Playa de Dwejra Bay (Inland Sea)

Introduction

Welcome to one of the most unique and fascinating treasures among Malta's beaches: Dwejra Bay beach, also known as the Inland Sea, on the idyllic island of Gozo. If you're looking for a destination that combines breathtaking natural beauty with opportunities for adventure and contemplation, you've come to the right place. This is not the typical golden sandy beach you might imagine when thinking of a beach, but a geological gem that invites us to explore an underwater world and breathtaking landscapes.

The Inland Sea is a saltwater lagoon, almost circular, sheltered from the open sea by a limestone cliff. Its connection to the Mediterranean is through a narrow natural tunnel about 80 meters long, a marvel that allows us to pass from the tranquility of the lagoon to the vastness of the sea. Although we can sadly no longer admire the famous Azure Window that once stood majestically in this bay, Dwejra remains a place of raw beauty and a magnet for divers, photographers, and all those seeking to connect with the force of nature. Prepare to immerse yourself in the essence of Gozo, in a corner where our planet's geological history manifests with unparalleled grandeur.

How to get to Dwejra Bay (Inland Sea) beach

Getting to Dwejra Bay (Inland Sea) beach is part of the adventure and, fortunately, it's quite straightforward once you're in Gozo. We always recommend renting a car for total freedom and to explore the island at your own pace, but there are also public transport options.

By car

If you arrive by ferry from Cirkewwa (Malta) to Mgarr (Gozo), the drive to Dwejra takes approximately 20-25 minutes. From Victoria (Rabat), the capital of Gozo, the distance is even shorter, about 15 minutes. The roads are well signposted and the route is picturesque, passing through small villages and fields. Once at Dwejra, you'll find a large free parking area near the Inland Sea and the cliffs. It's a relief not to worry about parking, especially in high season.

By bus

For those who prefer public transport, bus line 311 connects Victoria with Dwejra. The journey takes about 25-30 minutes and the schedules are fairly regular, although it's always a good idea to check the latest updates, especially if you visit in the low season. The bus stop is very close to the access to the Inland Sea, so you won't have to walk far. This option is ideal for relaxing and enjoying the scenery without the worry of driving.

Organized tours

Another popular way to visit Dwejra is through organized tours, both from Malta and Gozo. Many of these tours combine Dwejra with other points of interest in Gozo, such as the Ta' Pinu Basilica or the Victoria Citadel. It's a good option if you prefer someone else to handle the logistics and guide you through the most emblematic places.

The sand and the water

When we talk about Dwejra Bay (Inland Sea) beach, it's important to clarify that we are not referring to a traditional sandy beach. Here, nature presents us with a different setting, dominated by rock and pebbles. The 'beach area' of the Inland Sea is, in fact, a shore of small pebbles and rocky platforms that gently descend into the crystal-clear waters of the lagoon.

The shore of the Inland Sea

The ground is mainly composed of pebbles and rocks, so we strongly recommend wearing water shoes or aqua socks. This will make entering and exiting the water much more comfortable and will prevent slips. Despite its rocky nature, the atmosphere is incredibly relaxing. We found a small spot to lay our towels and enjoy the sound of the water and the sea breeze.

The waters of the Inland Sea

The waters of the Inland Sea are famous for their transparency and turquoise blue color, especially when the sun shines directly. Being a protected lagoon, the waters are usually very calm, making it an ideal place for swimming and snorkeling, even for those who are not comfortable in the open sea. The depth increases gradually, but most of the lagoon is relatively shallow, allowing excellent visibility of marine life.

The tunnel and the open sea

The true magic of the water here lies in its connection to the open sea through the tunnel. It's a unique experience to pass through this natural passage swimming or in a small boat. On the other side, the water takes on a deeper blue and the feeling of immensity is palpable. The underwater rocks and nearby caves offer a fascinating spectacle for divers. The water clarity in this area is exceptional, making it one of the best diving spots among the beaches of San Lawrenz (Gozo) and all of Malta's beaches.

Services and facilities

Despite being a natural spot, Dwejra Bay (Inland Sea) beach has a series of basic services that make the visit more pleasant, although don't expect the luxury of a coastal resort. The infrastructure is designed to respect the environment and facilitate the exploration of this unique place.

Restaurants and Chiringuitos

In the Inland Sea area, you'll find some small chiringuitos and simple restaurants that offer cold drinks, ice cream, and light meals. We enjoyed a good tuna sandwich and a local beer while taking in the views. They are not fine dining establishments, but they perfectly fulfill their function of replenishing energy. Prices are reasonable and the service is usually friendly. It's the perfect place for an informal lunch or a coffee after a swim.

Parking

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