Golden Bay Beach, Manikata, Malta

Golden Bay (Ir-Ramla tal-Mixquqa in Maltese) is one of the largest and most beautiful natural sandy beaches on the main island of Malta, tucked into a fold of rugged cliffs on the north-west coast near the village of Manikata. A broad, gently sloping stretch of golden-red sand backed by low dunes and open countryside, it is easier to reach and better equipped than its wilder neighbours, which makes it one of the island’s most popular beaches — and, because it faces due west, one of the very best places in Malta to watch the sun set over the Mediterranean. It flies a Blue Flag for its water quality and facilities, and sits on the edge of a protected stretch of unspoilt coast.

What to See

The wide beach is the main event: soft sand, clear water good for swimming, and plenty of room to spread out, with sunbeds and umbrellas for hire, cafés and restaurants, and water sports from jet-skis to kayaks and boat trips in season. The five-star Radisson Golden Sands hotel rises on the hillside above, but the surrounding slopes remain green and undeveloped, part of the Majjistral Nature and History Park — Malta’s first national park — whose coastal paths lead over the headland to the neighbouring bay of Għajn Tuffieħa, a quieter, more natural beach reached by a long flight of steps. A walk along the clifftops here rewards you with fine sea views and, in the evening, a front-row seat for the famous Golden Bay sunset, when the sand and sea glow in warm light.

How to Get There and Practical Information

Golden Bay lies on the north-west coast of Malta near Manikata, about a 40-minute drive from Valletta and easily reached by public bus, which runs to a stop just above the beach. There is a car park nearby, though it can fill up on Sundays and public holidays, when the bay is busiest. The beach is free to use, with charges only for sunbeds, umbrellas and water sports; the main swimming season runs from late spring to early autumn. Bring sun protection and water, wear something on your feet for the hot sand, and — if you can — time your visit for late afternoon so you can swim and then stay on for the sunset, perhaps combined with a walk into the neighbouring Majjistral park.