Snorkeling in Gozo: our complete guide!

Hello, this time I’m back to share a great activity with you: snorkeling in Gozo. I can tell you that with everything I discovered on site, there are quite a few spots to snorkel in translucent, often shallow waters. There are beautiful bays like Xlendi or Dwejra.

On my end, I was lucky enough to go at several locations completely on my own. If you forgot your mask and snorkel or simply don’t want to fill up your suitcase (I get it, it’s a real challenge for me haha), you can easily find shops that sell them, especially by the beach or in a small resort town like Marsalforn. In any case, what I particularly loved about the island is that each spot is different. Let me explain: each cove has its own unique vibe with different shades of blue: turquoise, crystal-clear, deep blue… It makes you even more eager to explore the seabed (even if the water was rather cold in April haha, around 17–18°C)!

Of course, snorkeling is one of the things to do in Gozo, and I’ve written a comprehensive guide about it! The goal is for Gozo to hold no more secrets for you and, above all, to convince you to spend more than one day there. I say that because it’s what many travelers usually do. To share my impressions with you, I loved Gozo: it’s a well-preserved, wild island where you feel great. It’s a little wild corner where you really unplug, believe me! I have fond memories of my five days there. Just writing these first lines makes me want to go back (promise, I’m not exaggerating haha).

Back to the essentials: snorkeling in Gozo—I’ll admit that originally, I had booked a guided snorkeling tour on the Manawa website. Unfortunately, the instructor had to cancel because he was sick; it was then fully booked for the remaining days I had there. I was a bit disappointed, but that’s part of the game! At least it proves this activity is popular. Well, I wasn’t surprised since it’s bookable on Manawa’s site, with whom we’ve collaborated for years. But hey, it’s not a big deal: I went snorkeling on my own and it was really fun. When I’m on the surface, my head underwater, I lose track of time following the different schools of fish! I also had the opportunity to do some when I discovered Comino Island.

If you prefer to explore Gozo’s waters on your own, I thought a list gathering all the best snorkeling spots in Gozo would be useful! As usual, these are places I’ve been to and some I’ve explored while snorkeling. My real goal is to give you all my tips and tricks so you can choose where to snorkel based on what you want. Go ahead, let me introduce you to these little corners of paradise!

Among the spots I recommend for snorkeling on the island is Dwejra Bay. On site, the atmosphere is peaceful, and it’s never crowded. And above all, being down below, almost enclosed, makes the place hidden and preserved. The water is surrounded by cliffs with just a lagoon (Inland Sea) that connects to the Mediterranean Sea through a naturally formed tunnel. Dwejra Bay is a must-see in its own right; in fact, it was during my quad excursion that I discovered it. I later returned by car specifically to go snorkeling.

The water is super clear: beneath my feet there were plenty of small rock formations, boulders, sand, and plays of light. Plus, it’s clearly a safe bet for snorkeling no matter the weather: the water is calm since it’s surrounded by cliffs! You can stand quite far out, which is always good to know if you’re not very comfortable in the water but still want to discover the species hiding there. I was lucky enough to see fish that were mostly gray and black.

The water is so clear that you can see them from the shore, but it’s more fun to follow them and discover bigger ones in the water! I also saw sea urchins, so be careful if you don’t have fins, it can really hurt haha. In short, I find that Dwejra Bay is a sure bet for snorkeling, no matter the weather: the water is calm since it’s surrounded by cliffs! A little tip: if you don’t have fins, wear water shoes. It will prevent you from getting cut.

Just next to Dwejra Bay, there’s the famous Blue Hole. To help you picture it, it’s like a natural pool carved into the rock that opens to the sea! Initially, it’s really one of the best scuba diving sites. But when it comes to snorkeling, it doesn’t disappoint either! Once again, the water is translucent, there are beautiful light effects. Even by staying on the surface, you can already see a lot: different species of fish and even anemones!

However, you have to be wary of appearances: even though the spot is surrounded by rock walls, since it opens to the sea, you should avoid going when it’s windy. It’s especially the entrance that can be intimidating with the waves. If you don’t feel comfortable, you can always stay at the sides. What’s really convenient about this spot is that it’s right next to Dwejra Bay. You can walk there on a dirt path. It’s pretty quick, just make sure to wear good shoes because there are some slippery spots (definitely no flip-flops haha).

Honestly, if you go on a day when the weather is perfect, you can easily do a Dwejra Bay + Blue Hole combo.

Another bay surrounded by cliffs! The water is never rough: if it’s windy elsewhere on the island, it doesn’t matter, the bay is well protected. Here, it’s pretty easy to find various fish species: you simply have to follow the rock walls! There are also anemones and even octopuses (they often hide under stones, you just have to keep an eye out haha).

The water’s clarity is incredible, especially in the morning when the light hits the bay directly. Even if you don’t want to swim very far, since the bay is narrow, you’ll immediately see beautiful things.

Well, that’s a lot of advantages, so there had to be a little downside: know that the road to get there is very narrow; it’s quite tricky when you meet another car. But once you arrive, you’ll feel that it was worth it! If you really want to avoid the crowds, you’ll be happy to discover Mgarr ix-Xini for snorkeling!

As soon as you arrive at Wied il-Għasri, you’ll feel like you’re in a little Maltese fjord (at least, that’s the impression I got). The water is super calm, protected by very high cliffs on each side. You have to go down quite a few steps to get there. Once at the bottom, it feels like being cut off from the world, as if in a bubble. So, just imagine putting on your mask and snorkel! Even though it remains a tourist spot, when I went there, there was only one person dipping their feet in! Also, you can stand at a good distance, which makes the spot really reassuring even if you’re not very comfortable in the water. For snorkeling, know that small fish like to hide near the rock walls.

At the time, I hadn’t brought my mask (big mistake haha), but seeing the water’s clarity and a few fish from the surface, I know I would have had wonderful surprises under the water. So really, don’t forget your mask and snorkel when you come here! Even by staying near the shore, you’ll already see pretty things. And the further you venture (while still being able to stand), the more you can explore a translucent, marine-life-rich water. In my opinion, it’s a little gem, certainly well hidden, but perfect for snorkeling in complete tranquility!

So, this is one of my favorite beaches on Gozo, but unfortunately, for snorkeling, I wasn’t lucky: I went on a day with strong currents. So clearly, I didn’t feel comfortable snorkeling or even swimming, especially since you lose your footing quickly (the water looked really deep). I even think I wouldn’t have been able to see much underwater because the conditions weren’t right. I have to admit I was a bit disappointed, but it didn’t stop me from enjoying this beach and making it one of my favorite spots on Gozo. I have to say the water is beautiful! To me, the water is almost the same color as the Blue Lagoon. I think there are species to see and that it must be great to explore!

By the way, during my boat trip around Comino and Gozo, we had a one-hour stop at the Blue Lagoon. It was amazing! I chose to swim around the boat to avoid ending up at the shore with everyone and the food stands. I was in the middle of that turquoise lagoon with almost the entire space all to myself! The skipper provided masks and snorkels, and I clearly jumped at the chance haha. Just putting my head underwater in such a blue setting was amazing! I could see clearly, following different fish (orange, gray, black).

All that to say, if you go to Hondoq Bay on a windless day, you’ll have a blast snorkeling to explore the seabed. Even though it’s an area with quite strong currents (there are several warning signs), if you hit a good day, rather in summer, you should have more luck than I did! Let me know how it goes!

If you’re curious to learn more about Gozo’s beaches, I invite you to read our guide!

Another spot I particularly loved in Gozo! Clearly, Xlendi Bay is perfect for several water activities, including snorkeling and diving. Since I was staying right next to it, I often saw divers or people with snorkels. The water is super turquoise, translucent, and even from the shore you can see big and small fish. That’s what made me jump in! Honestly, I wasn’t disappointed: I was able to follow several schools of fish. That’s even where I saw the biggest fish of all my underwater experiences in Malta. And the best part is I lost all sense of time and truly disconnected.

The bay is so large that even if you go during peak season, you’ll have plenty of space for yourself! You can choose to stay on the surface or go several meters deep (if you prefer scuba diving). Honestly, the only thing that eventually made me get out of the water was its temperature! Even moving around, after a while, it was more tiring than water at over 22 °C. That didn’t stop me from spending about forty minutes there!

As a starting point for snorkeling, I recommend taking the stairs at Xlendi up to Caroline Cave (even if you don’t know it, it’s really easy to spot). From there, just be careful with the slippery rocks; you can easily start your snorkel trip by skimming the cliffs (there are plenty of species!). It’s easier to reach that spot from the stairs than by swimming; it’s quite far from the shore haha. My only small regret, if we can call it that, is not having planned a camera to film what I saw underwater and keep those memories.

As you’ve seen, there are quite a few snorkeling spots that are also excellent scuba diving spots. In terms of marine species, other than fish, I also know there are rays around Gozo, so you might be lucky enough to see one!

If you want to discover Gozo’s seabed while being guided and taken care of, I recommend opting for a guided snorkeling excursion in Gozo. There are truly fantastic ones on the Manawa website! On the agenda, the instructor picks you up directly at your hotel or Airbnb (no need for a rental car) and takes you to one of the best snorkeling (and diving) spots. They choose the location on the day based on the weather and sea conditions! In other words, they know the island like the back of their hand and will bring you to the spot offering the best conditions. Of course, all equipment is provided (snorkel, mask, fins, etc.). The instructor will contact you a few days before to ask your height and shoe size for the wetsuit and shoes. By the way, we’ve written a comprehensive guide to hotels in Gozo if you want to know our top recommendations.

During the session, depending on the spot chosen, they’ll show you all the nooks and crannies where you have the best chances of seeing marine species. All you have to do is follow along and enjoy! Often, they’ll take you into small caves; there are plenty of them in Gozo. It may not look like it, but snorkeling remains an adventure. Plus, you’ll leave with memories of your snorkeling session: the instructor will take photos and videos for you. That’s always nice! Some providers even go further: they offer extras like an aperitif or even a picnic to extend the experience. Honestly, it’s the ideal way to fully enjoy without any hassle.

The provider offering this activity on the Manawa website is:

• Freediver Malta: it was with them that I booked my excursion (even though the instructor was sick that day, tough luck haha). They have a good reputation on the island! They specialize in snorkeling and scuba diving outings. The advantage with them is that they adapt the excursion based on your level and comfort in the water, and choose the spot on the day according to the weather. All their equipment is high quality, and they take care of capturing your underwater memories with their GoPro. Top-notch for a personalized experience.

To give you more clubs that have only good reviews:

• Atlantis Diving Centre: this center is based in Marsalforn and is very well-known across the island. It offers snorkeling and scuba diving. It organizes small-group excursions, generally to Xlendi Bay or Wied il-Għasri. In addition to complete equipment, they sometimes offer snorkeling + cave discovery tours, depending on the weather.
• St. Andrew’s Divers Cove: also located in Marsalforn, this is another reputable center. The highlight: they offer several packages ranging from simple snorkeling to more athletic outings in wilder spots. The guidance is designed to make you feel comfortable. Equipment is also provided, and you’ll even get some extras on the way back, like an aperitif (it’s a nice bonus, I think).

Getting to Gozo couldn’t be easier! You’ll need to fly to Malta International Airport. Once you’ve arrived in the archipelago, you’ll mainly have two options. There are two ferries that run the Malta-Gozo and Gozo-Malta routes every day of the year. Of course, they run more frequently in high season.
The first and most convenient departs from Cirkewwa, at the northern tip of Malta, facing Gozo. That’s the one I took. The crossing takes 25 minutes, and you can board with your car if you’ve rented one.

The second ferry departs from Valletta for Mgarr (Gozo), and the trip naturally takes a bit longer: 45 minutes. Still, it’s quick and very doable. However, this ferry doesn’t accept vehicles and is often crowded in summer.

For more info on how to get to Gozo, I recommend reading our dedicated article.

If you’re tempted by snorkeling in Gozo, here are my tips for the best times to go. I would say the best period for snorkeling in Gozo is from May to October! Well, even starting in April, but you have to be brave haha! As you know, I went to Gozo in early April and, although the water was a bit warmer than on Malta, it remained below 20 °C!

For me, it was especially hard at first to get in, but once you’re in, moving around and captivated by the fish, you quickly forget the water temperature! And the advantage of snorkeling at that time is that there’s almost no one in the water; I really felt like I was in a bubble! I could enjoy myself without having to worry about every move I made, which feels even better!

Also, I recommend checking the weather to choose your day and snorkeling spot carefully. In April, there can still be wind and unpredictable weather. It’s almost certain you’ll have sun, but it’s even better if the water is calm.

In summer, July–August, the water is super nice (around 26 °C); snorkeling then is like observing and following marine species in a big pool! You can imagine, the only downside is that the best spots like Xlendi Bay are much more crowded. It’s a shame, but it’s part of the game! Still, if you choose Xlendi Bay, given how large the bay is, you can still swim well, and underwater everything is quieter!

Otherwise, at the beginning of autumn, from September until mid-October, temperatures remain mild. The island calms down again, and there are far fewer people at the snorkeling spots! And if you want to do a guided excursion, there will be more availability! In short, if you prefer peace and quiet over water temperature, come snorkel from April to June or between September and October. If, on the other hand, you prefer warmer water, in July and August, you’ll be happy!

I still have a few tips for you after my stay on site. In general, even though I went in April, I recommend snorkeling in the morning: the sea is calmer and there are almost no people. As I mentioned, always check the weather; if the sea is calm, you can truly enjoy it. I almost forgot, but very important: since, as you’ve seen, there are quite a few spots where you need to enter the water via rocks, remember to bring water shoes so you don’t hurt yourself. Well, I tell you this, but I have to admit I didn’t have them at the time, and by being careful it went fine. But at least I warned you!

Since I imagine the timing of your trip won’t depend solely on snorkeling, I’m giving you all the info on when to go to Malta in a comprehensive article. It will always help you decide!

If you prefer to be guided, rest assured: prices for a guided snorkeling excursion in Gozo are affordable! You’ll be looking at around €30 to €40 per person. Honestly, I don’t find that excessive with everything that’s included. For that price:

• pickup from your accommodation to the snorkeling spot
• equipment: snorkel, mask, fins, wetsuit (handy if the water is chilly haha)
• briefing to give you the basics
• snorkeling session
• return to your accommodation

Basically, you’ll have nothing to do but enjoy!
And if you want to be alone with the instructor, there are private boat excursions that will take you to Gozo and Comino’s most beautiful coves. It’s a great tour! However, you’re not looking at the same price: around €450 for a four-hour trip. But really, if you’re several people, you can split the cost and book a private activity!

To add a guided snorkeling excursion to your itinerary, I recommend setting aside half a day: morning or afternoon. Often, morning or afternoon is to be decided with your instructor.

Overall, the excursion lasts between 2 and 3 hours in total! During that time, you’ll be in the water for a bit over an hour to properly explore the seabed without getting frozen (depending on the season). The rest of the time includes travel since they pick you up at your place, the briefing, the equipment (especially if you’re wearing a wetsuit: putting it on and taking it off takes time given how tight it is haha). And if you visit multiple spots, you might even take a break, at least for the transfer!

This article on snorkeling in Gozo is coming to an end! I hope it made you want to try it, whether on your own or on a guided excursion. In any case, Gozo’s waters are translucent and beautiful to explore. You won’t be disappointed!

For those who prefer to level up with scuba diving, I’ve written an entire article on the topic (I did my first dive on Malta island!). It was my diving baptism, and the club was really great!

And as another totally different but must-do activity, I recommend a quad excursion in Gozo. I did it for a day, and I can tell you I had a blast. I would even say it was one of the best days of my trip in the Mediterranean archipelago!

See you soon for new Maltese adventures,

Written by Laura CALLES

Thanks to Mélanie and Sylvain, I had the chance to explore the beautiful Maltese archipelago and share all the beauty of its islands with you. A little piece of paradise not to be missed!

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