Is Munxar or Xlendi a good base for a beach holiday in Gozo?
Munxar itself is a quiet village, but it provides easy access to Xlendi Bay, which is a popular coastal resort. Xlendi Bay offers a small sandy and pebbly beach, clear waters for swimming and snorkeling, and numerous restaurants and accommodations. This makes the Munxar/Xlendi area a good option for a beach-focused holiday, especially for those who appreciate a mix of village tranquility and seaside activity.
What is the beach in Xlendi like?
Xlendi Bay features a small beach with a mix of sand and smooth pebbles, leading into shallow, calm waters. The bay is flanked by rocky areas and cliffs, offering spots for sunbathing and deeper water swimming. It's known for its picturesque setting within a valley.
Can you swim in Xlendi Bay and what is the water like?
Yes, you can swim in Xlendi Bay. The water near the small beach is shallow and generally calm, making it suitable for families and less confident swimmers. Further out, and along the rocky edges of the bay, the water is deeper and very clear, popular for snorkeling and diving. The bay is sheltered by cliffs, which helps keep the waters calm.
Is Xlendi Bay good for families with children?
Yes, Xlendi Bay is considered a good spot for families with children. The main beach area has a small patch of sand and pebbles with shallow, gentle waters near the shore, which is ideal for young children to play and paddle safely. While lifeguards may not always be present, the calm nature of the bay near the shore is a plus for families.
Can you recommend any accommodation with beach access or sea views in the Munxar/Xlendi area?
In Xlendi Bay, which is easily accessible from Munxar, there are several hotels and apartments directly on the waterfront or very close to the beach, offering sea views. Options range from hotels to self-catering apartments. While Munxar village itself is set back slightly from the coast, some accommodations there might offer valley views leading towards the sea. For direct beach access, Xlendi Bay is the primary area to look for accommodation.
How do I get to Xlendi Bay from Munxar village?
Xlendi Bay is very close to Munxar village. You can walk from Munxar to Xlendi Bay in about 30 minutes (approximately 2.5 km) by following Triq il-Kbira. Alternatively, you can drive, which takes only a few minutes. Public transport is also an option; bus route 306 connects Munxar village square to Xlendi, or you can take a bus from Xlendi towards Victoria and alight at the Munxar bus stop.
What's the best time of year to visit Xlendi beach for swimming?
The best time for swimming and enjoying Xlendi beach is during the peak summer months of July to September when sea temperatures are warm (around 27°C or 81°F) and the weather is consistently sunny. Spring (April-June) and autumn (October-November) also offer pleasant weather for beach visits with fewer crowds, though the sea will be cooler, particularly in spring.
Are there any facilities at Xlendi Bay like restaurants or toilets?
Yes, Xlendi Bay is well-equipped with facilities. There are numerous restaurants, cafes, and bars along the promenade, many offering waterfront dining. Public toilets are also available. You can also find gift shops and ice cream parlours.
Is Xlendi Bay very crowded?
Xlendi Bay can get quite busy, especially during the peak summer months (July and August) and on weekends. To secure a good spot by the water, it's advisable to arrive early. During the shoulder seasons (spring and autumn), it's generally less crowded.
What is there to do at Xlendi Bay besides swimming?
Besides swimming, Xlendi Bay is popular for snorkeling and diving due to its clear waters, reef formations, and underwater caves. You can rent equipment or join guided dives from local dive centers. The area also offers scenic hiking trails along the cliffs, such as the Xlendi Walk to Ta' Ċenċ Cliffs and Sanap Cliffs, providing stunning coastal views. Boat trips and watersports like kayaking and paddle boating are also available.
Are there any hidden coves or quieter spots near Xlendi Bay?
While Xlendi Bay itself is popular, you can find quieter spots by exploring the coastline. For instance, walking along the cliffs can lead to more secluded areas for enjoying the views. Some small, less accessible coves or rocky platforms might be found by kayak or boat. L'Ghar ta Santa Katarina is a sea cave reachable by kayak or paddleboard from Xlendi. Mġarr ix-Xini, a nearby bay, is also known for being more tranquil, though it's a separate beach destination.
How does Xlendi Bay compare to other Gozo beaches like Ramla Bay?
Xlendi Bay offers a different experience compared to Ramla Bay. Xlendi is a smaller, picturesque bay with a mix of pebbles and sand, set within a village atmosphere with many restaurants and activities like diving. Ramla Bay, on the other hand, is Gozo's largest sandy beach, known for its distinctive red sand and more natural, less developed surroundings. Ramla is often preferred for extensive sunbathing and family beach days due to its size, while Xlendi offers a lively resort feel with varied water activities.
What's the parking situation like at Xlendi Bay?
Xlendi Bay has a main car park near the seafront. However, this can get very busy, especially during peak season and weekends. There is some additional parking available along the hill as you descend into Xlendi. Arriving early is recommended if you need to park close to the beach.
Are there any local quirks or things to know about Xlendi beach culture?
Xlendi has evolved from a quiet fishing village into a popular but still charming seaside resort. Locals and visitors alike enjoy the promenade for evening strolls and dining by the sea. While it's a tourist spot, it retains a Gozitan character. Jumping from the designated concrete platform into the sea is a popular activity for the more adventurous. The bay is also a hub for diving schools, reflecting its importance for underwater exploration.
Is Munxar a good destination for a quiet, relaxing holiday or more for an adventurous one?
Munxar itself offers a tranquil village atmosphere, making it suitable for a quiet, relaxing holiday. Its proximity to Xlendi Bay (a short walk or drive) adds options for more adventurous activities like diving, snorkeling, hiking the coastal cliffs (Sanap Cliffs are nearby), and watersports. So, it can cater to both relaxation seekers who enjoy the peaceful village and those looking for coastal adventures in Xlendi.
