Xlendi Bay is located 3km from the city of Victoria on the south-west coast of Gozo.
This beautiful landlocked bay, with its sandy beach and glorious blue-green waters, was originally the terrain of fishermen and for many years was a haunt of artists and photographers.
More recently, the bay's shingle beach, rocky shore and clear waters have attracted many visitors and it has gradually transformed into a tourist resort, with several bars, restaurants and holiday accommodation having sprung up in the area. Some of the restaurants on the seafront specialise in local fish and delicious giant prawns.
On the right hand side of this bay is St Catherine's Cave. This large grotto is reportedly the place where in 1699 Grand Master Perellos, who used to pay frequent visits to Gozo, had lunch and met the main personalities of the island who came to pay him homage and present him with gifts. Within Xlendi Bay there is another cave which shelters fishing vessels. Above this, there is ‘Carolina's Cave', a private spot reserved for the Domica Sisters.
At the entrance to the bay is Xlendi Tower, built by Gozo's local government in 1658 to defend the bay.
Xlendi Bay is one of the prettiest places on Gozo. Its inky blue sea, cloudless turquoise sky and majestic cliffs continue to attract visitors all year round. The caves and rugged reefs of Xlendi Bay provide ideal conditions for snorkelling and scuba diving, and the area of rocks to the left hand side of the bay is good for sunbathing and diving. For young and old, the entire bay is perfect for swimming.
