Picolo recommends · Hotel in St Julian’s, Malta
The Westin Dragonara Resort
A resort on its own headland with sea on three sides, where children can swim in a pool or climb down a ladder into the sea.
The sea surrounds the Dragonara on three sides. Between the gardens and the rocks there are pools for every age, and from the private lido, a swimming deck built on the rocks, ladders lead straight down into clear water.
An old palazzo on the grounds houses a casino, and behind the hotel wall lies Paceville, St Julian’s nightlife district. Inside the grounds, though, the mood is that of a large, relaxed international resort.
Picolo’s verdict
Why we chose The Westin Dragonara Resort
It is our family choice in Malta. Big rooms, a kids’ club and sea swimming without crossing a single road make days with children simple, and parents still get a sea view from the sunbed.
It is big and international rather than small and Maltese. Valletta is not within walking distance, so plan on the ferry from Sliema or a bus when you want to see the capital.
What you get
- Kids’ club
- Several pools for all ages
- Private lido on the rocks
- Spacious rooms
- Large gardens by the sea
A day at The Westin Dragonara Resort
- Morning
- Breakfast, then the children head to the kids’ club.
- Midday
- A swim from the ladders at the lido while the sea is calm.
- Afternoon
- Shade in the gardens and an hour by the pool.
- Evening
- A stroll along the bay as the sun sets over St Julian’s.
Location
St George’s Bay, St Julian’s, Malta
Open in MapsQuestions about The Westin Dragonara Resort
Is The Westin Dragonara Resort good for families?
Yes. It has a kids’ club, pools for different ages, large rooms and sea swimming within the grounds, which makes it one of the easiest family bases in Malta.
Can you swim in the sea at The Westin Dragonara?
Yes. The hotel’s private lido sits on the rocks, and ladders lead directly into the sea.
How far is The Westin Dragonara from Valletta?
It is in St Julian’s, too far to walk. Take a bus, or go to Sliema and catch the short ferry across to Valletta.
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Updated 6 Nov 2026All articles
How Picolo chooses
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