Mellieħa is one of the most attractive tourist all year round destinations on the island. The name of the locality derives from the Maltese word for salt (melħ), indicating its proximity to the sea. Mellieħa offers a wide range of sandy beaches, summer resorts, unique natural landscapes and has a number of hotels, boutique hotels, hostels, restaurants and cafeterias. The sandy beaches at Għadira and il-Bajja tal-Mixquqa (Golden Bay) have been awarded Blue Flag status. It also boasts of a number of interesting sites offering a mix of attractions which suits groups and individuals alike. The locality of Mellieħa has been granted European Destination of Excellence standing by the European Commission.