Bugibba Water Park

If you're taking your holidays to Malta with the family, then put a visit to the Bugibba Waterpark at the top of your list of things to do. Situated on Malta's north coast, the village of Bugibba is home to the popular Malta waterpark that's loved by locals and visitors alike. This family-friendly park's the ideal place to escape from the heat of the midday sun and cool down while having fun at the same time. You'll probably hear the excited screams coming from the park as you walk along the village's promenade. And the best bit? It's free to get in, making it well worth the 10-minute walk to get there.

Waterpark or beach?

You might be wondering why you'd go to the only waterpark on the island when you've got Perched Beach right on your doorstep. Perched Beach is a manmade beach and, while tons of artificial sand has been put in place to cover the rocky shoreline, it doesn't extend into the water. Anyone going into the sea is advised to wear water shoes to protect their feet from sharp rocks and spiny sea urchins that have made their home there. In addition, although there are lifeguards on the beach, the water gets deep quite quickly and is not suitable for younger visitors. Our top tip: if you've got youngsters with you then the waterpark is the better option.

Safe and supervised surroundings

All the rides and water-based things to do at the park are colour-coded so you'll know at a glance which ones are appropriate for your children. While they play in safe and supervised surroundings, you can relax in one of the shaded areas or sit in the sunshine and keep watch. With water cannons, swinging buckets, and spouts for little ones to play with, you'll find that Bugibba Waterpark might just have the edge over the nearby beach.

Nearby attractions

The waterpark is conveniently close to Bugibba village, so once you've had your fun it's easy to walk into the centre and find a café or restaurant for some lunch. Many of the eateries along the seafront have outdoor play areas for children, allowing them to continue enjoying themselves while you enjoy a leisurely drink. However, if you're just starting your day out, you'll find plenty of other attractions nearby. The Malta National Aquarium just 15 minutes' walk away offers more than 40 tanks housing a kaleidoscope of shimmering fish and sea creatures. There's even the chance to get up close to the ocean's most fearsome predators with a stroll through the Shark Tunnel. To wind down after visiting the waterpark, a visit to St Paul's Island ought to be a part of anyone's holidays to Malta. A short boat trip will take you across the sea, passing the wreck of a ship that is said to have carried the Apostle Paul to the island in around 60AD. According to legend, he is thought to have swum to the small island nearby and was looked after by the locals. During that time, he introduced them to Christianity and a gigantic statue was erected in his honour. Pack your camera and immerse yourself in the country's religious history.

A holiday highlight

Once you've taken your family to the Malta waterpark, the chances are that you'll be asked to go there again by the kids. Because it's free to get in that's not a problem, even if you're on a budget. During the peak seasons, it opens at 9.30am and closes at 7.30pm, giving you plenty of opportunity to plan a visit at any time. It's suitable for children between the ages of three and 12 and, although there are no rides, it offers enough fun to pass a couple of hours. Bugibba Waterpark is a great way to keep cool on your holidays to Malta.