When the summer heat hits and the beaches are packed, the Buġibba Water Park is a lifesaver for parents in the north of Malta. It is a free outdoor splash park built in the shape of a boat, right in the heart of Buġibba, with water cannons, sprays, loops and umbrellas that keep kids cool and busy.
It is not a big water park with slides and pools. Think of it as a large, supervised splash pad, perfect for younger children who aren’t ready for the sea or for a break between beach and lunch.
What is the Buġibba Water Park?
The water park opened in 2012 and covers about 800 square metres. The play area is designed like a boat and is split into three colour-coded zones based on height and water depth, so toddlers and older children can each play in a part that suits them.
Today it is one of the green and open spaces maintained under Project Green, and it remains free to use.
What you’ll find
- Water cannons that kids can aim and fire
- Water loops and sprays coming from the ground and from above
- Water umbrellas that pour down like a shower
- Three zones for different ages and heights
- Changing rooms and toilets
- Supervision by staff during opening hours
- Shade from tamarisk trees around the edge
The water is treated with UV sterilisation and chlorine to keep it clean.
How it works: sessions and capacity
To keep things safe and fair, the park works in short sessions of around 20 minutes, with up to 50 children inside at a time. Entry is on a first-come, first-served basis. On hot days, especially at weekends, you may need to queue for the next session, so it helps to arrive early.
Children must be accompanied by a parent or guardian.
Inclusive sessions
The water park runs dedicated sessions for children with autism or ADHD on certain evenings each week, when the park is quieter and calmer. The days and times have changed between seasons, so check Project Green’s latest announcements before you go.
Rules to know
- No outside food or drinks, except bottled water
- No smoking
- No bikes, scooters or skateboards
- Children must be accompanied by an adult
- The area is covered by CCTV
Tips for your visit
- Bring swimwear, a towel and water shoes. The ground can be slippery and hot.
- Use sun cream before the session and bring a hat for the walk there and back.
- Go at opening time on weekends and in August, when queues are longest.
- Cover up afterwards. Beachwear is for the water park and the beach, so put a T-shirt on before walking through Buġibba.
- Plan food nearby. Since you can’t eat inside, there are plenty of cafés and kiosks along the promenade.
Season, opening hours and entry
Entry is free. The water park opens only in the summer season, usually from July to September. It typically runs from morning until early evening, but exact hours and opening dates are announced each year. Check Project Green’s official page or social media before you go.
How to get there
The water park is in the centre of Buġibba, close to the seafront promenade and Bay Square, in the St Paul’s Bay area. Many buses serve Buġibba from Valletta, Sliema and the airport. Parking in Buġibba is tight in summer, so walking or taking the bus is usually easier if you are staying nearby.
Make a day of it
- Kennedy Grove and Salina Park, a short drive away, for shade, playgrounds and an evening picnic.
- The Buġibba and Qawra promenade for an ice cream and a sunset walk.
- Popeye Village at Anchor Bay, about 20 minutes by car.
Frequently asked questions
Is the Buġibba Water Park free? Yes, entry is free.
When is it open? Usually from July to September only. Dates and hours are announced every summer.
What age is it for? It is best for young children, roughly toddlers to around 10 or 11 years old, with three zones for different heights.
Can adults go in? Parents accompany their children, but the water park is designed for kids.
Can we bring food? No, only bottled water is allowed inside.
Are there changing rooms? Yes, there are changing rooms and toilets.
Beautiful Malta is an independent guide and is not affiliated with Project Green. Season dates, hours and rules can change, so always check official sources before visiting.