Hondoq ir-Rummien Bay on Gozo: A Complete Guide
Hondoq ir-Rummien Bay, is located on the southeast coast of the beautiful island of Gozo, Malta. With a rough and ready feel to it and sparkling clean blue sea, Hondoq Bay is a must-visit beach for you if you’re looking for an authentic slice of local life on Gozo.
Here are the key details from my experience of this popular beach. I’ve included information on how to get to Hondoq Bay, Gozo, what the beach is like, things to do and parking. I’ve also included my top tip on a bonus secret beach around the corner from the main bay.
Some posts on this site contain affiliate links to products or services I’ve found useful. If you make a purchase through these links I may earn a small commission (at no extra cost to you). This helps keep the travel blog running, so thank you.
Hondoq ir-Rummien Bay, Gozo
Hondoq ir-Rummien is one of the most fun beaches on Gozo. It’s a beach with both a wild side and a peaceful, rustic charm. Which might be what makes it so popular with locals.
Hondoq beach is also conveniently located close to the main harbour on Gozo, Mgarr. This makes Hondoq Bay an ideal beach to visit if you’re only visiting Gozo for the day. However, I recommend you spend at least a few days on Gozo and make it part of your Malta itinerary. Gozo has got so much to offer, from hikes along the Gozo coast to fabulous swimming spots.
The crystal-clear water at Hondoq ir-Rummien has earned it the coveted status of being a Blue Flag beach, a testament to its cleanliness. There’s a whole range of water sports activities to keep you entertained here.
Although, if kicking back on the rocks and basking under the baking hot sun is more your idea of a day at the beach then Hondoq Bay has also got you covered.
How to Get to Hondoq ir-Rummien Beach
To get to Hondoq ir-Rummien you first need to take a ferry to the island of Gozo from Malta. Ferries run regularly so you’ll have plenty to choose from.
As Hondoq ir-Rummien is located at the south-easterly tip of Gozo it’s very easy to get to on foot from arrival at Gozo’s harbour, Mgarr.
Take the road named Triq Martino Garces and head around the harbour to the east. Continue heading east as the road turns into a coastal path. Keep following the path along with the sea on your right until you reach Hondoq ir-Rummien beach. The walk takes 30 minutes.
You can also hike the whole way to Hondoq beach from Gozo’s capital, Victoria, it takes a couple of hours.
How to Get to Hondoq Bay, Gozo, By Bus
Whilst there is no bus stop actually at Hondoq ir-Rummien beach, you can take bus #303 from Mgarr Harbour to Kuncizzjoni stop (15 minutes), just past the village of Qala, and then walk 20 minutes down the street named Triq Il Kuncizzjoni to Hondoq beach. The road is quite steep, so the walk back up is tiring.
If you’re based in Victoria, take the same bus, #303, to Kuncizzjoni (25 minutes) then walk 20 minutes to arrive at the beach.
How to Get to Hondoq Bay By Taxi, Car or Scooter
If you’re wondering if you can get to Hondoq beach by taxi, the good news is yes you can. Uber operates all over the islands of Malta and Gozo. In addition, other taxi apps like Bolt and eCabs also work on Gozo. I’ve found Bolt to be particularly useful on my trips around Gozo.
Hiring a car is also a popular way to get around Gozo. Discover Cars are recommended by many travellers for their competitive prices and wide range of options.
Malta and Gozo are reasonably priced for car hire, compared to other European destinations. The price of fuel is the cheapest of all the European countries surveyed by the RAC (correct at time of publication).
Another way to get to Hondoq Bay is to rent a scooter in Malta. You can use it to travel all over Gozo.
Facilities at Hondoq Beach, Gozo
One of the best things about Hondoq beach, apart from the crystal-clear water, is that it combines some of the facilities of an organised beach whilst still feeling very much like a natural beach.
Hondoq beach is great if you enjoy jumping into the sea, as it has three platforms, which you’ll see loads of people diving into the sea from.
Don’t worry about needing to pack a picnic for a trip to Hondoq, as there are kiosks here selling pizzas, snacks and much-needed refreshments in the form of cold drinks and ice cream. There are also toilets at Hondoq Bay, up at the back where the kiosks are. This is very useful, considering it’s at least a 20-minute walk to the nearest village.
For those seeking adventure, there are lots of options to have fun at Hondoq ir-Rummien. You can rent Jet Skis, stand-up paddleboards, canoes and even be flung around the beautiful blue sea on a giant sofa if you really want.
Umbrella and Lounger Rental
Whilst you won’t see huge great lines of organised umbrellas and loungers taking up all of Hondoq beach, you can rent them here during summer, in particular on the concrete platform above the beach to the east.
Pro Tip: Head on to the rocks to find a place to stretch out if you want space. This area is less populated than the sandy part of the beach. There isn’t any shade here though.
Boat Hire
Hiring your own boat is a great way to explore the island of Gozo. Joyride watersports have boats available for self-hire (no licence required) at Hondoq Bay.
Parking
If you’re travelling by car or motorbike, there’s a free parking area right at Hondoq beach and cars also park on the side of the road leading down from Qala.
Local Amenities and Budget-Friendly Options
Shops and Markets
One of the perks of visiting Hondoq ir-Rummien is its blend of natural beauty and convenient facilities. While enjoying the beach, you can eat at the kiosks. However, if you prefer to explore beyond the beach for supplies, visit the nearby village of Qala for a selection of fresh local products and snacks in one of the local shops and markets.
Budget-Friendly Eating
If budget is a priority, prepare a tasty picnic before your day at the beach. Gozo’s only branch of the international supermarket chain Lidl, is located in the capital, Victoria, where you can find economically priced food and drink and other essentials for your day out.
Things to Do at Hondoq Bay
When you’re at Hondoq don’t miss out on a swim at the small inlet to the west of the main beach. It’s a beautiful and serene place and if dark spaces don’t make you nervous, check out the cave at the end. Floating around in the turquoise water here is sheer bliss.
If you didn’t arrive here by walking, take a 30-minute hike through picturesque open countryside back to Mgarr Harbour. The views of Comino Island, home to the famous Blue Lagoon, are worth the walk.
Speaking of the Blue Lagoon, you can take a boat ride over to visit this incredible stretch of water directly from Hondoq Bay. The journey only takes around 10 minutes and you can discuss what time you’ll return with the driver.
Alternatively, if you want a unique experience of the Blue Lagoon, book the highly-rated kayak tour from Hondoq.
Hondoq is a great beach but there’s an even more wonderful beach hiding just around the coast. Combine a trip to Hondoq with a walk to discover your own private paradise. The secret beach to the east of Hondoq Bay is one of my favourite places on Gozo.
Situated between Hondoq and St. Anthony’s Battery, this beach is so peaceful it has all the feelings of a desert island. The route to get here is waymarked from Hondoq with occasional paint markings indicating the way. Stop wherever you choose on the giant white pebbles, past Villa Torre, right in front of the big Ħalfa Rock (just off the coast).
Local Tradition and Festival
The Feast of Saint Joseph holds both religious and cultural significance for the nearby village of Qala. Celebrated on the first Sunday of August, it commemorates the village’s patron saint. Celebrations typically involve a procession and a fireworks display, which is something worth checking out if you’re here at the right time. In my experience, fireworks are something that Malta and Gozo excel at.
Malta Travel Resources
Ready for more Malta inspiration and information? Read and favourite my posts below, so you have them to hand when you’re in Malta.
Tours on Gozo
To make the most of your time on Gozo there are some great tours to help you get out and explore the island. Here are three of the most top-rated.
Gozo Full-Day Jeep Tour with Lunch and Boat Ride
Go on an unforgettable adventure with the Gozo Full-Day Jeep Tour with Lunch and Boat Ride. Over the course of eight hours, guided by a knowledgeable local, you’ll discover the hidden gems of Gozo. Take in the breathtaking views, explore traditional villages, and savour a three-course meal in Xewkija. Immerse yourself in Gozo’s culture, history, and natural beauty with this active tour. The journey back to Malta via the Blue Lagoon and Comino Caves will leave you with incredible memories.
Gozo Full-Day Quad Tour with Lunch and Boat Ride
Get ready for a Gozo Full-Day Quad Tour with Lunch and Boat Ride – an epic 8-hour adventure that promises an adrenaline rush as you whizz around the island. Guided by an English-speaking tour leader, roar through the rugged landscapes of Ramla Valley, Marsalforn and the Inland Sea. Visit Gozo’s traditional salt pans, go for a swim and return to Malta on a powerboat ride via the mesmerizing Blue Lagoon and Comino Caves. If you’re a thrill-seeker, this adventure is an absolute must.
Gozo Full-Day Buggy Tour with Lunch and Boat Ride
Unearth Gozo’s hidden treasures on a thrilling Full-Day Buggy Tour with Lunch and Boat Ride. In just 6 action-packed hours, led by experienced guides, you’ll conquer the rugged terrain of Gozo, travel through picturesque valleys and explore charming villages. Fuel your excitement and embark on an unforgettable journey through Gozo’s natural beauty. Lunch with a 3-course meal is included, and the photo stop at the Blue Lagoon on your way back to Malta adds the perfect finishing touch to this epic day.
Accommodation Near Hondoq ir-Rummien
Gozo has a great range of accommodation, from boutique apartments to luxury 5-star hotels. Here are three top picks.
Kempinski Hotel, San Lawrenz
Indulge in the pinnacle of luxury at the Kempinski Hotel, San Lawrenz, Gozo. This 5-star haven offers world-class service amidst beautiful gardens. Air-conditioned rooms with private balconies overlook the stunning Gozo countryside and the Kempinski’s magnificent pools. At the end of a day at the beach, savour Mediterranean delights at the on-site restaurants. With spa treatments, heated pools, a gym, tennis courts and alfresco dining, every moment is an opulent escape at the Kempinski.
Il-Wileġ Bed & Breakfast
Located near Hondoq Bay, in the heart of Qala, the Il-Wileġ Bed & Breakfast is a quiet and comfortable bed and breakfast. With a charming terrace and pool, free WiFi and flat-screen TV, this highly-rated B and B offers a great value stay. You can choose a continental or full English breakfast to set you up well for each day.
Ferrieha B&B
Embrace the tranquil charm of Gozo at Ferrieha B&B in Qala. Each room boasts a terrace or balcony, free WiFi, and a flat-screen TV. Dive into the refreshing outdoor swimming pool and enjoy simply stunning views out across the sea. Breakfast is included and this B and B is rated 9.2 out of 10 by guests.
Map of Hondoq ir-Rummien Bay
I’ve created a map that shows the nearest bus stop to the beach and the coastal path for the walk from Mgarr Harbour to Hondoq ir-Rummien. I’ve also shown the location of the secret beach. Click the arrow icon to the left of the map heading to view the names of each of the places marked.
Summary: Hondoq ir-Rummien Bay on Gozo
Hondoq Bay, Gozo, is a perfect day trip from Mgarr Harbour. It offers adventure and relaxation in equal measure. Its status as a Blue Flag beach makes it a great destination if you want to go for a dip in clear blue water. So, whether you seek thrills or tranquillity, this corner of Gozo has it all. For an even more special trip to Gozo’s beaches, combine them with one of the fantastic hikes across Gozo’s natural landscape.
More Malta Resources
10 Best Boutique Hotels Malta: A Guide to Where to Stay
15 Best Beaches on Gozo and How to Get to Them
15 Best Blue Lagoon Malta Boat Trips
Ferry to Gozo, Malta: Cheap & Fast Ways to Get to Gozo
Getting Around Malta by Public Transport
Gozo Hiking: Take the Slow Lane
Gozo Inland Sea Dive Site and the Blue Hole (Malta)
How to Get to Blue Lagoon Malta and Best Things to Do
Malta is in What Country? Where is Malta Located on the Map & Other Facts
Places to Go in Malta & Gozo: 5 Best Swimming Spots
Ramla Bay Gozo: Explore an Iconic Red Sand Beach