Xemxija Bay
A charming bay with fishing boats, waterfront dining, and historical trails, offering a laid-back Maltese experience.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Peaceful atmosphere
Xemxija Bay
Best Time
Peaceful atmosphere
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A charming bay with fishing boats, waterfront dining, and historical trails, offering a laid-back Maltese experience.
"A peaceful and pretty place with a tiny beach and pleasant cafes to get drinks in the fresh air."
🚗 Parking Pointers
Parking can be challenging during peak hours; arrive early or consider weekdays.
🚶♀️ Explore the Trails
Don't miss the historical Xemxija Trails for a unique glimpse into Malta's past.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Xemxija Harbor
Xemxija Bay
A picturesque bay dotted with fishing and leisure boats, offering scenic water views.
Xemxija Trails
Behind Xemxija Bay
Discover ancient Roman roads, Punic tombs, and cave dwellings on this heritage walk.
Waterfront Dining
Along Xemxija Bay promenade
Enjoy meals with a view at restaurants and cafes overlooking the bay.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Local Vibe
Explore Beyond the Bay
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚗 Parking Pointers
Parking can be challenging during peak hours; arrive early or consider weekdays.
🚶♀️ Explore the Trails
Don't miss the historical Xemxija Trails for a unique glimpse into Malta's past.
🚤 Boat Trip Adventures
Consider a lively cruiser trip with Captain Joseph for a memorable day out.
🏊♀️ Swimming Spot
The bay isn't ideal for swimming, but nearby Mistra Bay offers calmer waters.
Tips
from all over the internet
🚗 Parking Pointers
Parking can be challenging during peak hours; arrive early or consider weekdays.
🚶♀️ Explore the Trails
Don't miss the historical Xemxija Trails for a unique glimpse into Malta's past.
🚤 Boat Trip Adventures
Consider a lively cruiser trip with Captain Joseph for a memorable day out.
🏊♀️ Swimming Spot
The bay isn't ideal for swimming, but nearby Mistra Bay offers calmer waters.
🎶 Nightlife Hub
Beachaven in Xemxija hosts parties; check local listings for events.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Xemxija Bay is appreciated for its picturesque harbor, waterfront dining, and the historical charm of the Xemxija Trails. While not ideal for swimming, it offers a laid-back atmosphere and serves as a good base for exploring Malta's northern coast. Some visitors note a '70s feel to the area.
"Xemxija Bay,St Paul's.
This is a lovely harbour like bay that is surrounded by some great restaurants and pubs. The night life here I'd pretty lively too.
Not the best for swimming, but a really good place to cast off in a boat, (if you've got one).
The locals tell me it's a great fishing spot too"
Weekend Wildness
"A peaceful and pretty place with a tiny beach on theXemxija hill side and a few pleasant cafes to get drinks in the fresh air. You can walk along the promenade to take in the beautiful views of the local countryside and fish on the jetty."
daphne stevens
"If you want a great day trip out on a lively small cruiser with Captain Joseph then look this guy up. Well worth the money, very hospitable captain, great day out."
Phil Finlay
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
You can reach Xemxija Bay from Valletta by taking a bus. Several routes connect the two locations, with journey times varying depending on traffic. Consider using a public transport app for real-time schedules.
Yes, ample parking is generally available around Xemxija Bay, though it can become difficult to find during peak times. Arriving early on weekdays is recommended.
Xemxija Bay is located within the locality of St. Paul's Bay. You can walk along the promenade, which offers beautiful countryside views.
The Xemxija Trails are best explored on foot. Wear comfortable shoes and allow ample time to discover the Roman roads, tombs, and cave dwellings.
Yes, the Xemxija Bay Hotel is located in Xemxija, offering sea views and amenities like rooftop and indoor pools. 
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Xemxija Bay itself is a public area and does not require tickets for entry. Access to the bay and promenade is free.
The Xemxija Trails are an open-air heritage site and do not have any entrance fees. You can explore them freely.
Restaurant hours in Xemxija Bay can vary. Most are open for lunch and dinner, with some offering breakfast. It's advisable to check individual restaurant schedules.
Boat trips from Xemxija Bay, such as those with Captain Joseph, will have a fee. It's recommended to inquire about pricing and duration beforehand.
Hotel facilities like pools are typically reserved for guests. You can enjoy the views from the bay and dine at nearby restaurants.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Xemxija Bay is not considered the best spot for swimming due to its harbor nature. Nearby Mistra Bay is a better option for swimming.
You can enjoy waterfront dining, explore the Xemxija Trails, go fishing, or take a boat trip. The bay offers a relaxed atmosphere.
There is a tiny beach on the Xemxija hillside, but it's not the primary attraction. The bay is more about its harbor and surrounding restaurants.
Xemxija Bay has a laid-back, '70s feel, with a peaceful atmosphere during the day and a lively ambiance in the evenings.
While not explicitly stated, the presence of leisure boats suggests rental options might be available. Inquiring locally or with tour operators is recommended.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Xemxija Bay has a number of good restaurants offering waterfront dining with scenic views of the bay.
Yes, there are pleasant cafes along the promenade where you can enjoy drinks in the fresh air.
The Xemxija Bay Hotel offers a tasty made-to-order breakfast for its guests.
While specific menus aren't detailed, most Maltese restaurants offer a variety of options, and it's likely you'll find vegetarian dishes.
The nightlife in Xemxija Bay is pretty lively, with bars and restaurants offering a good atmosphere for evening drinks and dining.
📸 📸 Photography
Capture the picturesque harbor with its boats, the scenic promenade views, and the historical elements of the Xemxija Trails. Drone shots offer stunning aerial perspectives.
Early mornings offer soft light and fewer crowds, while evenings provide a warm glow over the bay. Golden hour is particularly beautiful.
Always check current drone regulations in Malta before flying. Respect private property and be mindful of other visitors.
A versatile lens for landscapes and details, and a wide-angle lens for capturing the bay's expanse would be useful. A smartphone with good camera capabilities is also sufficient.
You can photograph the exterior of the hotel from the bay. Access to interiors and amenities is generally for guests only.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider a boat trip from the bay for a fun family activity, or explore the historical Xemxija Trails for an educational adventure. The area around St. Paul's Bay, where Xemxija is located, offers various family-friendly attractions within driving distance.
🚶♀️ Hikers and Nature Lovers
+1Wear sturdy footwear and bring water, as the trails can be rugged. The panoramic views from the higher points are a significant reward for your efforts. It's a chance to connect with Malta's history and landscape away from the typical tourist crowds.
🥂 Couples and Relaxation Seekers
The Xemxija Bay Hotel offers an adults-only boutique experience with pools and sea views, perfect for a tranquil getaway.
Evenings can be enjoyed with drinks at the local bars, adding a touch of lively ambiance to your relaxing stay. Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Discovering the Xemxija Trails
+1The trails are perfect for those who enjoy outdoor exploration and uncovering hidden gems. The landscape is rugged and beautiful, providing a stark contrast to the more developed tourist areas. Wear comfortable walking shoes, as the terrain can be uneven, and bring water, especially during warmer months. The views from the higher points stretch all the way to Mistra Bay, making the hike rewarding.
This area is a testament to Malta's rich historical tapestry, offering a unique experience away from the usual crowds. It's a place where you can truly immerse yourself in the island's ancient past while enjoying the natural beauty of the Maltese countryside.
Xemxija Bay Hotel: A Coastal Escape
The hotel's location in Xemxija, St. Paul's Bay, is strategic for exploring the northern part of the island. It provides a tranquil base from which to visit nearby attractions like Popeye Village and Riviera Beach.
Reviews highlight the hotel's coastal escape appeal, making it a popular choice for a holiday getaway. It's a place to switch to holiday mode and soak in the stunning Mediterranean scenery.
+1Local Life and Community
The community actively participates in preserving the coastline, as seen in beach clean-up initiatives organized by groups like Zibel. These efforts highlight a commitment to protecting Malta's natural beauty.
While the bay itself is a peaceful spot, it also has a lively side, particularly in the evenings, with bars and pubs contributing to a vibrant nightlife.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit