Situated at the northern end of Gozo, it is favored by sailors and windsurfers, and more recently by surfers. It is a beautiful curving bay protected by rocky headlands and lies at the end of a valley, 40 minutes from Xaghra village. Summers are long hot and dry, with average temperatures of 32 °C, falling to 14°C in winter. The water temperature never dips below 15 °C in winter and sea breezes add a cooling effect. There is not much rainfall beyond 58 cm annually, and rain falls for very brief periods.
Ramla Bay is the longest beach in Gozo, considered to be the most beautiful on the island. Due to its unusual red sands, it is known locally as Ramla-il Hamra or the Red Sandy beach. It has a sandy bottom with some rocks. The remains of Roman ruins lie underwater just beyond the beach. As a result of the surrounding historical ruins, part of it is a protected area under Natura 2000.
The windy season begins from October to May with north, northwest and westerly winds. The wind blows left, and is generally a light breeze which creates flat water with speed, ideal for beginner windsurfers and sailors. When the Northwest wind blows, Ramla is the location of choice. The bay is for experienced sailors only when it blows stronger than force 4 as it produces bigger waves with a nasty shore break. The swells start at around 1.5m and can hold up to 2.5m. When the south wind blows from inland, the water is flat.
Ramla Bay is a 20 minute car ride from Mgarr ferry dock. The bus runs intermittently and only between July - September. There is little development around the beach other than a few drinks vendors, and a couple of cantinas. There are no accommodation or equipment rental shops on the bay, but the closest villages are Xaghra and Nadur.
The bay is only open to swimmers in the summer. Be aware of the underwater roman ruins on entry into the water.
