Bugibba Perched Beach: A Local's Guide
The small sandy beach on the Bugibba promenade, and how to enjoy it like a local
Bugibba Perched Beach is a small man-made sandy beach on the Islets Promenade in Bugibba, St. Paul's Bay, opposite the Dolmen Hotel and a few minutes' walk from the bus terminus. The sand sits on a platform above the rocks, so you enter the sea by ladders and steps into deep, clear water, not from the sand. Entry is free; sunbeds and umbrellas can be hired in summer, when lifeguards are on duty. It is the only sandy beach in town: perfect for sunbathing and a swim, less suited to toddlers who need shallow water.
Most of St. Paul's Bay's coast is flat limestone rock, which is lovely for swimming but not for building sandcastles. That is why, in 2006, around 2,000 square metres of rocky shore in Bugibba were turned into a sandy beach raised above the sea: the "perched" beach. Today it is one of the most popular spots on the promenade, and the beach our guests ask about most.
Where it is and how to get there
The beach is on the Islets Promenade (Dawret il-Gżejjer), on the north side of Bugibba where it meets Qawra, opposite the Dolmen Hotel. It is a few minutes' walk from the Bugibba bus terminus and an easy walk from our apartment along the seafront. There is public parking along the bay, but it fills up quickly in summer: on foot or by bus is easier.
What to expect
- Sand on a platform. About 140 metres of golden sand above the rocks, with the promenade behind it.
- Sea access by ladders. Steel steps and ladders lead from the rocks into the sea. The water is clear and gets deep quickly, with rocks under the surface: water shoes help.
- Facilities. Public toilets at the entrance, sunbeds and umbrellas for hire in season, and bars, restaurants and shops along the promenade. Ramps help wheelchair users reach the sand.
- Lifeguards are on duty in the summer season. The beach has been awarded the Blue Flag for its water quality and management: look for the flag on site.
- Crowds. It is small and very central, so on July and August afternoons it gets busy. Come in the morning or late afternoon.
Is it good for children?
For playing in the sand, yes. For swimming, it depends on the age: since the sea is entered by ladders into deep water, it is better for confident swimmers than for toddlers. For very shallow, sandy water, families go to Mellieħa Bay, about 15 minutes by car or a short bus ride away. See our guide to Malta's sandy beaches.
Tips from a local
- Best time: early morning, when the sand is quiet and the sea is often flat, or after 5pm for the golden light.
- Snorkelling: bring a mask; the rocks at the edge of the beach and towards Qawra Point are full of fish.
- Shade: there is little natural shade, so hire an umbrella or bring a hat in summer.
- Out of season: on sunny winter days locals still sunbathe here; the sea is around 15–17°C from December to April.
- Nearby: the National Aquarium and Qawra Point are a short walk along the promenade.
Read next: Sandy Beaches in Malta · Best Things to Do in St. Paul's Bay
Frequently asked questions
Is Bugibba Perched Beach a sandy beach?
Yes. It is a man-made sandy beach about 140 metres long, built on a platform above the rocky shore in 2006. The sand does not slope into the sea: you swim from ladders and steps.
Is Bugibba Perched Beach free?
Yes, entry is free. In summer you can hire sunbeds and umbrellas from the vendors at the entrance, and there are public toilets.
Are there lifeguards at Bugibba Perched Beach?
Yes, during the summer bathing season. Outside the season there are no lifeguards, so swim with care.
Is Bugibba Perched Beach good for young children?
It is fine for playing in the sand, but the sea is entered by ladders into deep water, so it is not ideal for toddlers. For shallow sandy water, choose Mellieħa Bay or Golden Bay.
Where is Bugibba Perched Beach?
On the Islets Promenade in Bugibba, St. Paul's Bay, opposite the Dolmen Hotel and a few minutes' walk from the Bugibba bus terminus.
