The Blue Hole, Gozo: One of the Mediterranean's Greatest Dive Sites

The Blue Hole at Dwejra is the reason serious divers come to Gozo. A natural circular pool carved into the limestone coastline, connected to the open sea through an underwater arch, it's consistently ranked among the top 10 dive sites in the Mediterranean — and for good reason.

But you don't need to be a diver to appreciate it. If you're spending a day in Gozo, combine the Blue Hole with a visit to Xlendi bay — one of the most beautiful and relaxed spots on the island. The Blue Hole is equally spectacular for snorkellers, and the surrounding area at Dwejra Bay is one of the most dramatic coastal landscapes in the Maltese islands.

What Is the Blue Hole?

The Blue Hole is a roughly circular natural pool about 10 metres wide, formed where the sea has eroded through the limestone rock. It's connected to the open sea through an underwater arch at a depth of about 6 metres. The pool itself is around 15 metres deep, and the water inside is an extraordinary shade of deep blue — hence the name.

The arch leads out to a vertical wall that drops to around 60 metres, making it one of the most dramatic wall dives in the Mediterranean. The marine life is exceptional: grouper, barracuda, moray eels, octopus, and in season, schools of amberjack and tuna pass through.

For Divers

The Blue Hole is suitable for Open Water certified divers and above. The standard dive enters the pool, passes through the arch, and follows the wall to the right. Visibility is typically 20-30 metres. Water temperature ranges from 16°C in winter to 26°C in summer.

Several dive centres operate at Dwejra and can provide equipment hire, guided dives, and courses. Booking in advance is recommended in summer. The site is best dived in the morning before the afternoon wind picks up.

For Snorkellers and Swimmers

Non-divers can enter the Blue Hole from the rocks and snorkel through the arch to the open sea — an experience that's genuinely breathtaking even at the surface. The visibility is exceptional and there's abundant marine life even at 1-2 metres depth. Water shoes are recommended as the entry point is rocky.

In calm conditions, swimming in the Blue Hole is safe and accessible. In rough weather or strong winds, waves can wash over the rocks and make entry dangerous. Always assess conditions before entering.

Dwejra Bay: More Than the Blue Hole

The Blue Hole is the centrepiece, but Dwejra Bay has more to offer. The Inland Sea — a small lagoon connected to the open sea through a narrow tunnel in the rock — is a few minutes' walk away and offers a unique swimming experience. Small boats run trips through the tunnel to the open sea.

The site of the former Azure Window, the limestone arch that collapsed in 2017, is also here. While the arch is gone, the surrounding rock formations and the view out to sea remain dramatic.

How to Get There

Dwejra is on the west coast of Gozo, about 10km from Victoria. By car, follow signs from Victoria towards San Lawrenz and then Dwejra. Bus route 311 runs from Victoria. There's a car park near the site with a small fee in summer.