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Best Beaches in Gozo | The Ultimate Guide to Sandy Bays and Hidden Coves

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Gozo may be small, but its coastline has incredible variety. From wide red sandy bays to dramatic limestone inlets and hidden swimming coves, the island offers some of the best beaches in Malta.

Unlike the island of Malta, many of Gozo’s beaches are natural and more rugged. Expect fewer large resorts, clearer water, and more striking scenery. Some beaches are sandy and family-friendly, while others are rocky but perfect for snorkelling and diving.

This guide covers the best beaches in Gozo, including sandy bays, beautiful swimming spots, snorkelling locations, and quieter hidden coves. Whether you are visiting for a day or staying for a week, these are the beaches worth planning your trip around.

How to Use This Guide

Use the Contents table below to jump to any section. Click a heading in the guide to return to the top and continue exploring.

Although Gozo is best known for its dramatic limestone coastline and rocky swimming spots, it also has a handful of beautiful sandy beaches. These are the best options if you want sand, easier entry into the sea, and a more comfortable space to relax without navigating rocks.

If you are travelling with children or simply want a chilled beach day, these sandy bays are the most comfortable and accessible places to swim and sunbathe in Gozo.

Ramla Bay

Ramla Bay is the most famous and often the busiest beach in Gozo. It is widely considered the best beach in Gozo. Its distinctive reddish-gold sand stretches across a broad, open bay framed by hills and countryside, giving it a natural and undeveloped feel compared to many Mediterranean beaches.

The shoreline slopes gradually into the sea, making it one of the safest and most comfortable swimming spots on the island. There are still some submerged rocks to be cautious about. During peak season, you will find basic facilities including sunbeds, umbrellas, and a small café, though it never feels overly built up.

Ramla Bay is located near Xaghra, making it a convenient base if beach access is a priority during your stay. There are also restaurants and snack bars located by the car park for easy access to refreshments.

Ramla is also a famous turtle nesting ground and during the right season you can see the fenced off turlte nests right on the beach.

Best for:

  • Families

  • Sandy beach lovers

  • Relaxed swimming

  • Easy access and facilities

San Blas Bay

San Blas Bay is smaller and more secluded than Ramla Bay, with a similar reddish-gold sand and a more rugged, untouched setting. Surrounded by steep hills and countryside, it feels noticeably quieter and more natural.

Access involves walking down a fairly steep road, which helps keep visitor numbers lower, even in summer. The climb back up can be challenging in the heat, but the reward is exceptionally clear water and a somewhat more peaceful beach compared to Gozo’s more accessible beaches.

Best for:

  • Seclusion and fewer crowds

  • Clear, calm swimming water

  • A more natural beach setting

Hondoq ir-Rummien

Hondoq ir-Rummien is a mix of sand and small pebbles, but it is one of the most accessible beaches in Gozo, making it also one of the busiest. Located near Qala on the island’s eastern side, it faces Comino and offers beautiful open views across the channel.

The water here is typically calm and clear, making it excellent for snorkelling along the rocky edges of the bay. Entry into the sea is relatively gradual compared to many of Gozo’s limestone inlets, and there are shallower sections suitable for children. There is a car park that fills quickly due to boat and Kyaka tours to Comino, making arriving as early as possible vital to find parking.

Best for:

  • Snorkelling and clear water

  • Families

  • Calm swimming conditions

  • Easy roadside access

Daħlet Qorrot Beach

Daħlet Qorrot is a small, sheltered bay on Gozo’s northern coast near Nadur. It is more of a pebbly cove than a traditional sandy beach, but it offers calm, clear water and a peaceful setting away from the island’s busier spots.

Colourful boathouses line the shore, giving it a distinctly local feel. Entry into the sea is rocky but manageable, and the sheltered position makes it suitable for relaxed swimming on calm days. It is far quieter than Ramla Bay or Xlendi, especially outside peak summer weekends. However it is popular with locals and the road is narrow and steep making parking difficult on a busy day.

Best for:

  • Quiet swimming

  • Snorkelling in clear water

  • Local atmosphere

  • Escaping the main crowds

Some of the best beaches in Gozo are not sandy at all. Instead, they are dramatic limestone inlets, cliff-backed bays, and natural rock platforms with exceptionally clear water.

While these spots may not offer soft sand, they often provide better snorkelling, deeper swimming areas, and far more striking scenery. If you are comfortable entering the sea via rocks or ladders, these are some of the most beautiful beaches and swimming locations in Gozo.

Xlendi Bay

Xlendi Bay is one of the best diving hubs in Gozo. Surrounded by steep limestone cliffs and lined with waterfront restaurants, the small inlet feels dramatic yet accessible. Xlendi is a base for many divers and you will see divers entering and exiting the bay all day.

There is no wide sandy beach here, but designated swimming areas and ladders provide easy access into deep, clear water. The rocky edges of the bay are excellent for snorkelling, and the calm setting makes it popular for relaxed afternoon swims. The scenery is especially beautiful in the late afternoon when the cliffs catch the light.

Best for:

  • Scenic sea views

  • Deep, clear swimming water

  • Snorkelling and diving along rocky edges

  • Those seeking a more lively setting

Marsalforn Bay

Marsalforn Bay is one of Gozo’s main seaside villages and offers a practical, accessible place to swim. While it is less sheltered than Xlendi or Dwejra, the wide bay and promenade setting make it convenient and popular, especially in summer.

Entry into the sea is mostly rocky, with designated swimming areas along the waterfront. The real advantage here is proximity to cafés, restaurants, and accommodation, making it easy to combine swimming and sunbathing with a relaxed seaside atmosphere.

Best for:

  • Casual swimming

  • Summer visits

  • Easy access to restaurants and cafés

  • A practical, central seaside base

Wied il-Ghasri

Wied il-Ghasri is a narrow limestone gorge that opens into a small, sheltered inlet on Gozo’s northern coast. Reached by walking down a stepped path through a quiet valley, it feels hidden and far removed from the busier seaside villages.

There is no sand here, just rock platforms and deep, clear water framed by towering cliffs. The dramatic setting and excellent visibility make it a favourite for snorkellers and confident swimmers. On calm days, the water can feel almost glass-like.

Because of the nature of the gorge we were disappointed to see a lot of plastic and rubbish in the water close to the beach. This did reduce dramatically the further out we swam, however it seems a lot of rubbish does was in and get trapped here.

Best for:

  • Snorkelling and underwater visibility

  • Photography and dramatic scenery

  • Quiet, scenic swims

  • Visitors seeking a more secluded spot

Dwejra Inland Sea

Dwejra Inland Sea is one of the most dramatic coastal locations in Gozo. A small, sheltered lagoon connected to the open sea by a narrow rock tunnel, it sits beneath towering limestone cliffs and wide open skies.

Although the famous Azure Window collapsed in 2017, the surrounding landscape remains striking. Just nearby is the well-known Blue Hole, a natural rock formation that attracts divers from around the world. Swimming here is safe and sheltered..

Best for:

  • Diving and snorkelling

  • Dramatic coastal scenery

  • families seeking a sheltered location

  • Unique geological landscapes

While not technically on Gozo, many visitors combine their beach time with a boat trip to nearby Comino. The small island sits between Gozo and Malta and is famous for its strikingly clear, turquoise water.

Blue Lagoon

The Blue Lagoon on Comino is one of the most famous swimming spots in Malta and Gozo. Known for its bright turquoise water and shallow sandy seabed, it looks almost tropical on calm summer days.

Boats run regularly from Gozo, particularly from Hondoq ir-Rummien and Mgarr Harbour. The water here is exceptionally clear and ideal for swimming and snorkelling, though it becomes extremely busy in July and August.

While the scenery is beautiful, the Blue Lagoon is far more crowded than most beaches in Gozo. Visiting early in the morning or later in the afternoon makes a significant difference.

Best for:

  • Turquoise, shallow water

  • Boat trips from Gozo

  • Snorkelling in clear conditions

  • Iconic Malta scenery

If you prefer quieter swimming, Gozo’s own beaches often feel more relaxed. But if you want that picture perfect blue water experience, the Blue Lagoon is worth seeing at least once.

Gozo’s clear water, rocky coastline, and underwater rock formations make it one of the best places in Malta for snorkelling. Visibility is often excellent, particularly on calm days with light winds.

Top snorkelling spots include:

  • Hondoq ir-Rummien, where the water is typically calm and clear, making it ideal for spotting small fish and rocky reef formations.

  • Wied il-Ghasri, a narrow limestone inlet with dramatic underwater rock structures and deeper sections that attract marine life.

  • The Blue Hole at Dwejra, best suited to confident swimmers. The deep, open water and rock formations create one of Gozo’s most famous snorkelling and diving sites.

  • Xlendi Bay, which offers easy ladder access into clear water and good snorkelling along the rocky edges of the bay.

Bringing your own snorkel gear is recommended, especially outside peak summer when rental options may be limited. Choosing a sheltered beach on windy days will also improve visibility and overall conditions.

If you are travelling with children, sandy beaches and gentle entry points are usually the best choice. Calm water, easy access, and nearby facilities can make a big difference to a relaxed beach day.

Top family-friendly beaches in Gozo include:

  • Ramla Bay, which offers soft sand and a gradual slope into the sea. It is the safest and most comfortable option for younger children who want space to play.

  • Hondoq ir-Rummien, known for relatively calm water and shallow entry areas. It is a good mix of swimming and snorkelling, with views across to Comino.

  • Marsalforn Bay, where swimming areas are close to the promenade and cafés. While it is rocky rather than sandy, the easy access to facilities makes it practical for families.

  • Dwejra Inland Sea, a sheltered lagoon connected to the open sea through a narrow tunnel. The water here is usually calm and can feel safer for children under supervision.

For families, arriving early in summer is especially important, as parking and space fill quickly at popular beaches.

If you prefer quieter swimming spots away from the main crowds, Gozo has several smaller bays and inlets that feel far more secluded than the island’s main beaches.

Good options include:

  • San Blas Bay, especially early in the morning or later in the afternoon when day-trippers have left

  • Wied il-Ghasri, which remains peaceful outside peak summer and rewards the short walk down to the inlet

  • Smaller coves near Dwejra, where rocky platforms offer space to spread out away from the main swimming areas

Gozo is generally much quieter than Malta, but even here beaches can become busy in July and August, particularly around midday. Visiting early or later in the day makes a noticeable difference, especially at Ramla Bay and Xlendi.

If you are visiting in peak season and want more space, choosing a less accessible beach often means fewer crowds.

It is possible to explore Gozo’s beaches without renting a car, but your options will be more limited and journey times longer. Public buses connect the main villages and some popular beaches, though services can be infrequent outside summer.

The easiest beaches to reach without a car are:

  • Xlendi Bay, which is well connected by bus and compact enough to explore on foot

  • Marsalforn Bay, with direct bus routes and swimming access close to the promenade

  • Ramla Bay, reachable by bus from Victoria, followed by a short walk

More remote beaches such as San Blas Bay and Wied il-Ghasri are harder to access without a car due to limited bus routes and steep approach roads.

If beaches are your main focus and you plan to visit multiple locations, renting a car gives you far greater flexibility and allows you to choose the best beach based on wind and conditions each day.

The best months for beach weather in Gozo are May through October, when temperatures are warm and the sea is comfortable for swimming. July and August are the hottest and busiest months, with the highest visitor numbers and limited parking at popular beaches like Ramla Bay and Xlendi.

For the best balance of warm water and fewer crowds, late May, June, and September are ideal. Sea temperatures remain pleasant, daylight hours are long, and beaches feel noticeably less busy than peak summer.

April and October can also be good for coastal walks and scenic swims, though water temperatures are slightly cooler and wind conditions can be less predictable.

  • Bring water and shade to smaller beaches | Many of Gozo’s coves and inlets have no facilities, especially outside peak summer months. Pack water, sunscreen, and a hat if you are visiting quieter spots.

  • Wear water shoes for rocky entry points | Much of Gozo’s coastline is limestone rather than sand, and rocks can be uneven or slippery.

  • Arrive early in July and August | Popular beaches like Ramla Bay and Xlendi can fill up quickly in peak season, and parking is limited.

  • Check the wind direction before you go | Some beaches are more exposed to certain winds, which can affect water clarity and swimming conditions. Choosing a sheltered bay makes a big difference on windy days.

  • Bring snorkel gear if you enjoy swimming | Gozo’s clear water and rocky coastline make snorkelling particularly rewarding.

  • Be cautious with cliff jumping | Some areas around Dwejra and Xlendi are popular for jumping, but conditions can change and water depth varies.

  • Respect the natural environment | Take rubbish with you and avoid climbing on fragile rock formations.

If your main focus is swimming, snorkelling, and spending time by the sea, choosing the right base makes your trip much easier. Coastal villages such as Xlendi, Marsalforn, and Xaghra provide the quickest access to some of Gozo’s best beaches.

Hotel San Andrea
Hotel San Andrea sits directly on Xlendi Bay, making it ideal if you want to wake up and walk straight to the water. Many rooms offer sea views, and restaurants are just steps away. It is particularly well suited to couples looking for a scenic and relaxed coastal base.

BOOK | HOTEL SAN ANDREA

Cornucopia Hotel
Cornucopia Hotel in Xaghra is a great option if you want easy access to Ramla Bay while staying somewhere peaceful. Set in a traditional farmhouse-style property, it offers countryside views and a calm atmosphere after busy beach days.

BOOK | CORNUCOPIA HOTEL

Calypso Hotel
Calypso Hotel in Marsalforn overlooks the bay and provides practical access to swimming spots and waterfront dining. It is a good choice for travellers who want a casual seaside atmosphere with everything within walking distance.

BOOK | CALYPSO HOTEL

Find you perfect place to stay using our interactive map below.

What is the best sandy beach in Gozo?
Ramla Bay is widely considered the best sandy beach on the island. It has reddish-gold sand, a wide shoreline, and gentle entry into the sea, making it suitable for families and swimmers.

Are there white sand beaches in Gozo?
Most sandy beaches in Gozo have golden or reddish sand rather than bright white sand. Ramla Bay and San Blas Bay are the main sandy options.

Which beach in Gozo has the clearest water?
Wied il-Ghasri, Hondoq ir-Rummien, and the Blue Hole near Dwejra are known for exceptionally clear water, particularly on calm days.

Are Gozo beaches better than Malta?
Gozo’s beaches are generally quieter and more natural, with fewer large developments. Malta has more sandy beaches overall, but Gozo offers more dramatic scenery and less people.

Is Ramla Bay worth visiting?
Yes. Ramla Bay is the largest sandy beach in Gozo and one of the most popular. It is very good for swimming and relaxing on soft sand.

Can you swim at Dwejra Bay?
Yes, but entry is rocky and the water is deep. It is better suited to confident swimmers and divers rather than families with small children. Families are best suited for the Inland Sea.

Which Gozo beach is best for families?
Ramla Bay is the most family-friendly sandy beach. Hondoq ir-Rummien also works well due to its relatively calm and shallow water.

Are Gozo beaches crowded?
Beaches can become busy in July and August, especially Ramla Bay and Xlendi. Outside peak summer months, most beaches feel relaxed and uncrowded.

Do Gozo beaches have facilities?
Some beaches such as Ramla Bay and Marsalforn have seasonal facilities including cafés and sunbeds. Smaller coves and inlets often have no facilities, so bringing water and shade is recommended.

Do you need water shoes in Gozo?
Water shoes are highly recommended for rocky beaches and swimming spots, as much of Gozo’s coastline is limestone rather than sand.

When is the best time to visit Gozo beaches?
May, June, and September offer warm sea temperatures with fewer crowds. July and August are the hottest and busiest months.

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