Golden Bay Malta

Your Destination needs

A wide stretch of golden sand gives Golden Bay its name. In Maltese, it is called ‘Ir-Ramla tal-Mixquqa‘, which literally translates as ‘The Sandy Bay of the Cracked (promontory)’. The beach is surrounded by natural dunes and jagged cliffs, on which is perched a 17th century watch tower built by the Knights of Malta. The distinct yellow-orange sands give way to blue-green shallow waters that gradually increase in depth.

Located on the north west coast of the island of Malta, on the stretch of coast that includes Riviera Beach (Ghajn Tuffieha bay) and Gnejna Bay, the beach also enjoys spectacular sunsets over the horizon of the Mediterranean Sea. The natural beauty of Malta’s largest beach after Mellieha Bay earns it the reputation of being the most beautiful beach in Malta

A Guide to Golden Bay

It’s very easy to reach by public transport and car, although parking can be a challenge on Sundays and public holidays.

Getting to Golden bay by driving is easy as it is in a secluded area of Malta. Parking is easy as there are two parking areas, one at the top of the stairs near the Radisson Golden Sands hotel and another one uphill from the hotel.Parking is also available further up from the bay along the main road.

If you plan on driving from the airport this is only a 30 minute drive.

A Few Hints on How to Get to Golden Bay Malta:

It is best to get the St. Paul’s bay bypass or Xemxija main road.
If you are coming from St. Paul's Bay bypass, at the roundabout take the first exit and keep on for a few kilometres until you reach the beach.
If you are coming from Xemxija, at the roundabout take the second exit and keep going for a few kilometres until you reach the beach.
It is the same road which takes you to Ghajn Tuffieha Bay too.

How to get there?

From Malta International Airport : Bus X3 to Qawra Terminus, every 60minutes from 05:30 to 18:30. Trip duration around 60 minutes. After arrival, transfer to Bus 223(see details below)
From Bugibba, Qawra and St. Paul's Bay: Direct Bus 223, every 60 minutes from 07:30 to 20:30. Trip duration around 20 minutes. Bus number 225 passes through the St. Paul's Bay main road.
From Valletta: Direct Bus 44, every 30 minutes from 05:45 to 21:15. The trip takes around 1 hour.
From Sliema and St. Julian's: Bus 225, every 60 minutes from 05:50 till 20:50. Trip duration around 60 minutes.

Note: Duration of trips can vary depending on the traffic along the way. Before arriving at Golden Bay, the bus stops at Ghajn Tuffieħa Bay. The stop called 'Riviera'. After that it will then go to “Għajn Tuffieħa Bus Terminus”.

Public Transport

Riviera Bay: It’s a favourite among tourists as well as locals and can get busy, but the stunning beauty, its panoramic views and clean water are just amazing. This is a must-visit and well worth a bus ride from wherever it is you’re staying in Malta.

Golden Bay: It's picturesque setting is complemented with several opportunities of relaxation or activity, from sunbathing, swimming and snorkeling to a variety of water sports.

Beaches

Water Sports: This location provides a vast range of activities ranging from Jet skis, para-gliding behind a speedboat, water skiing, sausage rides, banana boat, paddle boats, kayaking, water skiing, sofa riding, sailing boats, canoes and stand up boards. All you have to do is speak to AquaMarine which are situated right by the beach (Golden Bay) on your right.

Hiking at the Majjistral Nature and History Park: This Park is open 24/7 Monday to Sunday.

It is Malta’s first natural national park. It contains more than 426 species of plants. Ten confirmed breeding birds use the park as their home. Walks for the public are held mainly on weekends throughout the year (subject to a minimum number of 10 participants and maximum number of 30). Group bookings are also accepted and can be tailor-made to fit the group’s needs.

Horse riding: Horse riding is thrilling, fun, and a different way to experience the unspoiled rugged countryside. With several beautiful routes along the northern coast, take in its spectacular breath-taking views from your saddle. It’s a leisure activity suitable for riders of all ages, who are both beginners and experienced.

Whether you are looking for a sunset coastal ride, nature trekking or a group event this Horse riding activity will surely scratch your adventurous itch.

Activities in Golden Bay

Popeye Village: Enter a world where fantasy meets reality: the original film set of the 1980 Popeye musical.

The iconic comic character, Popeye the sailor, his beloved Olive Oyl and Popeye’s nemesis Captain Bluto welcome you with song and dance as you approach the village from the cliffs above. You’ll quickly find yourself in the day-to-day life and adventures of Popeye the sailor man. Tickets for the original Popeye’s Village Malta are available at the gate. Tickets are cheaper in winter.