Golden Bay Malta 🏖️

Golden Bay Malta, nestled on the charming northwest coast near the quaint village of Manikata, offers an idyllic escape with its distinctive red sands and serene atmosphere. As you step onto the beach, the allure of Golden Bay becomes immediately apparent. The golden red hue of the sand under your feet glimmers in the sunlight, creating a warm, inviting atmosphere.

This Maltese beach is a hub of leisure activities and draws crowds all year round due to its vast expanse of sand and ease of access. Its natural beauty is accentuated by the surrounding dunes, forming a picturesque landscape that captures the essence of Malta's stunning coastline.

Travelling to Malta's Golden Bay 📌

By Car

We suggest driving to Golden Bay, particularly during the summer months. This recommendation stems from the fact that buses tend to fill up fast and the journey by bus can take twice as long as traveling by car. We recommend setting your Satnav directly to one of the below car parks to avoid confusion when you arrive.

Free Car Parks

While the car parks below are free, sometimes you might meet an unofficial parking attendant. While paying these attendants isn’t mandatory, if you decide to pay them to avoid the hassle, 50 cents should suffice. Be aware that these unofficial attendants typically accept whatever amount you offer and won't provide change.

• Free beach parking area 1
• Free beach parking area 2

Paid Car Parks

• Paid parking area 1
• Paid parking area 2

Remember, weekends can get busy, and parking spots might be scarce. Aim for an early morning or late afternoon arrival to snag a good place. With your own car, you'll enjoy the flexibility and ease of exploring the stunning coastline of Malta.

By Public Transport

Traveling to the bay by bus is easy and convenient. Set your destination to Għajn Tuffieħa Bus Terminus on Google Maps, and it will provide directions from your current location. This bus stop is the closest to Golden Bay; avoid getting off at Riviera, the stop just before, as this is not the stop for Golden Bay.

In the summer months, plan your travel carefully, as buses can fill up quickly. If you find it full, you might have to wait for the next one. Here's a guide to make your trip from popular locations smoother:

• From Malta International Airport: Catch the X3 to Qawra Terminus. It leaves every hour from 5:30 AM to 6:30 PM, and the trip takes about an hour. Once in Qawra, switch to the 223 for Golden Bay.
• From Buġibba, Qawra, and St. Paul's Bay: The 223 is a direct route, running hourly from 7:30 AM to 8:30 PM. The ride lasts about 20 minutes. Alternatively, 225 also goes through St. Paul's Bay's main road.
• From Valletta: Direct 44 is your best bet. It departs every half hour from 5:45 AM to 9:15 PM, with the journey taking approximately one hour.
• From Sliema and St. Julian's: Take 225. It operates every hour from 5:50 AM until 8:50 PM, and the trip lasts around 60 minutes.

Features for the Best Beach Experience🔎

• P

  Parking

  Golden Bay offers four car parks: two paid and two free. Arrive early in summer to secure a spot as they fill up fast.

• WC

  Public Toilets

  Public toilets are behind the car park. Charges range from 50 cents to 1 euro.

• Camping

  Camping is not allowed on any beaches in Malta. However, Għajn Tuffieħa Scout Campsite is just minutes from Golden Bay’s beach.

• Accessibility

  The beach is accessible for people with disabilities, with a ramp leading from the lower end of the car park to the sand. There are also wheelchair-friendly walkways on the beach.

• Food & Drinks

  There are many restaurants and bars, and you're welcome to bring and consume your own food and drink, as long as you don't leave any rubbish behind.

• BBQs

  Gas BBQs are allowed with a permit, which you must apply for online at

  Mellieħa Council's Permit System.

• Sunbeds & Umbrellas

  Sunbeds and umbrellas are rentable from the beach club.

• Dog-friendly

  Dogs on the beach are prohibited.

• Showers

  Showers are available, but using soap and shampoo is not allowed.

• Diving

  Both snorkeling and scuba diving are permitted at Golden Bay.

Golden Bay Hotels

Azure - Golden Sands Resort & Spa

Location: Commanding a prime position overlooking the stunning beach golden in Malta.

This resort is a haven of luxury and comfort, offering elegantly furnished rooms and suites with spectacular views of the Mediterranean. Guests can indulge in various amenities, including multiple gourmet restaurants, a world-class spa, and indoor and outdoor pools. This hotel is perfect for those seeking an upscale experience, with things like diving, horseback riding, beach volleyball, and hiking readily available, ensuring a fantastic beach experience.

Radisson Hotels Blu Resort & Spa, Malta Golden Sands

Location: Situated on the edge of a cliff, offering a panoramic sea view of the Bay.

The Radisson Blu Resort & Spa combines comfort, style, and breathtaking natural beauty. This luxurious hotel features spacious, modern rooms and suites, most with sea views. Highlights include several fine dining options, an extensive spa and wellness center, and multiple swimming pools. The hotel’s location makes it ideal for exploring the surrounding area's cultural and natural attractions or simply relaxing and enjoying the stunning scenery.

Each of these options offers a unique way to experience the beauty of Malta, whether you're looking for a relaxing retreat or an adventurous escape. Their prime locations, top-notch facilities, and commitment to guest satisfaction make them the perfect choice for an unforgettable stay in Golden Bay.

Golden Bay Restaurants

This bay has a diverse and vibrant culinary scene. Here's is our guide designed to give you some great tips and information on top restaurants in the bay, each offering a unique dining experience.

Spiaggia D'Oro

Location: Right on the beachfront.

Spiaggia D'Oro is a favorite for beach-goers in Malta seeking delicious food right on the Golden Bay beach. Known for its casual, friendly atmosphere, this restaurant serves various dishes, from fresh seafood to mouth-watering burgers. The outdoor seating allows diners to enjoy their meal while listening to the waves and watching the sunset.

Essence Restaurant - Radisson Blu Golden Sands

Location: Inside the Radisson Hotels Malta Golden Sands.

Essence Restaurant offers a fine dining experience with a focus on Mediterranean cuisine. The restaurant has an elegant setting and an exquisite menu featuring fresh, locally sourced ingredients. Diners can expect beautifully presented dishes and an extensive wine list, all enjoyed with stunning views over the bay.

Agliolio Restaurant

Location: Nestled in the heart of the bay.

Agliolio Restaurant is known for its laid-back atmosphere and delicious Italian fare. Specializing in pasta and pizza, this restaurant is a hit with families and groups. The beachside location and friendly service make it an ideal spot for a relaxed meal after a day in the sun.

Flavours Restaurant

Location: Nestled in the heart of the bay.

Flavours Restaurant provides a diverse culinary experience with a menu that caters to various tastes. Every meal gets prepared with attention to detail, from Mediterranean to international dishes. The restaurant's cozy interior and welcoming staff create a pleasant and comfortable dining experience.

Apple's Eye Restaurant

Location: Overlooking one of the most picturesque bays in Malta.

Apple's Eye Restaurant is a gem in the area, famous for its traditional Maltese cuisine. This restaurant offers a taste of local culture with dishes like rabbit stew and freshly caught fish. Its terrace seating provides a perfect spot for enjoying a meal while admiring the bay's natural beauty.

Each of these restaurants in Golden Bay offers something unique, whether you're in the mood for fine dining or a casual beachside meal. They capture the essence of Malta's culinary diversity, making Golden Bay a visual paradise and a haven for food enthusiasts.

FAQs about Golden Bay 💡

• Where is Golden Bay Malta?

  Golden Bay is on the northwestern coast, known for its picturesque landscape and beautiful sandy beach. It's one of the island's most popular beaches, situated near the village of Manikata and just a short distance from Mellieħa, a larger town in the northern region of Malta.
  
  The bay is easily accessible by public transport and car, with ample parking for visitors. Golden Bay is famed for its golden beach, clear waters, and stunning sunsets, making it a favorite spot for locals and tourists. The area is well-equipped with facilities, including restaurants, beach clubs, and water sports, offering a perfect blend of natural beauty and convenience.

• What other sandy beach do you recommend?

  If you want to explore beyond Golden Bay's shores, we highly recommend visiting the nearby Ghajn Tuffieha beach. Often referred to as tuffieħa golden, this beach is a stunning counterpart to Golden Bay and offers a more serene and untouched landscape.
  
  Tuffieha Golden is just a short distance away and is easily accessible from Golden Bay. It's known for its breathtaking natural beauty and is less crowded, making it a perfect spot for those seeking tranquility. The beach is well-maintained and often flies a Blue Flag, symbolizing its high environmental and quality standards.
  
  For adventure seekers, Tuffieha Golden offers a variety of sports. Its clear waters are ideal for swimming and snorkeling, while the surrounding area is excellent for hiking and exploring. If you're interested in guided experiences, numerous tours and trips can enrich your visit. These tours often include insights into the area's local flora and fauna, geological features, and historical significance.
  
  Additionally, if you plan to visit Gozo, Tuffieha Golden is an excellent starting point. You can find guides from here to Gozo, where the exploration continues with more stunning beaches, historical sites, and unique cultural experiences.

• Where are the Maltese sandy beaches?

  In the beautiful archipelago of Malta, you'll find a delightful array of sandy beaches spread across the island, each providing its unique blend of scenic beauty and charm.
  
  These beaches are perfect havens for many activities, from leisurely sunbathing under the radiant Mediterranean sun to indulging in a refreshing swim in crystal-clear waters. Additionally, for those seeking adventure and excitement, these beaches serve as excellent spots for various water sports, offering thrilling experiences and the opportunity to engage with the stunning natural surroundings.
  
  Additionally, Gozo, the sister island of Malta, has beaches renowned for their serene atmosphere and natural allure, offering a more secluded and intimate experience. From the picturesque Ramla Bay with its unique red sands to the tranquil seclusion of San Blas Beach, each beach in Gozo has its own character and appeal. These locations are ideal for more laid-back things like picnicking, gentle strolls along the shore, and more exhilarating water-based adventures. Whether kayaking, snorkeling, or diving, Gozo's beaches provide the perfect backdrop for a memorable day out by the sea.

• Is it safe to swim in the sea in Malta?

  Swimming in the sea in Malta is generally considered safe, especially at the popular, well-maintained beaches that often have lifeguards on duty during summer.
  
  The waters around Malta are known for their clarity and cleanliness, making them ideal for swimming. However, like with any coastal region, it's essential to be aware of local conditions such as currents, winds, and weather forecasts. We advise beach-goers to swim in designated areas and follow any safety signs or flags.
  
  Extra caution should be exercised during the off-season when lifeguards are absent. For the safest experience, we recommend you swim at beaches where lifeguards are on duty and that you stay informed about the local sea conditions.

• Can you see sharks in Malta?

  While the waters around Malta are home to various marine species, sightings of sharks are relatively rare and usually involve harmless species. The Mediterranean Sea does have sharks, but they are typically found in deeper waters and are a rare sight near the shores or popular swimming areas. The most common types of sharks in these waters are small and pose no threat to humans.
  
  On the rare occasions that larger species get spotted, they tend to keep their distance from the coast and humans. The clear waters of Malta offer a rich marine ecosystem that can be explored safely, with a very low chance of encountering a shark. Shark sightings, when they do occur, are often considered an exciting and unique event rather than a cause for concern.

• Is the sea cold in Malta?

  The sea temperature in Malta varies throughout the year, but it is generally quite pleasant and suitable for swimming.
  
  During the peak months, from June to September, the sea temperatures are warmest, often reaching around 26°C (79°F), making it ideal for swimming, snorkeling, and other water activities. In spring and autumn, the water is cooler but still comfortable for most swimmers. The sea temperature during these seasons typically ranges from 17°C to 23°C (63°F to 73°F). In winter, the sea is cooler, with temperatures dropping to about 15°C to 17°C (59°F to 63°F), which might be chilly for some.
  
  Overall, Malta is known for its relatively warm sea temperatures compared to other destinations in the Mediterranean, allowing for an extended swimming season.

• Is Malta cheap or expensive?

  The country of Malta has moderate prices when compared to other European locales. It offers numerous options that are easy on the wallet, particularly in terms of lodging, eating out, and various forms of entertainment. That said, hotel prices can be steeper in areas that are popular with tourists. Additionally, the public transportation system is very budget-friendly and an efficient way to explore.
  
  When considering Gozo, the sister location to Malta, visitors will find a similar pricing structure but slight variation in the overall cost. Generally, Gozo tends to be more affordable, especially regarding accommodations and dining. The smaller size and less commercialized nature translate into lower prices for guesthouses, providing excellent value for money. Dining in Gozo also offers a range of options, from upscale restaurants to casual eateries, all at reasonable prices. However, it's worth noting that some tourist-centric regions in Gozo may have slightly higher costs, similar to Malta. Transport to and within Gozo, including the ferry service from Malta, is also quite economical, making it a cost-effective choice for travelers looking to experience this beautiful destination's unique charm and quieter ambiance.