A complete guide to sea temperatures around Malta and Gozo throughout the year — find out when the water is warm enough to swim, snorkel and dive.
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The sea around Malta and Gozo is one of the islands' greatest assets — clear, blue, and warm for a good portion of the year. Malta sits in the central Mediterranean at roughly 36° North latitude, which means its waters warm up significantly through summer and retain that warmth well into autumn. For swimmers, snorkellers and divers, knowing the sea temperature before you travel can make all the difference. This guide covers everything you need to know about Malta's water temperatures, month by month.
Sea temperature around Malta follows a predictable annual cycle, lagging a few weeks behind air temperature as the ocean slowly absorbs and releases heat. The warmest waters occur in August and early September; the coldest in February and March. Here is what to expect throughout the year.
In winter, Malta's sea temperature drops to its annual low of around 14–15°C. This is cold by most standards — a wetsuit is strongly recommended for anything more than a brief dip, and most casual swimmers will find it uncomfortably chilly. Divers, particularly those in drysuits or thick wetsuits, can have an excellent experience in winter — visibility is often outstanding and marine life is varied. The dramatic coastal scenery in winter is spectacular, but beach swimming is not the main draw.
The sea begins warming in April, reaching around 16–17°C by mid-spring. By May, temperatures climb to 19–20°C — cool but manageable for confident swimmers. Many locals begin their swimming season in May, particularly at protected bays. A wetsuit or a rash vest can extend your comfort in the water at this time of year. The sea clarity in spring is excellent, and popular snorkelling spots are far less crowded than in summer.
June brings a genuine transition. Sea temperatures reach 22–24°C — warm enough for comfortable swimming without any additional gear for most people. June is an ideal time for snorkelling and exploring Malta's famous sea caves, blue holes and rocky coves. The water is clear, the sun is strong, and the beaches have not yet reached their summer peak capacity.
July and August bring the warmest sea temperatures, typically 26–27°C — genuinely bath-warm. Swimming is effortless, and even non-swimmers are tempted in. Snorkelling is at its best, with underwater visibility sometimes exceeding 30 metres in sheltered bays. September remains excellent, with the sea retaining its peak warmth even as air temperatures start to ease and crowds begin to thin. Many experienced Malta travellers consider September the finest month for swimming.
October is still very swimmable — sea temperatures hover around 23–24°C, and many visitors enjoy comfortable swimming throughout the month. November sees a more notable drop to around 19–20°C, and while hardy swimmers will still take the plunge, most casual visitors will find it less inviting. Wind can become a significant factor in autumn, occasionally churning up the sea at exposed beaches.
Malta's coastline is rocky in many places, with sandy beaches concentrated on the north-west coast of the main island and around Gozo's interior. Choosing the right beach depends not just on personal preference but on wind direction — the sea at an exposed north-facing beach in a Grigal wind will be rough and uninviting even in summer.
Malta is ranked among Europe's top ten diving destinations, and for good reason. The water clarity around the islands is exceptional — underwater visibility of 20–40 metres is common, and the combination of warm water, rich marine life and fascinating underwater terrain makes for an unforgettable experience. The best diving conditions are from May through November, with peak visibility and warmth in July, August and September. Winter diving is possible and even rewarding for experienced divers, but a thick wetsuit or drysuit is essential. Key dive sites include the Blue Hole at Dwejra (Gozo), the Um El Faroud wreck near Wied iz-Zurrieq, and the reef system at Cirkewwa.
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Take advantage of Malta's 300+ sunny days a year. Virtue Solaris designs, supplies, and installs premium photovoltaic systems for homes and businesses across the Maltese Islands — with full after-care and government-grant support.
Want to feature your advert? Email Weather Malta on [email protected] with your specs today!