On the west side of St Paul's Bay, Xemxija (meaning sunny) is the gateway to the sandy beaches of Golden Bay to the east, and to Mellieha Bay to the north. Xemxija is a quiet resort, surrounded by Maltese countryside and some of the most fertile valleys in Malta. There is also a picturesque small fishing harbour. There are a few hotels and restaurants in Xemxija, but nightlife, shops and bars can be found in the villages of St Paul's Bay, Bugibba and Qawra, all withing walking distance.