Anchor Bay, Malta: Beyond Popeye Village – A Complete Guide

Anchor Bay, nestled on the northwestern coast of Malta, is instantly recognizable. While famed for its iconic views of Popeye Village, the bay itself offers a unique blend of natural beauty, recreational opportunities, and cinematic history. This article provides a comprehensive guide to Anchor Bay, exploring its connection to the film set, the surrounding environment, and everything you need to know for a memorable visit to this stunning corner of the Republic of Malta. It’s more than just a backdrop; it’s a destination in its own right.

Anchor Bay’s Claim to Fame: The Popeye Village Connection

Anchor Bay’s most prominent feature, and the primary reason for its widespread recognition, is Popeye Village. This charmingly ramshackle film set, built in 1979 for the musical production “Popeye” starring Robin Williams, clings to the cliffs overlooking the bay. The colorful wooden buildings, seemingly plucked straight from a cartoon, create a whimsical and unforgettable vista.

The village itself is now a major tourist attraction, offering shows, boat rides, and interactive experiences. However, this article will focus on Anchor Bay *as a whole*, highlighting its natural features and the opportunities it provides beyond the film set, while still acknowledging the village’s significant influence.

Geographical Location and Getting to Anchor Bay

Anchor Bay is located on the northwestern coast of Malta, close to the village of Mellieħa. Its relatively secluded location adds to its charm, making it feel like a hidden gem.

• By Car: Driving is the most convenient way to reach Anchor Bay. From Valletta, follow the main roads north towards Mellieħa. Once in Mellieħa, follow the signs for Popeye Village, which will lead you directly to Anchor Bay. The drive from Valletta takes approximately 30-45 minutes, depending on traffic. Ample parking is available near Popeye Village, although it can get busy during peak season.
• By Bus: Several bus routes connect Mellieħa to other parts of Malta. From Mellieħa, you can take bus number 101, which stops near Popeye Village and Anchor Bay. Check the Malta Public Transport website for the latest schedules and routes. The bus journey is generally longer than driving but is a cost-effective option.
• By Taxi/Ride-Sharing: Taxis and ride-sharing services like Bolt and eCabs are readily available and offer a convenient, albeit more expensive, way to reach Anchor Bay.
• By Tour: There are tours which stop here, making it a fun thing to do in malta.

Exploring the Natural Beauty of Anchor Bay

Beyond the captivating presence of Popeye Village, Anchor Bay boasts its own unique natural charm:

• Crystal-Clear Waters: Like much of Malta’s coastline, Anchor Bay features remarkably clear turquoise waters. The visibility is excellent, making it a popular spot for swimming and snorkeling.
• Rocky Coastline: The bay is characterized by dramatic cliffs and a rocky shoreline. This rugged landscape provides stunning views and creates a sense of seclusion.
• Small Sandy Beach: While primarily rocky, there is a small, sheltered sandy beach area within Anchor Bay, perfect for sunbathing and relaxing. This is located near the Popeye village lido.
• Underwater Caves and Reefs: The rocky seabed and clear waters make Anchor Bay a popular spot for divers and snorkelers. There are several underwater caves and reefs to explore, teeming with marine life.
• Sunsets: Anchor Bay’s westward-facing location offers spectacular sunset views, painting the sky with vibrant colors.

Activities and Things to Do in Anchor Bay

Anchor Bay offers a variety of activities, catering to different interests and age groups:

• Visit Popeye Village: Of course, a visit to the film set is a must-do. Enjoy the shows, meet the characters, take a boat ride, and explore the quirky buildings.
• Swimming and Sunbathing: Relax on the small sandy beach or take a refreshing dip in the clear waters.
• Snorkeling and Diving: Explore the underwater world, discovering the diverse marine life and underwater features. Several dive centers operate in nearby Mellieħa.
• Boat Trips: Boat trips around Anchor Bay and to nearby Comino are available, offering different perspectives of the coastline and the Blue Lagoon.
• Kayaking and Paddleboarding: Rent a kayak or paddleboard and explore the bay at your own pace.
• Coastal Walks: The cliffs surrounding Anchor Bay offer scenic walking paths with stunning views.
• Photography: The combination of the colorful Popeye Village, the dramatic cliffs, and the clear blue waters makes Anchor Bay a photographer’s paradise.
• Relaxing and Enjoying the View: Simply find a comfortable spot, soak up the sun, and enjoy the breathtaking scenery.

Facilities and Amenities at Anchor Bay

Anchor Bay’s facilities are primarily centered around Popeye Village:

• Popeye Village Facilities: The film set offers restrooms, restaurants, cafes, souvenir shops, and a small lido with sunbeds and umbrellas.
• Parking: Ample parking is available near Popeye Village, although it can get crowded during peak season.
• Public Restrooms: Public restrooms are available within Popeye Village.
• Limited Facilities Outside the Village: Outside of Popeye Village, facilities are limited. It’s advisable to bring your own water, snacks, and sunscreen.
• Nearby Mellieħa: The nearby town of Mellieħa offers a wider range of facilities, including supermarkets, restaurants, pharmacies, and ATMs.

Accommodation Near Anchor Bay: Hotels and Other Options

While Anchor Bay itself doesn’t have large hotels, there are numerous accommodation options in nearby Mellieħa and the surrounding areas. Here’s a table summarizing some options (based on Agoda as a guide, but always check for the latest prices and availability):

Hotel Name	Location (Approx. Distance from Anchor Bay)	Rating (Approx.)	Price Range (Per Night – Double Room)	Features
Labranda Riviera Hotel & Spa	Marfa (3 km)	4-star	€80 – €200	Seafront location, multiple pools, spa, restaurants, bars
Ramla Bay Resort	Marfa (4 km)	4-star	€90 – €220	Seafront location, private beach, multiple pools, spa, restaurants, kids’ club.
db Seabank Resort + Spa	Mellieħa Bay (3 km)	4-star	€120 – €300	All-inclusive option, large resort, multiple pools, restaurants, spa, entertainment.
Mellieha Bay Hotel	Mellieħa Bay (4 km)	4-star	€60 – €150	Large Hotel with, restaurants, Pools and Spa,
Maritim Antonine Hotel & Spa	Mellieħa (4 km)	4-star	€80 – €200	Located in Mellieħa village, rooftop pool, spa, restaurants, panoramic views.
Solana Hotel & Spa	Mellieħa (4 km)	4-star	€70-€180	Located in Mellieħa village, rooftop pool, spa, restaurants, panoramic views.

Other Accommodation Options:

• Serviced Apartments: Numerous serviced apartments are available in Mellieħa, offering self-catering options ideal for families or groups.
• Guesthouses: Smaller, family-run guesthouses in Mellieħa provide a more personal experience.
• Vacation Rentals: Websites like Airbnb and Booking.com list villas, apartments, and farmhouses for rent in the area.
• Hostels: Budget-friendly hostel options are available in Mellieħa, although they are less common than other types of accommodation.

Diving and Snorkeling in Anchor Bay: Exploring the Underwater World

Anchor Bay offers several interesting dive and snorkel sites, although it’s not as well-known for diving as Ċirkewwa.

• Anchor Bay Reef: The main reef area is located near the entrance to the bay. It offers a variety of marine life, including octopus, cuttlefish, moray eels, and various species of fish.
• Scorpion Cave: A small underwater cave located near the cliffs, known for its scorpionfish population.
• Popeye’s Anchor: A large anchor, purportedly used during the filming of “Popeye,” lies on the seabed. However, its authenticity is debated.
• Visibility: The water clarity is generally excellent, making it a pleasant experience for both divers and snorkelers.
• Dive Centers: While there are no dive centers directly at Anchor Bay, several operate in nearby Mellieħa and offer guided dives and equipment rental.

The History of Anchor Bay and Popeye Village

The construction of Popeye Village in 1979 transformed Anchor Bay. Before that, it was a relatively secluded and undeveloped area. The film set, originally intended to be temporary, became a permanent fixture due to its popularity.

• Film Production: The “Popeye” movie was a major Hollywood production, and the construction of the village was a significant undertaking. Materials were imported from various countries, and the set was designed to resemble the fictional village of Sweethaven.
• Post-Filming: After filming was completed, the set was initially slated for demolition. However, local interest and the potential for tourism led to its preservation.
• Tourist Attraction: Popeye Village has evolved into a major tourist attraction, drawing visitors from around the world. It has been expanded and developed over the years, adding new attractions and activities.

Preserving Anchor Bay’s Natural Beauty and Sustainability

It is important to enjoy the are responsibly.

• Respect the Environment: Avoid littering, and dispose of your trash responsibly. Do not touch or disturb marine life.
• Sustainable Tourism: Support local businesses and choose eco-friendly tour operators.
• Water Conservation: Be mindful of water usage, especially during the dry summer months.
• Responsible Diving and Snorkeling: Follow best practices for diving and snorkeling to minimize your impact on the underwater environment.

Anchor Bay, with its iconic Popeye Village backdrop, is a unique and captivating destination. While the film set is undoubtedly a major draw, the bay itself offers a wealth of natural beauty, recreational opportunities, and a tranquil escape from the more bustling areas of Malta. Whether you’re exploring the whimsical village, diving into the crystal-clear waters, or simply soaking up the stunning views, Anchor Bay provides a memorable experience that blends cinematic history with the natural splendor of the Maltese coastline. It’s a testament to how a seemingly ordinary bay can be transformed into an extraordinary destination, and its a worthwhile stop when in Malta.