Għajn Tuffieħa Bay: A Hidden Gem in Malta
Malta is famous for its rich history, beautiful landscapes and stunning beaches. No trip to Malta is complete without visiting its beaches. One of its most beautiful beaches is Għajn Tuffieħa Bay. This scenic cove is also known among locals as Riviera Bay.
This bay is a true hidden gem. Nestled below rugged cliffs. With beautiful turquoise coloured waters. Perfect for those who want to enjoy nature and relax away from crowded tourist spots.
The Beach and Sea at Għajn Tuffieħa
Għajn Tuffieħa, meaning Apple’s Eye in English, is located on the northwest coast of Malta. Between the popular beach of Golden Bay and Ġnejna Bay. Close to the villages of Manikata and Mġarr.
Għajn Tuffieħa Bay is a sandy beach. Renowned for its fine, red sand. This being soft and perfect for sunbathing. This cove is famous for its wild and natural beauty. Surrounded by high cliffs on either side of the beach. The seashore lies beneath clay slopes. The rural land is unspoilt by development. Giving it a secluded and peaceful feel. This beach is sure to leave all its visitors captivated.
Għajn Tuffieħa Bay is a blue flag beach. Meaning the beach has achieved a certain standard of management and cleanliness. During the peak Summer months lifeguards watch over the bay.
The blue sea is crystal clear and very inviting. Beautiful for swimming. The water is shallow near the shore. Making it safe for bathing. The sea becomes deeper the further you move out from the coast. Beware, if you are uncomfortable swimming in deep water stay close to shore. Ghajn Tuffieha beach is well known for its strong undercurrents. Do not swim in rough seas.
The beach operates a flag system which provides information on sea conditions. Watch out for the flag before taking a dip. Swimming is prohibited when there is a red flag.
Snorkelling is great along the rocky sides of the coast. You can see many different types of fish and underwater plants. There is plenty of marine life in the area.
One major drawback to Għajn Tuffieħa Bay is its access. To reach the beach you need to walk down a long flight of about 200 steps. Bear in mind that you need to climb these stairs on the way up. The climb can be tiring. Besides, it is advisable not to climb back in the afternoon heat. If you wish to avoid the flight of steps on the way up. You can walk up along a windy path. But this is a longer route. Besides being an uphill walk.
The large number of steps to reach the beach tends to put people off. Making the seashore less crowded than other beaches. Note that this beach is not accessible to persons who have mobility issues. There are no wheelchair ramps.
If you wish to avoid going down to the seashore, the view from the clifftop is still worth it.
Facilities at Għajn Tuffieħa Bay, Malta
Even though Għajn Tuffieħa Bay is quite remote. There are still some facilities available. You can rent sunbeds and umbrellas. There are no big fancy restaurants or hotels at the beach. Which helps to keep it natural and unspoiled. Yet, there is a hotel nearby if you want to stay overnight. The Radisson Blu Resort and Spa, Malta Golden Sands. Overlooking the popular Golden Bay.
There is a small restaurant, Singita Miracle Beach. Located on the side of the beach that sells snacks and drinks. It serves Mediterranean cuisine, including pizza and pasta. The food menu is a bit limited. Though it has a great drinks menu, including a range of cocktails. This is the only kiosk on the bay. Open only during peak season. Prices tend to be on the high side. Another option is to get your own refreshments and save money.
A short distance away, down the road from Għajn Tuffieħa. Next to the last bus stop, there is another restaurant, Apple’s Eye. This restaurant has a vast menu. Beyond any doubt you will find something you like.
There are no public restrooms at the beach. But the restaurant has toilet facilities.
Activities at Ghajn Tuffieha Bay
For those who love adventure, Għajn Tuffieħa offers great hiking opportunities. There are several trails that start from the seashore and go up the cliffs. These trails are very sought after. The top of the cliffs offer stunning views of the bay and the surrounding countryside. These are the perfect spots for taking photos.
Għajn Tuffieħa is renowned for being one of the best sunset spots on the Maltese islands. Head here late afternoon and enjoy the lovely sunset. Watch the sun set against the sea. Whilst capturing the moment with your camera.
Preservation and Environment
Għajn Tuffieħa Bay is a protected area. The natural beauty of the bay and its surroundings is preserved with great care. Visitors are encouraged to respect the environment. There are signs reminding people to take their trash with them and to avoid damaging the plants. The local community and volunteers often organise beach clean-up events. To keep the area clean and beautiful.
How to get to Għajn Tuffieħa Bay
You can reach Għajn Tuffieħa by public transport. All the buses that go to Golden Bay stop at Għajn Tuffieħa. Get off the bus at ‘Riviera’ stop. All routes operate from early morning to late at night.
From Valletta take bus number 44. This leaves every 30 minutes and the ride takes around 1 hour. You can catch bus 42 or 250 but need to stop at St. Paul’s Bay. Here, you need to change buses. Continue your trip with bus route 223 or 225.
From Buġibba, Qawra and St. Paul’s bay ride bus number 223 or 225.
Individuals staying around Sliema and St. Julian’s ride the direct bus number 225. The bus leaves every hour.
For individuals coming from Gozo, Ċirkewwa or Mellieħa area ride bus 101. This route only operates early in the morning and in the evening.
For those coming with their own car, at the top of the stairs there is a car park. The parking area is small. With a limited number of parking bays. Visitors will see cars parked along the road. Though parking is free, most of the time there is a parking attendant. It is customary to leave a tip.
Visitors can also make use of the taxi services or ride hailing apps to get to Għajn Tuffieħa.
Best Time to Visit to Ghajn Tuffieha Bay, Malta
The best time to visit Ghajn Tuffieha Bay is during the Summer, from June to September. The weather is warm and sunny. Perfect for swimming and sunbathing. But, these months can also be quite busy.
If you prefer a quieter experience, consider visiting in Spring or early Autumn. The weather is still pleasant and there are fewer tourists. It is the ideal time for a coastal hiking tour on the cliffs.
Hiking along the paths on the left-hand side will lead you to Ta’ Babu Cove, Qarraba Bay and Gnejna Bay. On the right-hand side you will reach Golden Bay and Il-Majjistral Nature and History Park.
Nearby Attractions
If you have time, there are several other attractions near Għajn Tuffieħa Bay worth visiting. Golden Bay is a short walk away. This is another beautiful beach. It is larger and has more facilities. Including restaurants and water sports rentals. Ġnejna Bay is also closeby.
On the cliff on the north side of the bay is the Għajn Mixkuka Tower. This is another coastal tower built by the Knights of Malta. Here visitors will get a stunning view of the Mediterranean sea. This point provides a beautiful panoramic view of the coast. It’s the perfect place to see the spectacular sunset. A great photo opportunity.
Right next to the tower visitors will see the Gaia Peace Grove. A small olive tree park with several educational boards.
Another interesting place to visit is the ancient Roman baths. Located a few kilometres away, around a 27 minute walk, from Għajn Tuffieħa. These baths are ruins from the time when the Romans ruled Malta. They give a glimpse into the island’s rich history. These ruins are made up of rooms decorated with Roman mosaics. The place is closed off to the public.
For nature lovers, the Majjistral Nature and History Park is a must-visit. Located close to Għajn Tuffieħa it offers beautiful walking trails. The park is home to many different plants and animals. It is a great place to explore Malta’s natural beauty.
Tips for Visitors
- Bring Essentials: Since facilities are limited make sure to bring your essentials. This includes water, snacks, sunscreen, glasses and a hat. Do not forget your snorkelling equipment.
- Wear Comfortable Shoes: If you plan to hike, wear comfortable shoes. The trails can be rocky and steep. Get your camera.
- Respect the Environment: Always take your trash with you. Avoid picking plants or disturbing wildlife.
- Arrive Early: To enjoy the beach without too many people. The best times are early in the morning or late afternoon. This is especially important during the peak summer months.
- Stay Safe: The sea can sometimes have strong currents. Always check the local advice and swim in designated safe areas.
Għajn Tuffieħa Bay is one of Malta’s most beautiful and serene beaches. Its golden sands, clear waters and stunning views. Make it a perfect destination for anyone looking to relax and enjoy nature. Everyone can have a wonderful time at this hidden gem in Malta.
