Golden sand
A pale arc sloping gently into the water.
Frank Vincentz — CC BY-SA 3.0 · Frank Vincentz — CC BY-SA 3.0 · Diego Delso — CC BY-SA 4.0 · Frank Vincentz — CC BY-SA 3.0 · Frank Vincentz — CC BY-SA 3.0
Golden Bay is one of Malta's few sandy beaches, on the northwest coast in the Manikata area. Once known as Military Bay, it is now the most popular beach on this side of the island, with pale sand and a floor that slopes gently into the water. The place offers less of a long story than a rare comfort on an island of rocky shores. The gentle slope lets swimmers simply walk in, which makes it good for families. Lifeguards are on duty in the summer months, and beach clubs and a large hotel line one end, while the other stays closer to nature below the cliffs. You find an arc of golden sand under a rocky slope, seasonal umbrellas and loungers on the shore, and a tower on the headland towards the neighbouring bay. You can climb to the path above the cliffs to see turquoise water and rocks out at sea. At sunset the sun drops into the sea straight ahead, the best time to be here. The bay lies about 1.2 km from Għajn Tuffieħa Bay and 15.8 km from Valletta in a straight line, reached by an easy road and public buses. Summer months are crowded, so arrive early. The sea can be dangerous in waves despite the calm sand, so follow the lifeguards' flags and do not swim far out in strong northwesterly winds.
A pale arc sloping gently into the water.
Turquoise water and rocks from above.
The sun sinks into the sea ahead.
Manikata area, Mellieħa, Malta
Generally yes, since the sand slopes gently, but watch the waves and flags.
By car or public bus, as the road is easy.
