Best for Kids

Best for animal lovers

Dolphins and sea lions are the stars of the show at the Mediterraneo Marine Park (Bahar ic-Caghaq 2137 2218/www.mediterraneo.com.mt) as they display their acrobatic skills. There is also a parrot show, with these exotic birds showing off their mimicing antics. Another highlight is the chance for adults and children over eight years to swim with the dolphins. The park offers children a fun way of learning about marine life. Open Apr-mid Oct 10am-5pm daily.

Best for Popeye fans

Popeye Village (Anchor Bay, Mellieha 2152 4782/www. popeyemalta.com) is the actual set used for 'Popeye', the 1980s film starring Robin Williams -an  entire village of wooden houses, some converted into bars and shops, others equipped with props used for the film. Parts of the film and a background to the set construction are screened in a small cinema and in summer you can take a boat ride around the bay. Open June-Sept 9.30am-7pm; Oct, Mar-May 9.30am- 5.30pm; Jan, Feb 9.30am-4.30pm daily.

Best for cooling off

In the heat of summer, kids will love Splash and Fun Water Park (Coast Road, Bahar ic-Caghaq 2137 4283/ www.splashandfun.com.mt). Large water slides, the new sidewinder, a daily animated programme of games, dances, volleyball and aerobics, a wave pool with massive 1.5m waves and other thrilling water activities. For younger kids, 'Children's Splash Land' has fun features such as arching jets, water guns and a tunnel slide; and for sheer relaxation the 'Lazy River' pool carries you gently through the water on a large rubber tyre. Open Apr-Oct (weather permitting) 9am-7pm daily.