St. Paul's Bay, Malta
A sunny resort bay on Malta's northern coast, with a long seafront promenade, rocky swimming spots, and easy boat trips to nearby islands.
A sunny resort bay on Malta's northern coast, with a long seafront promenade, rocky swimming spots, and easy boat trips to nearby islands.
4.9/5 ⭐Google 660+ Reviews | A+ Better Business Bureau
Overview
St. Paul's Bay sits on the northern coast of Malta, a resort area that takes in the seaside towns of Bugibba and Qawra. Its long promenade runs along the water past hotels, cafes, and restaurants, while the rocky shore offers clear-water swimming spots and an artificial sandy beach raised above the sea. Tradition holds that the apostle was shipwrecked on the small islands just offshore, a story that gives the bay its name and its small waterside church.
A day here is relaxed and outdoorsy. Visitors stroll the promenade to Qawra, swim or snorkel in the clear water, climb the 17th-century watchtower for views over the bay, and visit the national aquarium. Boat trips leave from the waterfront for the islands of Comino and Gozo, and ancient sites such as the Xemxija Heritage Trail and the old salt pans at Salina sit a short walk or bus ride away. It is an easy, walkable base for a Malta day.
Walk the seafront promenade from the resort center toward Qawra, with the sea on one side and cafes on the other. The route is flat and easy, running for several kilometers if you keep going.
Tip: Go in the early morning or late afternoon to avoid the strongest midday sun.
The sandy beach sits raised above the shore, with ladders down to the sea. It holds a Blue Flag for cleanliness, and lifeguards patrol in summer. The water is deep and clear, ideal for swimming.
Tip: Arrive early for a sun lounger, and note there is no shallow entry for small children.
The watchtower built in 1610 stands over the bay and holds a museum with views from the roof. Climb up for a look at the coast and the islands offshore, a walk from the promenade.
Tip: Visit in the morning for the clearest views and the quietest climb.
The aquarium in Qawra displays fish and creatures from Maltese waters and beyond, with tanks that bring you close to rays, sharks, and reef fish. It is a stop and a break from the sun.
Tip: Visit around midday, when the sun is strongest and the shaded halls are a welcome break.
Hop on a boat trip to the nearby islands, where the water turns turquoise and swim stops are the highlight of the day. Trips include time to swim, snorkel, and photograph cliffs and hidden coves.
Tip: Book the day before in summer, since the most popular sailings sell out.
A heritage trail winds through the hills behind the bay, passing Roman baths, tombs, and cart tracks cut into the rock. It is a contrast to the busy resort strip, with views over the coast.
Tip: Wear sturdy walking shoes and carry water, since the trail is rocky and exposed.
Our expert consultants and customer service teams are standing by to help with all of your cruising needs.
[Our Cruise Expert] and his team were absolutely amazing to work with! Our original trip was unexpectedly canceled by the airline, so we decided at the last minute to go on a cruis...
Julia K.
I've booked several cruises with [Our Cruise Expert] in the past 15 years and continue to book with her for my family of five. We just returned from a Western Caribbean cruise on...
John C.
Friendly and professional attention by my senior cruise consultant. Perfect assistance. Thank you
Jose M.
I was having some trouble finding the right cruise for the right price as a single traveler, but thanks to [our Cruise Expert] I was able to find it with Cruise Web. Thank you very...
Camille G.
We have worked with [our Cruise Expert] several times and she makes it so easy and a pleasure to work with. She is very knowledgeable.
Linda F.
[Our Cruise Expert] was informative and very pleasant to work with. I'm not familiar with booking travel online and he made my experience pleasant.
Sharon E.
I am working with [our Cruise Expert] as my travel agent...he has been very helpful...he is very informative and knowledgeable about the places that I want to go on my Cruise....I...
Priscilla B.
[Our Cruise Expert] does an exceptional job of planning (with you) and coordinating a trip of your dreams! I can't wait to get started on the next one.
Sheralyn H.
Great working with [our Cruise Expert]! He was a tremendous help and steered us in the right direction every time! Helped us make memories for a lifetime!
Wendy F.
[Our Cruise Expert] always works hard to secure the bookings we have chosen and guides us through the process. She is always available to help and her advise is spot on.
James C.
