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Xlendi Bay (Gozo)

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Xlendi Bay (Gozo) (Malta)

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Xlendi Bay, situated on the southwest coast of Gozo, is a fjord-like inlet flanked by steep limestone cliffs. Since Roman times, it has served as an important harbor for galleys, a fact supported by numerous archaeological finds of amphorae on the seabed. At the mouth of the bay stands the Xlendi Tower, constructed in 1650 to defend the area against pirates and smugglers. The village of Xlendi originated as a small fishing community but has evolved into a prominent tourist center featuring a variety of restaurants and seaside accommodations. The bay is particularly renowned among divers for its reef and a complex system of underwater caves. Despite modern tourism development, the location retains its unique charm due to its geographical setting at the base of a deep valley. The northern cliffs provide hiking paths with expansive views across the Mediterranean towards the main island of Malta.

Best time to visit & climate

The most pleasant time to visit is May–Jul.

JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec
Avg °C151415161922252625232017
Rain mm74675335171241063839283

📋 Practical info

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What is this place?
Xlendi Bay on Gozo is a pretty sea inlet that serves as a small harbour for fishing boats and excursion vessels. It is a popular spot for divers and swimmers enjoying the clear water and underwater world.
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Visiting
The bay and harbour are freely accessible, and visitors can stroll along the waterfront promenade watching boats come and go. Diving schools and boat rentals are located right on the water.
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Where to view it
The best view of the bay is from the surrounding cliffs, especially the path to Ta' Ċenċ coast. From the terraces of restaurants on the shore, you also have a wonderful view of the turquoise water.
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Local products
Fishermen bring in fresh daily catches such as sea bream, sea bass, and squid, which are prepared in local restaurants. Handcrafted souvenirs like lacework and glassware are also offered.
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Active season
The main tourist season is from June to September, when the weather is good for beach and diving activities. During this time, the bay is particularly lively, and restaurants and bars are full.
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Nearby
A visit to Xlendi Bay can be combined with exploring the city of Victoria and the Citadel of Gozo. The nearby Xwejni salt pans and Marsalforn beach are also worth a visit.

Geography

Coordinates
36.03000, 14.21700

Facts

  • Xlendi Tower was constructed in the year 1650.
  • The village is part of the Munxar local council on Gozo.
  • Roman amphorae have been recovered from the seabed of the bay.
  • The surrounding cliffs reach heights of over 50 meters.
  • The settlement was almost exclusively a fishing village until the 20th century.
  • A hiking trail connects Xlendi to the scenic Sanap Cliffs.

Explore nearby

Notable places around

XlendiXlendi<1 km · NExplore →
Caper Bushes of GozoCaper Bushes of Gozo2 km · NEExplore →
SannatSannat2 km · EExplore →
Sarraflu PondSarraflu Pond2 km · WExplore →
Tal-Massar Winery (Gozo)Tal-Massar Winery (Gozo)3 km · NExplore →
DwejraDwejra3 km · NWExplore →
Villa Rundle Gardens (Gozo)Villa Rundle Gardens (Gozo)3 km · NEExplore →
Mġarr ix-Xini Valley (Gozo)Mġarr ix-Xini Valley (Gozo)3 km · EExplore →

Route planner — Car & Motorhome

Where do you start? We build the route here, with stops and country notes along the way.

Vehicle
Only stops with (optional):

© OpenStreetMap contributors · OpenRouteService

Sights in the town Xlendi Bay (Gozo) (10)

Xlendi

Sandy and pebbly beach in Xlendi Bay, surrounded by cliffs and cafés.

Carolina Grotto

Sea grotto near Xlendi, reachable by boat or swimming.

Underground Floor Mill

Underground mill from past centuries in Xlendi.

Torri tax-Xlendi

17th-century Lascaris Tower guarding Xlendi Bay.

Xlendi Eroded Rock

Rock shaped by erosion on the Xlendi coastline.

Sannat Cliffs

Steep limestone cliffs near Sannat overlooking the open sea.

Fort Żgħawri

Fortification from the Knights' period on Gozo.

Munxar Parish Church

Church in Munxar, Malta, dedicated to Saint Helen.

Lunzjata Valley Belvedere Viewpoint

Viewpoint over the green Lunzjata Valley on Gozo.

Ta' Dbiegi

Hill on Gozo, the highest point of the island.

Sights nearby

Frequently asked questions

Is Xlendi Bay good for divers?
Yes, it is a popular spot for beginner divers and snorkelers due to the clear waters.
Are there many restaurants there?
Xlendi is famous for its excellent waterfront restaurants specializing in fresh seafood.
Can you go hiking nearby?
Yes, there are beautiful paths along the cliffs leading to a 17th-century watchtower.
When is the best time to visit?
Sunset in Xlendi is spectacular and a true highlight for any visitor.
Is parking difficult in Xlendi?
It can be busy in summer and on weekends, but there is a large public car park available.
Xlendi Bay (Gozo): where is it located?
Xlendi Bay (Gozo) is located in Malta.
Xlendi Bay (Gozo): what is there to see?
Highlights include Xlendi, Carolina Grotto, Underground Floor Mill.
Xlendi Bay (Gozo): when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is May, Jul.
Xlendi Bay (Gozo): why is it worth visiting?
Xlendi Bay, situated on the southwest coast of Gozo, is a fjord-like inlet flanked by steep limestone cliffs.
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Nature

Sanap Cliffs (Gozo) — Xlendi Bay (Gozo) (Malta)
Sanap Cliffs (Gozo)
Spectacular cliffs on the south coast of Gozo with a coastal walking path.
Lunzjata Valley Fountain (Gozo) — Xlendi Bay (Gozo) (Malta)
Lunzjata Valley Fountain (Gozo)
A lush valley fed by a natural spring, keeping it green year-round.
Mġarr ix-Xini Valley (Gozo) — Xlendi Bay (Gozo) (Malta)
Mġarr ix-Xini Valley (Gozo)
A steep-sided valley leading to a secluded bay, used as a filming location for the movie 'By the Sea'.
Dwejra Bay &amp; Fungus Rock (Gozo) — Xlendi Bay (Gozo) (Malta)
Dwejra Bay & Fungus Rock (Gozo)
A dramatic coastal formation featuring the Inland Sea and Fungus Rock.
Wied il-Mielaħ Window (Gozo) — Xlendi Bay (Gozo) (Malta)
Wied il-Mielaħ Window (Gozo)
A natural rock arch on the coast, similar to the collapsed Azure Window.
Wied il-Għasri (Gozo) — Xlendi Bay (Gozo) (Malta)
Wied il-Għasri (Gozo)
A secluded inlet cut like a fjord between high cliffs.
Ramla Bay (Gozo) — Xlendi Bay (Gozo) (Malta)
Ramla Bay (Gozo)
A large beach on Gozo, famous for its unique reddish sand.
Tal-Mixta Cave (Gozo) — Xlendi Bay (Gozo) (Malta)
Tal-Mixta Cave (Gozo)
A cave overlooking Ramla Bay, providing a famous photo spot.

More places

Caper Bushes of Gozo — Xlendi Bay (Gozo) (Malta)
Caper Bushes of Gozo
Gozo is known for its wild-growing caper bushes, whose buds are harvested and preserved.
Ta&#39; Cenc Cliffs (Gozo) — Xlendi Bay (Gozo) (Malta)
Ta' Cenc Cliffs (Gozo)
These cliffs on Gozo are a major nesting site for colonies of seabirds.
Lunzjata Valley (Gozo) — Xlendi Bay (Gozo) (Malta)
Lunzjata Valley (Gozo)
A lush, green valley on Gozo that hosts rich flora and fauna, including freshwater crabs.
Tal-Massar Winery (Gozo) — Xlendi Bay (Gozo) (Malta)
Tal-Massar Winery (Gozo)
A boutique winery on Gozo specializing in producing wines from local grape varieties.
Gozo Artisan Network — Xlendi Bay (Gozo) (Malta)
Gozo Artisan Network
An initiative promoting local artisans and food producers on Gozo.
Villa Rundle Gardens (Gozo) — Xlendi Bay (Gozo) (Malta)
Villa Rundle Gardens (Gozo)
A public garden in Victoria with a playground and many birds in aviaries.
Gozo 3D Cinema (Citadel) — Xlendi Bay (Gozo) (Malta)
Gozo 3D Cinema (Citadel)
A cinema in the Gozo Citadel showing a 3D film about the island's history.
Dwejra Inland Sea Boat Trips (Gozo) — Xlendi Bay (Gozo) (Malta)
Dwejra Inland Sea Boat Trips (Gozo)
Small boats pass through a tunnel in the cliff from the Inland Sea to the open sea.