Known for its rugged coastline and crystal-clear waters, Gozo offers a variety of stunning beaches perfect for relaxation and adventure. I think the beaches here are even nicer than the beaches on Malta!
Having explored all over Malta and Gozo, I’ve visited every beach on this list myself. I’ll reveal the top spots for sunbathing, swimming, and snorkeling on the island, with tips on which beach to visit for every traveler including how easy it is to access, what facilities are nearby, and whether it’s worth battling summer crowds.
For transparency, I’ve skipped beaches I haven’t personally visited, like Daħlet Qorrot, so you’re getting my firsthand tips here!
1. Ħondoq ir-Rummien
- Location: Southeast Gozo, overlooking Comino, near the village of Qala.
- Best for: Crystal-clear swimming, snorkeling, and water sports like kayaking and SUP.
Starting directly across the channel from Comino over to Malta's sister island; Gozo we have the picturesque and compact beach named Hondoq Bay (Ħondoq ir-Rummien Bay).
This is a very small beach with soft sands, protected by rocky outcrops on either side. Furthermore, there are several water sports companies operating here, so you have the option of water skiing, kayaking, or renting a SUP!
2. Ramla Beach (Ramla Bay)
- Location: North Gozo, below Nadur and Xagħra, accessible via a winding road.
- Best for: Family-friendly beach days, red sand scenery, and visiting Tal-Mixta & Calypso’s Cave.
Perhaps one of the most famous beaches in Malta, Ramla Bay Beach is a spectacular stretch of red sand overlooking the northern shores of Gozo Island.
Similarly to Mellieħa on the main island, the shallow water here makes it the perfect place for water sports or for enjoying a day at the beach with the family.
Additionally, Ramla Bay is known for its adjacent caves, Calypso's Cave, and the spectacular viewpoint cave called Tal-Mixta Cave– go check them out!
3. Wied Il-Għasri
- Location: Northern Gozo, west of Marsalforn, tucked between high limestone cliffs.
- Best for: Secluded swimming, snorkeling, and exploring underwater caves.
My personal favorite beach on Gozo Island, Malta is Wied Il-Għasri. This is one of the most scenic rocky inlets in the Maltese Islands and features a minuscule sandy beach entering into a snaking river-like canyon leading to the Mediterranean Sea in the north.
The Wied il Ghasri Cove also contains several surrounding underwater caves, which makes it a popular spot for scuba divers and snorkelers.
4. Inland Sea
- Location: Dwejra Bay, west coast of Gozo, near the former Azure Window.
- Best for: Boat trips through the sea tunnel, calm water swimming, and coastal photography.
The Inland Sea might not appear on all lists of Malta's best beaches, but I'd say it's one of the most unique! This is a magnificent natural saltwater lagoon situated in Dwejra Bay on the island of Gozo's rugged west.
This shallow semi-circular lagoon is lined by a thin, pebble beach and is often dotted with small fishing boats laying anchor during rough seas.
5. The Blue Hole
- Location: Next to Inland Sea in Dwejra Bay, part of Gozo’s most famous dive site.
- Best for: Snorkeling, scuba diving, and swimming in a natural underwater tunnel.
Malta's Blue Hole is another spectacular rock formation right next to the famous Inland Sea in Dwejra Bay (Gozo).
While not a traditional beach, it is a great place to swim and snorkel, as this awesome vertical underwater tunnel is filled with crystal clear water! This is also located right beneath the former Azure Window!
6. Xlendi Beach
- Location: Southwest Gozo, in Xlendi Bay, surrounded by cliffs and seaside restaurants.
- Best for: Cliff jumping, cave exploring, and enjoying beachside dining.
Xlendi Beach in Gozo's lively Xlendi township is an excellent place to visit if you're chasing beach bars, caves, and an overall chill vibe.
While the beach here is very small, travelers will want to check out the cliffside walking trails leading to a nearby cave and cliff-jumping spot! Afterward, go check out the nearby salt pans or grab a drink at one of the many seaside bars.
7. Mġarr ix-Xini
- Location: South Gozo, between Xewkija and Għajnsielem, accessible via a narrow road.
- Best for: Tranquil swimming, scenic fjord-like cliffs, and relaxed beach days.
Looking to get off the beaten path on your Gozo beach hopping itinerary? If you're visiting during the high season, make sure you include a visit to Mġarr ix-Xini.
This is a sheltered bay similar to Wied Il-Għasri but attracts a fraction of the tourists. Due to the high, fjord-like cliffs, this bay is usually very sheltered, even during bad weather.
Furthermore, beachgoers in Malta can enjoy the small pebble strand or the many flat rocks around it, providing a great place to sit down with friends and family.
8. San Blas Beach
- Location: Northeast Gozo, below Nadur, reached via a steep downhill walk.
- Best for: Secluded beach days, unique red sand, and unspoiled natural beauty.
San Blas Beach is a hidden gem that offers a more secluded atmosphere and stunning red sand.
This small, picturesque beach is less crowded due to its steep descent, but the effort is worth it. The unique red sand and crystal-clear waters make it perfect for a quiet day of sunbathing and swimming.
To get here, you'll need to drive or take a bus to the village of Nadur. From Nadur, follow the signs to San Blas and drive to the end of San Blas Road, where you can park your car.
Once parked, you'll need to walk down a steep, narrow path to reach the beach. The descent can be a bit challenging, so make sure to wear sturdy shoes and take your time. As you make your way down, you'll be rewarded with breathtaking views of the coastline and the Mediterranean Sea.
Where to Stay Near the Beach in Gozo
Stay in Xlendi for its lively bay, surrounded by cliffs and a small beach perfect for swimming and dining. Marsalforn offers a bustling coastal vibe with easy access to rocky shores and nearby Wied Il-Għasri. For red sands and family-friendly shores, base yourself near Ramla Bay, just minutes from caves and viewpoints. C
heck my top 3 picks below or read my Boutique Hotels on Gozo guide for more!
1. Quaint Boutique Hotel Boutique
Accommodation on Malta’s quieter sister island should reflect its more peaceful and traditional ambiance. This beautifully renovated boutique hotel is situated directly beside the Nadur Parish Church, with spacious balcony terraces looking over the town square.
2. Viewpoint Boutique Living - Xlendi
This family-run boutique hotel dates back 300 years and is situated on a beautiful cliff overlooking the Xlendi Valley and the Mediterranean Sea. The location is ideal for couples looking to get away, with convenient access to the beach and just a short 2 km drive to the Citadella.
3. Kempinski Hotel - San Lawrenz
For travelers preferring modern, 5-star luxury, the Kempinski Hotel is your best bet. This amazing hotel is located in San Lawrenz, on a 30,000m² tropical oasis. An excellent choice for larger groups and families as there are self-catering apartment options as well!
FAQ
What is the best beach on Gozo?
Wied Il-Għasri is my personal favorite beach due to its laid back local vibe and amazing clear water for swimming. That said, Ramla Bay is probably the most famous but it's a little too busy for me.
Are there any secluded beaches on Gozo?
Yes, I highly recommend Wied Il-Għasri Beach for a more relaxed vibe. It can still attract a crowd in summer but it's much more laid back than Ramla Beach or Ħondoq ir-Rummien. Otherwise, check out San Blas Bay for a more secluded atmosphere and stunning red sand.
How can I get around on Gozo?
Getting around Gozo is easy with a rental car or scooter. Public buses also connect most beaches. I chose to rent a car at Malta Airport and take the car ferry from Ċirkewwa Harbour which gave me the flexibility to explore multiple beaches in one day.
When is the best time to visit Gozo's beaches?
I find the best time to visit is from May to October. The weather is warm, the sea is inviting, and the beaches are at their best. However, summer is drier on Gozo so if you want more green surroundings, opt for Spring, specifically between April and May. For fewer crowds, early mornings or late afternoons are ideal.
Are Gozo's Beaches good for snorkeling?
Absolutely! The waters around Gozo are crystal clear and perfect for swimming and snorkeling. I've had great experiences at Hondoq Bay and Xlendi Bay. However, I consider the beaches on Comino to be best for snorkeling since the water clarity is usually better.
I hope this quick guide with photos from my trips have inspired you to visit Gozo's epic beaches. Read my review to find out if Gozo is worth it for you!! Check out the list below for more travel guides.
- Best Things to do in Malta - my epic travel guide covering all the best places to visit around the country.
- Gozo Itinerary - read and follow my perfect 3 day in Gozo travel itinerary
- Where to Stay in Malta - let me help you plan your accommodation across the country!