Plizio Visual Lab

Spinola Bay

Plizio editorial teamUpdated: Jun 2026Data Sources

Landmark

Weather…

Spinola Bay, located in the heart of St. Julian's, is a prominent geographic feature that exemplifies Malta's transition from a traditional fishing culture to a modern cosmopolitan hub. The bay is characterized by the presence of numerous colorful Luzzu boats, which feature the protective Eye of Osiris and remain symbols of Maltese maritime heritage. Overlooking the water stands the majestic Spinola Palace, commissioned in 1688 by the Knight Paolo Rafel Spinola and designed in the Baroque style. During the French occupation of 1798, the palace was looted and later repurposed by the British military as a hospital during the 19th century. Geographically, the bay forms a sheltered natural inlet that has provided a safe haven for local fishermen for centuries. Today, the surrounding promenade is a key social center, lined with historic townhouses and contemporary restaurants that blend traditional Maltese stone with modern glass. The bay serves as a vital link between the island's historical roots and its current status as a premier Mediterranean destination.

Location: Malta
Top sights: Saint Julian's Parish Church · Cat Vilage · Memories
Nearby: Naxxar (4 km)

Best time to visit & climate

The most pleasant time to visit is May–Jul.

	Jan	Feb	Mar	Apr	May	Jun	Jul	Aug	Sep	Oct	Nov	Dec
Avg °C	15	14	15	16	19	23	26	27	25	23	20	16
Rain mm	74	65	51	33	17	11	4	10	63	82	95	82

📋 Practical info

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Visiting

The bay is a public place that is freely accessible at any time. You can stroll along the waterfront promenade and admire the traditional fishing boats.

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Typical hours

As an open harbor area, there are no opening hours. It is most beautiful in the late afternoon when the boats are in golden light.

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Photography

Photography is excellent here, especially the colorful Luzzu boats are a popular subject. A tripod can be useful for twilight shots.

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Time needed

A walk around the bay takes about 20 to 30 minutes. If you take photos or stop at a restaurant, allow at least one hour.

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Combine with

Combine the visit with the nearby Sliema Promenade, which connects directly. The Shell House in the neighborhood is also a short walk away.

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Getting there

The bay is centrally located in Sliema and easily reached on foot from the city center. Bus stops are a few minutes away; parking is scarce.

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Insider tip

Visit the bay early in the morning when the fishermen repair their nets - an authentic glimpse. In the evening, restaurants lure with fresh fish and sea views.

Geography

Coordinates

35.91890, 14.49080

Facts

Spinola Palace was completed in 1688 and served as a retreat for the Knights of St. John.
The 'Love' monument was designed by Richard England and features inverted letters for reflection.
Traditional Luzzu boats used in the bay date back to ancient Phoenician designs.
The palace was significantly enlarged and remodeled in the 18th century by Romano Carapecchia.
The bay was a major site for the local fishing industry before the tourism boom of the 1960s.
Statue of St. Julian the Hospitaller stands prominently on the promenade overlooking the bay.

Explore nearby

Notable places around

St. Julian's<1 km · WExplore →

Manoel Island Yacht Marina2 km · SEExplore →

Il-Għollieqa Ridge2 km · SWExplore →

Pembroke Heritage Park2 km · NWExplore →

Msida2 km · SExplore →

Foster Clark Products Ltd.3 km · SWExplore →

St. John's Co-Cathedral3 km · SEExplore →

Top of the World3 km · WExplore →

Route planner — Car & Motorhome

Where do you start? We build the route here, with stops and country notes along the way.

Start Destination Via (optional)

Overnight stops

Vehicle

Only stops with (optional): 💧 Water ♻️ Disposal 🔌 Power 🚻 Toilets 🚿 Shower

Sights in the town Spinola Bay (10)

Saint Julian's Parish Church

Church building in St. Julian's, Malta. Parish church of the town.

Cat Vilage

Attraction in St. Julian's, Malta. Cat-themed area.

Memories

Viewpoint in Malta. Overlooks Spinola Bay.

Balluta Bay

Bay on the northeast coast of Malta. Sandy beach and restaurants.

St Julian's Bay

Bay in Malta. Popular bathing spot on the northeast coast.

Merkanti Beach Club 16+

Beach resort in St. Julian's, Malta. Adults only.

Our Lady of Mount Carmel

Church building in St. Julian's, Malta. Dedicated to Our Lady of Mount Carmel.

Sri Chinmoy - Dreamer of World-Peace

Monument in St. Julian's, Malta. Dedicated to peace activist Sri Chinmoy.

Sliema Bay

Beach in Malta. Bay with promenade and shops.

Torri ta' San Ġiljan🗼 tower

De Redin tower in St. Julian's, Malta. 17th-century coastal watchtower.

Sights nearby

Frequently asked questions

What is the most famous monument here?

The 'LOVE' monument is a popular meeting point and photo spot.

Can you swim in the bay?

No, the bay is mainly used for fishing boats; there are better swimming spots nearby.

When is the best time to visit?

In the evening, when the restaurant lights reflect in the water, it is most atmospheric.

What kind of boats can be seen here?

You can see many traditional Maltese Luzzu boats featuring the eye of Osiris.

Are there good restaurants here?

Yes, Spinola Bay is famous for its excellent waterfront seafood restaurants.

Spinola Bay: where is it located?

Spinola Bay is located in Malta.

Spinola Bay: what is there to see?

Highlights include Saint Julian's Parish Church, Cat Vilage, Memories.

Spinola Bay: when is the best time to visit?

The most pleasant time to visit is May, Jul.

View on map → The Top 50 Attractions → OpenStreetMap →