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Ramla Bay
Gozo’s famous red-sand beach is one of the island’s best-known places for swimming and spending time by the sea.
Explore Ramla Bay →Swimming in Gozo
Gozo has a varied coastline with sandy beaches, sheltered bays, rocky swimming areas and quiet places where the sea can be calm and clear. The best choice depends on the weather, sea conditions and the type of coast you want to explore.
Some swimming places are easy to reach and have nearby facilities, while others are more natural and require a walk over uneven ground. Always check local conditions before entering the sea.
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Featured swimming spots & bays
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Xlendi Bay
A sheltered bay surrounded by cliffs, with a popular waterfront and easy access to the sea in suitable conditions.
Explore Xlendi Bay →03
Marsalforn Bay
One of Gozo’s busiest coastal areas, with swimming along the bay and easy access to restaurants and other facilities.
Explore Marsalforn →04
Mġarr ix-Xini
A narrow, sheltered inlet surrounded by steep sides, offering a distinctive setting for swimming when conditions are suitable.
Explore Mġarr ix-Xini →05
Hondoq ir-Rummien
A small sheltered bay on Gozo’s south-eastern coast, with clear water and views towards Comino.
Explore Hondoq ir-Rummien →06
Daħlet Qorrot
A sheltered north-eastern inlet with clear water, rocky shore and traditional boat shelters.
Explore Daħlet Qorrot →07
San Blas Bay
A secluded north-east coast cove with clear water, rocky surroundings and a pebbly shoreline. Access is via a steep path, so reaching the bay requires a reasonable level of fitness.
Explore San Blas Bay →08
Qbajjar Bay
A rocky coastal swimming area close to Marsalforn, surrounded by striking limestone scenery and salt pans.
Explore Qbajjar Bay →09
Dwejra
The Dwejra coast offers unusual swimming locations including the Inland Sea, where conditions and access should be considered carefully.
Explore Dwejra →Choose your swimming spot
Sandy beaches such as Ramla and San Blas are ideal when you want a traditional beach experience. Sheltered bays such as Hondoq, Daħlet Qorrot and Mġarr ix-Xini provide a different coastal setting, while Xlendi and Marsalforn combine swimming with village facilities.
Gozo’s rocky coastline also provides many informal swimming places, but access can be uneven and conditions can change quickly. Use established access points and take extra care after rough weather.
Swimming safely in Gozo
Sea conditions around Gozo vary with wind and swell. A place that looks calm can become unsuitable for swimming when the wind changes. Pay attention to local warnings, flags and advice from lifeguards or local authorities where provided.
Rocky entries can be slippery, and some coastal areas have steep or uneven approaches. Wear suitable footwear where appropriate and never swim beyond your ability or into conditions you are not comfortable with.
Swimming, beaches and diving
Several of Gozo’s swimming locations are also popular with snorkellers and divers. Keep clear of diving activity, boats and marked channels, and use appropriate access points rather than entering the water from exposed cliff edges.
For sandy beaches and beach-focused information, visit the Gozo beaches guide. For underwater sites, explore the Gozo diving guide.
Frequently asked questions
Where can you swim in Gozo?
Popular swimming areas include Ramla Bay, Xlendi Bay, Marsalforn, Mġarr ix-Xini, Hondoq ir-Rummien, Daħlet Qorrot, San Blas, Qbajjar and Dwejra.
Which Gozo swimming spots are sandy?
Ramla Bay is Gozo’s best-known sandy swimming beach, while other bays and swimming spots have pebbles, rocks, limestone platforms or a mixture of surfaces. Some smaller coves may have limited patches of sand.
Is Gozo good for swimming?
Yes. The island has a wide variety of swimming locations, although the safest and most comfortable choice depends on the weather and sea conditions on the day.
Are the bays suitable for children?
Some sheltered beaches and bays can be suitable for families in calm conditions, but depth, rocks, access and sea conditions vary considerably. Children should always be supervised near the water.
Can swimming spots be combined with other Gozo attractions?
Yes. Many bays are close to villages, viewpoints, walks, food and historical or natural landmarks, making them easy to include in a day of exploring.
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