St Paul's Bay

St Paul's Bay

"With easy access to Scuba Diving sites and Gozo Island, St Paul's Bay is a great base for those looking to explore the surroundings..." Once a small fishing village, this historic bay is now one of the most popular tourist destinations in Malta. It was the spot where St. Paul was shipwrecked, the event credited with bringing Christianity to the island. This Northern Maltese town is the largest in the region and is best known for its picturesque coastline, long stretches of golden sand, stunning cathedrals and churches, and vibrant nightlife. The Buġibba area of St. Paul’s Bay makes it one of the most significant resort towns in the country, so it's a must-visit if you’re looking for the ultimate beach holiday.

Today it is a vibrant harbourside town, with an array of clubs, pubs and restaurants that throb with energy and activity. The sapphire waters that lap up against its shores hide a plethora of amazing underwater treasures that make it a famous diving destination. This, coupled with the many golden beaches that populate its coast, makes it an exceptional holiday destination that visitors are bound to enjoy.

At a Glance

Airports

Airports

Malta International Airport (MLA)
Avg. Flight Time

Avg. Flight Time

3 Hours
Avg. Temperature

Avg. Temperature

26°C
Avg. Transfer Time

Avg. Transfer Time

45 Minutes
Time Zone

Time Zone

GMT +1
Currency

Currency

Euros
Language

Language

Maltese
Population

Population

430,000

Top Holidays

InFocus

Location

Saint Paul’s Bay is a town situated in the north-eastern part of the country, around sixteen kilometres from the capital, Valletta. It is the largest town in the Northern region with a population of around 15,000 and is famous for being the spot where St. Paul landed and introduced Christianity to Malta. These days, St Paul’s Bay is a bustling seaside resort renowned for its many restaurants, clubs, and harbour.

History And Culture

A small town located on the north-eastern side of the island, it began as a small fishing village, but has expanded rapidly during the twentieth century, to become a large tourist destination, popular in the summer months. It was so named because St. Paul, was supposedly shipwrecked on an island located close to the bay, as he journeyed from Caesarea to Rome. Local legend holds that it was during this time that Christianity was introduced to Malta, by St. Paul himself.

Family Activities

There is a plethora of great activities that the whole family can enjoy in St Paul’s Bay. Bugibba Water Park is specifically designed for younger children (up to the age of 12) and features colour-coded areas that allow everyone to play safely. Valletta, just 16 kilometres away, is a historical masterpiece where older children can enjoy a fascinating and educational day out. This, combined with the many beautiful beaches and watersports available on the coast, guarantees that there is something for everyone on their family holiday.

Tours And Attractions

There is a plethora of great activities that the whole family can enjoy in St Paul’s Bay. Bugibba Water Park is specifically designed for younger children (up to the age of 12) and features colour-coded areas that allow everyone to play safely. Valletta, just 16 kilometres away, is a historical masterpiece where older children can enjoy a fascinating and educational day out. This, combined with the many beautiful beaches and watersports available on the coast, guarantees that there is something for everyone.

Entertainment

As recently as 50 years ago, St. Paul’s Bay was a small fishing village, but a lot has changed over that period, and it is now a thriving tourist hub. There are plenty of trendy wine and cocktail bars in the area; the ideal place to relax and enjoy the long summer evenings, with friends, family or your significant other. St Paul’s Bay is also home to a spattering of nightclubs and a wide selection of excellent restaurants, ensuring that it caters to every taste. The nearby town of Bugibba is more famous for wild parties and is easily accessible from St. Paul’s Bay.

Shopping

The best place to shop, located close to St. Paul’s Bay, is the nearby town of Bugibba (3 km). Along its promenade, you will find a wide selection of souvenir shops selling traditional Maltese products. Malta is an exceptional place to purchase coloured glass, which is still blown by mouth, making it the ideal gift for loved ones back home. There are also plenty of modern shops in the area, selling things such as fashion items, sunglasses and postcards. There is also plenty of jewellery available in the region, with the famous Maltese cross being the most popular.

Other Information

Highlights