Rocky / limestone · Gozo

Xlendi Bay

Bajja ta' Xlendi

Xlendi is a sheltered rocky bay on the southwest coast of Gozo, set at the end of a narrow valley and lined with restaurants and hotels. It is one of Gozo's most characterful spots — a working fishing village that has evolved into a relaxed summer retreat without losing its local identity.

Quick Facts

Type
Rocky bay / sea inlet
Access
Easy — road-level, bus from Victoria
Lifeguard
No
Facilities
Restaurants, kiosk, toilets, dive centres
Best for
Diving, snorkeling, seafood, Gozo atmosphere
Nearest town
Victoria (3 km), Xlendi village (adjacent)
Island
Gozo

What is Xlendi Bay like?

Xlendi Bay is a deep, narrow inlet carved into the southwest cliff of Gozo. The 'beach' is predominantly flat rock with a small sandy strip; entry to the water is from steps and ladders built into the rock walls. The water is exceptionally clear and deep — visibility is remarkable. Around the headland to the south, the coastline opens into dramatic cliff scenery with sea caves and arches.

Diving and snorkeling at Xlendi

Xlendi is one of Gozo's premier dive sites. The underwater landscape includes tunnels, caves and a dramatic drop-off at the mouth of the bay. Several PADI dive centres operate from Xlendi village. Snorkeling is also excellent close to shore — the clear water and rocky bottom support fish life visible from the surface.

Xlendi village and restaurants

Unlike most Maltese beaches, Xlendi has a genuine village atmosphere — a promenade with restaurants serving fresh fish, a handful of hotels and guest houses, and a small resident community. It is quiet in winter and comes alive in summer without reaching the saturation of some north Malta resorts. The walk along the cliff path north from the bay towards Fontana offers excellent coastal views.

Facilities

Sun beds & umbrellasBeach kioskPublic toiletsRestaurants nearby

No lifeguard — swim at your own risk.

Best for

  • snorkeling
  • diving
  • relaxed atmosphere
  • restaurants
  • Gozo life

Avoid if

  • wanting sandy beach
  • July–August if seeking quiet (busy with divers)

Getting there

Bus route 306 from Victoria (Gozo) to Xlendi village — short walk to the bay. By car: 10 minutes from Victoria. From Malta: ferry to Mġarr + 25-minute drive.

Hotels near Xlendi Bay

Closest hotels sorted by straight-line GPS distance from Xlendi Bay:

All hotels near Xlendi Bay, sorted by distance →

Frequently asked questions

Is Xlendi Bay good for swimming?↓

Yes, but entry is from rocks and steps rather than a sandy beach. The water is extremely clear and calm within the bay. Excellent for snorkeling and diving; less suitable for toddlers who need a sandy shallow entry.

What dive sites are near Xlendi?↓

The Xlendi Tunnel and Xlendi Cave are within swimming distance of the bay. Further afield, the Inland Sea at Dwejra and the Blue Hole are 15 minutes by car and considered among Europe's best dive sites.

How do I get to Xlendi from Malta?↓

Take the Gozo ferry from Ċirkewwa to Mġarr (25 min), then drive or take a taxi to Xlendi (25 min). Bus route 306 from Victoria (Rabat) on Gozo serves Xlendi village.

Sources: OpenStreetMap (ODbL) · Malta Tourism Authority · Gozo Tourism · OSM snapshot 2026-06-08 · Last updated 2026-06-14

GPS data: © OpenStreetMap contributors (ODbL)