Once renowned for the Azure Window which was lost during the storm in 2017, Dwejra remains a beautiful destination with dramatic coastal formations. The unique setting of the Inland Sea and the Blue Hole, only add to this magnificent sight.
A unique lagoon
The Inland Sea is a lagoon like no other. It was formed by a natural circular depression in the land, and it is connected to the open sea through a 100m tunnel. This lagoon is only accessible to small boats. Traditionally, Inland Sea was a fisherman’s cove, dotted with small fisherman huts/boathouses, which are still present to date. It is popular with divers due to its unique setting, underwater historic remains and the Blue Hole.
The Blue Hole
Acclaimed to be one of the top ten diving spots in the world by Jacques Cousteau, this vertical chimney offers an unforgettable diving experience. As you approach the Blue hole from underwater, through an archway a few meters down below the surface of the water, the crystal clear blue waters are filled with rays of sunlight. It is a sight to behold.
A rock worth guarding
During the era of the Knights Hospitaller, Fungus Rock, also known as General’s Rock, was famed for the rare medicinal plant known as the Malta Fungus, believed to grow upon it. Because of its perceived value, the rock was placed under strict guard by the knights. To further protect it and discourage access, the sides of the rock were deliberately cut and steepened, making climbing extremely difficult.
Within Dwejra Bay, a small cave can still be seen which once served as shelter for the watchman assigned to guard Fungus Rock. Access to the bay was provided through a staircase carved directly into the rock.
How to get there
By Car
A small public parking area is available at the end of the road leading to Dwejra.
By Public transport
There is a bus stop next to the parking area in Dwejra. The bus leaves from the ferry terminal, passes through Victoria and goes straight to Dwejra.
The Long-Finned Pilot whale
Long-finned Pilot whales are known to inhabit the seas towards the northwest of Malta, in the direction of Pantelleria. This beautiful, yet understudied cetacean is listed as Endangered on the IUCN Red List. The ACCOBAMS Survey Initiative (ASI) is a massive, coordinated pilot program designed to monitor marine megafauna, including pilot whales, across the Mediterranean and Black Seas. It addresses critical conservation needs by gathering acoustic and visual population data.
A place to nest
Malta is home to approximately 10% of the world’s Yelkouan Shearwater population, making the islands an important stronghold for this protected seabird. The species nests in burrows and crevices along Malta’s coastal cliffs. Courtship begins in late February, eggs are laid in March, and the chicks fledge between June and July.
If you visit Dwejra between May and July, you may be fortunate enough to witness one of nature’s most remarkable spectacles. As the sun sets, adult shearwaters gather in large rafts on the sea before returning under the cover of darkness to their nests to feed their chicks. Their haunting, echoing calls fill the night air, creating an unforgettable experience for anyone lucky enough to hear them.