Why Golden Bay Malta Should Be on Your 2025 Travel Bucket List
If you plan a trip to Malta in 2025, you cannot afford to miss Golden Bay, Malta. It’s known for its golden sand, crystal-clear waters, and stunning sunsets. Golden Bay Beach is consistently ranked as one of the best beaches in Malta. You can unwind, soak up the sun, dive into thrilling water activities, or explore Malta’s coastline.
Golden Bay Malta is perfect for families, couples, solo travellers, and adventure seekers alike. Its calm, shallow waters make it ideal for swimming. The surrounding cliffs and nature trails offer scenic hikes and unforgettable views. If you love snorkelling or want to experience Malta from a different perspective, you can join one of the best Malta boat tours. You can also take a private boat tour Malta, or even rent a boat in Malta for a more personalised adventure.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know before visiting Golden Bay. This includes how to get there, things to do, and nearby attractions to make the most of your experience.
Where is Golden Bay Malta?
Golden Bay is located on the northwest coast of Malta, near the village of Mellieħa. It’s part of a trio of stunning beaches in the area, along with Għajn Tuffieħa Bay and Gnejna Bay. Golden Bay mellieha is famous for its soft, golden sand. It’s the favourite bay among both locals and tourists. Golden Bay has a wonderful blend of nature and modern amenities. You can find restaurants, cafes, and places for water sports.
How to Get There
By Car
Golden Bay is accessible by car. Driving is the most convenient option, especially if you’re staying in Valletta, Sliema, or St. Julian’s. There is a public car park right next to the beach, but during peak season (June to September), it fills up quickly. If parking is full, you can find spots along the road, but you will take a short walk to the bay.
If you plan to visit by car, make sure to arrive early in the morning to secure a parking spot. You should consider visiting on weekdays as it’s less crowded.
If you’re visiting other beaches nearby, like Għajn Tuffieħa, parking might be more available there, and you can walk over.
By Public Transport
Malta’s public transport system is affordable and reliable. It’s a great option if you don’t want to deal with parking. You can take Bus 44 if you’re coming from Valletta. You can take Bus 101 if you’re from Cirkewwa (great if you’re coming from Gozo). You can take Bus 225 if you’re from Sliema or St. Julians. These bus routes will take you directly to Golden Bay Beach.
Buses can get very crowded, especially in summer. You should plan to travel during off-peak hours if possible.
Tip: Download the Tallinja app to check live bus schedules and avoid long waiting times.
By Boat Tour
One of the most scenic ways to arrive at Golden Bay Malta is by boat. If you prefer a unique and more private experience, you can book a Malta private boat tour. Private tours include stops at hidden beaches, sea caves, and snorkelling spots. You can rent a boat Malta and sail along the coastline at your own pace. You can also join one of the best Malta boat tours that pass by Golden Bay and nearby landmarks.
Arriving by boat can help you avoid the hassle of parking and crowded buses. You can get exclusive access to hidden coves that can’t be reached by land. A private boat tour is a fantastic way to see Malta’s coastline from a different perspective.
If you’re planning to rent a boat, check the weather conditions first, as strong winds can sometimes affect sea travel.
Book a Private Tour with GOZOblu
If you’re looking for a personalised experience, GOZOblu offers private boat tours in Malta that can stop at Golden Bay upon request. Their tours include hidden beaches, snorkelling spots, and sea caves, making it a fantastic way to explore Malta’s coastline away from the crowds.
Book a private malta boat tour in advance with GOZOblu especially during peak season.
Why Golden Bay Should Be on Your 2025 Travel Bucket List
1. Pristine Golden Sands & Crystal-Clear Waters
Golden Bay Beach offers soft, golden sand that feels warm and inviting underfoot. It’s a perfect spot for sunbathing, sandcastle-building, or simply relaxing with a good book. The shallow waters provide a safe swimming environment for families with young children. The calm sea conditions make it one of the best places to swim in Malta.
The sand in Golden Bay Beach is softer and finer than most beaches in Malta. The golden hue creates an almost exotic feel. This bay is perfect for barefoot walks.
2. One of the Best Sunset Spots in Malta
Golden Bay is famous for its breathtaking sunsets. The beach faces west which offers an unobstructed view as the sun dips below the horizon, painting the sky in shades of pink, orange, and gold. Golden Bay Malta is one of Malta’s most magical sunset locations.
You can head over to Għajn Tuffieħa Tower for the best photography shot. It’s just a short hike from Golden Bay Beach. This historic tower offers a stunning panoramic view of Golden Bay and Għajn Tuffieħa Bay.
3. Water Activities & Boat Tours
If you love adventure, Golden Bay won’t disappoint. Golden Bay Malta is one of the best places to snorkel in Malta. It has rocky formations teeming with marine life. You can also explore the coastline by kayak, paddleboarding, paragliding, or jet skiing.
For a truly unforgettable experience, consider taking a Malta private boat tour. These tours allow you to discover hidden coves, sea caves, and less crowded beaches along Malta’s stunning coastline. You can also opt to rent a boat Malta and explore at your own pace.
Popular Boat Tour Options:
Sunset Boat Tour – Watch the golden hues of the sunset from the water.
Snorkeling & Swimming Excursion – Discover marine life and underwater caves.
Private Boat Tour Malta – Perfect for couples, friends, or families looking for an exclusive experience.
Boat Rental Malta – Want to be your own captain? Rent a boat and explore at your own pace!
4. A Paradise for Relaxation & Wellness
If you prefer a laid-back beach day, Golden Bay Beach has plenty of sunbeds and umbrellas for rent. There are also beachfront restaurants where you can sip on a cocktail while taking in the view. You can also enjoy a spa treatment or practice yoga by the beach.
Things to Do Around Golden Bay
1. Explore the Hiking Trails
If you love nature and breathtaking coastal views, Golden Bay is a fantastic starting point for coastal hikes. The area offers a mix of easy strolls and challenging trails. You can see stunning panoramic views, unique rock formations, and access to hidden beaches.
Top Hiking Trails Near Golden Bay:
- Għajn Tuffieħa Bay Trail – A scenic walk that takes you to Għajn Tuffieħa Bay, also known as the red sand beach Malta is famous for. The trail includes some steep steps but rewards you with fewer crowds and incredible scenery.
- Il-Majjistral Nature & History Park – This protected natural reserve is ideal for exploring rugged cliffs, rare Mediterranean plants, and historical ruins. Perfect for photography and peaceful walks.
2. Go Snorkelling & Swimming in Crystal-Clear Waters
Golden Bay Beach is one of the best places to swim in Malta. The water is calm, clear and sandy seabed. You can go on a relaxing dip or an underwater adventure. The best snorkelling spots around Golden Bay, Malta, are near the rocky edges. You’ll find small fish, sea urchins, and sometimes even octopuses! You can also snorkel around the Għajn Tuffieħa coastline. The waters here are teeming with marine life, making it one of the best places to snorkel in Malta.
3. Watch a Spectacular Sunset
Golden Bay is one of the best sunset spots in Malta. Golden Bay Malta is a west-facing location. The sun sets directly over the sea, creating a mesmerising display of colours.
To watch the sunset, you can sit back on the beach and enjoy as the sky turns shades of orange and pink. You can take a short hike to Għajn Tuffieħa Tower for a panoramic view of Golden Bay and the surrounding cliffs. For a unique perspective, you can private boat tour Malta and watch the sunset from the sea.
4. Taste Authentic Maltese Cuisine
A visit to Golden Bay Beach wouldn’t be complete without trying some delicious Maltese food. Whether you’re craving fresh seafood, hearty traditional dishes, or a quick snack, you’ll find great options nearby.
You can visit munchies at Golden Bay. It’s a beachfront restaurant serving seafood, burgers, and refreshing cocktails. Enjoy a fantastic view of the sea! You can also visit Apple’s Eye Restaurant. It’s located just above the bay. This spot offers Maltese and Mediterranean cuisine with an incredible view of the coastline.
Must-Try Maltese Dishes:
- Pastizzi, a popular street food. These flaky pastries are filled with ricotta cheese or mushy peas.
- Rabbit Stew (Fenek), a traditional Maltese dish, slow-cooked for a rich, hearty flavour.
- Lampuki (Dorado Fish), is a seasonal favourite. It’s often served grilled or baked with fresh Mediterranean flavours.
5. Horseback Riding Along the Cliffs
Try horseback riding along the Golden Bay cliffs for a truly unique experience! Imagine riding through nature trails, past rugged coastlines, and watching the sunset over the Mediterranean. It’s a magical way to explore the area.
Golden Bay Horse Riding offers guided tours suitable for both beginners and experienced riders. Sunset rides are the most popular, so book in advance!
Practical Travel Tips for Visiting Golden Bay in 2025
- Visiting during summer is perfect for swimming. Spring or autumn is ideal for pleasant weather and fewer crowds. Winter is cooler but great for hiking and photography.
- If driving, arrive before 10 AM in peak season to secure a parking spot.
- Avoid weekends if you want a quieter experience.
- Consider taking a private Malta boat tour to avoid the hassle of parking.
- The waters around Golden Bay are great for exploring marine life, so bring your snorkel gear.
- Bring reef-safe sunscreen to protect your skin and the environment.
- Bring a light jacket as evenings can get breezy, especially outside summer.
Nearby Attractions in Golden Bay Malta
1. Għajn Tuffieħa Bay (Red Sand Beach)
Għajn Tuffieħa Bay lies just south of Golden Bay. This beach is stunning, yet it feels quieter and more rugged. It has red-golden sand, beautiful cliff views, and fewer crowds than Golden Bay. Għajn Tuffieħa Bay is just a 10-minute walk from Golden Bay.
You should visit Għajn Tuffieħa Bay for a more secluded and peaceful. It’s great for snorkelling and swimming. It also offers amazing sunset views from the cliffside.
You can take the stairs down from the watchtower near Golden Bay.
2. Ġnejna Bay
Located further south of Għajn Tuffieħa, Ġnejna Bay is a quieter and more secluded beach with golden sand and crystal-clear waters. It is surrounded by limestone cliffs and offers a more local and relaxed atmosphere.
This bay is ideal for swimming, kayaking, and exploring the nearby caves. It is also a great spot for families, as the shallow waters make it safer for children. Ġnejna Bay can be reached by car, with parking available nearby, or by hiking along the scenic trails from Għajn Tuffieħa.
3. Il-Majjistral Nature & History Park
Il-majjistral Nature & History Park is located just north of Golden Bay. It’s just a 5-minute drive or 20-minute walk from Golden Bay Beach. This protected natural park is a paradise for hikers, photographers, and history lovers. It features limestone cliffs, diverse flora, and historic ruins. This spot is perfect for nature walks and wildlife spotting.
Don’t miss Il-Majjistral Nature & History Park. It has beautiful hiking trails and great Mediterranean views. You can explore hidden caves and old military structures. It is also great for photography and birdwatching.
Visit in spring or autumn when the landscape is lush and green.
4. Popeye Village
Popeye Village is a 10-minute drive from Golden Bay Beach. This quirky attraction was originally built as a film set for the 1980 movie Popeye starring Robin Williams. Today, it’s a theme park and museum with colourful wooden houses, fun activities, and stunning views over Anchor Bay.
You should visit the Popeye village with your families and kids because there are fun shows and boat rides. It has unique photo opportunities with a colourful seaside village. You can swim in Anchor Bay, one of Malta’s hidden swimming spots.
5. Mellieħa Village & Mellieħa Bay
It’s a 15-minute drive from Golden Bay. Mellieħa is a charming hilltop village offering a mix of Maltese culture, historical sites, and stunning beaches. The main attraction, Mellieħa Bay (Għadira Bay), is the largest sandy beach in Malta. It’s perfect for families and watersports.
Visit the Mellieħa Parish Church, a beautiful 19th-century church with great views. You can swim at Mellieħa Bay, one of the best beaches in Malta for families. Don’t forget to try authentic Maltese cuisine at local restaurants.
You can stop by the WWII Shelters in Mellieħa to explore underground war tunnels.
6. St. Agatha’s Tower (Red Tower)
It’s a 10-minute drive from Golden Bay Beach. It’s known as the Red Tower. This 17th-century watchtower sits on a hilltop overlooking Mellieħa Bay. It was used by the Knights of St. John to defend Malta’s coast. Today, you can climb to the top for panoramic views of Golden Bay, Gozo, and Comino.
St. Agatha is one of Malta’s oldest coastal towers. It has spectacular views of the Maltese islands. This tower is a great stop before heading to the ferry for Gozo.
Visit at sunset for the best views!
7. Comino & the Blue Lagoon
The distance is a 30-minute boat ride from Golden Bay. If you’re up for an island-hopping adventure, take a private boat tour Malta experience to Comino. It’s a small island famous for the Blue Lagoon. This natural swimming pool is one of the most beautiful places in Malta.
You can swim in the Blue Lagoon’s crystal-clear turquoise water. You can explore hidden sea caves and snorkelling spots. You can also rent a boat in Malta and discover the best-hidden beaches in Gozo.
If you’re planning to visit the Blue Lagoon, read our guide: “The Ultimate Blue Lagoon Malta Boat Trip Guide”.
Why Golden Bay Should Be on Your 2025 Travel List
Golden Bay Malta is more than just a beach, it’s a complete Mediterranean escape. This iconic bay has soft golden sands and clear turquoise waters. You can enjoy breathtaking sunsets and many activities. It’s the perfect spot for both relaxation and adventure.
Golden Bay offers something for every traveller. You can soak up the sun, explore scenic hiking trails, dive into underwater adventures, or enjoy tasty Maltese cuisine. It’s also one of the best sunset spots in Malta.
If you’re planning a trip to Malta in 2025, Golden Bay is a must-visit destination that will leave you with lasting memories.