Wide open green space is hard to find in Malta. Most of the island is built up, and the few big parks tend to be busy on weekends. That’s what makes San Klement Family Park in Żabbar such a nice surprise.
Spread across around 40 acres between Żabbar and Fgura, it’s one of the largest natural open spaces in the south of the island. Rows of old olive trees, picnic spots with room to breathe, play areas for the kids, an outdoor Greek-style theatre and, for the adventurous, an obstacle course. Locals love it for quiet walks during the week and long family picnics at the weekend.
A big, natural park in the south
San Klement Family Park was created by turning a neglected piece of land into a natural park, with the aim of keeping intervention to a minimum. That’s exactly how it feels: less like a manicured city garden, more like open countryside with paths, benches and a few well-placed facilities.
The park takes its name from the San Klement area of Żabbar, and today it’s maintained by Project Green, the government agency responsible for green open spaces in Malta. In February 2023, Project Green completed an extension of more than 2,000 square metres, adding a new picnic area with benches made from sustainable materials and native trees, many of them donated by the Żabbar community.
What you’ll find in the park
Olive groves and open space
The heart of San Klement is its olive trees. Walking between them, with wide open space all around, you quickly forget you’re only minutes from some of Malta’s busiest roads. It’s a peaceful place for a stroll, a jog or just sitting on a bench with a coffee.
Picnic areas
Picnic tables and benches are spread across the park with plenty of distance between them, so families can set up for the afternoon without feeling on top of each other. It’s one of the best picnic parks in the south.
Playgrounds
There’s a dedicated children’s play area with equipment for both younger and older kids, plus wide open spaces for running around. On busy days, the playground can get crowded, so mornings and weekday afternoons are calmer.
The obstacle course
More recently, the park added an obstacle course style area that’s popular with older children, teenagers and adults looking for an outdoor workout.
The Greek-style theatre
One of the park’s most unusual features is its open-air, Greek-style theatre. It’s a lovely spot for photos, and it’s sometimes used for events and community activities.
Facilities
The park has toilet facilities, and the main paths are paved, making it accessible for prams and wheelchairs. The whole park is enclosed and gates are locked overnight.
Events in the park
San Klement Park is one of the venues where Project Green has held family events, especially in summer, such as evening activities in the park and children’s programmes. We list upcoming events in Malta’s parks on our Family Parks & Gardens page whenever they’re announced.
Tips for your visit
- Bring a picnic. There’s lots of space, but no big café inside, so pack food and plenty of water.
- Go early on weekends. The best picnic spots and the playground fill up by late morning on sunny Sundays.
- Watch little ones near the edges. Some parts of the park are close to low rubble walls and drops, so keep an eye on young children.
- Visit in spring or autumn. The olive groves look their best when the weather is mild and the ground is green after the rains.
- Respect the space. Take rubbish home and leave the trees and walls as you found them.
Opening hours and entry
Entry to San Klement Family Park is free. The park is open daily, with gates closed overnight. Opening times can change with the seasons, so check Project Green’s official channels before an early morning or evening visit.
How to get there
The park is on the edge of Żabbar, near Fgura, in the south-east of Malta. The main entrance is on Triq il-Kunsill tal-Ewropa. It’s easiest by car, with parking along the side of the park. Buses also serve Żabbar from Valletta. Check the Malta Public Transport website or app for routes.
Make a day of it
San Klement is close to some great spots in the south-east, so it’s easy to combine with:
- Sant’Antnin Family Park in Marsaskala, just a short drive away, if the kids still have energy for another playground.
- The Three Cities, only a few minutes away, for a walk along the Birgu waterfront and a visit to Fort St Angelo.
- Marsaxlokk, for a fish lunch by the colourful boats.
Want another big new park in the south? Read about Bengħajsa Family Park in Birżebbuġa, where many of the trees were planted for Puttinu Cares.
Frequently asked questions
How big is San Klement Family Park? Around 40 acres, making it one of the largest natural open spaces in the south of Malta.
Is it free? Yes, entry is free.
Is there a playground? Yes, there’s a children’s play area, plus an obstacle course area popular with older kids and adults.
Are there toilets? Yes, the park has toilet facilities.
Is it accessible for prams and wheelchairs? The main paths are paved and accessible.
Who looks after the park? Project Green, the agency responsible for green open spaces in Malta.
Read more on the official Project Green page for San Klement Family Park.
Beautiful Malta is an independent travel guide and is not affiliated with Project Green. Opening hours and facilities can change, so always check official sources before visiting.