Mgarr ix-Xini

Mgarr ix-Xini (Mġarr ix-Xini) is a long, narrow inlet on the south coast of Gozo, between Xewkija, Sannat and Ghajnsielem. A prehistoric river cut the deep gorge that leads down to it, and the inlet is so sheltered that the Knights of St John used it as a galley harbour. A small watchtower, built in 1661, still guards the mouth of the bay. More recently, the inlet was a location for the 2015 film By the Sea, shot here in 2014.

The beach itself is a small strip of shingle at the head of the inlet, and much of the swimming is off the rocks along the sides. The water is usually calm, and it is a known site for snorkelling and diving: Visit Malta notes rare fish on the western side of the inlet entrance, and caverns at around 10 and 16 metres that divers can reach from here. It is also a good, sheltered place to launch a kayak and paddle out to the tower. Mgarr ix-Xini stays one of Gozo's quieter bathing spots, though local families and visiting boats fill it on summer weekends.

What to know

• Seasonal lifeguard provision is documented; check current duty notices before swimming. Cover is not guaranteed outside the season or duty hours.
• Small shingle beach with rock ledges along the sides; footwear helps.
• Calm, clear water suited to snorkelling, diving and kayaking.
• Reached by a narrow, winding road down the valley; parking is limited.
• Facilities are limited; check what is open outside summer.

Combine Mgarr ix-Xini with sea kayaking along the south coast or a walk on the cliffs; see coastal walking and hiking. It is close to Mgarr harbour for the ferry back to Malta, and the livelier resort inlet of Xlendi Bay lies further west.