When it comes to the beaches of Gozo, there’s a fitting Maltese proverb that says “The essence is found in the smallest of bottles”.

What this small Island lacks in size and numbers, it more than makes up for in quality. The Gozitan coast is full of picturesque beaches that offer sun-worshippers an unparalleled Mediterranean experience. And best of all, the beaches are extremely safe, with virtually no dangerous marine life and life guards patrolling the major beaches in Summer.

Gozo’s best known beach is Ramla l-Ħamra – a red sand beach nestled in some of the most stunning countryside. While it’s the most popular beach on the island, even in peak season you’ll find plenty of room to build the most ambitious of sand castles. The scenery is superb, with a lush, fertile valley surrounding the ochre sand. But this beach is more than just a hedonist’s delight. Ramla l-Ħamra offers nature lovers a real treat, with fascinating flora and fauna. This protected, Blue Flag beach boasts impressive sand dunes and a variety of interesting, yet hardy species of plant and animal life.

For the intrepid adventurers, San Blas is a secluded bay in the North of the Island. Don’t let its relatively diminutive proportions put you off - the difficult approach tends to keep away most beach-goers, especially in the scorching Summer months. If you can handle the monumental descent in 35 degree temperatures (and obviously the much harder ascent on the way back), you’ll be rewarded with a quiet, sandy paradise, nestled in the thick woody groves of this steep valley.

The picturesque coast of Xlendi bay offers some spectacular scenery, with all the charm of a small seaside town. The bay is dotted with jetties and paved areas perfect for dropping the towel and diving into the deep blue sea. You’ll also find plenty of restaurants, snack bars and ice cream parlours to shelter from the Summer sun. 

For the more social beach experience, try Marsalforn. This sleepy fishing village is bursting with life in Summer, and while the bay itself may be too crowded for some, the perimeter offers some beautifully secluded swimming spots with clear open sea and a dramatic backdrop of chalk coloured clay cliffs.

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