Marsalforn Bay and fishing village is the most popular summer resort on the island of Gozo, attracting hundreds of Gozitan and Maltese families who like to spend their holidays here by the sea.
In winter the bay is much quieter, with its remaining residents usually the local fishermen going about their daily work.
The bay lies between the villages of Xaghra and Zebbug and can be regarded in three parts - a pebble beach where the Marsalforn valley overflows in winter, a beautiful promenade at one end of the beach and to the other, sandy shores which lead to the small artificial port known as "Il Menqa" - home to the many fishing boats.In fact, Marsalforn is one of Gozo's three main fishing villages.
This old fishing village is still active today, although its traditions have adapted to accommodate the arrival of tourism on the island. Marsalforn is now home to various hotels, apartments and souvenir shops, and many locals have gradually had to change their old ways and offer tourist services.
Marsalforn has several swimming and sunbathing areas. The rocky zone to the left of the bay up to Santa Marija Point is a particular favourite with swimmers and snorkellers, as is the other side of the bay behind Il-Menqa up to Ghar Qawqla Point.
This pretty bay is a base for diving enthusiasts. It offers dive schools, daily organised cruises and a variety of restaurants and bars. In the summer months the area comes alive with motor and sailing boats providing cruises around Gozo or to Comino Island.
