Things To Do
in Saint Paul’s Bay
Saint Paul's Bay sits on Malta's northern coast, forming part of the Bugibba-Qawra corridor, and is known for its family-friendly beaches, promenades, and lively waterfront. The area provides easy access to crystal-clear seas, water activities, and coastal viewpoints overlooking St. Paul's Island. Named after the Shipwreck tradition associated with St. Paul, the town blends tourist-friendly services with traditional Maltese charm, including seafood taverns, markets, and local cafes.
It serves as a convenient base for day trips to Mellieħa, Popeye Village, and the island's northern cliffs while offering plenty of accommodation options for all budgets.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Arrive at Malta International Airport and make your way to your accommodation in Saint Paul's Bay. Take time to settle in and enjoy the beautiful seaside views. You may want to explore the nearby town and get a feel for the local atmosphere.
Head to the beach for a relaxing afternoon soaking in the sun. You can take a dip in the Mediterranean waters or enjoy some water sports available nearby. Don't forget to stop by a local café for a refreshing drink.
Experience your first evening with a stroll along the promenade, where you can watch the sunset over the bay. For dinner, indulge in traditional Maltese cuisine at a nearby restaurant. Cap off the night with some gelato from a local parlor.
After breakfast, take a short trip to Mdina, the ancient capital of Malta. Stroll through the narrow streets and admire the stunning medieval architecture. Don’t miss the panoramic views over the island from the bastions.
Explore the neighboring town of Rabat, visiting sites like St. Paul's Catacombs and the Domus Romana. Enjoy lunch at a cozy eatery featuring local dishes. Spend some time shopping for traditional crafts and souvenirs.
Return to Saint Paul's Bay and enjoy a leisurely dinner by the sea. Spend the evening enjoying local entertainment, such as a live music performance or a cultural event. Take a walk back along the bay, reflecting on the day.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $12-15 |
| ☕Coffee/tea | $2-5 |
| 🚍Public transit (1 ride/short trip) | $2-3 |
| 🏨Mid-range hotel per night | $70-150 |
| 🍷Glass of wine at a restaurant | $5-8 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Beautiful coastal scenery and beaches
- Wide range of accommodations and dining
- Strong English proficiency and friendly locals
- Good base for day trips to Mellieħa and the north coast
- Family-friendly with safe beaches
- Can be very busy in peak summer
- Some areas rely heavily on tourism for income
- Limited nightlife compared to bigger cities
- Public transport can be time-consuming in peak hours
- Sea conditions can be rough in winter
- "Hello" - Bonġu / Bongu (depending on time of day)
- "Jekk jogħbok" - Please
- "Grazzi" - Thank you
- "Titkellem bl-Ingliż?" - Do you speak English?
- "Fejn hu l-banju?" - Where is the bathroom?
- "Kemm tiswa dan?" - How much does this cost?
Places to Visit in Saint Paul’s Bay
Visit one of these nice places.
Sweeping coastal views with rugged rocks and the small islet in the distance; golden hour is ideal.
Sea-angle shots along the waterfront with boats and palm trees framing the horizon.
Historic coastal fortifications perched above the sea; dramatic seascapes.
Jutting cliff edge offering panoramic views of the coast and blue water.
Colorful film-set vibe; best at sunrise or blue hour from the water’s edge.
Food in Saint Paul’s Bay
Saint Paul’s Bay Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Slow-cooked rabbit with garlic, wine, and herbs; a Maltese hallmark often served with potatoes.
Must-Try!
A garlicky, tomato-rich fish soup popular in seaside taverns.
A thick Maltese bean dip typically served with bread or crackers.
Flaky pastry pockets filled with ricotta or mushy peas; a Maltese street-food favorite.
Local bitter-sweet orange soda commonly enjoyed with meals.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Seafood bites, pastries, and snacks along the waterfront, especially popular at sunset.
Local produce, baked goods, and ready-to-eat street foods.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Dress modestly and remove hats; speak softly near churches and sacred sites.
English and Maltese are widely spoken; be polite and use simple phrases if you can.
Malta values hospitality; greetings and small talk are common before asking for help.
Safety
Tipping in Saint Paul’s Bay
Ensure a smooth experience
A small tip of 5-10% is common if service is not included; many places add a service charge.
Credit/debit cards are widely accepted; cash is always useful for small vendors and markets.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Expect hot, dry days with water temps comfortable for swimming. Pack sunscreen, stay hydrated, and seek shade during peak sun. Beaches can be crowded, and evenings stay lively along the promenade.
Milder temperatures with occasional rain; seas can be rough on exposed coastlines. Great for hiking and quiet coastal walks, but some attractions may have reduced hours.
Pleasant temperatures and blooming coastal flora; ideal for outdoor activities and photography with softer light.
Warm days with cooler evenings; sea remains inviting for swims early in the season; fewer crowds than summer.
Saint Paul’s Bay at Night
Hiking in Saint Paul’s Bay
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Coastal path along the Xemxija shoreline with sea views and vantage points.
Scenic cliff-top route with panoramic sea views (requires car or bus access).
Iconic limestone cliffs and dramatic coastline stretch ideal for long coastal walks.
Airports
How to reach Saint Paul’s Bay by plane.
Located near Luqa, about 25-40 minutes from St. Paul’s Bay by car or bus via public transport.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
A mix of traditional families and newer residents who live around the coast.
Seasonal and long-term visitors who contribute to the tourism and local business scene.
Visitors from across Europe and beyond, especially in summer.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The most popular sport in Malta, widely followed and played at amateur and semi-professional levels.
A traditional Maltese aquatic sport with local teams and seaside pools.
Popular due to Malta’s clear waters, caves, and rocky coastlines.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Saint Paul’s Bay.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Choose dishes with pasta, vegetables, cheese, or legume-based specialties; ask for octopus-free dishes and avoid meat when possible.
Rely on salads, vegetable dishes, bread, olive oil, and bean dips; request dairy-free options and confirm stock of broths. Be aware some traditional dishes use animal-based broths.