Xlendi sits in a narrow fjord-like inlet on Gozo's southwest coast — high cliffs on either side, a small promenade lined with restaurants, and a tower built by the Knights of St John guarding the headland. The bay is small, the swimming good, and the cliff walks above on both sides are some of the best on the island. A coastal path west of the village leads to the Ta' Sannap cliffs and the abandoned Carmelite watchtower; eastward, a path drops down to the sheltered swimming spot of Wied il-Kantra.
Xlendi is more developed than Marsalforn, with a tight cluster of hotels and bars along the promenade, but it remains compact and pleasant — at night, the restaurants put tables out on the quay and the harbour fills with the lights of small boats. Sunset over the cliffs is excellent.