Xlendi Beach: Gozo's Coastal Gem
Discover Xlendi Beach: Gozo's charming bay with dramatic cliffs, clear waters, and a rich history, perfect for swimming, diving, and coastal walks.
Xlendi Beach, or Xlendi Bay, is a picturesque and popular destination on the southwest coast of Gozo, Malta's sister island. This charming bay, once a tiny fishing village, has transformed into a bustling resort that draws visitors year-round. Xlendi is surrounded by the villages of Munxar, Fontana, and Kercem. The bay itself features a small sandy and pebbly beach, perfect for swimming and relaxing. The shallow waters near the beach make it ideal for families, while the rocky coastline offers deeper waters suitable for diving and snorkeling. Xlendi is a well-known diving site because of its reef formations and underwater tunnels. Dramatic cliffs surround Xlendi, offering scenic hiking trails with breathtaking views. The Xlendi Walk provides panoramic views of the Ta' Ċenċ and Sanap Cliffs. These trails lead to hidden gems like Caroline's Cave, accessible by stairs along the cliffside. The Xlendi Tower, Gozo's oldest free-standing coastal watchtower, adds to the bay's historical allure. Built in 1650, it once guarded the bay against smugglers and pirates. The area is rich in history, with archaeological finds dating back to the Punic-Byzantine era. The local village life enhances the bay's charm, with waterfront restaurants perfect for enjoying a meal with a view. Popular activities include exploring hidden caves and participating in local events like the Xlendi Village Feast in September. Previously a sandy beach, natural processes and human activity have made Xlendi a pebbly beach.
Local tips
- Arrive early, especially in summer, to secure a good spot on the small beach.
- Explore the coastal trails to Xlendi Tower and Caroline's Cave for stunning views.
- Enjoy fresh seafood at one of the waterfront restaurants.
- Take a boat trip to explore nearby caves and coves.
- Visit during the Xlendi Village Feast in September for a taste of local culture.
A brief summary to Xlendi Beach
- 26J8+5RV, Munxar, MT
Getting There
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Public Transport
From Victoria (Rabat), Gozo's capital, take bus line 306 or 330 directly to Xlendi. The bus ride is approximately 10 minutes. A single daytime ticket costs €2.50. The bus stop is a short walk from the beach.
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Taxi
From the Mġarr ferry terminal, a taxi to Xlendi costs approximately €20-€25 and takes about 20 minutes. Taxis are readily available at the terminal, or you can book Bolt or eCabs via their apps for potentially lower fares.
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Walking
From Xlendi Tower, follow the coastal path along the cliffs towards the bay. The walk is well-maintained and offers scenic views. Allow approximately 10-15 minutes to reach the main beach area.
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Car
From the Mġarr ferry terminal, follow the signs to Victoria, then to Xlendi. The drive takes approximately 20 minutes. Parking is available near the seafront, but it can be limited, especially during peak season. Additional parking can be found on the hill leading into Xlendi.
