These two adjacent bays near the town of Mgarr on the west coast of Malta feature among tourist favourites.
Golden Bay is especially popular and like all the large beaches, it can get busy at weekends, due to one of the island's largest hotels - the Radisson Golden Sands - being situated on the edge of the bay.
The neighbouring Ghajn Tuffieha (meaning "the Apple's Eye") has been described as a bay unspoilt by the human hand, with its beautiful scenery, gold sand and clear waters. As this beach can only be accessed by a flight of 180 steps, it's much quieter than its neighbour.
This beach is a protected area and therefore has fewer facilities than Golden Bay, although there are still plenty of water sports to be enjoyed. The stunning landscape and turquoise sea are best appreciated from the top of the hill early in the morning and it's worth staying to watch the evening sunsets, looking west across the waves.
It is also advisable to bring your own supplies as fortunately the area is not overrun with tourist facilities, preserving the unspoilt nature of the bay and making it the perfect picnic spot.
Both beaches have sun beds and umbrellas for hire and plenty of water activities. Surfing has recently become popular in Malta and Ghajn Tuffieha is a prime destination.
Golden Bay has the advantage of being beside a large hotel, so visitors can dine at a quality restaurant not far from the car park. Both beaches feature a wide stretch of soft sand, ideal for children to play on. Be careful to only swim in the shallow waters, as there are strong undercurrents further out.
