One of the most popular beaches in Malta is Golden Bay Beach, which is known for its soft golden sands, beautiful sunsets, and chill but fun vibe. This beach is in the northwest of Malta and is a great place to enjoy nature, relax, and learn about the culture. If you are looking for a place to go on holiday for summer, or for the weekend, Golden Bay may have everything you could want.
🌴History of Golden Bay Beach
There is a lot of history about Golden Bay, which is close to the villages of Manikata and Mellieùa. Ancient people used the beach and the land around it for farming and coastal defense. There were Roman towns and medieval watch posts on the beach and in the area. During the 20th century, it became a famous place for both locals and tourists to go for fun at the beach.
☀️ Climate and Geography
Golden Bay, known by locals as "r-Ramla tal-Mixquqa" is one of a group of beautiful bays on the rough northwest coast of Malta. The beach has picture-postcard views and calm blue water. It is surrounded by rocky cliffs and green hills. Part of the area is also Majjistral Nature and History Park, which is a safe place to go for walks in nature.
The best time to visit Golden Bay depends on the weather. In Malta, summer season is hot and the winter season is cool, not very cool though.
Towards the end of May to October the sea is warm and the blue clear skies.
The average summer temperature is 30°C (86°F) an during the winter, it goes down to about
15°C (59°F).
The sea temperature can rise up to 26°C (79°F) during the month of August.
⛱️ How long is the Golden Bay Beach?
Golden Bay Beach, is one of the longer sandy beaches on the island,about 300 meters (0.19 miles) long. It's great for long walks or beach games.
👨👩👧👦 People and Language
People from Malta are known for being friendly and open. People from the area and tourists alike enjoy the beach.
Maltese and English, spoken widely, are the official languages, and many people also know Italian.
👨👩👧👦 Water Sports and activities
Water sports can be done all over Golden Bay. There are things you can rent or book, like:
Jet skis.
Surfing the waves.
Kayaking.
Snorkeling.
Flying a kite.
Hang Gliding.
Scuba diving (there are diving schools close).
🍸 Restaurants and Dining Out
A variety of Maltese and foreign dishes are served at a number of great restaurants on the beach.
The Munchies is a laid-back beach bar and grill right on the sand.
Apple's Eye is on the cliff above and has fresh fish and stunning views of the sunset.
Radisson Blu Resort Restaurants serve high-class food with wines and tastes from the area
🎉 Entertainment and Nightlife
Evenings in Golden Bay are a bit calmer, but places close by, like St. Paul's Bay (12 km / 7.5 miles) and St. Julian's (23 km / 14 miles), have busier nightlife scenes with bars and clubs.
The Mellieça Village Festa is held in September and is a lively party with music, fireworks, and traditional food.
Malta's International Fireworks Festival attracts many people, especially to the coastal areas, during the months of April and May.
🏕 Attractions and Things to Do Nearby
Ghajn Tuffieha Bay is only a short walk away.
For hiking, learning about plants and watching birds, the ideal place is Majjistral Nature and History Park.
Popeye Village, which is 9 km (5.6 miles) away and was built for the 1980 movie Popeye, an ideal place for people of any age.
Pay a visit to MellieĤa Parish Church if interested in viewing the northern coast from there and of course, learn about culture.
🚴 Rentals: It's Easy to Get Around
There are many rental choices in Golden Bay, including:
Renting a car is a great way to see Malta's more remote places.
Motorbike and scooter rentals are a great option for tourists who are traveling alone.
🏄 Water craft Rentals
Rent a boat and check out nearby sea caves and secret spots.
Water sports stuff: paddleboards, kayaks, and snorkeling gear can be rented right at the beach.
Boats and jet skis that you can rent by the hour or book guided rides
There are many types of vacation rentals and places to stay that can fit any budget.
Radisson Blu Golden Sands is a high-end hotel right on the beach.
🏨 Apartments and Room Rentals
You can find Airbnb and local rentals in Mellieça and Manikata, which are close by.
Lodges and farmstays: In the surrounding countryside, warmth and country charm come together.
Dormitories and hostels are cheap places to stay in nearby towns.
🏥 Hospitals and other medical services
Mater Dei Hospital in Msida is the closest major hospital which is about 21 km (13 miles) away.
There are dental clinics in MellieĤa, Mosta, and St. Paul's Bay.
There are several pharmacies in Malta that offer basic medical care and over-the-counter medicines.
Clinical Tests: There are private labs and mobile testing services in the area that offer these tests.
🛒 Grocery stores and Shopping
Small stores in Manikata and Mellieùa sell groceries and other everyday items.
Bigger supermarket companies, like Welbee's and Greens in Malta
You can find fresh food, goods, sun protection, and basic medical supplies.
🚗 Getting There and Getting Around
MellieĤa is the closest city, 5.5 km away (3.4 miles).
Valetta, the capital city of Malta is 22 km (13.6 miles) away, and the international airport in Luqa is 23.5 km (14.6 miles) away.
Ways to Get Around: Public buses have direct routes (like 44, 101, and 223) that connect Golden Bay to other parts of Malta.
Taxis and e-Cabs: easy to find and cheap
Renting a car is the best way to be flexible and go on day trips.
📌 Final Word
Golden Bay Beach is a slice of paradise for anyone looking to unwind under the sun, experience thrilling water sports, and soak in the beauty and culture of Malta. With golden sands, scenic cliffs, nearby attractions, and top-tier amenities — it’s no surprise that this beach continues to be a top choice for visitors from around the world.
Ready to discover Malta’s golden gem? Pack your sunblock, grab your camera, and head to Golden Bay — your perfect Mediterranean escape awaits.