A day built around water
The coast road north of St Julian’s runs past a string of resorts, apartment blocks and beach clubs, and at Bahar ic-Caghaq it passes a water park. Splash and Fun offers a day out for people who feel wild and adventurous, and for those who prefer to lie back and let the afternoon go by. Both are catered for in the same place.
For families visiting Malta in July or August, it provides something the rocky beaches cannot: guaranteed water, shallow areas for small children and slides for the older ones.
For the adventurous
The slide area has several options. There are Family Slides, the Super Bowl and the Sidewinder, and above them all sits the Black Hole. This is a slide through a closed tube about 120 metres long, from a height of 12 metres. You pass through a torrent of water, meeting unexpected bends, dips and surprises along the way, and finish with a massive splash.
Queues build in the middle of the day, so go to the biggest slides early. Check height and age restrictions at the entrance, and follow the lifeguards’ instructions, especially on enclosed slides.
For the relaxed
The Lazy River lets you lie back and let the gentle current take you around the park. It is the simplest ride in the place, and it works for all ages. A float or tube makes it more comfortable, and it is often the best way to cool down between slides.
The Wave Pool offers lapping waves, and animators provide a fun and entertaining atmosphere. Children enjoy the movement of the water, and adults can stand at the edge and watch. There are also extensive sun deck areas, so those who want to read a book or sunbathe have space.
Winter and young children
For the winter months, there is an indoor and outdoor children’s play area. It provides a safe and colourful environment for toddlers right through to pre-teens. This extends the park’s usefulness beyond the bathing season, and it suits families who live on the island or visit in the cooler months.
The play area is not a replacement for the water park, but it gives children a place to run on a day when swimming is out of the question.
Making the most of the day
Water parks reward preparation. Arrive early in summer, when the queues are shortest and the sun is not yet at its strongest. Bring sunscreen, a hat, swimwear, a towel and a change of clothes. Water shoes help on hot surfaces, and a waterproof pouch for a phone is useful.
Take regular breaks in the shade and drink water, since the combination of sun and splashing can mask dehydration. For toddlers, choose a quiet section and keep them within reach at all times.
If you have a mixed group, split the day. Older children and teenagers can take on the big slides in the morning, while the whole family meets for lunch and then moves to the lazy river and wave pool in the afternoon.
Around Bahar ic-Caghaq
The area is a mix of residential streets and seafront. The Wied il-Ghasel valley lies inland, a quiet contrast to a day of slides, and the Bird Park and National Aquarium are within a reasonable drive for another family day. De Redin Towers is also nearby, one of a line of coastal watchtowers that look out over the shore.
For food, bring snacks and drinks, and check what the park provides on site. The coast road has restaurants and cafes within a short distance, and St Julian’s offers more choice for an evening meal.
Practical points
Opening dates and hours are seasonal, so check the official website before travelling. Ticket prices change between seasons and for different age groups, so rely on the current list. Ask about family and group tickets, which can bring down the cost.
Plan at least half a day. A full day is realistic for older children, but younger ones may be tired after a morning. Weekdays are quieter than weekends, and the shoulder months of June and September can offer lighter crowds with still-warm weather.
Wear footwear that dries quickly, and put on sunscreen before you arrive so that you can go straight into the water. Finish with an ice cream on the seafront and a slow drive home along the coast.
