Plizio Visual Lab

Dwejra Bay (Gozo)

Plizio editorial teamUpdated: Jun 2026Data Sources

Animal habitat

Weather…

Dwejra Bay is a site of exceptional geological and ecological importance located on the western coast of Gozo. The area is world-renowned for its unique circular sinkholes, sea caves, and natural bridges formed from Lower Coralline Limestone over millions of years. Key features include the Inland Sea, a secluded lagoon connected to the open ocean via a narrow tunnel, and the Blue Hole, a popular vertical shaft for diving. Historically, the area was fiercely protected by the Knights of Malta for the Fungus Rock, a 60-meter-high stack where a rare parasitic plant, "Cynomorium coccineum", was harvested for its medicinal properties. Today, Dwejra is a Natura 2000 site that supports a variety of coastal bird species and endemic flora. Although the famous Azure Window collapsed in 2017, the bay remains a primary destination for scientific research and nature tourism. Its underwater topography is as diverse as its terrestrial landscape, hosting bustling marine life and coral formations.

Location: Malta
Top sights: Coral Garden · Il-Ħofra tal-Bidwin · Collapsed Azure Window
Nearby: Munxar (4 km)

Best time to visit & climate

The most pleasant time to visit is May–Jul.

	Jan	Feb	Mar	Apr	May	Jun	Jul	Aug	Sep	Oct	Nov	Dec
Avg °C	15	14	15	16	19	22	25	26	25	23	20	17
Rain mm	74	67	53	35	17	12	4	10	63	83	92	83

📋 Practical info

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Best season

The warm Mediterranean months from late spring to early autumn provide the clearest waters and most comfortable sea temperatures, which are highly good for observing the bay's rich underwater biodiversity.

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Best time of day

Early morning is generally the best time for snorkeling and diving before the coastal winds pick up and stir the sediment, offering calmer sea conditions and superior visibility for spotting marine life.

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Etiquette

As a designated marine protected area, visitors must absolutely refrain from touching corals or taking any marine souvenirs, and it is crucial to use only reef-safe sunscreen to preserve the fragile aquatic ecosystem.

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What to bring

High-quality snorkeling gear or certified diving equipment is essential to properly explore the depths, and sturdy water shoes are strongly recommended to safely navigate the sharp, rocky limestone coastline surrounding the bay.

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Getting there

Dwejra Bay is located on the western coast of Gozo and is accessible by car or local bus routes, though the final approach to the water involves walking over uneven natural rock formations that require careful footing.

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What to expect

Underwater currents can occasionally dictate where marine life gathers, so calmly floating and patiently observing the rock crevices will significantly increase your chances of spotting elusive octopuses or colorful fish.

Geography

Coordinates

36.05300, 14.18800

Facts

Fungus Rock was so valuable that the Knights built a watchtower to guard it in 1652.
The "Maltese Fungus" is actually a parasitic flowering plant, not a fungus.
The Inland Sea is roughly 60 meters wide and surrounded by high cliffs.
Dwejra Tower was restored in 1997 and is open to the public.
Many Hollywood movies, including Clash of the Titans, were filmed here.
Fossilized remains of sea urchins and other marine life are common in the rock.