Sharing a few photos of Għajn Tuffieħa Bay (means Apple’s Eye in Maltese) with you today—because who doesn’t love sandy beaches? Sure, they’re beautiful, but let’s not be shallow (pun intended). Did you know that spending time on a beach can make you feel happier, reduce stress, and even soothe aches and pains with the minerals found in seawater? A beach day is the nature therapy you didn’t know you needed!
This gem, nestled in Mellieħa, is also known as Riviera Beach. Its fine reddish sand and crystal-clear waters easily rank among Malta’s best sandy beaches. Whether you’re a swimmer, hiker, nature lover, or all three (like me), there’s something here for everyone. Birdwatchers and rock climbers will also find plenty to explore in the surrounding countryside. And if you’re a sunset lover, Għajn Tuffieħa is especially for you.
More Than Just One Beach
What makes Għajn Tuffieħa even more special? It’s part of a stunning trio of sandy beaches in Malta!
Golden Bay
On one side, slightly to the north, you have the gorgeous Golden Bay, Malta’s second-largest sandy beach (after Għadira Bay).The name is a dead giveaway right? Well the sand here is more golden and coarser than that of Għajn Tuffieħa. Under the sun, it shines vibrantly against the crystal-clear waters. Unlike the shallow waters of Għadira Bay, the sea at Golden Bay deepens quickly, making it a favourite for more experienced swimmers and divers. This beach is more “developed” and includes facilities. Plus a beachfront hotel, making it a lively hub for locals and tourists.
Ġnejna Bay
And on the other side, slightly to the south of Għajn Tuffieħa is the quieter Ġnejna Bay—which is technically located in the village of Mgarr. This beach has sandy shores with a slightly pebblyish texture and is surrounded by clay slopes that double as natural mud baths. It’s like a DIY face mask but with all-natural ingredients! Admittedly, I haven’t tried it here yet, but I did during my trip to the Dead Sea, and it was perfectly safe—and super fun.
Tip: Ġnejna Bay is more secluded than the other two, so head here if you want a more authentic and less crowded (or rowdy) experience.
Hiking, Sunsets, and Stunning Scenery
What I especially love about these beaches though is the surrounding scenery. All three are perfect for hiking, with trails offering some of the most breathtaking views of Malta’s coastline and countryside. Oh and since the beaches face west, they’re ideal for catching spectacular sunsets—I’m talking the kind that make you pause, breathe, and just take it all in.
So, whether taking a dip (in the turquoise waters, might I add), hiking along the scenic trails, or simply soaking up the views, visiting Għajn Tuffieħa Bay (or its neighbouring sandy beaches) is nothing short of magical.
Now, imagine being dropped off in the middle of all three beaches—which one would you visit first?
Growing up in Barbados, whenever my siblings and got sick, my father always told us to go to the beach. So great, especially for head colds.
I feel like the older generations have so many natural remedies. Ones admittedly I secretly scoffed at. But true, they always work!