St. Paul's Islands

St. Paul's shipwreck site

Two tiny islets (Selmunett) lie in St. Paul's Bay, about 200 metres from shore. Tradition holds this is where in 60 AD the apostle Paul was shipwrecked during his voyage to Rome, as described in the Acts of the Apostles (chapters 27-28). A statue of St. Paul from 1845 stands on the larger island.

Uninhabited and protected

The islands are uninhabited and protected as a nature reserve. Endemic plant species grow on them, and the rocky shores provide habitat for lizards and seabirds. Landing on the islands is formally prohibited without permission from the Environment and Resources Authority (ERA).

View from shore

The best view of the islands is from the Bugibba promenade or the rocky coastline between Bugibba and Xemxija. You can reach them by kayak (rentals in Bugibba) or excursion boat. The water around the islands is clean and shallow, ideal for snorkelling.

Practical tip: Kayaks for hire in Bugibba (about EUR 15/hour). No landing on the islands. Snorkelling around the islets is excellent (fish, seahorses). The view is free from the Bugibba promenade.