nearby as Sairee Beach and Mae Haad Beach are a 10-15 minute walk from the property.

The villas are beautifully furnished with large open rooms with incredible views. Each with its own fully equipped kitchen and multiple living areas. Multiple activities such as scuba diving, hiking, and day tours can be arranged from the property.

A private chef is available for those who want the full service.

View on Booking.com

Cape Shark Villas

Another great choice for a relaxing stay is the Cape Shark Villas. Located on the south of the island and closeby to Shark Bay, Cape Shark Villas offers its guests magnificent infinity pool views and its own private beach area.

Villas can accommodate up to 9 adults and 4 children at a time which makes this an ideal choice for those traveling in large groups or families. Selected villas have an equipped kitchen, dining area, Flat screen TV, air conditioning, an outdoor terrace, Free wifi, and a private pool.

There is a free shuttle service for those who need transport from the Mae Haad Pier which is a short 15-minute drive away. The perfect location for those who enjoy water sports, relaxing by the beach, or snorkeling with turtles and reef sharks.

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The Fisherman's Villas

The Fisherman's Villas is another option for those wanting a luxurious stay that is surrounded by nature with views over Shark Bay. These villas boast a range of hut-styled traditional villas that cater to all. Getting here is easy, there is a free shuttle to and from the Pier. Shark bay is a popular area for snorkeling alongside turtles and reef sharks.

There is an on-site restaurant for breakfast and a spa and more restaurants are a short 300m walk from the property. Tian Og Bay and Saideng beach are only a 15-minute walk from The Fisherman's Villas. Free Private Parking is available for guests.

The Fisherman's Villas has its very own fully operational dive shop for those wanting to explore the beauty of Koh Tao from under the water.

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Jamahkiri Resort & Spa

The Jamahkiri Resort & Spa is a really great bang-for-buck luxury resort. Guests will find this one on the beachfront of Shark Bay in a quiet and secluded location away from the hustle and bustle.

The resort offers its guests a private beach, spa and fitness center, massage packages and its very own on-site Padi-certified dive center. The villas come in many options and cater to both small and large groups. Rooms boast incredible views over the surrounding clear waters and some even with their own private outdoor swimming pool. Babysitting services can be arranged for an extra cost. John Suwan Viewpoint is a short 8 minutes drive from the property.

One of the best Koh Tao accommodation options!

View on Booking.com

Best Mid-Range Hotels on Koh Tao

	Accommodation Option	Price
	Sensi Paradise Beach Resort	$$
	Blue Tao Beach Hotel	$$
	View Point Resort	$$
	Ban's Diving Resort	$
	Tanote Villa	$$

Sensi Paradise Beach Resort

If you're visiting Koh Tao for a quick island getaway, one of the best places to stay is Sensi Paradise Beach Resort. This resort is in a great location on the beachfront close to Mae Haad Pier and within walking distance to many great cafes and bars.

The bungalow-styled rooms all feature free wifi, air conditioning, a private bathroom, private balconies, and views over the garden or pool. The resort has its very own on-site restaurant with locally caught seafood on the menu. It has views over the stunning Koh Nang Yuan Island.

The outdoor swimming pool is perfect for cooling down on those hot island days and for letting the kids burn off the extra energy.

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Blue Tao Beach Hotel

Another great place to stay is the Blue Tao Beach Hotel. This hotel is located along the beachfront main road. It is close to a range of shops, restaurants, nightclubs, and spas. It has incredible sea views and the sounds of the ocean add the perfect touch.

The shallow waters on the outside beachfront of Sairee Beach offer the perfect place to cool off and relax. The hotel features a garden, air conditioning, wifi, a kettle, and a la carte breakfast.

The hotel is just a short boat trip from the incredible Koh Nang Yuan Island.

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View Point Resort

Located just a stone's throw from Chalok Baan Kao Beach View Point Resort is a great place for couples or honeymooners looking for the ultimate relaxation accommodation.

The bungalow-style rooms feature air conditioning, sea views, Wi-Fi, private bathrooms, and a private balcony. There is an outdoor swimming pool for those wanting to stay refreshed in the resort.

Be sure to check out Freedom Beach, Shark Bay, and Chalok Baan Kao Beach. These beautiful beaches are just a short walk from the property and offer the chance to swim with turtles, reef sharks, and schools of tropical fish.

This is the ultimate luxury experience at an affordable cost!

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Ban's Diving Resort

Known as one of the best dive schools on the island Ban's Diving Resort is another perfect accommodation choice for those wanting to expand their diving skills.

Ban's is where I completed my Dive Master ticket. It is located along the main road and sits on the beachfront of Sairee Beach. This is a popular place to get your scuba diving ticket by day and party at the Fish Bowl Nightclub by night.

There is a range of suites to choose from when staying at the resort and most rooms offer a mini bar, a safe, a private shower, views over the garden, and air conditioning. If you need to catch the ferry to neighboring Koh Samui, there is also a free shuttle that runs to and from the pier.

There are 3 restaurants on-site and it boasts multiple outdoor pools to relax around after a long day of diving.

The best part about Ban's Diving Resort it is powered by its very own recycling plant. The water is also used within the back gardens to grow fruits and vegetables that are served in the restaurants.

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Tanote Villa

Situated on the quiet east coast side of the island in Tanote Bay nestled amongst the trees the Tanote Villa is one that shouldn't be missed. This 3-star resort features two outdoor swimming pools with spectacular ocean views.

The villas are situated only a short 5-minute walk from the incredible Tanote Bay Beach. This popular beach brings tourists from across the island daily due to its white sand and large rock which can be used as a jumping ledge. There is an on-site restaurant with a fine selection of authentic Thai and European food.

There are a selection of rooms to choose from with some featuring large floor-to-ceiling windows with views over the ocean, a minibar, air conditioning, free Wi-Fi, and private bathrooms. Connected family rooms are also available.

Tanote Villas is known for its incredible location for sunrise!

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Best Budget Hostels on Koh Tao Island

	Accommodation Option	Price
	Summer Guesthouse and Hostel	$
	The Dearly Koh Tao Hostel	$
	Moov Inn Garden Hostel	$

Summer Guesthouse and Hostel

Summer Guesthouse and Hostel is a great option for those on a budget but still wanting to experience a comfortable private stay. I have personally stayed at Summer Guest House and had an awesome experience and we loved the furry residents.

Located 1km from Sairee Beach this guesthouse is a great base for those wanting to explore the island yet not wanting to break the bank for a night's stay. There is a supermarket located across the road and a short walk from an impressive gym. Everything you need is within a 10-minute walking distance.

There are a range of rooms to choose from such as dorms or privates with balconies. It has a very laid-back vibe and you'll be sure to meet other like-minded travelers here.

View on Booking.com

The Dearly Koh Tao Hostel

The top backpacker budget hostel on the island of Koh Tao is The Dearly Koh Tao Hostel. Known for its high level of cleanliness people compare this to a 4-star hotel. This newly designed hostel offers private rooms and dorms and there's also an outdoor swimming pool with lots of lounging areas.

Additionally, travelers will find a rooftop area for people to meet one another and multiple workspaces for those spending a few hours on the laptop. Furthermore, each common room features a flat-screen TV.

If you're up for a party, this hostel also hosts beach crawls.

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Moov Inn Garden Hostel

If budget backpacking is your thing then look no further than Moov Inn Garden Hostel. This hostel is in the perfect location Mae Haad.

Guests can enjoy clean dorm rooms at a super low price with air conditioning, secure storage boxes, an outlet, and a privacy curtain. There are lots of areas to relax and unwind, it even has a pool table. There is a restaurant on site that serves delicious meals and a rooftop bar which is a great place for sunset.

The property is a 5-minute walk to Mae Haad Beach and Pier and a 1km walk to Sairee Village.

This is every budget traveler's dream!

View on Booking.com

More Travel Guides to Koh Tao Island

I hope that this Koh Tao accommodation guide has helped you find an awesome place to stay during your visit to this incredible gem!

• 31 Awesome Things to Do on Koh Tao Island, Thailand in 2023
• 8 Best Beaches on Koh Tao, Thailand
• Best Secret Sunset Viewpoint on Koh Tao, Thailand
• Fighting Muay Thai In Thailand as a Foreigner
• How to Get to the Abandoned Resort on Koh Tao

The post Where to Stay on Koh Tao – 2023 Accommodation Guide appeared first on We Seek Travel.

Looking to explore one of Australia’s best-kept secrets?

Whether you’re a Mission Beach local or you’re travelling the East Coast of Australia, Dunk Island is a spot you definitely do not want to miss. In this quick guide, I’ll go over some of the best things to do on Dunk Island and include a few tips and hints to help you make the best of your trip!

How to Book a Ferry to Dunk Island

Being an offshore island, Dunk Island can only be accessed by boat or ferry. While there used to be a water taxi service running from Mission Beach, this was shut down in 2020.

Update: thankfully as of 2022, there is now a new fast-cat ferry, offering return transfers to Dunk Island from Clump Point Boat Ramp near Mission Beach.

Alternatively, travelers in Mission Beach can visit Dunk Island via the popular MV Reef Goddess tour, which combines a full day of exploring the Outer Reef with a visit to Dunk Island.

Book a Return Ferry Online

About Dunk Island

Dunk Island features everything you could want from a Tropical North Queensland island. Here, you'll find a mix of sandy beaches and rocky shores, fringing reefs for snorkelling, and a lush rainforest interior with plenty of scenic walking tracks.

Located just off the coast of Mission Beach, and part of the Family Islands Group, this island is the perfect location to visit if you're chasing an epic day trip close to the mainland. The island is part of the Family Islands National Park, so you can also expect to find many bird species here, as well as marine mammals cruising by the coral reefs.

When is the Best Time to Visit Dunk Island

Like many of the Islands on the inside of the Great Barrier Reef, the best time to visit is between June to August. Exploring Dunk Island at this time of year means no stingers, and warm, predictable weather.

Typically, during these drier Winter months, temperatures hover between 25-28 degrees celsius, with water temperatures averaging around 23 degrees.

Camping on Dunk Island

Looking to explore Dunk Island for more than just a day? You're in luck. Since it is quite a popular place to visit from Mission Beach, the council has set up camp sites, with hot showers, water, picnic tables and even BBQs.

If you're looking to do a bit of camping at Dunk Island, you will need to reserve and pay for a camping permit, which is currently managed by the Cassowary Coast Regional Council.

The Dunk Island Resort - Updates

Similarly to South Molle Island, Brampton Island and pretty much most of the once-booming tropical Queensland Islands, Dunk too has an abandoned resort in the main bay. This was mostly destroyed during the devastating Cyclone Yasi that hit the shores of Mission Beach in 2011.

For obvious reasons, the abandoned resort is off-limits, with only the main central building remaining open for special events and weddings.

Update: The island has been purchased by Atlassian billionaire Mike Cannon Brooks in July 2022 with initial plans to repair and reopen the resort.

Not Sure Which Cairns Island to Visit?

Read my comprehensive guide breaking down the top 8 Islands off Cairns to help you decide!

Compared: Fitzroy VS GREEN Island

Best Ways to Explore Dunk Island: Things to do & See

Planning your adventures with a Dunk Island itinerary? Below I've listed some of the best things that we got up to in tropical paradise.

1. Explore the Dunk Island Interior

The further you move up the Australian East Coast, the more tropical the rainforest flora becomes. Even compared to islands just south of Hinchinbrook like Orpheus and the Palm Islands, Dunk is much denser and more rainforest-like.

There are two trails leading from the main pier. They begin by walking through well-maintained camping areas and continue past the old airstrip. Further along, you'll walk along the long stretch of white beach past the abandoned resort, and finally into dense rainforest trails.

It's fairly easy to follow the bush tracks. However, I've also linked the official National Park walking map for your convenience.

2. The Island Circuit Track

Once you've passed the beach and are on the track, you'll have a few options. I recommend following the signs and taking the Island circuit track. This is an 11-kilometre walk that takes you to the top of Mount Kootaloo, down Palm Valley, across to Coconut Beach, and ends at the sand spit.

Taking the Island Circuit track takes approximately three hours, but offers an opportunity to see the best parts of Dunk Island's lush green rainforest.

3. Hike Mount Kootaloo (Kataloo)

If you just want incredible views of the southern end of Dunk Island, then walking to the highest viewpoint at Mount Kootaloo (sometimes also spelled Mount Kataloo) is the best way to get them.

The trail continues on from the end of the beach at Brammo Bay and climbs gently for two kilometers to an old World War Two Radar Station. This isn't exactly a strenuous walk, but you'll climb to the very upper slopes of the island.

At the summit, you'll be rewarded with spectacular views of the Family Islands group to the north.

4. The Muggy Muggy Beach Track

If you're looking to snorkel or just relax on a more secluded beach, then instead turn left at the first junction and follow the pleasant walk to Muggy Muggy Beach.

The beach is just around the corner, and should only take around 20 minutes to reach from the pier. This is a picturesque sandy cove lined with large boulders and coconut palm trees.

5. Snorkel at Muggy Muggy Beach

As mentioned, Muggy Muggy Beach is located just around the corner from the main resort beach on Brammo Bay.

The beach itself is a much quieter and more secluded beach for swimming and snorkeling. There are also several hanging palms on the beach, making it feel a bit more like an isolated tropical paradise.

You can snorkel all around the bay, sticking to the fringing reef to get a taste of the unique Great Barrier Reef marine life.

6. Explore Mound Island (Purtaboi)

When you first arrive at Dunk Island, you might notice the small, rocky island known as Mound Island, nested just outside of Brammo Bay. The indigenous name for this island is Purtaboi.

It's possible to kayak or boat over to the island. However, keep in mind that it is an important bird nesting site. Stepping onto the island between 1 October and 31 March is prohibited to protect the nesting.

7. Jump off the Pier

The main pier at Brammo Bay looks like it's made for jumping! If there aren't too many people fishing, then it's possible to launch some backflips even at low tide!

8. Swim at the Sand Spit

The sand spit on Dunk Island has to be one of the most picturesque sand bars in Australia, maybe besides Hill Inlet.

The sand spit is probably one of the best places to swim on the island since there are no rocks and the water is extremely clear! You'll even likely spot some sea turtles cruising by if you pay attention.

It's also a great spot to snap some photos and get a unique vantage point of Dunk Island.

9. Catch the Tropical Island Sunsets

We all know that there's no better sunset than an island sunset. Catch the sunset at the beach at Brammo Bay or watch the colors light up over the Family Island group at the top of Kootaloo.

10. Go Bird-Spotting

Did you know that over 100 species of birds have been recorded on Dunk Island? This makes it a perfect place for birding!

Walking along the branching tracks, you'll find plenty of sunbirds, emerald doves, and if you look up, maybe even a majestic osprey flying above. Of course, you'll also want to keep an eye out for the brilliant Blue Ulysses Butterly!

11. Check Out the Dunk Island Airstrip

As you'll notice in the photos, Dunk Island has its very own airport, a tiny airstrip that once flew tourists in from nearby Cairns to stay at the Dunk Island Resort.

However, these days, at least until the reconstruction of the resort is finalized, the strip is mostly used by the Royal Australian Air Force.

Sailing to Dunk Island

Dunk Island is traditionally a Cruiser's island. Therefore, for those enjoying Australian coastal sailing, there's usually great, seaworthy company.

Anchorage and Berthing Information

The main anchorage area on Dunk Island is in Brammo Bay. It's important to read your maps when entering, as the fringing reef spreads deep into the bay. While we anchored here, we watched a large 60-foot sailing vessel run aground close to the sand spit, luckily, they didn't venture too far into the reef.

There are also three guest mooring buoys that are operated by Queensland Parks. These hold monohulls up to 20 meters and catamarans up to 18 meters and are rated to 34-knot winds.

The anchorage at Brammo Bay offers good protection against established South East trade winds, but will be very exposed to Northerlies.

50+ More Cairns Bucketlist Items

• Visit the Cairns Islands
• Kuranda Railway & Skyrail
• Rusty's Markets
• Day trip to Cape Tribulation
• ... +51 more things to do in Cairns!

Read the Full List

Where to Stay Near Mission Beach

Planning a trip to Mission Beach? Here are the top-rated accommodation options and places to stay whether you're a backpacker, luxury traveler, or couple on a weekend getaway chasing something close to the beach with easy access to Dunk Island!

• Eco Village Mission Beach - an amazing resort set in tropical rainforest right on the edge of the Coral Sea.
• Boutique Bungalows - great bungalow accommodation close to the town of Mission Beach.
• Jackaroo Treehouse Rainforest Retreat - the best backpacker hostel in Mission Beach if you want to meet like-minded travelers.

More on Booking.com

More on HostelWorld

Related: don't miss my updated Cairns accommodation guide and tips for hotels & hostels in Port Douglas.

More Queensland Travel Guides & Adventure Inspiration

I hope you've found this updated guide to visiting Dunk Island in Queensland useful!

While you're still here, make sure to check out some of my other travel guides and blog posts to Far North Queensland!

• 12 Unmissable Things to do on Magnetic Island - 2023 Guide
• 23 Best Things to do in Cairns Australia - UPDATED 2020
• Best Sunset Point on Hamilton Island - One Tree Hill
• Complete Guide to The Low Isles, Port Douglas, Australia
• Exploring Orpheus Island - Snorkeling and Hiking
• Exploring South Molle Island, Whitsundays Australia
• Fitzroy Island Guide 2023 - 12 Things to Do & See
• Green Island, Cairns – Complete Guide with 7 Things to Do & See
• Michaelmas Cay - Exploring the Best of the Outer Great Barrier Reef
• Photos of Whitehaven Beach That Prove It's One of the Most Picturesque Places on Earth
• Whitsunday Peak Hike in the Whitsunday Islands, Queensland

The post Exploring Dunk Island: Best Things To See And Do in 2023 appeared first on We Seek Travel.

Did you know that some of the most popular attractions in Malta are found on the tiny island of Comino?

Located between the island of Gozo and the main island of Malta, Comino Island is a Mediterranean Sea paradise featuring some of the most spectacular natural attractions in this amazing island nation.

Discover crystal-clear waters, magnificent sea caves, and countless fun activities and unmissable things to do on Comino in this useful travel guide. Here, I’ll reveal to you the top Comino Island highlights like swimming in Malta’s Blue Lagoon, exploring the magnificent Santa Marija Bay, and marveling at the towering limestone cliffs at Crystal Lagoon.

Furthermore, I’ll also break down the best ways to get to Comino Island from Malta or Gozo, what to expect once you arrive, and include useful tips like the best time to visit, where to stay, and a brief history of the island.

About The Maltese Island of Comino

Comino, also Kemmuna in Maltese, is a tiny island situated between the main island of Malta and its sister island, Gozo.

At only 3.5 square kilometers (1.35 square miles) in size, Comino is also the smallest of the three main islands of Malta. This island is generally considered the most beautiful place in Malta and has an official nature reserve status. This is the island where you will find some of Malta’s most beautiful coastal attractions like the famous Blue Lagoon.

The official population of Comino is just 2 people, with no asphalted roads or public transport (besides shuttle boats) on the island. However, there are basic amenities including a public toilet, police station, church, and even the Comino Hotel (the only accommodation on the island).

Comino is a generally rocky landscape and is sprawling with colorful flowers and wild herbs, including natural cumin, which the island is named after.

How to Get to Comino from Gozo or Malta

Since Comino Island is one of Malta’s most famous tourist attractions, you’ll find a wide range of popular ways to get here from the main island of Malta.

These include:

• Day Trip: Shared Boat Tours from Malta
• Private Boat Trip (from Gozo or Comino)
• Public Transport & Ferry from Ċirkewwa (northern port in Malta)

Below I’ll break down each option before getting into all the top attractions and fun things to do on Comino Island when you arrive.

#1 Rated Comino Boat Tour

Looking for the quick answer? Click the button to be taken directly to the booking page for the most inclusive and cost-effective Comino group boat trip you can find online.

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Travel Tip: Since the majority of travelers stay on the main island of Malta, I’ve only included directions for getting to Comino from here. However, travelers looking for a way to get to Comino from Gozo Island can also book this Gozo to Comino boat trip with Outdoor Explorers.

1. Comino Island BOAT TOUR (OR CATAMARAN) FROM MALTA

Firstly, the easiest way to get to Comino is to book a Comino group boat tour. You can book this day trip online and it includes 4.5 hours to spend at the Blue Lagoon as well as all of the Comino highlights including:

• Crystal Lagoon
• Santa Maria Cave
• Elephants Head
• Santa Maria Bay
• St. Nicholas Bay
• Ahrax Cave

This Comino Blue Lagoon & Caves Boat Cruise linked above currently offers the most bang-for-buck, but the boat is large and accommodates a bigger crowd. Alternatively, travelers preferring a small-group tour have the option of booking a catamaran cruise or private tour instead. 

Book A Blue Lagoon Boat Tour

2. Malta Private Boat Tour of Comino Island

Small groups or those who don’t want to share a boat with other tourists also have the option to book a private tour on small speed boats.

In my opinion, this is the best way to experience Comino Island as you’ll likely visit more secluded spots and see a bit more than what the larger group tours can accommodate. I highly recommend the trip I went on with Outdoor Explorers, a local business run by two brothers.

On this trip, we visited all of the epic sea caves, and our skipper Joseph even drove inside some of the smaller ones, which was awesome!

Book a Private Boat tour to Comino

3. Budget Option: Boat Trip Transfer to Comino

If you’re not in a rush, the cheapest way to get to Comino is by taking the boat transfer from Ċirkewwa Port on Malta Island, and Mġarr Port on Gozo.

This isn’t a boat tour but simply a small boat ferry transfer that is slightly cheaper than the full island tour. It departs every 30 minutes from 8:30 AM to 4:00 PM. Booking in advance isn’t usually necessary.

This is a good option if you’re only planning to visit the Blue Lagoon and would like to explore the island on foot. However, several attractions on Comino like the sea caves, unique rock formations, and the secluded arches on the southern side aren’t accessible from the land.

16 Top Attractions & Things to do on Comino Island

Now that you’re equipped with all the information you need to visit, let’s dive into this comprehensive list of things to do on Comino, the heart of the Maltese Islands!

1. The Comino Blue Lagoon

Of course, the island’s main attraction is the famous Comino Blue Lagoon. This shallow, protected cove lies on the western side, sheltered between Comino and neighboring islet Cominotto. In fact, its Maltese name, Bejn il-Kmiemen, literally translates to Between the Cominos.

The clear waters of the Blue Lagoon are somewhat of a posterchild for Malta, appearing in tourism adverts and as a mandatory addition to any visitor’s Instagram grid. The turquoise water and sandy bottom at the Blue Lagoon make it the perfect place for swimming and snorkeling with many fish and healthy marine life.

All Comino Island boat trips visit the Blue Lagoon, with a small boat ramp being the main disembarkation point onto Comino Island from Malta or Gozo.

Travel Tip: Be warned, the Blue Lagoon can get seriously busy during the peak season (summer months). However, in order to get this amazing spot practically all to yourself is to visit early in the morning or late in the afternoon. The private boat trip linked above can be arranged for an early pickup. Alternatively, these guys also offer a sunset Blue Lagoon trip which would also guarantee fewer crowds.

2. Cominotto Island

Cominotto Island is a tiny islet sitting directly opposite Comino and the Blue Lagoon. When visiting Comino and the Blue Lagoon, make sure to take a swim across the crystal clear waters to this tiny islet for a more secluded beach and an epic beach cave!

Cominotto means small Comino, and its beach Cominotto Beach was featured in the epic Troy movie.

If you’re interested in water sports, you can also rent a kayak or SUP from the Blue Lagoon area and paddle over yourself!

3. Crystal Lagoon

While everybody knows about the famous Blue Lagoon, few are aware that just around the bend is another amazing clear water lagoon that I believe is equally, if not more beautiful than the Blue Lagoon!

The Crystal Lagoon is a wide, sheltered bay filled with clear turquoise water and a white, sandy bottom. The cove is located just south of the Blue Lagoon, either by taking the short 700-meter (765 yards) walking track (a roughly 5 minute walk) or via boat for those on a Comino Island tour.

Visiting the Crystal Lagoon is one of my favorite things to do on Comino. There are several small sea caves in this bay, as well as a steep, towering limestone cliff line that contrasts beautifully with the blue water below.

4. Tunnel Cave

Comino’s limestone coastline is dotted with deep and intricate sea caves that are ripe for exploring! Many of these are only accessible from the water, meaning you’ll need either a small boat or kayak to enter them.

One of my favorite of these sea caves on Comino is the Tunnel Cave, a long natural tunnel connecting the southern end of the Blue Lagoon to the Crystal Lagoon. This one is a little too narrow to fit a boat through. However, if you are confident, it’s possible to swim through it in calm weather.

5. Popeye’s Cave

Directly across the lagoon from the Tunnel Cave is yet another spectacular cave on Comino Island. Locals call this one Popeye’s Cave, as it appeared in the 1980 Popeye film starring Robbin Williams.

Popeye’s Cave features a huge cavern accessible on the south-facing coast just east of Crystal Lagoon. The roof of this cave has collapsed, revealing a large natural skylight radiating down on the huge limestone boulders below.

Google Maps Pin: L-Għar ta’ Bla Saqaf/It-Tieqa/Taħt il-Ħnejja

6. Scuba Diving – the P31 Wreck on Comino Island

Divers regard Malta as the best scuba diving location in Europe. As a result, you can expect that one of the best things to do on Comino Island is to go diving in its several cave systems and nearby shipwrecks.

My favorite dive on Comino Island is the P31 wreck, also known as Patrol Boat P31 (Pasewalk), lying on a sandy bottom just a few hundred meters from the southern side of the Blue Lagoon.

This is a beginner-friendly wreck dive as the wreck is almost perfectly upright, with the lowest section sitting at a depth of just 18-20 meters.

Diver’s Tip: If you’re considering scuba diving on Comino Island from Malta, I highly recommend visiting OrangeShark Diving Centre. These guys run one of the most impressive and professional dive shops I’ve ever visited!

7. Window Cave

Another interesting attraction on Comino Island Malta is the Window Cave. As its name suggests, this tiny cave is not much more than a large open hole serving as a window into the clear water beyond.

This is certainly a worthwhile photo stop if you have a SUP, kayak, or are visiting on a private boat tour on Comino.

8. Lover’s Cave

Lover’s Cave is a little-known hidden gem and a beautiful place that certainly deserves a visit! You’ll find it just a little further southeast of Popeye’s Cave as you make your way around Comino Island in an anti-clockwise direction.

Once again only accessible from the water, Lover’s Cave appears as nothing more than a small cave opening on Comino Island’s rugged coastline. But, once you make your way down the dark, 65-meter long tunnel, you’ll see that it opens up to a large cavern with a sandy beach inside!

This really is a beautiful place– and the most private sandy beach you’ll find on Comino!

9. Saint Mary’s Tower

The most prominent structure on Comino Malta is the Saint Mary’s Tower, also known as Santa Marija Tower, or simply Comino Tower (Torri ta’ Kemmuna in Maltese). This large, bastioned watchtower was built during the times of the Maltese Knights in 1618, and served as the fifth of six Wignacourt Towers.

Malta has a long history of invasion dating back past the Middle Ages. Many foreign forces made their way to the Maltese Islands, including pirates, Ottoman Turks, Romans, Arabs, Carthaginians, and Phoenicians.

As a result, the Knights established these watchtowers as a warning strategy against these invading forces. If guards spotted an opposing fleet, they lit fires at the top of the tower, which would warn the others to do the same.

Today, you can spot Saint Mary’s Tower from the sea, or hike out to it from the Blue Lagoon. You’ll find it on a high cliff point near the southwest corner of Comino Island, nearby an abandoned isolation hospital.

10. San Niklaw Bay

Moving to the north end of Comino and we’ll arrive at the beautiful turquoise waters of San Niklaw Bay. This is one of the best places on Comino for swimming and snorkeling due to its clear waters and rocky shores, providing easy access to the ocean.

Visiting Comino in the high season and the the Blue Lagoon seems too busy for you? I recommend taking the short walk along the dirt trail to San Niklaw Bay, where you’ll find a much more relaxed atmosphere.

11. Santa Marija Bay

Santa Marija Bay (also written Santa Maria Bay), is a small pebble beach in a sheltered cove on the northern end of Comino, just past San Niklaw Bay.

This is one of the most popular beaches on Comino Island and is where you will find the Comino Island Hotel. Along the shore, there are sun chairs available for rent and protective umbrellas to rest under. Further along the bay travelers will also find a small boat ramp, which is a good location to take a kayak from.

Additionally, you’ll even find a small church at Santa Marija Bay called the Chapel of Our Lady’s Return from Egypt.

12. Santa Marija Caves

For me, the amazing natural attractions on Comino are what make this place so special. By far, one of the most awe-inspiring and beautiful places on the island are the Santa Marija Caves.

Picture the most vibrant and clear turquoise water you’ve ever seen, leading into a broad cavern. The summer sun reflects off the white bottom, painting the cave roof with glimmering light.

Due to its popularity, all Comino Island tours stop by the Santa Marija Caves and most would consider it up there with the two most unmissable things to do on Comino Island, after the Blue Lagoon.

Travel Tip: For adventure travlelers exploring Comino Island by land, it’s possible to walk through to one of the Santa Marija Caves. From Santa Marija Bay, follow the rocky flats to the east until you come to a small cavern entrance. Here, you can climb down and enter the cave to pop out on the other side.

13. Ġebel Comino – Comino’s Highest Point

Feel like getting adventurous? Why not hike to Ġebel Comino, the highest point on the island? Okay, at less than 70 meters, hiking to this viewpoint is no big feat. However, the vantage point is still well worth the effort, with expansive views across the island, Malta, and even Gozo.

To get to this viewpoint on Comino, simply walk past the closed down pig farm (Comino Pig Farm) on the eastern side. You’ll see a worn trail leading to the top of the hill. There’s also a stack of stones at the top, marking the highest point.

Did you know? Comino is regarded as a bird sanctuary, where many seasonal species including Wryneck, Skylark, Grey Herons, Egrets, and Blue Rock Thrush visit and nest on the island.

14. Elephant Head Rock (Elephant Arch)

Elephant Head Rock, or Elephant Arch is one of the most unique natural attractions on Comino. This huge limestone arch is located on the eastern cliffside and only visible from a boat or kayak.

As you can probably make out from the photo below, this natural rock formation looks exactly like an elephant’s head, including its trunk. This spot isn’t great for swimming but does make for a great photo opportunity.

15. Il-Batterija ta’ Santa Marija & the Natural Arch

Moving around the island to the far southern side, we’ll find the Il-Batterija ta’ Santa Marija, or Saint Mary’s battery or the Comino Battery.

This coastal cannon battery was built by the Order of Saint John as far back as 1715 and served as a primary defense battery for the island of Comino. The gun platform, parapet, and blockhouse sit high on the cliffline and are visible but largely unacessessible from the sea.

Just beneath this battery is another natural arch. For those making their way around the island on a tour or a boat, stopping by and perhaps swimming in the clear waters beneath this little arch is in my opinion one of the most underrated things to do on Comino!

16. Hike Around Comino Island

Want to explore more than just Comino’s beaches, lagoons, and sea caves? Strap up your hiking shoes and head inland to discover a neat network of unsealed roads and worn tracks leading to many hidden gems. If you’re feeling up to it, you could even rent a mountain bike from Gozo or Malta and bring it over!

Being a small island, it takes roughly 2-3 hours to walk around the circumference, stopping at highlights and viewpoints like the Crystal Lagoon cliffs, Santa Marija Bay, the Comino Battery, or even the far-reaching headland at Lantern Point (Il- Ponta tal- Irqieqa).

Accommodation Guide: Where to Stay in Malta

While visitors will find hotels and resorts scattered all over Malta’s islands, the most popular neighborhoods to base yourself in Malta include Valletta, Sliema & St Julian’s, Mellieħa Bay, and Gozo Island.

Travelers also have a broad variety of accommodation types, from 5-star resorts to traditional terraced boutique hotels. To save you time searching, below are the four best accommodation picks for Malta, based on location, reviews, and my personal experience.

• St Julian’s & Sliema Area: The Hilton
  This is Malta’s premiere resort, located at the heart of the picturesque Portomaso Marina. This is a great pick if you’re trying to balance great location with utmost luxury.
• Valletta: Iniala Harbour House
  Perched atop Valletta’s stunning St Barbara Bastion, this incredible boutique experience is well-regarded as one of the best accommodation options in Malta. The experience offers stunning views of the Grand Harbour and the Three Cities from traditional Maltese balconies.
• Mellieħa – db Seabank Resort
  The db Seabank is well-regarded as the best resort in the calmer Mellieħa area. Situated just feet from the white sandy shores of Malta’s longest beach, this complete all-inclusive hotel offers features five restaurants, a fitness center, a spa, multiple pools, and even a bowling alley!
• Gozo – Quaint Boutique Hotel (Nadur)
  Accommodation on Malta’s quieter sister island should reflect its more peaceful and traditional ambiance. This beautifully renovated boutique hotel is situated directly beside the Nadur Parish Church, with spacious balcony terraces looking over the town square.

View more on Booking.com

Travel tip: Accommodation in Malta sells out quickly, especially for the summer vacation period. This is a location where you do not want to book at the last minute!

Comino Malta Travel Faqs

More Malta Travel Guides & Adventure Inspiration

And, that’s a wrap for this comprehensive travel guide unveiling all the fun things to do on Comino Island, Malta.

While you’re here on my blog, make sure to check out some of my other Malta travel guides!

• 26 Awesome Things to do in Valletta, Malta
• 35 Best Beaches in Malta, Gozo & Comino – Ultimate Guide With Map
• 40 Amazing Things to do on Gozo Island, Malta
• 70 Awesome Things to do in Malta – 2023 Travel Guide
• 8 Things to do in Marsaxlokk Malta (Colorful Fishing Village)
• Blue Grotto Malta – Complete 2023 Travel Guide
• Blue Lagoon Malta (Comino Island) – How to Get Here & What to Do
• Coral Lagoon Malta – An Incredible Natural Sea Cave
• Crystal Lagoon Malta (Comino) – 2023 Travel Guide
• Popeye Village Viewpoint in Anchor Bay, Malta – Complete Guide

The post 16 Things to do on Comino Island Malta – Top Sites & Attractions appeared first on We Seek Travel.

The word Gozo means joy, and whether you’re chasing world-class diving, remote coastal hiking trails, secluded bays, and vibrant sandy beaches, or you want to dive into Gozo’s rich and welcoming culture, joy is exactly what you will discover here!

After exploring every inch of this amazing Mediterranean island, I’ve created this travel guide summing up the top 40 amazing things to do in Gozo, Malta.

I’ve included highlights and unmissable Gozo sightseeing attractions like the striking Ramla Bay beach, the iconic Blue Hole, and the extraordinary megalithic temples of Ġgantija, as well as some hidden gems and off-the-beaten-path places to visit.

Quick Things to Know About Traveling to Gozo Island

The island of Gozo is Malta's northernmost island, a more relaxed, tranquil, and raw travel destination that should certainly not be missed.

While still quite a small island at only 67 km² (26 sq mi), it is the second largest island in Malta after the main island (Malta Island). Gozo is separated from this main island by the Gozo Channel, a distance of less than 5 kilometers via ferry or fast boat, passing the tiny island of Comino on the way.

This makes visiting Gozo very easy, either on a day trip or by staying a few days on the island. So, before we dive into this list of things to do on Gozo, here are some useful things to know.

How to Get to Gozo from Malta

There are three main options for getting to Gozo Island from Malta. These are the public car ferry, a fast ferry, and visiting on a day trip (speedboat).

Option 1: Gozo Day Trip from Malta

While I recommend spending at least two days on Gozo to really take in the culture and see the best sites, it is possible to visit Gozo on a day trip.

There are two full day trip options that really stand out in terms of inclusions, reviews, and value for money. These are the Self-Drive ATV Tour & Powerboat Ride and the Gozo Full-Day Jeep Tour & Powerboat Ride.

These are similar experiences, and in the end, it just comes down to whether you prefer exploring on an ATV or in a Jeep. Both of these day trips include Hotel pickup/drop-off in Malta and visits to some top Gozo attractions and popular places such as:

• Famous beaches like Ramla Bay
• Victoria & the Citadel
• Calypso Cave
• Marsalforn Village
• Bonus: Speedboat trip to the Blue Lagoon & Comino Caves

Gozo ATV Day Tour

Gozo Jeep Day Tour

Option 2: Public Car Ferry to Gozo

Next, travelers have the option of taking the public car ferry to Gozo from the small port of Ċirkewwa on the northwest corner of Malta island. This short ferry ride takes approximately 15 minutes and ends at the main port in Gozo (Mġarr Harbour).

Additionally, passengers taking the Gozo Ferry can simply turn up at the port, with trips departing roughly every thirty minutes. You'll pay for your return boat trip ticket on the way back to Malta (roughly €20 for a car and 2-passenger return trip).

Car Rentals in Malta

The best way to experience both Malta and Gozo islands is to rent your own car! I recommend booking well in advance using price comparison sites like DiscoverCars if traveling in the busy summer season.

Compare On DiscoverCars

Option 3: Fast Ferry to Gozo

Next up is the fast-ferry option from Valletta to Gozo, taking approximately 45 minutes. This costs around €15 per person for the return journey.

The fast ferry terminal is located at the Lascaris Wharf Terminal in the Valletta Grand Harbour. Similarly to the car ferry above, the trip ends at the Mġarr Port on Gozo.

Remember that this fast ferry cannot accommodate vehicles. Therefore this is only a good option for visitors staying in Valletta and looking to explore Gozo on foot or via the limited public transport bus system once they arrive.

Where to Stay on Gozo

Due to its small size and well-connected network of buses and roads, choosing the ideal location to stay in Gozo is less crucial than on the main island of Malta.

However, if you ask, locals will always tell you that to get the complete Gozitan experience, what's more important is picking a traditional boutique hotel over a luxury resort or modern hotel. You'll find many boutique hotels in Gozo dotted all over the island, from Nadur to Xlendi. Below are the 3 top picks.

• Quaint Boutique Hotel - Nadur
  Accommodation on Malta’s quieter sister island should reflect its more peaceful and traditional ambiance. This beautifully renovated boutique hotel is situated directly beside the Nadur Parish Church, with spacious balcony terraces looking over the town square.
• Viewpoint Boutique Living - Xlendi
  This family-run boutique hotel dates back 300 years and is situated on a beautiful cliff overlooking the Xlendi Valley and the Mediterranean Sea. The location is ideal for couples looking to get away, with convenient access to the beach and just a short 2 km drive to the Citadella.
• Kempinski Hotel - San Lawrenz
  For travelers preferring modern, 5-star luxury, the Kempinski Hotel is your best bet. This amazing hotel is located in San Lawrenz, on a 30,000m² tropical oasis. An excellent choice for larger groups and families as there are self-catering apartment options as well!
  

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40 Best Things to do on Gozo Island, Malta

So, with that short logistics run-down complete, let's finally dive into this comprehensive travel guide featuring all the best things to do on Gozo Island, Malta!

1. Visit Comino & the Blue Lagoon

Comino is the smallest of the main Maltese Islands and lies less than a kilometer from Gozo! As a result, visiting the tiny island of Comino and the Blue Lagoon (Malta's main attraction) is very easy from this island.

The island of Comino is very laidback and boasts some of the clearest water in the Mediterranean. A day on Comino is best spent swimming, snorkeling, and exploring its many sea caves and quiet coves.

It's possible to take a ferry from Mġarr Harbour, but this will only visit the Blue Lagoon, which is beautiful but very busy during the summer months. To make the most of your visit to Comino, I highly recommend booking an island tour with Outdoor Explorers, who will take you to many other attractions on Comino like the Crystal Lagoon and the Santa Maria Caves.

Book A Comino Boat Trip from Gozo

2. Visit Rabat (Victoria) & the Citadel

Interested in historic and cultural attractions in Gozo? You can't miss a visit to Rabat (Victoria) and its famous Cittadella.

Rabat is the capital of Gozo and you can easily spend a day exploring its sandstone-colored streets and popular attractions like the Grand Basilica of St. George, Republic Street, the old prison and Independence Square.

However, the main highlight in Rabat is the Citadella (also called Castelo). This medieval citadel sits high on a hill in the center of Gozo Island, overlooking the entire island and the Mediterranean sea beyond.

In a rush? This is a long and comprehensive list covering all the major attractions and worthwhile sites to visit in Gozo. If you're in a rush, I've included a quick list of the 5 unmissable top things to do at the bottom of this post.

3. Ramla Beach, Gozo (Red Sand Beach)

Ramla Bay is located in the northeast region of Gozo Island and is well-regarded as being one of the most beautiful beaches in the country.

This particular beach is famous for its red sand, which is unique on Gozo. The water here is also quite shallow, making it a perfect beach for swimming and relaxing.

4. Tal-Mixta Cave

Perhaps the most iconic thing to do in Gozo is to visit the Tal-Mixta cave at Ramla Beach.

This is a cliffside cave with a large overhanging rock opening overlooking the stunning blue waters of Ramla Bay. Travelers can access this cave via a short walk from the nearby parking space. Or, take the short hiking trail from the beach.

I highly recommend visiting Mixta Cave during sunset for amazing views!

5. Kayaking from Ħondoq ir-Rummien Beach

Another fantastic beach on Gozo Island is Ħondoq ir-Rummien Beach (commonly known as Hondoq bay), a tiny sandy cove on Gozo's southeast corner. Ħondoq ir-Rummien Beach is another sandy beach with lifeguards but is much smaller than Ramla Beach.

This is also a popular spot for watersports, including sea kayaking, parasailing, jet skiing, and stand-up paddleboarding.

Additionally, due to its proximity to Comino Island, it's possible to kayak to the Blue Lagoon from Ħondoq beach. However, local rules state that tourists must be accompanied by a licensed guide to cross the channel. You can either book this with Gozo Adventures or with Kayak Gozo via GetYourGuide.

Book ON GetYourGuide

6. The Gozo Blue Hole

The Dwejra Bay region in western Gozo has several unique rock formations both above and below the water.

Gozo's Blue Hole is a natural cylindrical tube plunging to around 15 meters in depth, within walking distance of the rocky shores.

This is a great place for swimming and snorkeling in beautiful clear waters. But, for licensed scuba divers, one of the most exhilarating things to do in Gozo is to dive in the Blue Hole. In fact, this is one of Malta's most famous dive sites and a must for any diver!

Tip: Visiting the other Maltese Islands? Make sure to read my comprehensive guide to the top 70 Things to do in Malta!

7. See the Remains of the Azure Window

The Azure Window was once the most iconic natural attraction in Gozo. Unfortunately, this amazing natural arch was lost to the sea in 2017 when it collapsed following a winter storm.

This alluring rocky arch once stood proud right beside the Blue Hole, attracting visitors from all over the world. It even made an appearance in the Game of Thrones series!

Today, there's little left of the Azure Window in Gozo, at least above the water. However, if you decide to dive the Blue Hole, ask your dive leader if you can see the remains of the Azure Window, which is just a short swim from the hole.

#1 Rated Bus Sightseeing Tour on Gozo

Want to experience all the best places to visit on Gozo in a single day? Purchase a 1-day hop-on hop-off bus ticket, which includes 15 stops at the major attractions and higlights.

Get Your Ticket Online

8. The Inland Sea

The Inland Sea is yet another legendary attraction in Dwejra Bay and attracts beachgoers and divers alike.

This pebbly beach is separated from the Mediterranean sea by a tall cliff just beside the Blue Hole, with just a natural narrow tunnel allowing water to flow in.

Truthfully, this is more of a natural saltwater lagoon than a sea, but the name sticks!

9. Fungus Rock at Dwejra Bay

Okay, the Fungus Rock isn't the main reason why people make it out to Western Gozo. However, it'd be a shame to miss this impressive geological feature when visiting Dwejra Bay.

Fungus Rock is a large, rocky outcrop sitting at the opening to the perfectly circular bay, just beside the Blue Hole and the Inland Sea. The rock itself makes for a great photography subject, especially during sunset and sunrise!

10. Scuba Diving on Gozo

Malta is widely considered to be the best scuba diving destination in Europe. But, did you know that the best dive sites are almost all on Gozo island?

There is a wide range of dive sites from intricate sea caves to historic wrecks. Some of the best include:

• Blue Hole & Azure Window
• Cathedral Cave
• Inland Sea (and Tunnel)
• Billinghurst Cave
• MV Karwela
• MV Xlendi
• Mġarr ix-Xini

The best season for diving is during the summer months of June to late September. During this period, the seas are much calmer, the water is warmer, and the visibility can reach up to 40 meters!

11. Stay in a Maltese Boutique Hotel

Gozo is far removed from the vibrant resort strips you'll find on the main island of Malta. Instead, Gozo is known for its beautiful and traditional boutique hotels and terraced lodgings.

During my time on Gozo, I stayed at the amazing Quaint Boutique Hotel in Nadur. Out of all of the amazing places I've stayed in Malta, this is my personal favorite. If you do stay in this hotel, make sure to grab a bite at the Fat Rabbit restaurant downstairs!

Otherwise, click the button below to compare reviews and prices for the best boutique hotels in Gozo!

12. Ta' Ċenċ Cliffs Sunset Point

Island vacations are all about amazing sunsets! After a long day of exploring and sightseeing, one of the most relaxing things to do on Gozo Island is to head down to one of the many amazing sunset viewpoints on the island.

One of my absolute favorites is the Ta' Ċenċ Cliffs viewpoint, located near the very south of Gozo. This viewpoint overlooks the dramatic Ta' Ċenċ cliffs plunging vertically into the deep sea below.

The best way to get here is to rent a car or ATV and drive to the carpark located near the Google Maps pin: "Ta cenc Cliffs sunset point". From here, it's a quick and easy walk out to the viewpoint.

13. Ġgantija Temples

Most people know about Malta's prehistoric wonders, especially the temple complex of Ħaġar Qim and Mnajdra on the main island.

However, the oldest of these are in fact found on Gozo Island. The Ġgantija Temples are a UNESCO World Heritage Site where you can discover huge limestone boulders and intricate rock carvings dating back as far as 3600 BCE– that's over 1000 years older than the Egyptian pyramids!

For fans of ancient history, this is easily one of the most interesting places to visit on Gozo!

14. Mġarr ix-Xini Beach

So far in this Gozo Island travel guide, I've only mentioned a couple of beautiful beaches, and these are just the most popular. The truth is that this magnificent island boasts dozens of world-class beaches, each with stunningly clear water and attracting a fraction of the crowds you'll find on Malta Island.

One such beach is Mġarr ix-Xini found on the southern end of the island, just a short drive from Mġarr Harbour. This thin, snaking bay forms a sheltered pebble beach in a secluded, rocky setting.

Here, you'll usually only find a handful of local Gozitans enjoying the sun or swimming laps in the narrow cove, and perhaps some divers on the shore.

16. Book a Romantic Gozo Picnic

With its world-class dining, stunning coastal vistas, and elegant, rusting lodgings, it's no wonder that Gozo is considered to be one of the best honeymoon destinations in Europe.

So, whether you're celebrating a special occasion with a loved one, or simply want an extra memorable evening, I highly recommend booking a romantic Gozo Picnic.

Ana, a Gozo local, is well-known on the island for arranging amazing outdoor dinner spreads in stunning and secret coastal regions of Gozo for over four years!

17. Go Beach Hopping

Being a stunning Mediterranean Island, you'd be correct in assuming that its beaches are one of the top attractions on Gozo.

Travelers looking for some of the best beaches can expect a wide variety of soft, sandy beaches and smooth pebbled coves. Some of my favorites include:

• Ramla Beach
• Mġarr ix-Xini Beach
• Inland Sea
• Wied Il-Għasri
• Ħondoq ir-Rummien
• Xlendi Beach

So, either rent a car or ATV, or take one of the convenient bus lines and enjoy that magical Maltese summer sun!

18. Try Ftira Bread at Mekren's Bakery

Did you know that Malta's famous ftira bread has been added to UNESCO's Cultural Heritage list?

This simple, flat sourdough loaf has deep roots in Gozo. This local food is usually eaten filled with delicious savory cheeses, meats, and vegetables. When in Gozo, make sure to stop by Mekren's Bakery for an authentic taste of Gozitan history– you won't regret it!

P.S, I recommend trying the local Gbejniet Ftira. This is a delicious-filled loaf combining local sheep cheese, eggs, potatoes, and local olive oil.

19. Ninu's Cave & Xerri's Grotto

When exploring central Gozo, be sure to stop by the village of Xagħra, where you will discover two unique and very impressive underground caves.

What makes these particular caves unique is that they are only accessible via a private entrance– through a local's house!

That's because these caves were discovered after the construction of these local buildings, with a spiraling access staircase added to each afterward.

20. Calypso's Cave

If you're a fan of literary history, you'll be well aware of Homer's influential Odyssey. Well, many believe that one particular cave on Gozo's northern shore is in fact the very cave where Calypso kept Odysseus for seven years after the faithful shipwreck.

Unfortunately, access to the cave interior is forbidden for now due to a partially collapsed roof. However, there is still a fantastic viewpoint on top of the cave, where you can peer in and over at the stunning views of Ramla Bay.

21. Wied Il-Mielaħ Natural Arch

Yes, the alluring Azure Window is no more. However, Gozo does have one more epic natural sea arch up its sleeve.

Enter the Wied Il-Mielaħ Natural Arch, found on the northwestern coast of Gozo Island. This thick, limestone arch is admittedly difficult to spot at first. However, once you peer around the corner, this impressive geological window opens up to crystal clear, blue waters.

22. Time Your Visit With a Village Feast

If you're lucky enough to visit Gozo during one of the 100+ village feasts, this is one of the most fascinating and fun cultural experiences you can have on the island.

The Maltese feasts (festas) are religious and traditional events taking place every year. It involves lively band marches and performances, religious processions, elaborate firework displays, and of course, lots of delicious food!

This tradition dates back to the 16th century during the rule of the Knights of St John (Hospitaller Knights of Malta) with each village celebrating its own patron saint.

23. Rock Climbing & Abseiling

Readers who have been following my blog for a while know that I'm all about adventure travel. One of the funnest days I had on Gozo was rock climbing and abseiling at the epic Wied Il-Mielaħ, organized by Gozo Adventures.

Gozo is a bit of a climbing hotspot, with dozens of world-class climbing crags ranging from steep deepwater solos to beginner abseiling routes. So, young adventure travelers chasing the most exciting things to do on Gozo shouldn't look past this epic experience!

24. Sopu Tower

Sopu Tower, also known as Isopu Tower, or Torri ta' Sopu in Maltese, is a small historic watchtower built by the Order of Saint John in the 17th Century.

The Sopu Tower, together with the Saint Agatha's Tower (Red Tower) on Malta, and Comino's Saint Mary's Tower, formed a vital warning system during frequent invasions. Upon the sighting of a hostile naval force, guards would light a fire on top of the bastioned towers to warn the other islands of the impending attack.

Today, due to the strategic location, this tower serves as an excellent vantage viewpoint. The tower is just a short drive from the harbor in Mġarr and makes an ideal sunset and sunrise location with uninterrupted, 360-degree views of Gozo, Comino, and Malta.

25. Visit Marsalforn Bay

Marsalforn Bay is another popular seaside beach town on Gozo's northern coast. Here, travelers will discover a quaint sandy beach tucked between the rocky coast near Tal-Qbajjar. This beach is great for swimming or relaxing on the sandy shores, and a favorite for local Maltese weekenders and Gozitan locals.

There are also many seaside resorts located in Marsalforn, as well as countless restaurants, bars, and takeout shops.

26. South Gozo Sea Caves

Looking to get off the beaten path in Gozo? Rent a kayak from one of the friendly vendors near Ħondoq ir-Rummien Beach and explore the many southern Gozo sea caves.

The truth is that this southern coast is dotted with numerous caves, some of which don't appear to have a name at all. Additionally, on calm days, you can enter many of the narrow entrances, which typically unveil huge limestone caverns.

27. Gozo Sunset Cruise

What's the best way to experience the beauty of Comino and the Gozo coastline? That's right, from your own private boat cruise during sunset!

This popular sunset boat cruise organized by the friendly brothers at Outdoor Explorers runs for 3 hours and stops at several idyllic locations on Comino and Gozo, including the Blue Lagoon, Crystal Lagoon, and some local cliff jumping locations, and some secret sunset spots.

Additionally, this Gozo activity is a great option for people traveling in a group, since you'll split the cost between a group of up to six people.

Travel Tip: Everyone knows that the Blue Lagoon can get absolutely packed with travelers during the day. Fortunately, most people depart just before sunset, making this one of the best times to visit!

28. Xlendi Bay (Xlendi Beach)

Xlendi is a far-flung and relaxed beach town tucked away on Gozo's southwestern corner. This rustic village is a great place to explore, with several highlights to stop by, including the Xlendi Beach cliff walk, Xlendi Tower, Eroded Rock, and famous Xlendi salt pans.

Furthermore, Xlendi Bay is home to one of the best dive shops on Gozo, St Andrew's Divers Cove, which is the experienced and professional shop that organized my dive in the Blue Hole.

29. Gozo Windmill (Ta’ Kola Windmill)

The Ta' Kola Windmill, also colloquially named the Gozo Windmill, is one of the most unique attractions on the island of Gozo. This is one of the last surviving windmills in the Maltese archipelago, with a heritage dating back to the Knights' Period.

A team of dedicated locals have recently restored this windmill to its former glory, with visitors free to visit and take a look inside.

Travelers looking for free things to do in Gozo can swing past this 18th-century windmill, located in the heart of Xagħra village.

30. Gozo Salt Pans

If you cruise along Gozo's northern coastline between the famous Wied Il-Għasri beach (number 34 below), and Marsalforn, you'll find a long stretch of unique geological formations edging the coastline.

These formations are in fact man-made salt pans, originally carved during the Roman Times as an effective method of collecting fresh sea salt.

This practice lives on today, with dedicated families passing down the skill for centuries. If you're lucky, you might catch a glimpse of these Gozitans collecting freshly dried salt at one of the below Gozo salt pans:

• Xwejni Bay (Xwejni Salt Pans)
• Marsalforn Salt Pans
• Xlendi Bay Salt Pans

31. Ġordan Lighthouse

Located on top of a rounded hill in northern Gozo is the Ta' Ġurdan Lighthouse, also known simply as the Ġordan Lighthouse.

This lighthouse makes for the perfect viewpoint, with views spanning the entire island. The hill is slightly steep to walk up, and you can't take your car to the top.

However, the views are certainly worth the effort, especially for sunset. Furthermore, due to its close proximity, visiting the Gozo Lighthouse is a convenient option after the Ta Pinu Basilica.

32. Sanap Cliffs Sunset Point

If you find yourself in southern Gozo before the setting sun, make sure to swing past the Sanap Cliffs, one of my favorite high cliff sunset locations on the island.

These beautiful, steep limestone cliffs are similar to the Ta' Ċenċ Cliffs, just a short drive away. Similarly again, the view during the sunset is breathtaking and should not be missed by anyone looking for the most beautiful places to visit in Gozo.

33. Għar ir-Riħ - Cathedral Cave

Għar ir-Riħ is a magnificent sea cave found on Gozo's northern coast. In fact, it is one of the most beautiful in the archipelago and a very popular dive site for highly experienced divers.

What makes this cave dive so spectacular is its amazing domed vault, accessible only via a large opening at 6-18 meters below the surface. 

Even if you're not diving, make sure to stop by and take a snap of the picturesque cove and flat roof.

34. Wied Il-Għasri Beach

If you ask me what is the best beach on Gozo, I'll confidently tell you that it's Wied Il-Għasri Beach. That's why, in this Gozo travel guide, I've saved this bucket list beach for last.

This charming natural gorge cuts deep into the coast, forming a deep, narrow cove filled with unimaginably turquoise water. It's white steep, limestone edges are dotted with small green bushes and curve into a tiny, naturally protected pebble beach that is excellent for swimming.

While most guide books and even locals will recommend popular beaches like Ramla Beach and Ħondoq ir-Rummien, a trip to Wied Il-Għasri Beach should not be missed on your list of things to do on Gozo.

35. Chapel of St. Dimitri Sunset Viewpoint

By now, you're probably running out of evenings to plan your sunset adventures on Gozo Island. However, I wouldn't be doing the island justice without including them all, so consider one more!

The Chapel of St. Dimitri (Chapel of St Demetrius) is a small rural Roman Catholic church sitting on the hillside near the village of Għarb in Gozo's northwest.

This viewpoint is a great alternative to the more popular Ġordan Lighthouse since it offers almost identical views across the island.

36. The Ta' Pinu Basilica

The Basilica of the National Shrine of the Blessed Virgin of Ta' Pinu, or simply the Ta'Pinu Basilica is one of the little sister island's most famous churches (there are over 365 of them!).

This monumental shrine is dedicated to Our Lady of Ta'Pinu and was constructed between 1920 and 1931 in front of an original chapel where Karmni Grima was said to have heard the voice of Our Lady.

Honestly, this church is absolutely stunning, with superb architectural touches and immaculate sculptures inside.

37. Ix-Xewkija Rotunda

While not as famous as Malta's Mosta Rotunda, the Ix-Xewkija Rotunda is still a worthy visit for those traveling around Gozo Island.

This stunning church is the biggest on the island and boasts the third-largest unsupported dome in the world. By Maltese standards the Rotunda of Ix-Xewkija is relatively young, being completed around the year 1971 after a long 20-year construction process.

Travel Tip: Travelers visiting the island of Gozo around the 24th of June will see the feast of St. John the Baptist, when the church is lit up beautifully.

38. Qala Belvedere Viewpoint

The Qala Belvedere Viewpoint is another spectacular viewpoint location on the southern coast of Gozo, quite close to the main harbor port.

For those chasing scenic vistas, head down to the small courtyard in front of the little church (Il-Madonna tal-Blat). This is a great place to look out over the northern Gozo coastline, including Ramla Bay, and even out to the Blue Lagoon and Comino Island.

39. See the World Record Rock

No, it's not the biggest rock in the world. The World Record Rock is the site where Neil Agius established the new world record for the longest unassisted swim through open water.

Neil swam over 125 kilometers (77 miles) from Linosa the Italian island of Linosa, all the way to Xwejni in northern Gozo. The site where he finished is now known as World Record Rock, a small tribute amongst the famous salt pans.

40. Xwejni Bay, Rock, & Cave

The last item on this comprehensive travel guide to 40 awesome things to do in Gozo is the Xwejni Bay.

Truthfully, you won't find many tourists at this rocky cove. Instead, you'll find a small pebble beach and an open sea cave below a picturesque rocky outcrop that is almost hidden from the main road (Triq Ix-Xwejni).

After a long adventure exploring the many famous sightseeing attractions on Gozo, local hidden gems like Xwejni Bay are a welcome treat. The beauty of this one-of-a-kind island is that there are many more gems just like this one, waiting to be discovered!

Quick Roundup: The Top 5 Things to do on Gozo

Alright, I'll admit it, this is a long list of things to do on the Maltese island of Gozo. If you're in a rush and skipped to this bottom section to discover the unmissable top 5 attractions, then here they are.

1. Comino & Blue Lagoon Island Tour
2. Tal-Mixta Cave
3. Rabat and the Victoria Citadella
4. Wied Il-Għasri Beach
5. Sunset at one of the amazing viewpoints

How to Get Around and Explore Gozo Island

While Gozo Island is relatively small, you'll need some sort of transport to get around to all the attractions and must-visit spots.

Again, I highly recommend renting a car in Malta and bringing it over cheaply on the car ferry. This is exactly what I did and it offers the most freedom to explore.

Alternatively, the only public transport on Gozo is a limited but fairly useful network of route buses. There are a total of 15 bus routes on the island, running in each direction between Victoria (Rabat), and the Mġarr Harbour ferry terminal.

Another option is to rent an ATV near the main ferry port. However, I found this option to be just as expensive as the day trips above and comparable to renting a car on Malta, to begin with.

Gozo Travel FAQs

More Malta Travel Guides & Adventure Inspiration

And that's a wrap for this comprehensive travel guide featuring the top 40 attractions and unmissable things to do on Gozo Island, Malta.

If you find anything that you think I've missed, help other travelers out by dropping a comment below.

Otherwise, take a pick from one of the many other travel guides and inspirational blog posts to Malta below.

• 10 Amazing Boutique Hotels in Gozo (Where to Stay in 2023)
• 16 Things to do on Comino Island Malta - Top Sites & Attractions
• 26 Awesome Things to do in Valletta, Malta
• 35 Best Beaches in Malta, Gozo & Comino - Ultimate Guide With Map
• 70 Awesome Things to do in Malta - 2023 Travel Guide
• 8 Things to do in Marsaxlokk Malta (Colorful Fishing Village)
• Blue Grotto Malta - Complete 2023 Travel Guide
• Blue Lagoon Malta (Comino Island) - How to Get Here & What to Do
• Coral Lagoon Malta - An Incredible Natural Sea Cave
• Crystal Lagoon Malta (Comino) - 2023 Travel Guide
• Dingli Cliffs - Epic Sunset Viewpoint in Malta
• St Peter's Pool Malta - Complete 2023 Travel Guide

The post 40 Amazing Things to do on Gozo Island, Malta appeared first on We Seek Travel.

Located a short boat ride from Split or Trogir, the Croatian Blue Lagoon is the perfect choice for a summer vacation spot where you can snorkel, swim, and relax in shallow waters among the beautiful Dalmatian Islands.

In this guide, I’ll detail everything you need to know about the Blue Lagoon, including how to get here from Split and Trogir. I’ll also include some photos and a quick rundown of my experience so you know what to expect.

About Croatia’s Blue Lagoon

If you ask any Croatian, they’ll tell you that there are dozens of Blue Lagoons scattered throughout the many islands of the Adriatic Sea.

However, the official and most famous Blue Lagoon is a shallow area just off the island of Drvenik Veli, in a small, sandy area called Krknjasi Bay. This island cove is immediately west of Split and neighbors Šolta Island and Drvenik Mali.

The lagoon itself is a wide bay with a white, sandy bottom, mostly protected from the wind by two small green islands called Krknjaš Mali and Krknjaš Veli.

The main draw is its crystal clear, turquoise waters and its reputation for being the perfect location to swim in clear water and relax on white pebble beaches close to the mainland.

Should I visit the Split Blue Lagoon or the Blue Cave?

While not as popular as the more famous Blue Cave, the Blue Lagoon makes for a shorter day trip, since it is much closer to Split and Trogir. However, I highly recommend both trips– if you have the time!

In saying that, if you can only squeeze in one island tour, I’d suggest picking the Blue Cave over the Blue Lagoon. The reason is that you’ll get way more bang-for-buck. This trip includes a visit to:

• Vis
• Hvar
• Stiniva Beach
• another Blue Lagoon (Budikovac)
• Blue Cave

How to get to the “Official” Blue Lagoon in Croatia

In terms of distance, the Blue Lagoon is much closer to Trogir than Split. However, if you are staying in Split, don’t worry, most Blue Lagoon trips running from Split will also visit the historic city of Trogir, a tiny port city that is also recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site!

Below I’ll go through the best ways to get to the Blue Lagoon, depending on where you’re staying in Croatia.

1. Blue Lagoon Boat Tour From Split

For travelers staying in the vibrant city of Split, the best way to get here is to book a Trogir & Blue Lagoon trip.

Not only is this one of the easiest and most cost-effective ways of getting to this charming cove– it’s also of the best bang-for-buck half-day trips in Split!

The boat trip includes:

• Small group speed boat trip
• A visit to the Blue Lagoon and beaches on the nearby islands
• Guided tour of Trogir, including the St. Lovre Cathedral and the 13th-century Romanesque doors
• Cocktail stop at the Laganini Beach Bar on Čiovo island

Book Your Tour Online

Private tour option: Traveling in a small group? Consider this speed boat option for a private way to get to the Lagoon. Obviously, this is a tad pricier than the shared boat option. But, it can work out cheaper for those in a larger group.

2. blue Lagoon Tour from Trogir Town

For travelers staying in or near the beautiful town of Trogir, you’ll also have convenient boat tour options to the Blue Lagoon. Similarly to the Split options, the best trips are nearly always half-day boat half-day tours to the Blue Lagoon and surrounding 3 Islands.

Below I’ve linked to the best Blue Lagoon tour from Trogir Town. This also includes a seafood lunch and has the best reviews on GetYourGuide.

Book Your Tour Online

3. Independent Option: Hire Your Own Boat

For travelers with a boat license in their home counties, it’s also possible to get to the Blue Lagoon by renting or chartering a boat in Split or Trogir.

Distance from Split: Split harbor to Blue lagoon is 14 nautical miles
Distance from Trogir: the lagoon is only 8 nautical miles away from Trogir

The majority of speed boat rentals on offer are small fiberglass outboard rigs with a center console. To find a boat charter company, I recommend walking down to the Split Riva Promenade. Here, you will find several agents offering boat rentals between 200 to 300 euros per day.

What to Expect at the Croatia Blue Lagoon

So, with the logistics out of the way, let’s dive into what to expect at the beautiful crystal clear waters of Blue Lagoon Croatia! As you know by now, visiting this awesome spot is one of the best things to do in Split.

However, if you’re still not convinced, let me give you a quick rundown of my experience with some photos to help inspire you your visit!

Arriving at Krknjasi Bay

It wasn’t until we finally entered the Blue Lagoon that we realized how clear and blue the crystal clear sea is here. That’s because the surrounding waters around the islands of Drvenik Veli and Island Šolta (Solta Island) are quite deep. So, it’s not until you actually reach the lagoon that it really shallows up to reveal the bright blue tinge.

The depth of this sandy lagoon is roughly 2-3 meters, making it a perfect place to swim!

Snorkeling and Swimming at the Lagoon and Beaches

If you book one of the above lagoon and three island boat trips, you’ll get snorkeling masks offered on board. While I’m going to be honest and say that Croatia is not the best place to see coral reefs, the visibility, and water clarity and the Blue Lagoon really make it worthwhile!

Furthermore, sandy beaches are not very common in Croatia, so to experience a white, sand bottom at the shallow lagoon is a unique feature of the Dalmatian Coast.

This also means the lagoon does attract some large fish and you’ll spot plenty of sea shells too.

Travel Tip, The bottom of the sea is often lined with sea urchins, so it’s a good idea to be careful where you step.

Exploring the “3 Islands” – Drvenik Veli, Šolta, & Čiovo

One of the main draws to the Blue Lagoon is the freedom to explore the 3 islands. All islands are lined with beautiful pebble beaches surrounded by shrubs and some pine trees. The most famous beach at the lagoon is called Krknjasi Beach on the southeast coast of the Drvenik Veli.

Most tours will also stop on the island of Čiovo (closer to Trogir). Here there’s a beach bar called Laganini, an excellent place to sip cocktails under the summer sun!

Most 3-island trips will also stop on the island of Šolta. Here, you have free time to explore the small village of Maslinica and experience a uniquely Croatian way of life.

All in all, a half-day trip to the Blue Lagoon and three islands is the perfect amount of time to enjoy this spectacular Croatian attraction. Those coming from Split, will have enough time to swim, relax, and explore the Trogir Old Town. Conversely, tours from Trogir spend more time at the lagoon and three islands for the same duration.

Travel tip: On the way back to Trogir or Split, make sure to keep an eye out for dolphins! Croatians will tell you that dolphins are a regular sight in this part of the Dalmatian Coast!

Where to Stay in Split

More Croatia Travel Guides & Blogs

I hope you’ve enjoyed this quick travel guide to visiting Blue Lagoon Croatia from either Split or Trogir.

Below are some additional guides to the beautiful historic cities and Croatian islands that I’m sure you’ll find useful!

• 15 Awesome Things to do in Omiš, Croatia – Complete Guide
• 15 Best Beaches in Dubrovnik, Croatia
• 21 Dubrovnik Game of Thrones Filming Locations (Croatia)
• 45 Awesome Things to do in Dubrovnik, Croatia in 2023
• Blue Cave Croatia (Biševo Blue Grotto) – Complete Guide
• Cetina Rafting – How to Go River Rafting From Split or Omiš
• Zipline Omiš – Croatia’s Cetina Canyon Adventure (Ultimate Guide)

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