Inland Sea, Dwejra
Dwejra, Gozo, Malta
Duration
1–2 hours
Entry
Free to view; boat trips available for a small fee
Hours
Accessible year-round; boat trips run daily in good weather
A sheltered seawater lagoon connected to the open sea by a narrow natural tunnel through the cliffs, offering boat trips and swimming.
Local Tip
Take a small boat trip through the tunnel to the open sea — the boatmen row you through the narrow archway to the cliff face and back for a few euros.
The Inland Sea (Il-Qawra) is a shallow, landlocked seawater lagoon at Dwejra on the west coast of Gozo. It is connected to the open Mediterranean by a narrow, 60-metre-long natural tunnel carved through the limestone cliff. The lagoon is about 60 metres deep in places, despite its calm surface, and the surrounding cliffs rise steeply to protect it from wind.
Local boatmen offer short rowing-boat trips through the tunnel to the open sea and the towering cliffs beyond — one of Gozo's most distinctive experiences. The lagoon itself is popular for swimming and snorkelling, and several small kiosks and boat-hire operators line the shore. The Inland Sea is part of the wider Dwejra area, a UNESCO-backed candidate site that also includes the Dwejra Tower and the former site of the Azure Window.
⭐ Highlights
- ✓Sheltered seawater lagoon connected to the open sea by a natural tunnel
- ✓Boat trips through the 60-metre cliff tunnel to the open Mediterranean
- ✓Swimming and snorkelling in calm, sheltered water
- ✓Part of the Dwejra heritage area with dramatic coastal geology
- ✓Small kiosks and boat-hire operators on the shore
How to Get There
The Inland Sea is at Dwejra on Gozo's west coast, a 15-minute drive from Victoria. There is a car park at the lagoon. Bus route 311 from Victoria serves Dwejra. The site is a 10-minute walk from the Dwejra Tower.
Open in Google MapsBest Time to Visit
Spring and early autumn offer the best weather for boat trips and swimming. Visit in the morning for calm conditions and fewer crowds. Boat trips may be suspended in rough weather.
Visitor Tips
- 💡Boat trips cost a few euros per person and take about 20 minutes
- 💡Wear water shoes if swimming — the lagoon bed is rocky
- 💡Bring cash for boat trips and kiosks — card payment is not always available
- 💡Combine with the nearby Dwejra Tower and Dwejra Bay for a half-day visit
📍 Nearby Attractions
- Dwejra Tower
- Dwejra Cliffs, Gozo
- Dwejra Coastal Gardens, Gozo
- Ta' Pinu Sanctuary
- Fung Rock (former Azure Window site)
Inland Sea, Dwejra — Frequently Asked Questions
Is entry to Inland Sea, Dwejra free?
Entry to Inland Sea, Dwejra costs Free to view; boat trips available for a small fee.
How long should I spend at Inland Sea, Dwejra?
We recommend spending around 1–2 hours at Inland Sea, Dwejra to see the highlights.
What are the opening hours of Inland Sea, Dwejra?
Inland Sea, Dwejra is open: Accessible year-round; boat trips run daily in good weather.
Where is Inland Sea, Dwejra in Malta?
Inland Sea, Dwejra is located in Dwejra, Gozo, Malta.
What's the best tip for visiting Inland Sea, Dwejra?
Take a small boat trip through the tunnel to the open sea — the boatmen row you through the narrow archway to the cliff face and back for a few euros.
