Nestled in the curves of St Paul's Bay in the north of the island of Malta, Bugibba is a playground for holidaymakers. It's a small town that is big on charm and though it doesn't boast a natural beach, tourist bosses here have created one, as well as a brand new waterpark. In fact the powers that be have been very busy in Bugibba, splashing out on a lovely new seafront promenade and a delightful and busy public square. 

The allure of Malta has not been lost in this well-developed tourist town. Arriving into Malta International Airport (MLA, also known as Luqa) after only three to four hours from the UK, it's just a 30-minute drive through this landscape of history and intrigue, which at first looks barren and desolate. Drive past Valletta, making a mental note to head back to the capital for an exciting day trip, or take the route via Mdina, the medieval walled former capital of the island nation. You'll soon get a flavour for the heritage of Malta, which has been ruled by the Romans, the Moors, the Knights of St John, the Spanish and, of course, the British - check out the red post and phone boxes for bright reminders of this reign. You see? Malta is not the blank storybook it can appear to be at first glance. Add all of this to wonderful Mediterranean weather and you can be sure of an interesting and sun-baked holiday encounter. 

Hotels in Bugibba are of a good standard and there's just enough nightlife in the town to keep things interesting. There are a couple of clubs if you fancy a late-night dance, though many visitors prefer a few quiet drinks in one of the many welcoming bars. 

Bugibba Perched is the manmade beach and there are also lidos around the bay for anyone hoping for a dip in the sea. The beaches at Mellieha Bay are within easy reach of Bugibba too. 

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Sun seekers delight in Malta's sunny nature. With low, low rainfall and hot, hot days, the months of May to September see many visitors travelling to Bugibba, while the peak summer months of July and August are extremely busy and very hot; expect daytime temperatures of around 30C. Winters are mild in Bugibba, with average daytime temperatures in the teens. You can find cheap holidays to Malta during the colder months and this is the perfect time to do some sightseeing.

Malta International Fireworks Festival; April: It takes only 30 minutes to reach capital city Valletta from Bugibba. This spring event is worth the journey. Find a spot around the Grand Harbour (some of the best views are from Barriera Wharf) and see the sky dance with the works of pyrotechnic masters. 

St Paul's Bay Festival (festa); July: If you are in Malta at the end of July do not miss the week-long festivities around St Paul's Bay, which includes feasts, processions and fireworks.

Festival Mediterranea; October: Consider taking the ferry to the Maltese island of Gozo (a 30-minute crossing) to revel in this celebration of culture. There is much to see and do during the event and you could even consider an overnight stay if there's an evening performance you are dying to catch (though ferries do run late into the night).

Kids and teens: Bugibba Water Park is more of a wet playground than the huge waterpark you might be more familiar with. There are no big rides and flumes, rather a run of water jets, showers and cannons, with different zones dependent on age. It's a fun way to cool off in the summer heat. 

Romance: Take a journey back in time and visit the exquisite fortified city of Valletta, roaming hand in hand among the cobbled backstreets and marble-floored squares. 

Relaxing: Cruise boats sail from St Paul's Bay to a variety of destinations. Seeing Malta on a leisurely journey on the waves is a delightful way to pass some time. Pick a boat where you can stop off for a spot of snorkelling - the underwater scene here is incredible.  

Active types: If you want to dive really deep into the waters around Malta, consider spending some time with one of the many reputable scuba-diving companies that operate from Bugibba. You can learn to dive or, if you are already certified, simply join a dive to see some of the best sites in the Med. 

Free and cheap: It doesn't cost much to hire a bike here and explore the area away from the main tourist hub. There's a good network of paths around the area and it's the perfect (and cheap) way to see more of the island.