1. The bay that everyone is talking about this summer is Mgarr ix-Xini as Brad Pitt and Angelina Jolie are shooting their new movie there. But that is not the reason why this beach is worth a visit. If you want to reach it by car your best option is to get there by taking the road behind the Xewkija church. You will have to drive through a winding road and pray that you don't meet a car coming in the opposite direction. Look down at the valley on your left which is deep and full of caves. The beach itself is pebbly with a cemented area. Take your snorkel as the sea is clear and full of life.

2.  Ghasri Valley is a cove that looks like a picture postcard. It is reached through Ghasri village square but you might need to ask for directions or just follow your instinct and perhaps discover something new! Once you reach the cove you will want to reach for your camera before you go down the  50 or so steps cut into the rock.  The beach is tiny and secluded and if you are lucky you will have it to yourself apart from the occasional boat.

3.  Ramla l-Hamra is Gozo's most popular beach. It is also one of the Maltese islands' most unspoilt beaches with lots of wild plants and tiny animals. You will be able to see the magnificent sea daffodils growing on the sand dunes and even in Roman times the wild beauty of the area was appreciated so much. In fact you can still see the remains of a Roman villa. This beach is very accessible and can be reached from Victoria, Xaghra or Nadur.

4.  The Inland Sea (Dwejra) is an interesting geologic formation that looks like a lake surrounded by a pebbly beach on one side and imposing cliffs on the other. There is a hole in the cliffs through which you can reach the open sea. It is better not to attempt this by swimming. Instead get on a boat expertly manoeuvred by a local fisherman. The inland sea is close to the Azure Window and the Fungus Rock so this really is a must see place.

5.  Xlendi was a sleepy fishing hamlet until the 1960s but its  waterfront is now dominated by hotels and restaurants. Somehow it has managed to hold on to its slow pace of life and after swimming  on the tiny sandy beach or jumping into the water from the jetty you can soak in the atmosphere from one of the restaurants. All of them have something to offer so stroll along and go for the one that takes your fancy!