Ghajn Tuffieha Bay

Ghajn Tuffieha (Maltese meaning "Apple's Eye," also known as Riviera) is located on Malta's northwestern coast, behind the small settlement of Manikata. Unlike nearby Golden Bay, Ghajn Tuffieha Bay is less accessible, but it appears to be almost unspoiled by man, with natural beauty all around. Because the beach is smaller than that of Golden Bay, it might get crowded during high season.

It easily rates #1 on the list of top beaches in Malta of many people, with clay hills and towering cliffs on either side of the sea, red sand, and clean, clear water. To go down to the shore, you'll have to descend a long flight of steps (about 100), so save some of your energy for the climb back up. If you're not too concerned about your health, it's the ideal spot for a relaxing afternoon of swimming, sunbathing, and watching the clouds pass by. Sun beds and umbrellas may be rented here, and there's a snack shop on the beach that serves some nice meals. On busy days, cars line both sides of the major entrance road for hundreds of meters, despite the fact that there is a parking place at the top of the steps.

It is fairly easy to get there by bus, although there is a slope to the south that leads to Gnejna beach. The cliff on the north side features Ghajn Mixkuka Tower, another of Malta's coastal watchtowers, as well as a little abandoned hotel in a pretty decrepit state that hasn't been demolished for some reason. Ghajn Tuffieha is notorious for its strong undercurrents in the off-season, despite being great for swimming in the summer. If you decide to face the cold and go for a swim nevertheless, keep an eye on the flag system, which will give you a decent indication of whether the sea is safe to swim in. "Do as the natives do" is still the greatest rule of thumb. Lifeguards are only on duty during the summer months, as they are in Golden Bay.

Location: Island of Malta, Malta