Ghajn Tuffieha and Golden bay are two of the best beaches on Malta. The beaches sit next to each other on the north-west coast of Malta island and offer great opportunity for a day trip. Beside the beautiful beaches, you can also enjoy hiking, swimming and observing the scenic landscape. You can refresh yourself at the bars around or read interesting information at educational olive tree grove between the beaches.

The view on Għajn Tuffieħa bay (on the right) and nearby small beach(in the middle)

How to get there

Ghajn Tuffieha and Golden bay are located next to Manikata village. You can get there by local buses from all around the island for 1.5 / 2 euros (winter/summer) one way:

• Line 44 – Valetta to Tuffieha (1 hour)
• Line 223, 225 – Buggiba to Tuffieha (15 minutes)
• Line 225 – Sliema to Tuffieha (40 minutes)

If you are coming by bus 223 or 225 we recommend to step out one stop before the last station. The station is called Riviera. Like that you will be positioned on the high point between Golden bay and Ghajn Tuffieha. Unfortunatelly the bus 44 goes bit different route last few stops, so you have to step out on the very last stop (Tuffieha) and walk up and down first to reach Ghajn Tuffieha beach and hiking route. But dont’t worry, it’s just short walk.

Alternatively you can also get there by car or motorbike. There is a big parking lot just between Ghajn Tuffieha and Golden bay.

What to do in Ghajn Tuffieha and Golden bay

1. Hike around Ghajn Tuffieha

This was probably the most interesting part of the trip for us. Starting point is here where you have nice view on the Ghajn Tuffieha bay and rock formation which you will walk around.

View on the coves and beaches along the hike are spectacular

Hike is easy/moderate and there is no need for hiking shoes. It would be quite challenging in flops though. You should reserve at least 1 hour for the 2.5km hike (time for swimming excluded). The hike ends at the same point it starts.

Hiking around Għajn Tuffieħa

2. Ghajn Tuffieha tower

Famous sunset spot. It offers beautiful views around the bays, but it is very popular place, especially around sunset time. Prepare for crowds during the season.

Għajn Tuffieħa tower

3. Gaia Peace Grove

Gaia Peace Grove is a small olive tree park with educational boards dedicated to the medical effects of olive oil, but also to the people who fought for human rights and environemnt, but were repressed. It is very interesting place full of info and same time it is very relaxing to walk in the small “maze” made of olive trees. The entrance is next to the tower and it’s free. To read it all and explore the grove fully reserve at least half an hour.

Gaia Peace Grove

4. Golden bay beach

Just after you finish the walk through Gaia Peace Grove, you can walk down straight to the Golden bay beach. This beach is more commercial and there are plenty of bars and people playing volleyball or relaxing on the beach with family.

Golden bay beach

Where to stay at Golden bay

1. Without doubts the best hotel to stay at Golden bay is 5 star Radisson Blu Resort & Spa. Luxurious hotel with pool, spa and anything you can think of, located just at the Golden bay beach. Great base for any family holidays at very good price for such a luxurious stay.

2. If you are on budget then check Ackfa rooms at nearby Bugibba. 15 minutes by bus from Golden bay, but great location to explore Malta and big rooms with common kitchen and relaxing area. We have stayed there and had everything we needed.

To find the best deals for accommodation in Malta, check the largest hotel website booking.com.

Beautiful Malta

Conclusion

Area around Ghajn Tuffieha and Golden bay is very scenic and offer more than just sunbathing on the beach. You can hike along the coast, learn interesting facts at Gaia Peace Grove or just enjoy breathtaking views at the tower.

It was one of our favourite spot in Malta and we totally recommend to visit the area for at least half of the day.