A stunning coast line that oozes charm and atmospheric romance, St Paul's Bay in the north-easterly part of Malta is frequented by many year after year. Comprising three resorts, St Paul's town, Qawra and Bugibba, there is something for everyone. The rocky coast is a 5km stretch heading into Salina Bay framing tourist areas offering Old Town charm filled with street cafes and restaurants, shopping and lively nightlife in Bugibba and quieter areas for relaxation in classy hotels at Qawra, the newest resort. Excellent water sporting options, and patches of even terrain make the shores a busy place for sunbathing, leisure pursuits and plenty of family fun. Hotels and apartments also offer loungers around their own pools to enhance this.
Originally a small fishing village, there is still evidence of this on the quieter parts of the coastline and looking out, visitors can spot the historic Qawra Point, an old fortress now converted and St Paul's Island, allegedly where the Apostle's ship was said to have been shipwrecked. There is easy access to neighbouring resorts by bus and St Paul's Bay itself hosts many markets and shops. For more extravagant shopping then Valletta is probably the preferred day trip by public transport.
Squares and narrow streets offers bars, pubs and cafes. Restaurants serving Mediterranean, local and typical English cuisine vie for attention. Bugibba is home to the livelier clubs and discos whilst Qawra remains more leisurely in its approach to evening entertainment.
St Paul's is extremely popular with Europeans and the locals who are after a quick and enjoyable getaway.
Exploring the rugged coastline by foot is a great way to soak up the sights and sounds and visit the neighbouring resorts such as Qawra and Bugibba. If a less energetic pace is the required style then there are plenty of buses running along the promenade that will also take you to Valletta, Sliema and further afield.
Scuba diving centres, water sports such as snorkelling and swimming, jet-skiing and many opportunities for boat trips can be found all along the coast.
Night -time arrives and so the karaoke bars and discos come alive in Qawra. For a more family approach, visitors may prefer the quieter bars and cafes, and sophisticated venues in the Old Town.
For ancient history and buildings of architectural interest, the former capital Mdina and Valletta are the places to see. St Paul's Bay offers regular bus routes to these and many more destinations. Other alternatives are car and bicycle rental.