St Paul’s Islands - high angle photography of islands beside each other
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St Paul’s Islands

4.7
·80 reviews·, Malta

Uninhabited islets in Malta, famed for St. Paul's shipwreck legend and stunning Mediterranean waters ideal for swimming.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

June

Fewer crowds, pleasant weather

CrowdMedium
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St Paul’s Islands - high angle photography of islands beside each other

St Paul’s Islands

Best Time

June

Fewer crowds, pleasant weather

CrowdMedium
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Uninhabited islets in Malta, famed for St. Paul's shipwreck legend and stunning Mediterranean waters ideal for swimming.

4.7
(80 reviews)

"A boat trip to these islands offers amazing sea views and a chance to swim in beautiful Mediterranean waters."

Vertical photo
TIP

Boat Trip Essential

A boat trip is the best way to explore the islands and enjoy the sea. :boat:

Pack for Swimming

Bring your swimwear and towel for a dip in the amazing Mediterranean sea. :ocean:

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

St. Paul's Statue

St. Paul's Statue

St. Paul's Islands

A prominent stone statue honoring St. Paul, marking the alleged site of his shipwreck.

Reddit
Crystal-Clear Mediterranean Waters

Crystal-Clear Mediterranean Waters

Surrounding St. Paul's Islands

Dive into the stunning, warm, greenish-blue sea for a refreshing swim or snorkel.

InstagramReddit
Scenic Coastal Walk

Scenic Coastal Walk

Mistra Bay to St. Paul's Islands

Enjoy a peaceful walk from Mistra Bay, offering beautiful views of the islands and coastline.

Reddit
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Planning Your Visit

Accessing St. Paul's Islands

These uninhabited islets are best explored by boat. Consider a private charter for flexibility or join a group tour. Accessing them on foot from Mistra Bay is possible for a scenic walk, but boat is recommended for a full experience. InstagramReddit

Best Time to Visit for Peace

To avoid crowds, aim for June or the shoulder seasons. Summer months can be busy with locals and tourists. Visiting during weekdays or early mornings can also offer a more tranquil experience. Reddit

Best Times

When
June
Why
Fewer crowds, pleasant weather
Crowd
Medium
When
Weekday mornings
Why
Tranquil and peaceful
Crowd
Low
When
Summer afternoons
Why
Warm sea for swimming
Crowd
High

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Heavy on the “no passport!” #tiktoktravel #traveltips #usvi #usvirginislands #caribbean
@nicolemsunderland
55.6K likes • 1.7M views

Boat Trip Essential

A boat trip is the best way to explore the islands and enjoy the sea. InstagramReddit :boat:

Pack for Swimming

Bring your swimwear and towel for a dip in the amazing Mediterranean sea. Reddit :ocean:

Things to know about st.croix. Hope this was helpful! Look out for my next video which will be a destination guide with some things to! #stcroixusvi #usvirginislands #usvi #virginislands🇻🇮 #destination saint croix tourism
@lilmsawkward
33.9K likes • 481K views
Discover the magic of St. Paul’s Islands with us! Crystal waters, hidden coves, and unforgettable memories await. Book your private charter today and sail into paradise! ➤ Private boat charters around Malta ➤ Cruise crystal-clear waters & hidden coves ➤ Sunset cruises available ➤ Drinks available onboard ➤ Perfect for couples, groups & special occasions ➤ Departs from Sliema ➤ Limited availabi...
a1boatchartersmalta
4 likes • 313 views

Avoid Peak Summer

Visit in June or shoulder seasons to avoid the biggest crowds. Reddit :cyclohexist:

Scenic Coastal Walk

Consider walking from Mistra Bay for lovely views. Reddit :hiking_boot:

Exploring St. Paul’s Islands in #Malta. Have you ever been?
micagius
14 likes • 471 views

Tips

from all over the internet

Boat Trip Essential

A boat trip is the best way to explore the islands and enjoy the sea. InstagramReddit :boat:

Pack for Swimming

Bring your swimwear and towel for a dip in the amazing Mediterranean sea. Reddit :ocean:

Avoid Peak Summer

Visit in June or shoulder seasons to avoid the biggest crowds. Reddit :cyclohexist:

Scenic Coastal Walk

Consider walking from Mistra Bay for lovely views. Reddit :hiking_boot:

What Travellers Say

4.7
(80 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors praise St. Paul's Islands for their beautiful, clear Mediterranean waters perfect for swimming and snorkeling, and the peaceful, relaxing atmosphere. The scenic walk from Mistra Bay and the historical significance of St. Paul's shipwreck are also noted positives. However, some find the islands themselves to have limited attractions beyond a statue, and advise avoiding the peak summer season due to crowds.

"Best place to take a hike and relax , take a walk from Mistra Bay to enjoy this view ."

Akhil Babu

"Good place to see St Paul's Bay, good view!"

DEBAYAN DEY (Deb)

"Easy to access with a boat or kayak a very peacful and nice place."

Massimo Camilleri

What People Like

Beautiful clear waters
Peaceful atmosphere
Scenic views

What People Dislike

Limited attractions on islands
Summer crowds

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

The most common way to reach St. Paul's Islands is by boat. You can hire a private charter for a personalized experience or join a group boat tour departing from nearby areas like Bugibba or Mistra Bay. InstagramReddit Some visitors enjoy a scenic walk from Mistra Bay to get closer views. Reddit

While you can walk from Mistra Bay to get closer and enjoy views of the islands, they are small, rocky islets. For a full exploration and to swim around them, a boat is necessary. Reddit

There is no direct public transport to the islands themselves. You would need to take public transport to a coastal town like Bugibba or Mistra Bay and then arrange a boat trip from there. Reddit

Boat trips often depart from Bugibba or Mistra Bay. A private charter from companies like A1 Boat Charters Malta offers flexibility. Instagram

Yes, kayaking is a peaceful way to reach the islands, especially if you are starting from a nearby bay. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

There are no entrance fees or tickets required to visit the islands themselves, as they are uninhabited. However, you will need to pay for a boat trip to get there. Reddit

The islands are accessible at any time, but boat tours typically operate during daylight hours. It's best to check with tour operators for their specific schedules. Instagram

Generally, there are no specific restrictions, but it's a natural area. Respect the environment and any signage. Reddit

Prices vary depending on the type of boat trip. Group tours are generally more affordable than private charters. It's advisable to check current prices with local operators. InstagramReddit

Yes, you can visit year-round, but boat availability and weather conditions might be more favorable during the warmer months. Instagram

🎫 🏝️ Onsite Experience

You can see the statue of St. Paul, enjoy the beautiful Mediterranean sea for swimming and snorkeling, and take in the peaceful atmosphere. InstagramReddit It's a great spot for relaxation and enjoying nature. Reddit

The islands themselves are small and rocky, not ideal for extensive hiking. However, the walk from Mistra Bay offers a pleasant coastal hike with island views. Reddit

No, St. Paul's Islands are uninhabited and have no facilities like restrooms or shops. Be sure to bring everything you need with you. Reddit

The islands are noted as a bird sanctuary, so birdwatching can be an activity. The surrounding waters are rich with marine life. Reddit

Absolutely! The clear waters, rocky landscapes, and the statue offer great photographic opportunities. Instagram+1

🎫 🏊‍♀️ Swimming & Activities

The waters are generally calm and clear, making it safe for swimming and snorkeling. Always exercise caution and be aware of your surroundings. Reddit

Swimming, snorkeling, sunbathing, and simply relaxing in a beautiful natural setting are the main activities. InstagramReddit

Yes, the clear Mediterranean waters are excellent for snorkeling and offer a glimpse of marine life. Reddit

While not directly on the islands, some boat tours might offer water sports equipment. Kayaking is also a popular way to explore the area. InstagramReddit

Bring your swimsuit, a towel, sunscreen, and perhaps a snorkel and mask for exploring the underwater world. Reddit

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

St. Paul's Islands offer a fun and engaging experience for families. A boat trip is often a highlight for children, providing excitement and a sense of adventure. Instagram The calm, clear waters are generally safe for supervised swimming and splashing, making it a great spot for kids to cool off. Reddit Consider a shorter boat tour if your children have shorter attention spans. Packing plenty of snacks and drinks is essential, as there are no facilities on the islands. Reddit

💑 Couples & Romantic Getaways

For couples, St. Paul's Islands offer a picturesque and tranquil escape. A private boat charter can provide an intimate experience, allowing you to explore hidden coves and enjoy the stunning Mediterranean scenery at your own pace. Instagram A sunset cruise around the islands can be particularly romantic, with the golden light reflecting off the water. Instagram The peaceful atmosphere and beautiful sea views create a perfect backdrop for a memorable outing together. Instagram

🚶‍♀️ Active & Outdoorsy Travelers

Active travelers can combine a scenic walk from Mistra Bay with a boat trip to St. Paul's Islands. The coastal path offers lovely views and a chance to stretch your legs before hitting the water. Reddit Once at the islands, snorkeling in the clear waters is a must-do activity, revealing the vibrant marine life beneath the surface. Reddit Kayaking is another excellent option for those who prefer to explore the coastline and approach the islands under their own power. Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

Exploring St. Paul's Islands by Boat

The most popular and recommended way to experience St. Paul's Islands is by boat. Whether you opt for a shared group tour or a more exclusive private charter, the journey itself offers stunning views of the Maltese coastline. Companies like A1 Boat Charters Malta specialize in taking visitors to these picturesque islets, allowing them to cruise through crystal-clear waters and discover hidden coves. Instagram Many tours include opportunities to stop for swimming and snorkeling in the inviting Mediterranean Sea, making it a perfect day out. Reddit

When choosing a boat trip, consider the duration and what's included. Some tours might offer refreshments or even sunset cruises, adding an extra layer of magic to your visit. Instagram It's worth noting that during the peak summer season, these boat trips can become quite busy, so booking in advance is often a good idea. Reddit

The Legend of St. Paul's Shipwreck

St. Paul's Islands hold historical and religious significance as the alleged site where the Apostle Paul was shipwrecked around 60 AD on his voyage to Rome. This event is a cornerstone of Malta's Christian heritage. The presence of a statue on the islands serves as a constant reminder of this ancient maritime event. Reddit

While the islands themselves are uninhabited and primarily a natural attraction today, their name and the statue connect visitors to a pivotal moment in history. The surrounding sea, with its unique Mediterranean color, adds to the evocative atmosphere of the location. Reddit Understanding this historical context can enrich your visit, transforming it from a simple boat trip into a journey through time.

Best Practices for Visiting

To make the most of your visit to St. Paul's Islands, planning is key. Opting for a visit during the shoulder seasons, like June, or on a weekday morning can help you avoid the peak tourist crowds and enjoy a more peaceful experience. Reddit Remember that the islands are natural and uninhabited, so there are no facilities. Pack essentials like water, snacks, sunscreen, and a hat. Reddit

For those who enjoy a bit of activity, the walk from Mistra Bay provides a lovely prelude to your boat trip, offering scenic vistas. Reddit When swimming or snorkeling, always be mindful of boat traffic and currents. The clear waters are a major draw, so bringing your own snorkel gear can enhance your underwater exploration. Reddit

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