Gozo Region, Malta

Xewkija Beaches

Overview

Xewkija, an inland village in Gozo, offers a unique base for discovering the island's stunning coastline. While Xewkija itself doesn't have its own beaches, its central location is ideal for reaching Gozo's diverse shores, especially if you have transport. Gozo's beaches are generally known for their peaceful and natural atmosphere, providing a tranquil escape from busier locales.

Gozo boasts remarkable beaches to explore from your Xewkija base. Discover the iconic red sands of Ramla Beach, Gozo's largest and a favourite for families. Experience a unique swim in the scenic narrow gorge of Wied Il-Għasri. For a livelier atmosphere with plenty of amenities, visit the popular resort town beach of Marsalforn Beach. An iconic regional escape, Comino Beach, is also easily reachable, famed for its incredibly clear turquoise waters. The closest bay to Xewkija is the picturesque Mġarr ix-Xini, a secluded pebble beach in a beautiful inlet.

Gozo caters to all types of beach lovers, offering peaceful bays for relaxation and rugged coastlines for more adventurous exploration. Most of the island's well-known bays and beaches feature crystal-clear waters, perfect for swimming. Whether you seek popular sandy stretches or hidden coves, Gozo has a coastal spot for you. For a comprehensive guide to all the coastal treasures, be sure to explore our longer list of beaches.

FAQ

Are there any beaches directly in Xewkija?

Xewkija itself is an inland village and does not have its own beaches. However, it is very close to some of Gozo's beautiful coastal areas and beaches. The closest and most directly accessible bay from Xewkija is Mġarr ix-Xini.
Mġarr ix-Xini
Mġarr ix-Xini

How far is Mġarr ix-Xini from Xewkija and how do I get there?

Mġarr ix-Xini is the closest beach to Xewkija, located about 1.6 to 2 kilometers away. You can reach it by car via a narrow, winding road leading down from the outskirts of Xewkija or Sannat. Public transport does not go directly to the bay.
Mġarr ix-Xini
Mġarr ix-Xini

What is Mġarr ix-Xini beach like?

Mġarr ix-Xini is a small, secluded pebble beach situated in a picturesque, fjord-like inlet with clear waters. It's known for being a tranquil spot, popular for swimming, snorkelling, and diving. There's a small restaurant/kiosk often available. The bay gained some international fame as a filming location for the movie 'By the Sea' starring Angelina Jolie and Brad Pitt.
Mġarr ix-Xini
Mġarr ix-Xini

What are the best swimming conditions like at Gozo's beaches?

Gozo's beaches generally offer crystal-clear, turquoise waters, often compared to the Caribbean. The sea is usually calm and warm enough for swimming from spring through autumn, with summer sea temperatures reaching around 27 degrees Celsius. Many bays are sheltered, providing safe swimming conditions, especially for families. Water quality is generally excellent.

Is Xewkija a good place to stay for a beach holiday in Gozo?

Xewkija can be a good base for exploring Gozo's beaches if you have a car, as it offers a central location. While not a coastal resort itself, its proximity to Mġarr ix-Xini and relatively short driving distances to other popular Gozo beaches like Ramla Bay and Xlendi Bay make it a viable option for those who prefer a quieter, more traditional village atmosphere away from the main tourist hubs.
See the full list of accommodation options here.
Mġarr ix-Xini
Mġarr ix-Xini
Ramla Beach
Ramla Beach
Xlendi Beach
Xlendi Beach

Which Gozo beaches are best for families with children, accessible from Xewkija?

While Mġarr ix-Xini near Xewkija is family-friendly due to its calm waters, Ramla Bay is often cited as Gozo's most popular family beach due to its large stretch of red sand and shallow waters. Hondoq ir-Rummien is another good option with amenities and areas for both younger and older children. Xlendi Bay also has a small sandy beach with shallow waters suitable for families. All are reachable by car from Xewkija.
Mġarr ix-Xini
Mġarr ix-Xini
Ramla Beach
Ramla Beach
Hondoq ir-Rummien
Hondoq ir-Rummien
Xlendi Beach
Xlendi Beach

How do you get to other Gozo beaches like Ramla Bay or Xlendi from Xewkija?

The easiest way to reach other Gozo beaches like Ramla Bay (approx. 3.8km from Xewkija) or Xlendi Bay (approx. 4km from Xewkija) is by car. Gozo is a small island, and most locations are within a 20-minute drive. Public buses also serve major beaches, but a car offers more flexibility for exploring.
Ramla Beach
Ramla Beach
Xlendi Beach
Xlendi Beach

When is the best time of year to visit Gozo for a beach holiday?

The best time for a beach holiday in Gozo is generally from late spring (May/June) to early autumn (September/October). During these months, the weather is warm and sunny, and the sea temperatures are ideal for swimming, without the peak summer crowds of July and August. Sunbathing weather is more or less guaranteed between June and September.

People Also Ask

Are there any quiet or hidden beaches I can get to from Xewkija?

Yes, Mġarr ix-Xini itself is considered a secluded bay. Other quieter options, though requiring a bit more effort to reach, include San Blas Bay (known for its red sand and tranquility but with a steep descent) and Wied il-Għasri (a narrow, picturesque inlet). These are best accessed by car from Xewkija.
Mġarr ix-Xini
Mġarr ix-Xini
San Blas Beach
San Blas Beach
Wied Il-Għasri
Wied Il-Għasri

Can you swim at most beaches around Gozo, or are some just for views?

Most of Gozo's well-known bays and beaches are suitable for swimming, with many offering excellent conditions. While some coastal areas are more rugged and appreciated for their dramatic views (like parts of Dwejra or the Sanap Cliffs near Xewkija), popular spots like Ramla Bay, Hondoq ir-Rummien, Xlendi, and Mġarr ix-Xini are all great for swimming.
Ramla Beach
Ramla Beach
Hondoq ir-Rummien
Hondoq ir-Rummien
Xlendi Beach
Xlendi Beach
Mġarr ix-Xini
Mġarr ix-Xini

What's the vibe like at Gozo beaches compared to Malta's beaches?

Gozo's beaches are generally considered more peaceful, natural, and less crowded than many of the beaches on the main island of Malta. The island of Gozo itself has a more laid-back and tranquil atmosphere, which extends to its coastal areas.

Do I need to rent a car to explore beaches if I'm staying in Xewkija?

While not strictly essential as some public transport exists, renting a car is highly recommended for exploring Gozo's beaches effectively, especially from Xewkija. It offers the most flexibility to reach various bays, including those less accessible by bus like Mġarr ix-Xini.
Mġarr ix-Xini
Mġarr ix-Xini

Are there any beaches with red sand near Xewkija?

Yes, the most famous red sand beach in Gozo is Ramla Bay (Ramla il-Ħamra), which is approximately 3.8km from Xewkija and easily accessible by car. San Blas Bay also features red sand and is more secluded, though a bit further and requiring a walk down.
Ramla Beach
Ramla Beach
San Blas Beach
San Blas Beach

What are some local tips for visiting Mġarr ix-Xini?

Mġarr ix-Xini is best reached by car due to the narrow, winding access road. It's a pebbly beach, so water shoes might be comfortable. The bay is known for its clear waters, making it excellent for snorkelling. It can get busy during peak season, so visiting earlier in the day or later in the afternoon might offer a quieter experience. There's usually a restaurant or snack bar available.
Mġarr ix-Xini
Mġarr ix-Xini

Is Gozo more for a relaxed beach holiday or an adventurous one?

Gozo can cater to both. It offers many peaceful bays perfect for relaxing and swimming, like Mġarr ix-Xini and Hondoq ir-Rummien. However, its rugged coastline, numerous dive sites (including wrecks and caves), and opportunities for hiking to more secluded spots also make it ideal for adventurous travelers.
Mġarr ix-Xini
Mġarr ix-Xini
Hondoq ir-Rummien
Hondoq ir-Rummien

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Xewkija Beaches Map

Plan your day with the latest beach weather conditions

Xewkija: Weather Today

📅 Tuesday, March 10, 2026
Today might not be ideal for the beach. The maximum air temperature will be 16.5 °C. Expect a cloudy day, and there's a slight chance of rain. The wind will be somewhat strong, with even stronger gusts possible. The sea temperature is 16.0 °C, and the waves will be moderate. The UV index will not be particularly high.
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Air

Low / High14.8°C/16.5°C
Feels Like (High)13.1°C
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Sea

Sea Temperature16.0 °C
Wave Height1.5 m
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Rain

Rain Chance20%
Rainfall0 mm
Rain Duration0 h
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Sun

Sunrise / Sunset06:20/18:05
Sunshine Hours10.7 hrs
UV Index5.95
Cloud Cover60%
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Wind

Speed28.2 km/h
Gusts56.2 km/h
DirectionE

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