mauritius coral travel

Snorkeling in Mauritius

Casuarina-fringed beaches, gin-clear sea and blue sky... welcome to Mauritius! Blessed with an extensive lagoon, abundant marine life, and dramatic topography, Mauritius is a good destination for snorkelers of all experience levels. Although showing signs of declining reef health, the island's shore waters allow snorkelers to observe colorful tropical fish, sea turtles, rays and dolphins.

Mauritius, one of the most beautiful lagoons in the Indian Ocean

Mauritius has a variety of good snorkeling spots where you can explore beautiful reefs and encounter colorful tropical fish and other marine species such as sea turtles, rays, and dolphins. Most spots for snorkeling in Mauritius lie inside the calm lagoons surrounding the island, but some good snorkeling is also found in specific locations on the outer reef and the offshore islands.

However, Mauritius coral reefs are in a variable state; some sites feature healthy coral and some others badly damaged seabed covered with debris. Here, we’ll share the best Mauritius snorkel spots based on the region so you can start planning your underwater adventure!

Snorkeling in Grand Baie and the northwestern coast of Mauritius

Some of the best shore snorkeling in Mauritius can be found in the Grand Baie area, a famous and bustling town of northern Mauritius. This region of the island offers plentiful snorkel spots to choose from, all featuring a diversity of tropical fish.

Just 3 kilometers north of Grand Baie pier is Pereybere Beach , a soft-sand beach nestled in a small bay. Not only does its reef offer a wide variety of reef fish to see, including the Mauritian clownfish , endemic to Mauritius and Reunion , but it is also the best location on the island for sea turtle encounters.

Both the green sea turtle and the hawksbill sea turtle visit Pereybere shore waters, sometimes very close to the beach. A bit further north, you will reach Bain Boeuf Beach and Cap Malheureux , two other locations where decent snorkeling is found.

The coastline extending south of Grand Baie, between Mont Choisy and Balaclava, has a variety of snorkeling locations. Lined by a shallow lagoon, its casuarina-fringed beaches provide great underwater adventures.

From north to south, the most recommended locations are Mont Choisy , Trou aux Biches , Pointe aux Piments , and Balaclava . Trou aux Biches is probably the best among them as in addition to healthy branching coral and common reef fish, lucky snorkelers might also be able to spot sea turtles.

Snorkeling in Mauritius Northern Islands

Off the northern tip of Mauritius lie six uninhabited islands, most of them surrounded by coral reefs. Relatively pristine, they boast some of the healthiest sea beds in Mauritius.

The most visited are Flat Island and Gabriel Island , where you can snorkel the shallow channel that separates the two islands. Stingrays, angelfish, butterflyfish and moray eels are common sightings at this location. The nature reserve of the island of Coin de Mire , fringed by coral ridges gently sloping out into the crystal-clear Indian Ocean, is the closest to the main island.

In general, you’ll need to book a day boat tour from Grand Baie to access these off-shore snorkeling spots, sometimes combined in a “three islands” speedboat tour. Round Island and Serpent Island , the northernmost islands of the archipelago, are rarely visited due to the absence of coral reefs around them, and also because landing is not permitted, and this is done to protect the sea birds nestling on the islands.

Snorkeling Blue Bay, Mahebourg and the East Coast of Mauritius

On the southeastern coast of the island, Blue Bay Marine Park is considered the best snorkeling spot in Mauritius. This marine park is very popular, thanks to clear, protected waters and an abundance of marine life.

It is home to vibrant coral gardens that include branching coral, table coral and giant brain coral which attract hundreds of species of reef fish. If some small areas of the marine park can be snorkeled from shore, the most beautiful locations are only reached with boat tours.

Just north of Blue Bay is Mahebourg, an important seaside village on the east coast of Mauritius. It borders a large, emerald lagoon that shelters great, although not often visited, snorkeling spots. The Anemone Garden , in particular, is worth a visit, as it is probably the best location to snorkel with Mauritian clownfish around the island.

Other popular snorkeling spots in Mahebourg lagoon are Trou Moutou and Courant Zaigrettes . All these locations can be snorkeled with short boat tours organized by Mahebourg local operators.

Several decent short snorkeling spots are found along the northeastern coast of Mauritius, bordered by a shallow lagoon. The most recommended, from north to south, are the eastern tip of Roches Noires lagoon, Poste Lafayette Beach , Belle Mare Beach and Palmar Beach .

If picture-postcard Ile aux Cerfs , famous for its white sandy beaches and its turquoise lagoons, is one of the main attractions of Mauritius’s east coast, it is not really suitable for snorkeling. Most day tours combine a visit to the island with snorkeling on Trou d’Eau Douce coral barrier.

Snorkeling in Le Morne and the West Coast of Mauritius

The south and southwestern shores of the island offer some of the best locations in Mauritius for snorkeling, particularly in the areas surrounding UNESCO-listed Morne Brabant, a majestic basaltic mountain surrounded by a lagoon.

Ile aux Benitiers , a large island located in Le Morne Lagoon, is very popular with day-trippers. Many snorkel boats bring their guests here to enjoy nice corals, reef fish, and snorkeling in the blue with pods of spinner dolphins and bottlenose dolphins.

If you are more into shore snorkeling, then La Prairie Beach and Le Morne Beach (especially the area in front of LUX Le Morne ) are the best options.

Located on the southwestern coast just past Riviere Noire, Flic en Flac Beach is one of the best shore access spots in Mauritius. While you’re here, you’ll have a good chance of spotting triggerfish, butterflyfish, parrotfish, damselfish and surgeonfish. Eagle rays are known to occasionally frequent the area as well.

What will I see when snorkeling in Mauritius?

Mauritius reefs support a vast diversity of marine life, including many hard and soft corals, sponges, sea fans and invertebrates. More than 700 species of fish species call Mauritian reefs home, including the emperor angelfish , trumpetfish , several species of butterflyfish and surgeonfish, damselfish and triggerfish. Near the beaches, clouds of sergeant majors will surely greet you during your first few moments in the water.

The island also allows you to encounter some unique species which are range-restricted Mascarene endemics, such as the Mauritian anemonefish . This iconic species can be spotted in very specific locations, including the Anemone Garden in Mahébourg and Pereybere Beach near Grand Baie.

Mauritius has a few locations where encounters with sea turtles (both green sea turtles and hawksbill sea turtles ) are frequent. The best chances for sea turtles sightings are in Pereybere , but Trou aux Biches and Blue Bay are good locations to try too. As you make your way across the flats, keep an eye out for eagle rays and stingrays, which are occasionally seen in the shallows.

What is the best season to snorkel in Mauritius?

Mauritius is a year-round snorkeling destination, but the best time is during southern summer, from October to April. This season offers sunnier weather and warmer temperature, as well as less wind than the rest of the year. The months of January and February, however, are subject to shower rains and occasional cyclones.

In this purely tropical climate, the water temperature is up to 70°F/21°C in winter and 82°F/28 °C in summer, with a peak in March. The eastern coasts of Mauritius are less regularly snorkeled due to swell activity, though in the summer it’s usually calm.

500+ spots have been featured on Snorkeling Report with the help of people like you. Share your favorite snorkeling spot and help us cover the world map. Your contribution will help the snorkeling community find sites and enjoy the underwater world!

Where to spot them?

Frequent sightings in Pereybere and Trou aux Biches .

Regularly sighted in Trou-aux-Biches and Pereybere but also occasionally in Blue Bay .

The best spot to see them is the Anemone Garden , also present in Pereybere .

Common in all spots, including the sandy beds close to the beach.

Best rated spots in Mauritius

National Park with coral gardens and vibrant marine life

Level: Free shore access Resort nearby

• Anemone Garden

Patch reef with anemonefish

• Ile aux Bénitiers

Shallow reef with a decent variety of fish

• Coin de Mire

Coral reef bordering a small uninhabited island

Shallow lagoon and reef drop off with turtles and colorful fish

Level: Free shore access

Flat Island & Gabriel Island

Shallow lagoon with reef fish and stingrays

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• Cap des Séselets
• Les Pontons Suspendus

• Crique du Squéouel
• Etocs Archipelago
• Praia do Camilo
• Praia do Quião
• Praia dos Estudantes
• Santo André

• Nggatirana / Evis Resort
• Blue Lagoon
• Blue Lagoon Beach Resort
• Manta Ray Passage
• Naqalia Lodge
• Octopus Resort
• Baie de Jinek
• Baie des Citrons
• Faille Shark
• Ilot Larégnère
• Jokin Cliffs
• Kanumera Bay
• La Piscine Naturelle
• Plage de Moara
• Tiam Bouene Islet
• Îlot Amédée
• Îlot Canard
• Îlot Leroue
• Îlot Maître
• Îlot Redika
• Îlot Signal

• Aroa Marine Reserve

• Bartolome Island
• Concha de Perla
• Gardner Island
• Kicker Rock
• Los Túneles
• Pinzón Island
• Punta Espinoza
• Punta Vicente Roca
• Rabida Island
• Cayo de Agua

• Turquoise Bay
• Gordons Bay
• Shelly Beach / Cabbage Tree Bay
• Fitzroy Island
• Green Island
• Lady Elliot Island
• Mackeral Bay
• Norman Reef

• Bora Bora Aquarium
• Hilton Moorea
• Huahine's Coral Garden
• InterContinental Bora Bora Thalasso Spa
• InterContinental Resort Tahiti
• La Fausse Passe
• Lagoonarium
• Mahana Park
• Matira Beach
• Maupiti's Manta Ray Cleaning Station
• Moorea Sharks Sandbank
• Motu Fareone
• Motu Ofetaro
• Plage Vaiava (PK18)
• Plage de Tiahura
• Pointe Ta'ihi
• Sofitel Moorea
• Tahaa's Coral Garden
• Tahiti Ia Ora Beach Resort
• Temae Beach
• Apataki Carenage
• Avatoru Pass
• Bird Island
• Fakarava Blue Lagoon
• Rangiroa Aquarium
• Rangiroa Blue Lagoon
• Tetamanu/Fakarava South Pass
• The Pearl Farm
• Tiputa Pass

• Zhongao Beach
• Aharen Beach
• Furuzamami Beach
• Toguchi Beach

• Faifai Beach
• Jellyfish Lake

• Iberostar Averroes
• Seabel Rym Beach
• Konnos Beach
• Edon-Bina Beach
• Lambjano Bay
• Porto Palermo
• Cala Codolar
• Cala Figuera
• Cala Fornells
• Cala Macarelleta
• Cala Sant Vicenç
• Punta Galera
• Capo Coda Cavallo
• Madonna del Naufrago
• Passo Cecca di Morto
• Punta Molentis
• Spiaggia di Simius
• Spiaggia di Tuerredda
• Cala Berretta
• Isola Bella
• Isola dei Conigli
• Agia Anna Beach
• Agios Nikolaos Beach
• Alyko Beach
• Cameo Island
• Delfini Beach
• Gialos Beach
• Karavostasi Beach
• Mikri Vigla
• Molos Beach
• Paralia Kipri
• Paralia Parikia
• Porto Limnionas
• Cala Achiarina
• Cala d'Orzu
• Cala della Chiesa
• Cala di Reta
• Cala di u Grecu
• Marine d'Albo
• Marine de Ficaghjola
• Marine de Negru
• Mario Wreck
• Palombaggia
• Plage Moorea
• Plage de l'Alga
• Plage de l'Oscelluccia
• Plage de la Folaca
• Plage de la Roya
• Plage du Lotu
• Santa Giulia
• Île de la Pietra
• Anse Magaud
• Anse de la Fausse Monnaie
• Anse du Petit Mugel
• Archaeological site of Olbia
• Calanque d'En Vau
• Calanque de Port Pin
• Calanque de Port d'Alon
• Calanque de Saména
• Calanque de Sormiou
• Calanque de Sugiton
• Calanque des Anthénors
• Calanque du Brégançonnet
• Calanque du Four à Chaux
• Cannes Underwater Museum
• Cap des Mèdes
• La Plagette
• Le Petit Mornas
• Paloma Beach
• Plage de Brégançon
• Plage de Jovat
• Plage de Peyrefite
• Plage de la Palud
• Plage du Cap Rousset
• Plage du Lazaret
• Plage du Sud
• Pointe de l'Aiguille
• Ponton de la Bordelaise
• Cala Almadabra
• Cala Calella
• Cala Canadell
• Cala Jugadora
• Cala Mal Pas
• Cala Montjoi
• Cala Tí Ximo
• Cala del Bolete Grande
• Isla de San Nicolás
• Islotes del Descargador
• Masía Blanca Marine Reserve
• Medes Islands
• Platja Aiguablava
• Platja Mar Menuda
• Playa El Portús
• Playa de Levante
• Playa de Maro
• Blue Hole Gozo
• Hondoq ir-Rummien

• Coral Beach
• Dekel Beach
• Migdalor Beach
• New Open Beach
• North Beach / Sun Boat Wreck
• Princess Beach
• The Underwater Restaurant
• Daymaniyat Islands
• Japanese Garden
• Seven Sisters & The Tank
• South Beach
• Barcelo Tiran Sharm
• Blue Hole Dahab
• Faraana Reef
• Fayrouz Reef
• Gordon Reef
• Gorgonia Beach
• Makadi Bay North
• Makadi Bay South
• Makadi Bay West
• Marsa El Nabaa
• Marsa Goslani
• Marsa Mubarak
• Napoleon Reef
• Ras Um Sid / El Fanar Beach
• Sataya Reef
• Sataya Resort
• Seven Pools
• Shaab Marsa Alam
• Shaab Samadai
• Shams Alam Beach Resort
• Suyul Island
• Temple Reef
• The Islands Dahab
• Tulip Resorts
• Utopia Beach Club

• Gam Ghi Island
• Turtle Island
• Bangcogon Beach
• Cabilao Bamboo Reef
• Cabilao Lighthouse
• Cebu Seaview Dive Resort
• Cliff Dive / Napaling Point
• El Nido - Tour A
• El Nido - Tour C
• El Nido - Tour D
• Flower Island
• Lusong Coral Garden
• Moalboal / Panagsama Beach
• Pandan Island
• Sangat Island
• Siete Pecados
• Tubod Marine Sanctuary
• Tulapos Marine Sanctuary
• White Beach Moalboal
• Bamboo Island
• Koh Nang Yuan
• Lighthouse Reef
• Monkey Beach
• Mosquito Island
• Sai Daeng Beach
• Sai Nuan Beach
• Amed Pyramids
• Arborek Jetty
• Bunaken Timur
• Crystal Bay
• Gili Trawangan
• Hatta Island
• Japanese Wreck
• Jemeluk Beach
• Komodo Resort
• Liang Beach
• Lipah Beach
• Lumbalumba Resort
• Menjangan Island
• Raja Ampat Biodiversity Resort
• Sombano Lake
• USS Liberty Wreck
• Wakatobi Resort
• Barracuda Point
• Bunot Beach
• Coral Gardens
• Emerald Cove/Pangkor Laut
• Hanging Gardens
• Kapalai Island
• Kapas Turtle Valley
• Malang Rock
• Mataking Reef Resort
• Melina Beach
• Pasir Panjang
• Petani Beach
• Pulau Mataking Kecil
• Pulau Pandanan
• Pulau Soyak
• Rawa Island
• Selingan Island
• Shark Point
• Tekek South Bay
• Timba Timba Island

• Ile de Gorée
• Kisite Marine Park
• Nomad Beach
• Pinewood Beach
• Nanatha Bay
• Dolphin Coast Tidal Pools
• Kosi Bay Mouth Aquarium Reef
• Sodwana Bay
• Chumbe Island Coral Park
• Mnemba Island
• Nungwi Beach
• Pingwe Beach

• Forillon National Park
• Alexander Springs
• Blue Heron Bridge - Phil Foster Park
• Calusa Beach (Bahia Honda State Park)
• Crystal River
• Dry Rocks & Christ of the Deep
• Grecian Rocks
• Northern Erojacks
• Salt Springs
• Silver Glen Springs
• Twin Ledges
• Bahia Principe
• Casa Cenote
• Cenote Dos Ojos
• Cenote Jardín del Edén
• Cenote Pet Cemetery
• Chileno Bay
• Gran Cenote
• MUSA & Manchones Reef
• Playa Xahuayxol
• Playa del Carmen
• Puerto Morelos
• Snorkeling with Whale Sharks
• Yal Ku Lagoon

• Shoal Bay Beach
• Aquarium Beach
• Grand Anse Artificial Reef
• L'Anse Aux Epines
• Fowl Cay Restoration Reef
• Judy's Reef
• Not The Grotto
• Turbine Island
• Wreck of the Sapona
• Simpson Bay's Wreck
• Smith’s Reef
• Hawksnest Beach
• Cayo Levantado
• Playa Magallanes
• Anse du Grand Cul-de-Sac
• Colombier Beach
• Anse Chastanet
• Sugar Beach
• Chatham Bay
• Palm Island
• Tobago Cays
• Wallilabou Bay
• Amelie Wreck
• Anse Couleuvre
• Anse Dufour
• Anse Figuier
• Anses d'Arlet
• Ilet Thiery
• Ilet à Ramiers
• Pointe Borgnèse
• Anse Crawen
• Anse Feuillard
• Anse des Salines
• Anse à la Barque
• Grande Baie
• Petite Anse
• Petite Terre
• Pigeon Islands
• Plage de Petit-Havre
• Plage de Sainte-Anne
• Plage du Pain de Sucre
• Plage du Souffleur
• Vieux-Fort Lighthouse
• Stingray City
• Caleta Buena
• Cayo Alcatracito
• Guardalavaca
• Playa Caribe
• Playa Rancho Luna
• Playa Santa Lucia
• Punta Perdiz
• Coral Garden
• Point of Sand
• Preston Bay
• Southern Cross Club & Owen Island
• No Name Beach
• Te Amo Beach
• Klein Curacao
• Playa Lagun
• Playa Porto Mari
• Boca Catalina
• Colorado Point
• Flamingo Beach
• Mangel Halto

• Cayo Zapatilla North
• Cayo Zapatilla South
• Granito de Oro
• Hospital Point
• Isla Bolaños
• Isla Diablo
• Isla Perro Chico
• Playa Estrella
• Restaurante Alfonso
• Caye Caulker Shark Ray Alley
• Hol Chan Cut
• Mexico Rocks
• Shark Ray Alley
• Calzon de Pobre
• Isla del Caño
• Islas Pelonas
• Playa Bassey
• Playa Buena
• Playa Conchal
• Playa Danta
• Playa Hermosa
• Playa Manuel Antonio
• Playa Ocotal
• Playa Penca
• Playas del Coco
• Starfish Alley

• Ahihi Kinau
• Kapalua Bay
• Molokini Crater
• Turtle Town
• Electric Beach
• Hanauma Bay
• Oahu North Shore Sharks
• Sharks Cove
• Turtle Bay / Kuilima Cove
• Captain Cook Monument
• Kahalu'u Bay
• Keauhou Bay
• Richardson Beach Park
• Waialea (69) Beach
• Poipu Beach
• Tunnels Beach

• Anse Boudin
• Anse Caiman
• Anse La Blague
• Anse La Farine
• Anse Patate
• Anse Petite Cour
• Anse Soleil
• Anse Source d'Argent
• Anse Sévère
• Anse Volbert
• Assumption Island
• Baie Lazare
• Club Med Seychelles
• Coco Island
• Denis Island
• Fairyland Beach / Anse Royale
• Félicité Island
• Grande Soeur
• Passe Dubois
• Port Launay
• St Anne Marine Park
• St Pierre Island
• Hanifaru Bay
• Maabadhi Finolhu
• Vilamendhoo
• Whale Shark Point
• Belle Mare Beach
• Cap Malheureux
• Flat Island & Gabriel Island
• Flic en Flac
• La Prairie Beach
• Palmar Beach
• Récif Attitude
• Trou d'Eau Douce
• Trou-aux-Biches
• Ilot de Sable Blanc du Nord
• Ilot de Sable Blanc du Sud
• Ilots Choizil
• Plage Gouéla
• Tahiti Plage
• Boucan Canot
• Cap Lahoussaye
• Grande Anse Rocky Pool
• Lagon de Saint-Leu
• Lagon de Saint-Pierre
• Lagon de Trou d'Eau
• Lagon de l'Hermitage
• Lagon de la Saline
• Manapany Rocky Pool
• Plage des Roches Noires
• Nosy Tanikely
• Tsarabanjina

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Mauritius Unveiled: Diving into Marine Marvels, Coral Reefs, and Aquatic Adventures

Mauritius, a jewel in the Indian Ocean, is renowned for its stunning beaches, lush landscapes, and vibrant culture. But beyond its terrestrial beauty, this island nation offers a world of wonder beneath the waves. In this blog, we’ll take you on a journey to explore the enchanting marine life, colorful coral reefs, thrilling watersports, and the best places to encounter marine wonders in Mauritius.

Mauritius Marine Life: A Kaleidoscope of Colors

Mauritius boasts an incredibly diverse array of marine life, making it a must-visit destination for snorkelers and divers. The warm, clear waters provide an ideal habitat for a stunning variety of fish, coral, and other marine creatures. Whether you’re a seasoned diver or a beginner, you’re sure to be captivated by the underwater beauty of Mauritius.

One of the highlights of Mauritius’ marine life is the chance to swim with dolphins. Spinner dolphins are commonly spotted in the waters surrounding the island, and you can embark on a boat tour to get up close and personal with these graceful creatures. It’s an experience you won’t soon forget.

But the marine life in Mauritius isn’t just about dolphins. The island’s waters are home to an incredible range of marine species, including clownfish, parrotfish, lionfish, and turtles. Snorkeling and diving enthusiasts can explore underwater caves, shipwrecks, and coral gardens teeming with life.

Mauritius Coral Reefs: Living Rainbows

The coral reefs around Mauritius are a testament to the island’s commitment to preserving its natural beauty. These vibrant ecosystems are teeming with life and are a sight to behold for both snorkelers and divers.

The coral reefs of Mauritius come alive with a kaleidoscope of colors. You’ll encounter hard and soft corals, creating a mesmerizing underwater landscape. These reefs provide shelter and sustenance for a wide variety of fish species, making them a crucial part of the island’s marine ecosystem.

Coral conservation efforts are actively underway in Mauritius to protect these delicate ecosystems. Many dive operators and marine organizations offer educational programs and opportunities for visitors to get involved in reef restoration projects. It’s a chance to not only witness the beauty of the coral reefs but also contribute to their preservation.

Thrilling Watersports in Mauritius

Beyond snorkeling and diving, Mauritius offers an array of thrilling watersports that take advantage of its pristine marine environment. Whether you’re an adrenaline junkie or seeking a more relaxed aquatic experience, there’s something for everyone:

• Kiteboarding:     Mauritius is a mecca for kiteboarders, thanks to its steady winds and flatwater lagoons. Whether you’re a beginner or an expert, you can take kiteboarding lessons or rent equipment for an unforgettable experience.
• Windsurfing:     The island’s breezy conditions also make it an excellent destination for windsurfing. The picturesque lagoons provide the perfect setting for windsurfing adventures.
• Stand-Up Paddleboarding (SUP): Explore the calm coastal waters of Mauritius on a stand-up paddleboard. It’s a peaceful and scenic way to enjoy the beauty of the island from a different perspective.
• Big Game Fishing:     For those seeking a different kind of excitement, Mauritius offers excellent opportunities for big game fishing. Hook marlins, tuna, and other prized catches in the deep blue waters of the Indian Ocean.
• Underwater Walks:      If you’re not a fan of getting wet but still want to experience the marine wonders of Mauritius, consider an underwater walk. Special helmets allow you to walk on the seabed while surrounded by curious fish and colorful coral.

Places to Encounter Marine Life in Mauritius

Now, let’s explore some of the best places in Mauritius where you can live the marine life experience:

1. Ile aux Cerfs:   This idyllic island is known for its pristine beaches and clear waters, making it an ideal spot for snorkeling and exploring marine life. Take a boat trip to Ile aux Cerfs, and you might encounter vibrant coral gardens and a variety of fish species just beneath the surface.

2. Discovering the Enigmatic Morne Brabant:   The majestic Morne Brabant mountain provides a stunning backdrop for underwater adventures. Snorkel or dive near this UNESCO World Heritage Site to witness the thriving marine ecosystem that surrounds it.

3. Paradise Found: Exploring The Beach Shack – Trou aux Biches in Mauritius: Trou aux Biches Beach is not only famous for its golden sands but also for its incredible snorkeling opportunities. The Beach Shack offers gear rental and guided tours, allowing you to explore the marine life just steps from the shore.

In conclusion, Mauritius is not only a paradise on land but also beneath the waves. Its rich marine life, vibrant coral reefs, thrilling watersports, and the opportunity to encounter marine wonders at places like Ile aux Cerfs, Morne Brabant, and Trou aux Biches Beach Shack make it a dream destination for those who love the sea. Dive in and discover the wonders of this underwater paradise.

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14 best beaches in Mauritius

Book your individual trip , stress-free with local travel experts

• roughguides.com
• best-beaches-mauritius

written by Dre Roelandt

updated 12.07.2023

Mauritius has long entranced its visitors. Charles Baudelaire called it ‘the perfumed land, fondled by the sun’, while Mark Twain noted simply that ‘heaven was copied after Mauritius’. The stunning white, sandy beaches lapped by aquamarine seas are some of the best in the world. Here is our pick of the best beaches in Mauritius.

1. Le Morne Beach

2. tamarin beach, 3. flic en flac beach, 4. blue bay beach, 5. belle mare beach, 6. la cuvette beach, 7. grand bay (or grand baie) public beach, 8. mont choisy beach, 9. st felix beach, 10. riviere des galets beach, 11. trou aux biches, 12. poste lafayette beach, 13. ile aux cerfs, 14. gris gris beach, planning your trip to the best beaches in mauritius.

This article is inspired by our Rough Guides guidebooks — your essential guides for travelling the world.

Tailor-made travel itineraries for Mauritius, created by local experts

18 days  / from 5200 USD

Delightful Mauritius

Stay in four different areas on this trip - first the South Coast, then the West Coast, then Chamarel in the center of the island, before spending the last few days relaxing on the beach of the popular North Coast. Mauritius has so much more to offer than just gorgeous beaches!

Tailor-made trips for   Mauritius

Best beach in Mauritius with historical significance

Located on the southwestern tip of Mauritius, Le Morne Beach is a true tropical paradise. This exquisite beach, nestled at the base of Le Morne Brabant mountain, offers a combination of natural beauty and historical significance.

Le Morne Beach is recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage site due to its historical importance. It was once a refuge for runaway slaves, known as "Maroons," who sought shelter on the mountain. The rich cultural heritage makes Le Morne Beach one of the best beaches in Mauritius for those who wish to connect with the island's past.

Planning a trip to Mauritius ? Perhaps our local expert in Mauritius can help you!

Where to stay near Le Morne Beach

• For luxury: Dinarobin Beachcomber Golf Resort & Spa
• For price and quality: Ma Vie La

Find more accommodation options to stay near Le Morne Beach.

The stunning beaches of Le Morne Brabant in Mauritius © Myroslava Bozhko/Shutterstock

Best for: golfing and more

Situated on the south coast of Mauritius , Tamarin Beach stands out not only for its natural beauty but also for the wealth of activities it offers. The beach derives its name from the tamarind trees, introduced by the Dutch, which dot the area, particularly in the undulating terrain of the Tamarina Golf Estate.

This locale has become a haven for luxury villas and features an 18-hole golf course, making Tamarin a fashionable destination for holidaymakers.

Where to stay near Tamarin Beach

• For couples: Shanti Ghar Guest House
• For tranquil stays: Hillside Haven

Find more accommodation options to stay near Tamarin Beach.

Tamarin Public Beach, Mauritius © Shutterstock

Best for: wreck diving

Located on the west coast of Mauritius, Flic en Flac Beach is a diver's paradise. The longest beach in Mauritius, it boasts some of the best dive sites, including several wrecks waiting to be explored.

The Kei Sei 113 and Tug 11, intentionally sunk in the 1980s to create artificial reefs, now serve as homes to giant moray eels and a myriad of reef fish. Diving enthusiasts can immerse themselves in the wonders of the underwater world, discovering the vibrant marine life that surrounds these fascinating wrecks.

Where to stay near Flic en Flac:

• For a luxurious stay lined with palm trees: Sofitel Mauritius L'Imperial Resort & Spa
• For a stay directly on the beach: Aanari Hotel and Spa

Flic en Flac Beach in Mauritius © Shutterstock

Best beach in Mauritius for casuarina trees and snorkelling

Returning to the mainland via the charming seaside bungalows of Pointe d'Esny, you'll find Blue Bay Beach—a hidden gem in Mauritius. This idyllic beach, framed by casuarina trees, faces the private islet of Île des Deux Cocos.

What sets Blue Bay Beach apart is its location within the Blue Bay Marine Park, a protected area renowned for its excellent snorkelling and diving. Here you'll find a vibrant coral reef ecosystem teeming with colourful fish and other fascinating marine species.

The coral reefs also make Blue Bay Beach one of the best beaches in Mauritius for glass-bottom boat tours.

Where to stay near Blue Bay:

• For an easy stay near the airport: Holiday Inn Mauritius
• For a stay directly on the beach: Le Peninsula Bay Beach Resort & Spa

Blue Bay, public beach at Mauritius © Shutterstock

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Best for: a stunning beach with a laid-back vibe

Situated on the east coast, nestled amidst flat cane fields, lies the mesmerizing Belle Mare beach. As you venture through the picturesque surroundings, you'll reach the pristine public beach embraced by an idyllic lagoon.

Here, straw parasols and swanky sophistication give way to the simple pleasures of barbecue areas, occasional mobile food wagons, and meandering paths shaded by casuarina trees. Remnants of old kilns stand as a testament to the former industry of coral burning, adding a touch of history to the beach's allure.

Where to stay near Belle Mare Beach

• For world-class service: Constance Belle Mare Plage
• For all-inclusive: C Mauritius

Find more accommodation options to stay near Belle Mare Beach.

Belle Mare is one of the best Mauritius Beaches © Shutterstock

Best for: white sand and stunning sunsets

Located at the northern end of the bay, La Cuvette presents a picturesque beach that captivates with its natural charm. As you arrive, you'll find convenient amenities such as a parking area, showers, food kiosks, and toilets, ensuring a comfortable beach experience.

Beyond the basalt rocks on the right-hand side, you can swim towards the beach that fronts the illustrious Royal Palm Hotel, a favoured destination for celebrities. La Cuvette Beach is also one of the best beaches in Mauritius to watch the sunset from.

La Cuvette,Tropical paradise beach in Grand Baie, Mauritius island © Shutterstock

Best for: a beach with a bustling vibe

Situated on the northwest coast of Mauritius, Grand Bay Public Beach is a popular gathering spot for locals and tourists alike. Known for its lively atmosphere and vibrant surroundings, this beach offers a blend of natural beauty and a buzzing beach scene.

What sets Grand Bay Public Beach apart is its proximity to a vibrant town filled with restaurants, bars, and shops. From skydiving to windsurfing, shopping, drinking and dining – you can do it all at Grand Bay.

Visitors can indulge in a variety of cuisines, shop for souvenirs, or simply enjoy a refreshing drink while taking in the stunning ocean views. This is one of the best beaches in Mauritius, and arguably, one of the best beaches in Africa as a whole.

The Rough Guides to Mauritius and related travel guides

In-depth, easy-to-use travel guides filled with expert advice.

Where to stay near Grand Bay:

• For a stay with nightlife: Mauricia Beachcomber Resort & Spa
• For a stay facing the beach: Pereybere Hotel & Spa

Grand Baie Beach on Mauritius Island © Shutterstock

Best for: relaxing with the family

This palm tree-fringed paradise boasts soft white sands and crystal-clear waters, making it an idyllic spot for sunbathing and swimming. The beach's shallow lagoon also makes it suitable for families with young children.

Mont Choisy Beach offers plenty of shade under the casuarina trees that line the shore, providing a tranquil setting for picnics and leisurely walks. Its relatively untouched nature and peaceful atmosphere make it a perfect retreat from the hustle and bustle of everyday life.

Where to stay near Mont Choisy Beach

• For couples: Northern Pearl Luxury Apartments
• For families: Flowers of Paradise

Find more accommodation options to stay near Mont Choisy Beach.

Mauritius beach aerial view of Mont Choisy Beach © Shutterstock

Best for: nature lovers

Tucked away like a hidden treasure, St. Felix Beach awaits nature enthusiasts with its untouched beauty . This hidden gem showcases rocky cliffs, powdery sands, and crashing waves, creating a captivating spectacle for those who venture there. St Felix is one of the most scenic beaches in Mauritius.

While swimming is not recommended due to strong currents, the beach offers the perfect setting for long walks along the shore and exploration of the mesmerizing scenery.

St Felix Beach is one of the best beaches in Mauritius © Shutterstock

Best beach in Mauritius for surfing

True to its name, Riviere Des Galets Beach stands out for its unique feature—the smooth pebbles that line its shoreline. This picturesque beach offers a distinctive scene where the grayish pebbles create a striking contrast against other white sand beaches in Mauritius.

Aside from its scenic beauty, Riviere Des Galets Beach also offers fantastic opportunities for surfing.

Riviere des Galets Beach in Mauritius © Shutterstock

Best for: water sports

Trou aux Biches, a former fishing village, has developed into a popular international resort with a proliferation of shops, supermarkets and eateries. If you're looking for a beach in Mauritius that offers an extensive range of water sports, look no further than Trou aux Biches Beach.

Situated on the northwest coast of the island, Trou aux Biches Beach is renowned for its clear turquoise waters and vibrant marine life. It is one of the best beaches in Mauritius for water sports enthusiasts - in particular, it is a popular place for jet skiing and parasailing.

Where to stay near Trou aux Biches

• For stylish stays: Sakoa Boutik Hotel
• For price and quality: Easy Stay Residence

Find more accommodation options to stay near Trou aux Biches.

The white sand of Trou aux Bliches Beach in Mauritius © Shutterstock

Best for: honeymooners

Due to its location away from major tourist areas, Poste Lafayette Beach tends to be less crowded. With its serene ambience and romantic setting, Poste Lafayette Beach is a popular destination for couples and honeymooners.

The peaceful atmosphere and picturesque surroundings make it an ideal spot for a romantic stroll or a sunset picnic. This small beach is virtually free of commercial development. Spending quality time here is one of the best things to do in Mauritius.

Want to experience Mauritius but without the hassle of booking and planning? Our Delightful Mauritius trip offers you the experience of seeing many of the stunning natural sights that Mauritius has to offer up close and in person.

Where to stay near Poste Lafayette Beach

• For a perfect honeymoon: La Maison d'Eté Hotel by NEWMARK
• For a romantic getaway: Radisson Blu Poste Lafayette Resort & Spa (Adults Only)

Find more accommodation options to stay near Poste Lafayette Beach.

Mauritius - Post Lafayette © Shutterstock

Best for: secluded bliss

Spanning over 280 hectares (700 acres), this island paradise features not only pristine beaches but also lush woodlands, an 18-hole golf course, and charming eateries and souvenir shops. Explore the island's shaded paths that lead to deserted beaches, where you can unwind and embrace the serenity of the surroundings.

For a truly unforgettable experience, embark on a speedboat trip along the boulder-strewn Grande Rivière Sud-Est. This is Mauritius's longest river, and it culminates in breathtaking cascading waterfalls at Beau Champ. This is a fantastic place to stay in an eco-lodge .

Where to stay near Ile aux Cerfs

• For eco-lodge: Bubble Lodge Ile aux Cerfs Island
• For luxury: Four Seasons Resort Mauritius at Anahita

Ile Aux Cerfs Island, one of the stunning beaches of Mauritius © Shutterstock

Best for: untamed beauty

For views of a savagely wild coast from a grassy wind-swept headland, walk a few minutes east to Le Gris Gris. Gris Gris Beach is located on the most southerly point of Mauritius and is a place rumoured to be associated with black magic.

Gris Gris Beach is one of the best beaches in Mauritius for those looking for a "wild beach" experience. It earned this reputation due to its rugged and untamed coastline, which offers a stark contrast to the more popular and pristine beaches found on the island. This beautiful beach is characterized by its dramatic cliffs, crashing waves, and unique rock formations.

Gris Gris is one of the best beaches in Mauritius © Shutterstock

Our local experts can plan wonderful trips for you in Mauritius. Simply get in touch when you would like to travel. We will then create a personalized itinerary, which you can amend until you are totally happy with every detail of the booking. All of our planned itineraries can be tailored to meet your specific needs.

We may earn commission when you click on links in this article, but this doesn’t influence our editorial standards. We only recommend services that we genuinely believe will enhance your travel experiences.

Dre Roelandt is originally from the United States but lives and works in Berlin, Germany. Dre is a freelance writer and artist with a passion for travelling. They are an in-house Content Editor at Rough Guides.

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Discover the Best Snorkeling & the Beauty of Coral Reef in Mauritius

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Pink Corals at Trou D’Eau Douce

It feels great to dive into the ocean waters and watch the underwater world reveal itself. If you want to explore and marvel at the underwater world, you should give snorkeling a try. It allows you to gaze down in amazement at the beautiful colored fish. Moreover, other sea beings as they swim closer to you and in/out of expansive coral reefs.

The refreshing and cool water will keep your body calm as you swim next to the likes of parrot fish. Look right into their eyes for a moment at an arm’s length before they disappear into the blue ray. You will get to watch a ray gliding at the bottom like a shadow while the eels watch your moves with their tiny beady eyes.

Mauritius, which is one of the best tourist destinations along the coastlines of Africa, also happens to be a top destination for snorkeling. The south-west and eastern part of the Island has lagoons that stretch over an area of 300 square kilometers. Mauritius is also home to more than 400 species of beautiful underwater creatures.

Top snorkeling spots in Mauritius

If you’re planning for a holiday to Mauritius that involves snorkeling, here are some of our best recommended spots you should check out.

1. Blue Bay Marine Park

Table Coral at Blue Bay Marine Park

The Blue Bay Marine Park is ideal for snorkeling and is a must-visit place in Mauritius. The water is always crystal clear, and this little bay contains outstanding coral beds and unmatched, vibrant undersea life guaranteed to leave anyone in awe. The large branched and flat coral beds have earned the parks its high reputation.

It also boasts of a full range of aquatic life species. You will readily find vast shoals of surgeonfish, parrotfish, damsel fish, marine turtle, Sergeant Major fish, and Moorish idols. Snorkeling is, nonetheless, not allowed in every part of the park. There are specific snorkeling zones and possible dangers. So, it would be best if you stuck to these swimming zones and you are guaranteed safe snorkeling.

2. Mahebourg Bay

For snorkeling enthusiasts, Mahebourg Bay which is off the southeast corner of the Island is an excellent snorkeling spot. Visibility underwater here is great, and water depth is just between 5-6 meters, which makes it the best spot for a beginner snorkelers. You get to see stretches of table corals and beautiful reef fishes such as damsel fish, angelfish, wrasse, clown fish, and parrot fish among other fascinating creatures. The spot also has a variety of habitat plantations such as algae gardens, mangroves, corals, and sea grasses.

3. Flic en Flac

Flic en Flac beach is probably the Islands longest beach, covering long expanses on the western coast. Snorkeling here is excellent –the site is safe with gently shelving sands, calm lagoon and a wide range of colorful fish species such as the white-spotted boxfish stripy Moorish idol, blue-tarred parrot fish, and Nemo fish. Be careful where you step as this site tends to have some sea urchins and shells –you should probably purchase some swimming shoes in local stores or supermarket. If you stay long enough, you get a chance to see bottle nose and spinner dolphins. Sperm whales can also be spotted, but the best season to see them is during winter.

4. Trou- D’eau Douce

This is the image description

Trou d’Eau Douce which loosely translates to “fresh water hole” in English, is a destination Village on the Western Coast of Mauritius. It’s located next to a vast lagoon of Ile aux Cerfs Island. Corals here, including the pink corals, are rich in fish diversity. The picturesque white sand beaches are also one of the main reasons why this islet is the most visited location in Mauritius –approximately half a million tourist visit this place each year. There are many stops on the lagoon which are perfect for snorkeling.

5. Ile aux Cerfs

Ile aux Cerfs is one of those must-visit islets in the shore of Mauritius if you are fond of snorkeling. The island is ideal for snorkeling, as a result of the turquoise lagoon, surrounded by beautiful white sandbars that create swimming and snorkeling easier. There’s loads of fish and coral to see such as sea bream, starfish, parrot fish, blue striped snappers, along with other species.

6. Flat Island

Massive Coral With Wide Varieties of Fishes at Flat Island

Flat Island, also referred to as Île Plate, is situated close to the Round Island, North of Mauritius. The Island is surrounded by a massive reef that has made it one of the most popular snorkeling spots with great diving sites. It is s less frequented by visitors, which gives it a great sense of intimacy and privacy.

7. Trou aux Biches/ Turtle Bay

Marine Turtle at Trou aux Biches near Turtle Bay

Trou aux Biches rates as one of the best snorkeling places in Mauritius. It’s great for families too. The pretty the beach is lined with beautiful casuarina trees and has shallow, calm water with reefs close to the shore. Marine turtle can be seen here too. Corals are not in such a good condition in the lagoon, but off lagoon has good coral cover. Simply dive into the water to the reef via the shallow waters and view a large variety of underwater species.

8. Belle Mare

The Belle Mare Beach is another one of the longest beaches in Mauritius. The beach covers several miles from Trou-d’Eau Douce to the Belle Mare village, all covered by pristine white sand, probably the most beautiful beach in Mauritius. You can see corals growing at the bottom of the sandy beach waters. The site is known for branching corals with schools of fishes and diverse corals with lots of reef fishes.

9. Coin de Mire

Coin de Mire snorkeling spot is located near Djabeda wreck site and offers an excellent view of the Coin de Mire. Ocean floors here have soft corals, foliose corals, and pinky sub-massive corals.

Snorkeling for Underwater Photography

If you’re a fan of underwater photography, you will love the beautiful view of the vibrant marine life here. You can observe tunas, turtles, eagle rays, surgeonfish, Damselfish, butterfly fish, and juvenile sailfin tangs.

Family Snorkeling

Family snorkeling is a unique way of creating lasting holiday memories. Some of the best beaches for family snorkeling include Trou aux Biches, Belle Mare, and Blue Bay. These beaches have relatively shallow, clear waters and safe for beginners. Don’t forget to bring your snorkeling shoes along with other snorkeling gear for extra protection.

The Mauritius Coral Reef

Overall, as you can see, Mauritius has some of the most beautiful corals and snorkeling sites any snorkeling enthusiast can’t resist. From table corals and colorful pink corals to soft corals, foliose corals, and sub-massive corals, you are surrounded by beautiful marine scenery and creatures throughout your adventure. If you’re planning for a Mauritius holiday, now you have more than enough reasons to include snorkeling on your to-do list.

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Snorkeling and Diving in Mauritius

Mauritius is surrounded by a halo of coral which protects many of its bays and coves (particularly on the east coast). This creates a series of placid lagoons and shallows where you can snorkel in calm, clear waters where the fish aren’t hard to find. Divers can explore an underwater seascape of caverns and arches created by ancient lava flows.

In some areas you can snorkel from the beach, where you might catch a damselfish or clown fish passing by. But, the best snorkeling is a ten-minute boat ride out to the reef that curves around the island. Some hotels run complimentary boat trips, where you’ll be given around an hour to swim around the reef before returning to shore.

The visibility isn’t quite as good as the Maldives , but it’s close. You’re likely to see a scattering of flamboyant tiger fish and needlefish while shoals of bluestripe snapper shimmer past. Experienced snorkelers can swim over to the deeper, ocean-side of the reef where you might see the occasional shark, turtle or pod of dolphins.

The sleepy east side of Mauritius tends to offer the best snorkeling. One of the most popular areas is around the private island of Île aux Cerfs, but it can get busy. Head further down the coast and you’ll find the quieter Blue Bay Marine Park. The first Mauritian marine park, you can take a boat trip into the bay which has some of Mauritius’ healthiest coral. More than 30 species of coral have been documented here in an ongoing effort to help the island’s coral regenerate.

Divers are spoilt for choice with a range of dive sites. There are a number of well-reputed dive schools across the island and many hotels have their own PADI instructors and equipment. The north and west coasts are generally considered to have the most interesting sites which range from dramatic oceanic drop-offs to drift dives and shipwrecks.

The volcanic typography has created caverns, grottoes and tunnels to explore including The Cathedral near the coastal town of Flic en Flac. This huge underwater cave is lit by shafts of light coming through gaps in the rock above, creating an atmospheric, sandy-bottomed space that’s often filled with angelfish, gropers and the occasional dolphin.

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• Mauritius Snorkeling: A Guide For Snorkeling In This Scenic Island Nation In 2024!

Mauritius is a heaven for peace seekers, romantic couples and people who wish to relax and take a laid-back vacation. The sizzling beaches, islands and posh beachfront properties will end up in a perfectly invigorating vacay. But, the island also offers an array of diverse water sports, making it an ideal pick for adventure-loving souls. Among all the exhilarating water sports seen in Mauritius, snorkeling is the most popular one. Featuring vibrant coral reefs and marine organisms, Mauritius offers snorkeling at various beaches and this truly fascinating water sport is a must try for all. Glance at all the details about Mauritius snorkeling , given below, before you take the plunge. From the best time to snorkel to the best spots for snorkeling, we’ve got everything you ever wanted to know about Mauritius snorkeling tour . Hop on a Mauritius snorkeling tour to experience the best underwater life.

About Mauritius Snorkeling Tours

Mauritius is known for extensive and vibrant marine flora and fauna. In fact, Mauritius tour is half-hearted and incomplete, if you do not try snorkeling. Perfect for non-swimmers, this is an excellent opportunity to explore the blue ocean and see the beautiful fishes and other marine animals. Unlike many other islands of the World, where the water level has increased due to global warming, damaging the reefs and impacting the lives of marine creatures; Mauritius has got it preserved till now, thereby making up as an idyllic place for snorkeling and scuba diving.

There are various tour agencies that organize Mauritius snorkeling tours . The average snorkeling prices in Mauritius is INR 3000/person. The package includes sightseeing, packed meals, dolphin spotting, trips in glass bottom boats, scuba diving and snorkeling. Select one of the tour agencies and check with them about the details of the package.

Must Read: 13 Festivals In Mauritius To Experience Its Vibrant Culture And Heritage

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Best Time For Snorkeling In Mauritius

Mauritius experiences hot and humid tropical climate, all year round. Lying in the southern hemisphere, this place enjoys winter from June to September and this season is dry, less warm and moderately windy. The best time for snorkeling in Mauritius is in the summer months from October to December, as warm water attracts fishes in a large scale. Try snorkeling early in the day. With increasing crowd and touristy water sports, the chance of seeing marine creatures decreases.

Suggested Read: Rodrigues Island: A Guide To A Hidden Paradise Off The Coast Of Mauritius

5 Spots For Mauritius Snorkeling

Take a look at these spots for Mauritius snorkeling from the beach that offer the most thrilling experience!

1. Trou Aux Biches

The beach of Trou aux Biches is stunning and exudes natural charm. Encircled by casurina plantations, this white sand beach has shallow water and coral reefs, making it a haven for snorkeling. Indulge in this super thrilling activity and watch out colourful fishes, coral and other marine animals.

Location: Pamplemousses District, Mauritius

Suggested Read: 9 Historical Places In Mauritius To Visit That Tells A Great Deal About This Country!

2. Flic En Flac

Much famed as the longest beach of the island; Flic en Flac is the best place to try snorkeling in Mauritius. The water is shallow and calm here with abundance of marine animals like blue-tarred parrotfish, whitespotted box fish and stripped moorish idol. This the best place if you want to experience best snorkeling in Mauritius.

Location: Black River District, Mauritius

Suggested Read: Scuba Diving In Mauritius: Witness The Exotic Underwater Life At These 17 Spots!

3. Pointe Aux Piments

Tucked at the north-west coast of Mauritius, Pointe aux Piments is another perfect spot for snorkeling. This is a narrow beach, ideal for sunbathing, leisure walks, picnic and sunset views. Pointe aux Piments beach is also famous for spotting sea turtles.

Location: Pointe Aux Piments, Mauritius

Suggested Read: 8 Waterfalls In Mauritius To Witness The Prodigious Work Of Nature!

4. Ile Aux Cerfs

Surrounded by white sand dunes and turquoise blue lagoon, Isle aux Cerfs is a stunningly beautiful beach of Mauritius. The place is a perfect spot for Mauritius snorkeling and one can swim and spot exotic marine species like blacktip groupers, blue stripe snappers and sunbream. This is one of the best beaches in Mauritius for snorkeling.

Location: Flacq District, Mauritius

Suggested Read: Citadel Fort In Mauritius: A Comprehensive Guide To Help You Plan Your Trip Well

5. Blue Bay Marine Park

Perfectly resting on the south-eastern corner of the island, Blue Bay Marine Park is a sprawling marine biodiversity park and one of the most popular places for snorkeling in Mauritius. The water depth is just about 5-6 metres, making it ideal for beginners and first-timers. Get your underwater cameras ready for damselfish, angelfish, parrotfish, clownfish and wrasse.

Location: Blue Bay , Mauritius

6. Pereybere Beach

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This is one of the best snorkeling sites in Mauritius. This beach is located in the northern region of Mauritius and the lagoon here is known for its amazingly clear water. This is why this beach is considered to be perfect for an awe-striking snorkeling. This beach is quite happening amongst the tourists owing to the various restaurants with various scrumptious local dishes.

7. Mahebourg Bay

Snorkeling at this place is nothing less than a divine experience. From Mahebourg, you can go on a guided tour with some certified company that even provides you with a local guide. The coral here is known to be preserved in the best way, attracting a huge number of exotic fish. The school of fish that can be witnessed while snorkeling here includes the barracudas, damselfish, needlefish, and clown fish.

8. Tamarin Bay

This is an extremely picturesque village in Mauritius that is located at a distance of 5 kilometers from Flic en Flac. The village of Tamarin is renowned as the Natural Aquarium and is counted amongst the most picturesque seascapes in Mauritius. Snorkeling in the waters of Tamarin Bay will definitely be an experience to remember. There are other water sports activities too that can be enjoyed here, including paddle boating, jet-skiing, and swimming.

9. Coin De Mire

This snorkeling site in Mauritius is located at a close distance to Djabeda. The coral reefs, rocks, and seabeds here are pinkish in shade – an eye-pleasing location for the tourists. Moreover, this place is considered to be a famous underwater photography site. Therefore, it is a must visit for the purpose of snorkeling. The rich and magnificent marine life will simply take your breath away.

10. Benitiers Island

This beautiful island is visible from Le Morne mountain. From the mountain, you can even look at Le Morne Beach – a 4 kilometer long beach from where people take trips to Benitiers Island. You’ll find numerous dolphins in this island and snorkeling here can be once-in-a-lifetime experience, as you’ll get to witness the amazing marine life.

Tips For Snorkelling In Mauritius

Below are certain things you must keep in mind, to enjoy your snorkelling experience in Mauritius.

1. Make sure to get the appropriate right fit of snorkelling equipment which includes the mask, snorkel and fins. 2. Carry a float vest with you to be safe if you don’t swim a lot, or have just learnt snorkelling. 3. It is important to ensure that your mask does not leak. If it happens it may get filled with water. If such a case arises, it is advisable that you come to the surface, throw the water out and then continue your dive. 4. Do not panic underwater. Just relax and breathe through your snorkel. 5. Do not dive against the current of the sea.

Further Read: Mauritius Is Offering Citizenship And Passports To Foreigners. BRB! Sending Application Now

Going snorkeling in Mauritius? Prices will not stop you! It is thrilling, fascinating and a must-try for everyone. So, whenever you are preparing for a Mauritius holiday , make sure you plan for all your favourite water adventure activities.

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Frequently Asked Questions About Mauritius Snorkeling

Can you swim with turtles in Mauritius?

Pointe aux Piments is one place where you can swim with turtles in Mauritius.

Which is the best place to snorkel in Mauritius?

Blue Bay, Flic-en-Flac, Le Morne and Rodrigues are some of the best places to snorkel in Mauritius.

Is there a good scope for snorkeling in Mauritius?

Yes, Mauritius being an island, offers great scope for snorkeling. The water here is very clear and there are shallow depth areas that are suitable for this underwater adventure sport.

Which coast in Mauritius is best?

Considering the scope for water sports, West Coast is preferred. For instance, Flic-en-Flac in the West Coast, is a great spot for diving and watching the sunset.

Are there coral reefs in Mauritius?

In Mauritius corals started to grow in shallow waters parallel to the shore resulting in the formation of a fringing reef, covering 150 Km around the coast of Mauritius.

What is the best area to stay in Mauritius?

Le Morne, in the south, or Belle Mare, on the east coast, in summer.

Are there sharks in Mauritius?

Mauritius is a rather unique island with lagoons protected by the reefs, which prevent sharks from having access to the beaches.

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7 of the best beaches in Mauritius

Dec 11, 2022 • 6 min read

Experience the best of Mauritius' beaches with our guide © DjelicS / Getty Images

Mauritius doesn’t just have great beaches, it’s got variety, catering to every visitor's beachside whim. 

While Mauritius is a multifaceted and culturally diverse African island with lots to explore , it’s not hard to see why its beaches – picture-perfect stretches of fine white sand and retina-pulling turquoise waters – are a big draw. They each have their own atmosphere: charming jumping-off points for surfing or dolphin-watching, beaches with an off-the-grid vibe, shallow lagoons for little ones to paddle in or secret coves where you can eat al fresco.

Here’s our list of the best beaches in Mauritius to reset and unwind. They're also great places to get a feel for island culture that has been patched together by people from all over the world who’ve made a little piece of this paradise their own. 

1. Le Morne

Possibly one of the most scenic of all of Mauritius’ beaches, Le Morne hangs off the southwestern tip’s peninsula. Known for its pool-like, impossibly iridescent turquoise waters, it’s one of the best places for swimming with children thanks to an unbroken coral reef, while tall filao pine trees sway in the light breeze, providing shade from the sizzling sun. 

The beach is backed by the eponymous basaltic mountain that soars up to the skies, culminating at over 550m (1804ft) above sea level, also a popular hiking trail. A refuge for enslaved people in the 18th and 19th centuries, when Mauritius was an important stopover on the eastern slave trade route, it is a symbol of their heroic fight for freedom, earning the area Unesco status in 2008, and making this one of Mauritius’ most spectacular beaches.

Planning tip: Make sure to stop at Emba Filao, a popular laid-back open-air cafe with tables lined up under the trees, serving generous portions of grilled seafood, such as tangy calamari and fleshy gambas (shrimp) with fries. Avoid the lines by getting there before the lunchtime rush.

2. La Cuvette, Grand Baie

This intimate cove got its name  cuvette , or basin, from the basin-like effect created where the sand suddenly drops as you advance in the warm waters. Locals love it because it’s great for having a proper dip without having to wade far in the water to find depth. On the top edge of Grand Baie , a crescent moon shaped bay with restaurants and nightclubs that come alive at sundown, at the northern extremity of the island, this area of Mauritius is usually blessed with good weather year-round thanks to a microclimate.

Order a mine-frit (fried noodles), one of Mauritius’ many typical dishes adopted from the Chinese community, from one of the tiny concrete shacks above the beach. The freshly cooked food is tasty and cheap. Have it at a plastic table overlooking the ocean – it’s the best seat in the house.

Planning tip: Grand Baie itself isn’t much to write home about in the daytime, but the beaches north and south are among some of the best for families due to the calm, shallow waters. 

3. Flic en Flac

It’s impossible to go to Mauritius without making a stop at Flic en Flac . Here, the huge sweep of powdery sand continues for miles and disappears into the sunset as it curves around the island. Waters are usually calm and shallow, making for a good beach day with young children. At weekends, families from Mauritius’ diverse communities come for quick dips and enjoy picnics in the shade of filao pine trees, with some dancing to local sega music known for its infectious rhythm. Smile in their direction and they’ll beckon you to join them. 

4. Belle Mare Plage

One long curve of thick forested pines that swallow up the handful of hotels built along the beach, Belle Mare gives us a glimpse of the island’s wilder pre-tourism days. Set on the quieter east coast, it’s here that some of the island’s most exclusive hotels have set up. The waters are calm and shallow, making perfect paddling material for children.

Planning tip: Drive 10 minutes north to Sagar Shiv Mandir, a Hindu temple built on a craggy outcrop close to a mangrove forest that used to be accessible only by wading through the knee-deep waters. A major pilgrimage site, it now has a concrete road leading right up to the white and red building housing a bronze statue of Shiva. It’s free to enter, but make sure you have a sarong to cover legs and shoulders when visiting.  

5. Île aux Cerfs

A small island planted with pine trees in the center, which hides a members-only golf course, Île aux Cerfs offers the largest lagoon of Mauritius and is a favorite escape for locals who come here to get away from it all. Reached by speedboat off the east coast of the island, it’s a fun day trip for the whole family and can be as active (banana boat rides and parasailing) or as laid-back as you want it to be. 

Encased in soft golden sand and crystal-clear waters, a picturesque corridor of warm water runs between the island and neighboring Ilot Mangenie. Around the further side of the two islands, is where the beaches are quietest, and where the tranquil atmosphere evokes the wilder parts of Mauritius. 

Planning tip: Tickets across by speedboat can be bought at the small office to the left of the port beach. Packages often include a barbecue on a nearby island and a visit to a waterfall. While the package is reasonably priced, jumping from island to island leaves very little time to really unwind. There are restaurants on Île aux Cerfs, but they’re expensive, so consider taking a picnic. 

A gorgeous bay of fine white sand lined by pine trees that runs into a longer beach, Tamarin is one of the island’s more popular spots. Wonderfully relaxed, it has a sleepy surfer vibe. Get there early and join the locals who walk over from their homes nearby carrying mugs of steaming sweet milky Bois Chéri vanilla tea to enjoy on the cool sands as the tide slowly comes in, flushing the bay with bright blue waters. If it’s early enough, dolphins sometimes swim past to the surfers bobbing up and down on the waters further out. While the sea can be calm here, there are often strong currents.

The bay is split off from the longer beach by a river surrounded by magical jungly mountain views. As lunchtime draws near, a boulettes (steamed dumplings) shack opens across the road from the local diving center to serve bowls of the little dough balls in flavorsome broth.

Planning tip: Tamarin is also the jumping-off point for dolphin watching tours. Opt for local boats as opposed to large tour companies, as they pick you up right from the beach (as opposed to the marina a 10-minute drive away) and head out early to avoid the huge number of tour boats, which takes away from the experience. 

7. Blue Bay

A magnificent crescent-shaped bay of warm, clear and shallow waters, that hugs the shoreline and its smattering of elegant houses hidden behind high walls, Blue Bay is often cited as a favorite because it is perfect for families with young children. It’s also close to the natural reserve of Ile aux Aigrettes, where the jumping-off point north of Pointe d’Esny offers a jaw-dropping panorama of sea-green waters and mountains lined up along the coast. 

Blue Bay is close to the Blue Bay Marine Park, an ocean reserve that’s among the best spots for snorkeling and diving. Go here to see most of the island’s species of fish and impressively large table coral.

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Coral reefs of Mauritius: Types, Importance, Threats

 Posted on May 3, 2018 by Yonature

  5 Comments

Coral reefs of Mauritius are both outstanding marine environments and lethal threats to inexperienced navigators. Basically, the calm 243 km 2 lagoon that Mauritius boasts of is due to a 150 km protective coral reef layer. This reef almost completely surrounds the island thus shielding it against violent waves. In this way, locals and tourists enjoy the serene beach atmosphere almost all year round.

Regions where coral reefs are absent in Mauritius

However, in the south of Mauritius , coral reefs are absent along an 18 km breach. Because of this, dangerous swells often crash on the coasts. Since they are in contrast with the calm waters around Mauritius, crashing waves at Souillac, for example, is an amazing view.

However, as climate change is leading to sea-level rise , violent waves are also impacting on coastal villages there. Riviere des Galets is such an example. As the sea level increases, waves penetrate further inland thus damaging infrastructure and property. In this case, the importance of protective coral reefs is clear.

Similarly, there is also a 13 km opening on the west coast of Mauritius. In the surroundings of Albion, coral reefs do not grow. Nevertheless, a time-tested lighthouse is still working at Albion to guide incoming ships at night.

Finally, coral reefs also do not grow near river mouths in Mauritius. The level of sediment and turbulence is too much for them to develop.

Reef formation in Mauritius

The formation of coral reefs around Mauritius dates approximately to 5000 years back [1] . The 1000-year-old brain coral at the Blue Bay Marine Park is the oldest coral of Mauritius. Currently, there are some 160 coral species in the waters of Mauritius [2] .

Factors favouring coral growth

Coral reefs grow nicely around Mauritian because:

• The continental shelf is quite shallow and so allows just enough light to penetrate.
• Seawater is clear and warm with an average temperature of ⁓25⁰ C.
• Salinity of the sea lies around 35 ppt.
• Spring tides have top peaks of 0.83 m that do not drown coral polyps.
• The South East Trade Winds are moderate and do not infringe on coral development.

Types of coral reef in Mauritius

Five types of coral reef have been identified around Mauritius and its associated islands:

• Fringing reefs – Mauritius is mainly surrounded by fringing reefs. They protect the coastline leaving a shallow lagoon (15-45 m) in between.
• Atolls – Eventually, fringing reefs turn into atolls when seawater submerge volcanic islands. The St Brandon Archipelago of Mauritius, which consists of 22 atolls, formed in this way.
• Barrier reefs – Barrier reefs grow far from the mainland, especially on the coast of Mahebourg. They extend from Ile de la Passe to ⁓9 km northwards [2] . Fringing reef grows in its inner layers for over a distance of 1.5 km laterally along the shore. A 2 km (width) by 20 km (depth) canal separates the inner reef from the rest of the mould.
• Patch reefs – As for patch reefs, they grow in shallow waters around Mauritius where the seabed is high enough for coral to develop.
• Reef flats – Reef flats form as a result of fringing reefs that move seaward. They leave thick reefs behind that eventually flatten due to water movement. Reef flats do not occur around mainland Mauritius but around Rodrigues.

Coral reef system of Mauritius

The reef front  .

Basically, the reef front is the backside of the reef that is in direct contact with the open ocean. As such, it is subject to pressure from incoming waves and acts as a cushion against them. In general, the reef front of Mauritius displays a rugged outline with pits and valleys in between. The foot of the reef alone may reach ⁓ – 60 m. Various coral species grow at different depths of the reef. These include

• branching and stony corals like Acropora, Pocillopora, Stylophora, Millepora at 0 m to -5 m
• massive corals at -5 m to -15 m
• massive corals like Goniophora, Favia and Porites at -15m to -20 m
• skeletal corals at -25 m to -30 m and
• most types of corals such as Antipatharians and Alcyonacea grow together with algae below -30 m.

The reef platform

This is the upper surface of the coral reef that is visible from above. Mauritian reefs exhibit a closed network formation reaching 20 m on average. They are crisscrossed by rills that allow the free passage of water from the open ocean into the lagoon. The calm side of the reef is covered by stony corals, sea urchins and other echinoderms. However, the windward segment is dominated by skeletal coral and sea anemones. 

The reef flat

The part of the reef that faces the coast is the reef flat. The width of the reef varies from place to place. Nevertheless, in general, it can be as big as hundreds of metres. It is also larger on the east coast. The depth of the reef is less than 1 m during spring tide but can be as deep as 20 m where canals are present. Only isolated colonies of Acropora develop due to silt coming from the land.

Canals and basins

The lagoon of Mauritius is characterised by the presence of canals and basins along the seafloor such as at Blue Bay. They are often as wide as 0.5 m to 1.5 km and as deep as 6 m to 35 m. Polyps grow on the sides of the reef. The middle part is covered with sediment and thus prevents polyps to grow.

Importance of coral reefs in Mauritius

Environmental reasons, coral reefs are home to various marine creatures.

The coral reefs of Mauritius are home to several magnificent organisms . Various creatures like fish, clams, sponges, starfish and turtles grow and depend on the coral reefs. The colourful scissortail sergeant fish swims in schools close to coral reefs mostly everywhere in Mauritius. Around the atolls of St Brandon, sea turtles thrive away from the human population. Where reefs are absent in Mauritius, oftentimes sharks glide into the lagoon.

Form part of the marine food web

The reefs provide food to these marine creatures as they are hotspots for marine life. As small organisms feed on the microscopic algae that grow on the reefs, larger animals eat them. In this way, an intricate marine food web exists around the coral reefs.

Additionally, coral reefs play a key role in protecting the coasts of Mauritius against violent waves, tsunamis and storm surge. They are also important grounds for marine creatures to reproduce and grow.

Socio-economic reasons

Tourism in mauritius is due to coral reefs.

Basically, the tourism industry of Mauritius is based on beach travel. Tourists fly from all over the world to Mauritius for its white beaches and calm lagoons. Without the protective coral reefs, Mauritius’ tourism would greatly decrease.

Today, the tourism sector is shifting to sustainable practices and eco-activities. Consequently, holiday planners and tour agencies are exploiting the marine heritage to give tourists unforgettable underwater experiences. Thus tourists can enjoy the magnificent coral ecosystem through diving, undersea walks and submarine trips.

Locals and youngsters enjoy the calm beaches

At the same time, locals also delight in coastal activities. Most families spend their weekends at the beach, swimming and snorkelling. Similarly, children and youngsters that grow in the coastal villages have fun swimming and catching crabs. If not for the coral reefs, all these activities would not be possible .

Healthy coral reefs sustain fishing

What’s more, commercial and recreational fishing is also important in Mauritius. The healthy coral reefs allow marine creatures to grow and develop. In this way, the fishing sector is sustained.

Coral reefs are incredible sources of food and drugs. As such, future research into the coral reefs of Mauritius may provide such invaluable resources. In addition to that, fundamental information is locked up in reefs. Thus, they can help to examine past events and predict future impacts. Past sea level rise estimation in Mauritius has been carried out in this way [3] .

Threats to the coral reefs of Mauritius

In the past decades, Mauritius lost some 50-60% [1] of its live coral cover. This is due to a number of anthropogenic and natural causes.

Anthropogenic threats

Polyps die because of too much turbulence.

Human activities such as dredging and coastal development lead to siltation into the lagoons. With a large number of hotels and recreational centres on the coast, considerable turbulence occurs in the waters. Consequently, polyps die as they require clear water to grow.

Mangroves are cleared

Also, mangrove forests are very important pollution sinks. Pollutants coming from the land such as agricultural runoff and vehicle discharges are trapped in the sediment of mangroves. In this way, they do not enter the lagoons and harm coral reefs. However, many mangrove forests have been cleared and filled across the island. As a result, pollutants make their way to the reefs and prevent them from developing.

As an example, Pointe d’Esny beach, located in the south-east of Mauritius, has one of the clearest lagoons of the island. This is because of the Pointe d’Esny mangrove forest that traps sediment from the land. Hence, healthy coral reefs also develop there.

Additional factors

Additionally, processes like eutrophication, decreased salinity and light penetration further prevent coral reefs from growing.

Natural causes

Increase in sea temperature.

One of the key reasons for coral death in Mauritius is attributed to ocean warming and subsequent coral bleaching. These bleaching events are normally associated with an increase in sea temperature due to global warming . Sometimes they are also because of El Nino events.

For instance, the most severe coral bleaching event in Mauritius occurred in 1998. More than 10% of the live coral cover died in places like Albion, Flic en Flac and Le Bouchon. Researchers suggest that an increase in sea temperature may have caused it. Conversely, an El Nino event took place in 2016. The band of warm water around Mauritius also had a great impact on the coral reefs.

As it is, cyclones too can damage coral reefs. Researchers noted this after the passage of cyclones Davina, Dina and Kalunde. In general, violent waves induced by cyclones directly destruct the reefs. Besides, intense rainfall on the coast leads to suspension of sediment in the sea. Sometimes, coastal landscapes can change and thus alter ocean currents. Together, they can change ocean chemistry and inhibit corals to grow.

Flash floods

Flash floods also impact on coral development. The sudden and intense rainfall can increase the amount of sediment into the sea. Consequently, the water becomes opaque and light cannot penetrate. If polyps do not get the right amount of light, they cannot grow well.

Natural predators

Interestingly, even coral reefs have natural predators in the marine environment. One such example is the crown of thorn starfish. Broadly speaking, the crown of thorn starfish causes a lot of damage to reefs as it feeds on them. It can also become invasive when it is in large amounts. Consequently, it can cause severe damage to reefs as noted in the Great Barrier reef of Australia. In Mauritius too, the crown of thorn starfish is a nuisance to the reefs. It attaches to the reefs and eats the polyps as it moves across the reef.

Coral reef management in Mauritius

In Mauritius, there are several policies and laws regarding the management and protection of coral reefs. As such, there is a number of fishing reserves, marine parks and delimitation of no-take zones. People also fish seasonally and with the right equipment. It is also prohibited to mine sand and coral as well as collect seashells and exploit sea cucumber.

Several legislations and guidelines are in place concerning coastal development. These include Environmental Impact Assessments, zonation, setback rules and maritime contingency plans. On the national level, there is the Integrated Coastal Zone Management framework. More recently, researchers are applying new techniques like coral farming and coral propagation to restore degraded reefs.

References:

• Moothien Pillay, R., Terashima, H., Venkatasami, A. and Uchida, H. (2002). Field Guide to Corals of Mauritius . Albion, Mauritius: Albion Fisheries Research Centre
• Saddul, P. (2002). Mauritius, A Geomorphological Analysis . Moka, Mauritius: MGI, pp 262-267
• Montaggioni, L.F. and Faure, G. (1997). Response of reef coral communities to sea level rise: a Holocene model from Mauritius (Western Indian Ocean). Sedimentology, 44, pp. 1053-1070.

 Category: Environment      Tags: coral reef management in mauritius , coral reef system of Mauritius , coral species in mauritius , factors for coral growth , how to coral polyps grow , importance of coral reef in mauritius , mauritius coral reef bleaching , oldest coral in mauritius , places where no coral reef mauriitus , polyps , protection of coral reef in mauritius , reef platform , research in coral reef in mauritius , status of coral reef in mauritius , the reef system of mauritius , threats to coral reef of mauritius , types of coral reef in mauritus , types of coral species in mauritius , why are there few coral species in mauritius , why do we have coral reef in mauritius

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Mauritius: Nearby Islands and Coral Atolls

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Mauritius, a stunning island nation nestled in the Indian Ocean, offers not just mesmerizing beaches and luxurious resorts, but also the opportunity for unforgettable day trips. Embarking on a day trip from Mauritius allows you to venture beyond the island’s shores and explore nearby islands and coral atolls, each with their unique charm and allure. So, if you’re looking to add some extra excitement to your holiday, read on to discover the wonders that await you just off the coast of Mauritius.

Understanding the Geography of Mauritius

Before we delve into the enchanting day trip destinations, it’s important to familiarize yourself with the geography of Mauritius. Situated in the southwest Indian Ocean, this paradise island is surrounded by a breathtaking blue sea filled with wonders both above and below its surface.

Mauritius, a small island nation, is located approximately 2,000 kilometers off the southeast coast of the African continent. It is part of the Mascarene Islands, which also include Réunion and Rodrigues. The island itself is of volcanic origin, with its highest peak, Piton de la Petite Rivière Noire, reaching an impressive 828 meters above sea level.

As you explore the geography of Mauritius, you’ll discover its unique blend of landscapes. From pristine white sandy beaches to rugged mountains and rolling hills, the island offers a diverse range of natural beauty. The coastal areas are adorned with palm trees swaying in the gentle sea breeze, while the inland regions are adorned with lush green forests and cascading waterfalls.

The Unique Ecosystem of Mauritius

Mauritius boasts a remarkable ecosystem, where lush green forests and cascading waterfalls meet captivating coral reefs. This biodiversity hotspot is home to numerous endemic plant and animal species, making it a haven for nature enthusiasts and conservationists alike.

Within the forests of Mauritius, you’ll find a treasure trove of flora and fauna. The island is famous for its rare and endangered species, such as the Mauritius kestrel, pink pigeon, and echo parakeet. These birds, found nowhere else in the world, have become symbols of the island’s commitment to conservation.

As you venture into the crystal-clear waters surrounding Mauritius, you’ll be greeted by a vibrant underwater world. The coral reefs that fringe the island are teeming with life, offering a kaleidoscope of colors and shapes. Snorkelers and scuba divers can explore these underwater wonderlands, encountering tropical fish, sea turtles, and even dolphins.

The Role of Coral Atolls in Mauritius’ Landscape

One of the remarkable features of Mauritius is its coral atolls, which play a vital role in the country’s landscape. These circular formations of corals are formed around the rim of submerged volcanoes, creating breathtaking lagoons with vibrant marine life.

The coral atolls not only provide a stunning backdrop for the island’s beaches but also serve as natural barriers, protecting the coastline from the powerful forces of the ocean. The coral reefs act as a buffer, reducing the impact of waves and erosion, while also providing a habitat for a wide range of marine species.

Within the lagoons formed by the coral atolls, you’ll find calm and shallow waters, perfect for swimming, snorkeling, and enjoying various water sports. The vibrant corals create a mesmerizing underwater landscape, inviting you to explore their intricate formations and encounter the diverse marine life that calls these reefs home.

As you immerse yourself in the geography of Mauritius, you’ll come to appreciate the island’s natural wonders and the delicate balance of its ecosystems. From the captivating forests to the vibrant coral reefs, this paradise island is a testament to the beauty and diversity of our planet.

Planning Your Day Trip from Mauritius

Before embarking on your day trip adventure, it’s essential to plan accordingly to make the most of your time. Here are a few key considerations to keep in mind:

Choosing Your Destination

With a plethora of nearby islands and coral atolls to choose from, it’s important to select the destination that aligns with your interests and preferences. Whether you’re seeking thrilling water sports or a tranquil escape, each destination offers a unique experience.

Essential Items to Pack

Being prepared is crucial to ensure a comfortable and enjoyable day trip. Pack essentials such as sunscreen, a hat, sunglasses, and comfortable footwear. Additionally, don’t forget your swimming gear and a camera to capture the incredible moments.

Exploring the Nearby Islands

When it comes to nearby islands, Mauritius offers a plethora of options, each boasting its own distinct charm and activities. Here are two must-visit islands:

Île aux Cerfs: A Haven for Water Sports

For adrenaline junkies and water sports enthusiasts, Île aux Cerfs is the ultimate destination. Located off the east coast of Mauritius, this idyllic island is renowned for its crystal-clear waters and a wide array of exhilarating activities. Indulge in thrilling water skiing or try your hand at parasailing while enjoying the breathtaking views. Afterward, unwind on the pristine beaches and savor a delectable seafood feast at one of the island’s beachfront restaurants.

Rodrigues Island: A Blend of Culture and Nature

If you’re looking for a more cultural and authentic experience, a day trip to Rodrigues Island is highly recommended. With its laid-back atmosphere and warm hospitality, this island offers a genuine glimpse into traditional Mauritian life. Explore the vibrant local markets, visit the charming Saint Gabriel Church, and indulge in delicious Creole cuisine. For nature lovers, a visit to Caverne Patate , a unique cave system with fascinating stalactite formations, is not to be missed.

Discovering the Coral Atolls

Immerse yourself in the splendors of Mauritius’ coral atolls, where you’ll find untouched beauty and tranquility. Here are two coral atolls that will leave you in awe:

St. Brandon Atoll: A Hidden Paradise

Located about 430 kilometers northeast of Mauritius, St. Brandon Atoll is a hidden gem waiting to be explored. This remote and rarely visited destination offers pristine beaches, crystal-clear waters, and abundant marine life. Embark on a snorkeling or diving adventure to witness the vibrant coral gardens and encounter majestic marine creatures such as dolphins and sea turtles. To truly immerse yourself in the beauty of the atoll, consider a multi-day trip, staying on a liveaboard boat.

Agalega Islands: A Remote Escape

Situated in the northern part of the Indian Ocean, the Agalega Islands are a true paradise for those seeking solitude and untouched natural beauty. Accessible only by charter flights, these remote islands offer a serene atmosphere and uncrowded beaches. Take a leisurely stroll along the powdery white sands, snorkel in the crystalline waters to discover colorful coral reefs, and witness breathtaking sunsets over the Indian Ocean. Don’t forget to bring a picnic lunch and enjoy a secluded feast amidst the idyllic surroundings.

Navigating Transportation Options

When it comes to transportation for your day trips, there are a couple of options available:

Boat Transfers: The Most Common Mode of Transport

Boat transfers are the most common and convenient mode of transport for day trips from Mauritius. Various tour operators offer boat transfers to the nearby islands and coral atolls, providing a smooth and enjoyable journey. Sit back, relax, and relish the scenic views as you sail across the sparkling waters.

Air Travel: A Quicker but Pricier Option

If you’re looking to save time and don’t mind splurging a little, air travel is an alternative to consider. Charter flights are available for some of the more remote destinations, offering a quicker and more exclusive travel experience. Enjoy panoramic views from above as you soar through the sky to your chosen paradise.

With this handy guide, you’re now equipped to embark on unforgettable day trips from Mauritius. Explore the nearby islands or discover the breathtaking coral atolls, and immerse yourself in the wonders of the Indian Ocean. So, pack your bags, book your day trip, and get ready for an adventure of a lifetime !

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10 Best Nature Reserves In Mauritius (2024 Guide)

Posted by Francesca Brooking | Mauritius | 0

Let’s talk about nature reserves in Mauritius. This tropical island off the east coast of Africa is known for its incredible beaches. It’s easy to spend a whole holiday on them. 

But then you’re missing out on so much of the island – or should I say islands!

Mauritius is a boon for nature lovers. Here, there are mountains, waterfalls, forests, islands and coral reefs just waiting to be explored. 

Some of the best natural attractions can be found in protected areas of conservation to preserve them for generations to come. 

This guide to Mauritius nature reserves is by no means exhaustive, but it’s a comprehensive list of the best and most accessible ones you can visit. 

So keep reading to discover all the natural beauty Mauritius has to offer!

The Seven Coloured Earth Geopark is one of the best nature reserves in Mauritius!

A note about nature reserves in Mauritius

You might be thinking, ‘what’s so great about nature reserves and why should I visit?’ or you might already know. Nature reserves are protected areas of land or sea. 

They’re managed by local authorities such as the Mauritian wildlife Foundation to preserve their rich ecosystems, historical heritage and biodiversity. 

Quite often with nature reserves work involves fixing past damage such as removing invasive species, restoring at-risk wildlife populations and monitoring the health of the ecosystem. 

If you want to do more sustainable activities on your travels, visiting nature reserves is a great option. They give you a chance to get out into nature and give back to the environment. 

Not all nature reserves in Mauritius are about gentle walks and hikes. You can go trekking, quad biking, zip-lining and so much more. Plenty to get the adrenaline pumping!

Nature reserves in the mountains 

No matter where you stay in Mauritius, you’re bound to see towering peaks somewhere on the horizon. 

These mountain nature reserves feel remote without actually being too difficult to get to. Some are even free entry. 

Visit, hike and feel on top of the world! 

Black River Gorges National Park 

Located in the southwest of Mauritius, Black River Gorges National Park covers 6574 hectares of indigenous forest. Here you’ll find the highest peak in Mauritius – Piton de la Petite Rivière Noire. 

The national park is the largest protected area in Mauritius. Managed by the National Parks and Conservation Service, it’s free to enter and has plenty of trails for hiking enthusiasts. 

None of the walks exceeds a day but you can expect intrepid adventures through native undergrowth, epic mountains and waterfall views including Alexandra Falls. 

Honestly, it’s one of the best places to go in Mauritius for walks and wild nature. 

If you would rather have a more chilled visit than hiking, head to Black River Gorges Viewpoint for uninterrupted hilly views. You can get there by car too. Easy!

Ebony Forest Reserve 

Ebony Forest Reserve is a prime example of conservation in action. Located in Chamarel, the 50-hectare conservation area is slowly being restored to its original, indigenous forest state. 

Bit by bit, the team are removing pests and invasive trees to create a haven for threatened native plants and animals. 

Ebony Forest Reserve is an ideal day out for hikers, families and wildlife lovers. Take a look at the young tree nursery, plant your own tree and see giant tortoises all in a day!

The absolute best thing to do here is the iconic canopy walk up to Sublime Point. It’s a short hike through the trees which ends in a stunning view across Mauritius. 

Take it further by carrying on up to Piton Canot or relaxing with a nibble and a drink at the teeny tiny cafe.

Entrance fees vary depending on the activities you plan to do. Check the website for the most up-to-date prices. 

Vallée d’Osterlog

Located in the southeast of Mauritius, Vallée d’Osterlog is a beautiful botanical garden and nature sanctuary for rehabilitated indigenous forests and plant species. 

Tucked between Mountain Lagrave and Mountain Laselle in the Créoles Mountain Range, it feels like you’ve uncovered a secret garden. 

The entrance to the nature park can be found down a long rocky road. You’ll be greeted by a lush green forest canopy before you even reach the gate. 

Come here to see baby giant tortoises, hike and bike. The hiking trail has a moderate difficulty level with wooden steps built into steep slopes. 

Follow the trail up Cascade Tortue (the Tortoise Waterfall) – so named because of the huge rock at the bottom of the falls that looks like a tortoise shell!

Photo credit: Canva.com

Speaking of waterfalls…

Nature reserves with waterfalls 

Who doesn’t love a dramatic waterfall!? 

Mauritius is home to plenty of utterly gorgeous cascades. Some hidden away and some not. Some in nature reserves and some not but the area is still just as stunning anyway. 

Below are some top nature reserves that feature picturesque waterfalls. I recommend treating them as an added benefit rather than visiting BECAUSE of them if you see what I mean…

Bel Ombre UNESCO Biosphere Reserve 

You know anything that’s UNESCO certified is going to be something to remember. The Bel Ombre Biosphere certainly doesn’t disappoint! 

Located right down the bottom of Mauritius in the southwest, the nature reserve takes you into a Jurassic world that time forgot. 

The vast reserve covers 3594 hectares of indigenous vegetation and forest. 

Here you can spot rare wildlife such as the Pink Pigeon and Mauritian Fody. Keep an eye out for the giant fruit bats flapping over the canopy. Don’t worry, they’re fruitarians, not cousins of Dracula!

The biosphere reserve has plenty here to keep you occupied. Explore the jungle on 4x4s, a guided trek, and quad bikes or make a relaxed day of it in the picnic pods by the wild Frederica Waterfall. 

Heritage Nature Reserve 

It’s somewhat rare for a luxury resort to have a piece of land and NOT build it up… That’s exactly what Heritage Resorts have done. 

Neighbouring Bel Ombre Biosphere Reserve (in fact, they pretty much get merged into one), is Heritage Nature Reserve. 

Some 1300 hectares, the protected area is nestled between the Indian Ocean and the wild forests of the south. 

It’s essentially a baby version of the biosphere reserve. Just as wild and beautiful still. You can visit whether or not you’re a guest at the resort. 

For waterfalls, do the Two Waterfalls Walking Trail – it takes just 2 hours to complete. Easy. 

For something a little more unusual, you can do a segway tour. Hop on a buggy or quad bike for a bit of a thrill or get trekking with a guide. 

Read More: 19 Best Places To Stay In Mauritius + Coolest Areas

Chamarel Seven Coloured Earth

Arguably one of the best things to do in Mauritius, Chamarel’s Seven Coloured Earth is a Geopark with two stunning attractions: the Seven Coloured Earth AND Chamarel Waterfall. 

The Seven Coloured Earth is a mound of small multi-coloured sand dunes. 

The extraterrestrial-looking spectacle was formed out of the conversion of basaltic lava to clay minerals over millions of years. It’s seriously cool and not unlike Peru’s Rainbow Mountain!

The Geopark has an easy-to-follow walkway that leads you past a giant tortoise pen. Keep going through lush green vegetation until you catch a glimpse of Chamarel Waterfall. 

The tallest and one of the most spectacular waterfalls in Mauritius, it plunges some 83m down the mountains of Black River Gorges. 

Editor’s tip: For even more breathtaking waterfalls, don’t miss Tamarind Falls. Here you’ll find cascades galore with seven waterfalls to explore! Bring your togs and spend a blissful day swimming, chilling and hiking!

Island nature reserves 

What’s a tropical destination without a tropical island paradise? Mauritius has some 49 uninhabited islands just off its coast. 

Some are designated nature reserves that are used for scientific research only. No tourists allowed. 

Some islands you can visit with special permission or with a guide. Others are inhabited and have designated conservation areas. 

I 100% recommend visiting one of these islands below for castaway vibes and to get a glimpse of what Mauritius was like before the arrival of people. 

Ile aux Aigrettes Nature Reserve

The tiny islet off the southeast coast of the mainland is only 27 hectares long but it still feels just as wild as other nature reserves. 

Sitting atop coralline limestone lies one of the last remaining dry coastal forests in Mauritius. 

On Ile aux Aigrettes, giant tortoises reign supreme in their natural habitat. No pens this time, the adults get to roam, munch and snooze across the island. Very jealous!

Run by the Mauritian Wildlife Foundation, you can only visit this nature reserve on a guided tour but it’s absolutely worth it. 

The 2-hour tour includes a boat ride to the island where your guide will lead you through native ebony trees and show you rare and wonderful wildlife. 

Ile aux Aigrettes is a prime example of ecotourism at its best. It’s a great day out if you want to get in the midst of nature without too much effort. Plus, you get to meet giant tortoises!

There is an entrance fee but the money goes towards the crucial conservation of endangered wildlife such as the Pink Pigeon and Telfair’s Skink. 

Rodrigues Island 

Travel north-east of Mauritius 600km across the Indian Ocean and you’ll come to Rodrigues, one of the world’s most remote inhabited islands. 

A peaceful town, pristine beaches and the freshest seafood await. There are some stunning nature reserves to explore too. 

To the west of the island is Francois Leguat Reserve, an ambitious project which aims to restore a part of the island. 

The 20-hectare reserve has a museum, indigenous forest and even an on-site restaurant for when you get a bit peckish. 

It also has the highest density of land tortoises to have ever existed on earth!

Another amazing feature is the Grande Caverne, an enormous limestone cave complete with raised walkways and eco-friendly lighting. 

And if that wasn’t enough, Rodrigues has other nature reserves including Grande Montagne, Anse Quitor and two islets, Ile aux Sables and Ile aux Cocos!

Editor’s tip: Heads up, to get to Rodrigues you’ll need to either fly or get the ferry. Flying is the quickest way to get there. The ferry is a cargo vessel which is in itself an adventure but it takes 28-30 hours!

Marine reserves 

Since Mauritius is an island it would be remiss if we didn’t cover a couple of marine parks and reserves along its coastline! 

Unfortunately, many of the coral reefs around Mauritius shores have succumbed to bleaching. 

As a result, much of the marine life around the island was depleting. Marine conservation areas are now more important than ever in Mauritius! 

Help them protect their reefs by wearing reef-safe sunscreen and clear up any litter you find on the beaches or in the sea. 

Anse la Raie Lagoon 

Anse la Raie Lagoon is a Voluntary Marine Conservation Area (VMCA), a community-led agreement that no destructive activities will be carried out there. 

You can visit the lagoon on a snorkelling trail. It’s a little-known trail so you pretty much have the water to yourself. 

The best way to do it is to stay at Lagoon Attitude Hotel and book the activity through them. From there, you’ll be able to hire snorkelling gear and a guide will take you out on a glass-bottomed boat to the marine reserve. 

Follow the snorkelling trail that’s signposted on the sea bed (a bit like a treasure map!) and enjoy an underwater world teeming with life! 

Blue Bay Marine Park 

Located in an enclave on the southeast coast, Blue Bay Marine Park is one of the best places to go snorkelling in Mauritius. 

The nature reserve has one of the most beautiful beaches on the island with pretty views out towards Ile des Deux Cocos. 

Underwater, you’ll find a coral garden, home to a 1,000-year-old brain coral which is 5 metres in diameter! 

Brain coral aside, there are 38 species of coral and 72 species of tropical fish that live in the reserve. Look out for butterfly fish, cometfish, damselfish, parrotfish and clownfish to name a few. 

Other residents are sea turtles that like to hang out among the seagrass. 

There are plenty of Blue Bay Marine Park tours you can do. This Mauritius tour includes snorkelling gear, a trip in a glass-bottomed boat AND a Creole lunch on a private island. 

Editor’s tip: Read my roundup of the best tours and day trips you need to do in Mauritius.

Final thoughts: nature reserves in Mauritius

Mauritius is bursting with incredible nature that goes far beyond beaches and palm trees. 

Better yet, the country has made an effort to protect thousands of hectares of land and ocean to preserve their biodiversity, historical heritage and ecosystems. 

It wasn’t always the case though. Much of the island’s indigenous forest was cut down to make way for sugarcane plantations. 

The arrival of humans put wildlife at risk with animals such as the dodo and native giant tortoise going extinct. 

By the way, all those giant tortoises you can see are actually from Seychelles! 

Now, the nature reserves in Mauritius give the island a chance to undo the damage of the past. They are a haven for the wilderness where untouched natural beauty reigns. 

Waterfalls mountains, caves, gorges, forests and coral reefs; there’s so much to see. Plus you can be as adventurous or chilled out as you want. 

So if you want to see Mauritius in all its natural glory, head to the nature reserves.  

Remember, any entrance fees you pay support conservation so it’s a great way to ensure your travel are doing some good!

Looking for more Mauritius travel tips?

• Best Mauritius Tours: 11 Top-Rated Excursions You Need To Book
• Epic Mauritius Itinerary: How To Spend 10 Days In Paradise
• Mauritius Travel Guide: Tips To Know Before You Go

This post may contain affiliate / compensated links. As an Amazon Associate, I also earn from qualifying purchases. For full information, please see my disclaimer here .

About The Author

Francesca brooking.

Francesca Brooking is the Founder of Little Lost Travel. A travel expert with a passion for the planet, Francesca is on a mission to help you travel well. From Costa Rica to Jordan, she's travelled all over the world. When she's not off on an adventure, she's reviewing sustainable travel products and writing travel guides.

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Hello, I’m Francesca

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Last Updated on 31/12/2023

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AFRICA , DESTINATIONS , MAURITIUS , SOLO LOCATION GUIDES , SOLO TRAVEL

Mauritius solo travel: the ultimate guide.

Are you dreaming of a beautiful beach destination for your next solo trip? The answer may lie in an idyllic island in the Indian Ocean.

With its lush landscapes, luxurious resorts and excellent safety record, Mauritius is a great destination for those travelling alone. I had a fabulous solo vacation there and am excited to give you the lowdown.

Whether you are a beach bunny, shutterbug or a fervent foodie, get the lowdown on this African island nation in my Mauritius solo travel guide.

Some articles on this website contain affiliate links. This means that I may earn a small commission if you make a purchase through these links. As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases . Read the full disclosure here .

TOP 5 PLACES TO VISIT

• Pamplemousses Botanical Garden
• Black River Gorges National Park
• Grand Bassin
• Ile aux Cerfs

BEST MONTHS TO VISIT MAURITIUS: May to October

FEMALE SOLO TRAVELLER RISK: Very low

BEST WAY TO GET AROUND MAURITIUS: Rental car or private driver

RECOMMENDED EXCURSIONS

• Mauritius southwest tour
• Mauritius north tour
• Cruise to Ile aux Cerfs
• Le Morne Eco Hike

LOCAL CURRENCY: Mauritian Rupee (MUR). Withdraw cash from ATMs or credit cards widely accepted.

LANGUAGES SPOKEN: Creole (majority), French and English

IN THIS ARTICLE

Is Mauritius Good for Solo Travellers?

Mauritius offers a captivating blend of natural beauty and cultural richness. As there are not a lot of must-see attractions, this is the perfect place for a relaxing solo trip.

Put aside any concerns that you will be the only one travelling there alone. Although Mauritius is popular with honeymooners, I was not the only solo traveller at either of the hotels in which I stayed.

Luxurious resorts – If ever this was a place to treat yourself to affordable luxury travel , this is it. The island has world-class resorts, some of which are bang on the beach. I stayed at SALT of Palmar and the Westin Turtle Bay Resort and Spa , which were both out of this world.

Stunning beaches –  Mauritius is famous for its pristine white-sand beaches and crystal-clear turquoise waters.

Diverse landscapes – Venture beyond the beaches to Mauritius’s lush mountains, sugar cane plantations and waterfalls.

Underwater wonders – The coral reefs encircling Mauritius make it a paradise for snorkelling and diving enthusiasts.

Water activities – Beyond snorkelling and diving, Mauritius offers many other water activities, including sailing, windsurfing, kiteboarding and deep-sea fishing.

Unique wildlife – Mauritius is home to unique flora and fauna, including the endangered pink pigeon and giant tortoises. Nature reserves and wildlife parks provide opportunities to observe and learn about the island’s distinctive biodiversity.

Delicious cuisine – The culinary scene in Mauritius is a delicious mix of flavours influenced by its multicultural population. Its fresh fish and seafood, Creole dishes, Indian curries and tropical fruits will tantalize your taste buds.

Warm and welcoming locals – I can vouch for the warm and friendly hospitality for which Mauritians are known.  

Relaxation and wellness – Whether it’s a massage at your luxury resort or yoga on the beach, Mauritius is for you if you are seeking relaxation and rejuvenation.

Cultural diversity – This is a cultural melting pot of Indian, African, Chinese and European influences. This cultural blend is reflected in the island’s cuisine, traditions and festivals.

Is Mauritius Safe for Solo Female Travellers?

Personal safety when travelling is one of the most important considerations of female solo travellers.

Mauritius is very safe to visit, easily one of the safest countries in Africa for solo travellers .

As with any travel destination, a little bit of common sense goes a long way. Petty theft is the most common crime and nimble-fingered pickpockets operate in Port Louis.

Don’t make yourself a target.

Keep your valuables at your accommodation and use an anti-theft backpack when you are out and about. I use  this PacSafe backpack  which has anti-RFID technology and a hidden pocket.

How to Get to Mauritius

Most people arrive in Mauritius by air.

Sir Seewoosagur Ramgoolam International Airport is served by direct flights from major hubs in Europe, the Middle East and Asia. I flew from London Gatwick Airport with British Airways.

If there are no direct flights available from your location, you may need to book a connecting flight. Common layover cities for flights to Mauritius are Dubai, Doha, Paris and Johannesburg.

Mauritius is also a port of call for Indian Ocean cruises.

Getting away from Sir Seewoosagur Ramgoolam International Airport

Upon arrival at Sir Seewoosagur Ramgoolam International Airport, use an airport taxi, shuttle service or pre-arranged transfer to reach your accommodation. I booked a transfer here .

Car rentals are also available if you prefer to explore the island at your own pace.

Getting Around Mauritius 

Although Mauritius has a public bus system, I could not make it work for me. The places I wanted to visit were not on direct routes and buses are a slow way of exploring the island.

I did what many visitors do; I hired a driver for the day. Even as a solo traveller, this was affordable.

Taxis are widely available in Mauritius and you can hire a driver directly, via your hotel (the most expensive option) or through a third-party booking platform. I use GetYourGuide or Viator .

Renting a car is another popular option for exploring Mauritius independently. Several international and local car rental agencies operate on the island. They drive on the left in Mauritius and roads are generally well-maintained.

Mauritius Solo Travel: Top 10 Places to Visit

I visited most of the places listed below on two private tours with a taxi driver: a north island tour and southwest island tour .

1. Port Louis

The island’s capital city offers a mix of historical and modern attractions. Shop for souvenirs at the Central Market and stop for an excellent coffee at Café Luxe on the Caudan Waterfront.

Yomp along the ramparts of Fort Adelaide (the Citadelle) for panoramic views of the city and beyond. This hilltop historic fortress was built during the French colonial era and serves as a testament to the island’s rich history.

2. Pamplemousses Botanical Garden

This was my favourite place to visit in Mauritius.

Also known as Sir Seewoosagur Ramgoolam Botanical Garden , it is one of the oldest botanical gardens in the Southern Hemisphere. Pamplemousses Botanical Garden is home to a vast collection of indigenous and exotic plants, including the famous giant water lilies.

3. Chamarel Seven Coloured Earth Geopark

The striking patchwork of colours known as the Chamarel Seven Coloured Earths draws the crowds. This natural wonder features sand dunes with distinct hues, ranging from red and brown to blue and green, caused by the varying mineral content in the soil.

4. Chamarel Waterfall

Nearby, Chamarel Waterfall cascades from a height of about 100 meters, surrounded by lush greenery. There’s a panoramic viewpoint here and adjacent walking trails if you want to stretch your legs.

5. Black River Gorges National Park

Black River Gorges National Park is a UNESCO heritage nature reserve and home to rare bird species, including the rare Pink Pigeon (I didn’t spot one). This is a haven for nature lovers and hikers.

6. Grand Bassin (Ganga Talao)

Dive into Mauritius’ Indian culture at Grand Bassin. This sacred crater lake is surrounded by temples and is an important pilgrimage site for the Hindu community.

The annual Maha Shivaratri festival attracts thousands of devotees making offerings to the goddess Shiva. Year-round, the area is occupied by a number of chattering monkeys.

7 . Red Church at Cap Malheureux

Have your camera ready. The Red Church at Cap Malheureux is one of the most photographed attractions in Mauritius.

The Notre Dame Auxiliatrice Church was founded in 1938 and is dedicated to the Virgin Mary. From its location at the northern tip of Mauritius, there are sweeping views of the five northern islets.

8. Le Morne Brabant

Once a refuge for escaped slaves, Le Morne Brabant is Mauritius’s most famous landmark and a UNESCO world heritage site.

It is a popular spot for hiking and photography.

>>> DISCOVER LE MORNE ON A GUIDED HIKE

9. Ile aux Cerfs

This small island off the east coast is known for its blindingly-white sandy beaches and water activities. You can go snorkelling, relax on the sandy shores or take a boat trip to explore the surrounding lagoon.

>>> TAKE A DAY TOUR TO ILE AUX CERFS

10. La Vanille Nature Park

If tortoises are your thing, head to La Vanille Nature Park. This wildlife park is home to giant Aldabra tortoises, various species of crocodiles and multi-coloured butterflies.

When is the Best Time to Visit Mauritius?

The best time to visit Mauritius is between May and October. I visited in September and although it was breezy on a few days, the weather was mild and dry.

This is the dry season and the waters of the Indian Ocean are calm and clear, making it an excellent time for water activities.

Where to Stay in Mauritius as a Solo Traveller

Mauritius is known for its upscale resorts and I viewed this solo trip as an opportunity to treat myself. That said, the island offers a range of accommodation to suit all travellers and budgets.

I split my 11-day stay between two tranquil spots: Flacq on the northeast coast of Mauritius and Turtle Bay on its northwest coast. From the east coast, you can see the sunrise over the Indian Ocean; the west coast gives you those magical sunset views.

Other popular places to stay include Grand Baie (for night owls), Flic en Flac (famous for its long sandy beach), Bel Ombre (upscale resorts) and Le Morne (more secluded).

Here is where I stayed.

SALT of Palmar

SALT of Palmar was one of my favourite places to stay in recent years.

This boutique, design-led hotel was perfect for a relaxing stay on a lovely beach in Mauritius and had sky-high levels of customer service. I loved its approach to sustainability and the way it supports local communities.

Find out more in my SALT of Palmar review .

Westin Turtle Bay Resort & Spa

The Westin Turtle Bay is an excellent resort hotel on the northwest coast of Mauritius.

I loved my spacious room with its private Zen garden and outdoor shower. Guest service was stellar and the sunsets were sensational.

Get the lowdown in my Westin Turtle Bay review .

Thank you for reading my guide to solo travel in Mauritius

I hope that it helps you plan your vacation (or decide if this is the right solo destination for you).

It’s the perfect location for a relaxing beach holiday in an idyllic setting amidst the warm hospitality for which Mauritians are known. The reliance on taxis to get around was initially a drawback for me but chatting to the drivers and learning about their lives became part of the experience.

Finally, if you’d like to do some more homework before you book your vacation, take a look at these fascinating Mauritius facts .

About Bridget

Bridget Coleman has been a passionate traveller for more than 30 years. She has visited 70+ countries, most as a solo traveller.

Articles on this site reflect her first-hand experiences.

To get in touch, email her at [email protected] or follow her on social media.

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‘We are resilient’: Mauritius slowly consolidates ecotourism gains

With tourism numbers on the rise in Mauritius, environmental campaigners are pushing for continued sustainability.

Île d’Ambre, Mauritius – It is said to be the place where the last dodo was sighted. Yet, today, Île d’Ambre, an islet off the northeastern coast of Mauritius fringed by bright green mangroves, stands as a symbol, not of extinction, but of survival.

As guide Patrick Haberland explains, vast swaths of mangroves were destroyed right up to the mid-90s, ripped up for firewood or to clear the way for boat routes and hotel construction projects.

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Cutting down mangroves is now forbidden by law. Following a national conservation drive, sites like Île d’Ambre have since been restored. Now it’s a national park, protected by the government’s forestry department.

Having escaped extinction, the trees are now vital to the very survival of the nation. Their dense, tenacious roots are among the island’s main lines of defence, along with the coral reef and seagrass beds, against rising tides that are eroding its silvery beaches, gobbling up 20 metres of coastline over the past decade.

It’s a predicament that weighs heavily upon Haberland, who runs Yemaya Adventures, a small company taking tourists on canoeing trips through the mangroves. He is one of a growing number of locals advocating a back-to-nature approach to tourism. “The environment provides us with our livelihood. If we don’t respect it, we won’t have work,” he says.

‘Killing the golden goose’

As tourists flock here in ever greater numbers – up by nearly 60 percent during the first half of this year – the island finds itself in a quandary. How can it sustain an industry that has not only strained its fragile ecosystems but also contributed to global climate change that is in turn bleaching its reefs and causing sea levels to rise by an alarming 5.6mm a year?

“It’s killing the golden goose, destroying the environment,” says activist Yan Hookoomsing, of the nonprofit Mru2025. As Hookoomsing points out, the hotel industry is still expanding. Back in 1997, the government’s “Vision 2020” plan for the industry set a “green ceiling” of 9,000 hotel rooms for the entire country. Recently, tourism minister Steven Obeegadoo announced 19 new hotel builds that will bring that total close to 16,000.

With tourism numbers on the rise, Hookoomsing and his partner, Carina Gounden, are campaigning to fence off the country’s southern coast, proposing a geopark on the stunning stretch of coastline, which features sand dunes, sea cliffs, lava caves, pools, waterfalls, estuaries, lagoons and open ocean.

Currently awaiting government approval, the “green lung” project would be a logical move for a country trying to offset its dependence on tourism with sustainable land use policies – only four percent of native forest is left, the result of extensive cane cultivation going back to the mid-19th century.

Hookoomsing and Gounden fell in love while campaigning to kick hotel developers off Pomponette, a public beach in the south – a battle they finally won in 2020. Like so many other hotel projects, it would have seen locals excluded from their shores. “We need to think about how we share these spaces,” says Gounden. “You can’t just tell the public to move away.”

“Mauritians feel like second-class citizens,” she adds. “There’s a feeling of losing something that made them happy, the beauty of their country. This affects the way we welcome tourists.”

No more greenwashing

“The baseline of what is acceptable is changing,” says Vikash Tatayah, conservation director at the Mauritian Wildlife Foundation.

He’s banking on tourists helping to drive the move towards sustainability. Right now, the foundation is developing niche ecotourism activities that will allow visitors to spend time with local researchers. Eco-volunteerism is another potential growth area, enabling tourists to participate in conservation.

Nature is one of the island’s main draws, he says. “People come from the four corners of the globe to see the kestrels and the pink pigeons. Some come to see rare reptiles. Others come for the rare plants like the tambalacoque (dodo tree) or the mandrinette hibiscus.”

“One thing hotels and companies won’t be able to do in the future is greenwashing – we got rid of all our plastic cups, so we’re ecological,” he adds. “Tourists will want to know the environmental policy of the countries they visit. They will want to know hotels are working on conservation and that staff are locally employed.”

Aware of the changing mood, the luxury market is also getting in on the act. Local group Rogers has repurposed the former sugar estate Bel-Ombre, relaunching the area as a kind of ecotourism mecca. Its three hotels offer carbon-neutral packages integrating solar power and water repurposing initiatives, offsetting emissions through the African carbon credits scheme Aera.

The hotels are located in a buffer zone on the UNESCO-recognised Black River Gorges National Park-Bel Ombre Biosphere Reserve. Covering more than 8,500 hectares (32.8sq miles), the reserve is viewed as a model for eco-friendly development, bringing back endemic trees such as the black ebony and providing a home for rare native species like the Mauritian flying fox and the pink pigeon.

Equitable change

Change seems inevitable, but it will have to be equitable if it is to be truly sustainable, analysts say.

“We need to change sea, sand and sun to restoration, recycling and respect,” says oceanographer Vassen Kauppaymuthoo. “The environment can be used as a transformative tool for tourism. If eco-tourism is presented as an opportunity where people can participate, giving them back confidence, then we can have this spark.”

To a certain extent, he thinks this transformation will require a long, hard think about the nation’s identity, reversing recent trends that have seen it copying glitzy destinations like Dubai and Singapore. Failure to do this properly could see the sector, which represents a quarter of gross domestic product (GDP), going the way of the dodo, he says.

But if there’s anything this small nation excels at, it’s survival. Back in 1968, when Mauritius took its first steps as an independent nation, with only sugarcane mono-crops to its name, it was predicted to fail. By the 90s, it was being hailed as a model for the African continent.

“At the end of the day, we are resilient,” says Kauppaymuthoo. “We’re used to radical change.”

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Experience the turquoise waters of the Indian Ocean on a catamaran cruise. The package is a half-day cruise with opportunities for swimming, snorkeling, and enjoying a barbecue lunch on board.

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• Panoramic flight: A helicopter flight in Mauritius is an unforgettable experience for your stay on one of the most beautiful islands in the Indian Ocean.
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Coral Azur Beach Resort

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" The shower is placed at a single level, it was too high "

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CORAL AZUR BEACH RESORT (₹̶ ̶1̶3̶,̶8̶4̶3̶) ₹ 10,424 (Mauritius/Mont Choisy) Hotel Reviews, Photos, Rate Comparison

Coral Azur Beach Resort

View prices for your travel dates

• Excellent 933
• Very Good 774
• Average 197
• Terrible 30
• All languages ( 1,980 )
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• Italian ( 251 )

" The shower is placed at a single level, it was too high "

" Avoid the week before Duvali, it’s very noisy - the busses are very reliable and there is a stop near hotel to travel anywhere to eat local "

" Take your place by the pool early "

" Vegetarian people need to specify their food requirements. "

" Need food segregation counters of veg and non veg. Use of vaccum cleaners are advisory blankets should be changed & toilets should be cleaned with cleaners everyday. "

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CORAL AZUR BEACH RESORT $127 ($̶1̶7̶2̶) - Updated Reviews

Coral reefs are vital to the Maldives. This is how travelers can help restore them.

The coral fragment from the seafloor off the coast of the resort Siyam World Maldives in the Noonu Atoll had a stark contrast. One inch of the coral’s light brown tips was bumpy with living polyps, while the rest was dull white, resembling a dead tree branch.

This coral species, known as acropora hemprichii, grows in the shallow reefs of the Maldives in tapered branches which eventually look like a bush or dome as they grow. 

That piece of coral I spotted broke off from its home likely due to a powerful wave or a careless snorkeler. Once it fell into the sand, it began to die off. To the untrained eye, it seemed like there was no hope for that little coral fragment. 

However, that fragment was far from dead, and the solution to reviving it was simple. 

Coral planting is a simple act of fastening a coral fragment to a metal frame and placing it in a safe, shallow area of the ocean. In mere months, the coral has the potential to flourish once again. As the corals regenerate, the reef becomes more habitable for fish, that swim through and make the frames part of their home. Over 25% of the world’s fish inhabit and get their food from coral reefs. 

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As climate change and human activity continue to threaten coral reefs, tropical destinations such as the Maldives are turning to coral restoration initiatives, such as coral planting, to save the ocean, which they heavily rely on for tourism and the local way of life.

Resort guests are encouraged to get involved and protect the very ocean that drew them to the Maldives in the first place – and the call is being answered. According to Booking.com’s Sustainable Travel Report 2023, two-thirds of its 33,000 survey respondents said they “want to leave the places they visit better than when they arrived.” 

“Ninety-nine percent of people come to the Maldives for the ocean because they want to snorkel,” said Mariyam “Thuhu” Thuhufa, a marine biologist at Siyam World Maldives, which offers marine conservation activities for guests including coral planting and lagoon cleanups. “A lot of them do get very curious, a lot of them are keen to understand what they can see and how they can help.”

No one went to the Maldive 50 years ago: Now it's one of the hottest destinations.

How important are coral reefs to the Maldives?

The Maldives is an archipelago of over 1,000 islands sitting mere feet above sea level, which means the country is 99% ocean. And that’s where most of the natural diversity exists, from manta rays in the north to hammerhead sharks in the south.

“Without the ocean, the Maldives just can’t exist,” said Thuhufa. 

All Maldivians depend on the ocean in some way, 71% rely on it for their primary source of income . Maldivians get food from line fishing at coral reefs, such as snapper or emperor fish. Fishing for big game fish like tuna is also the second largest industry , following tourism. 

Without healthy coral reefs, the islands wouldn’t even exist. “If you go to a local island, you’ll see a lot of the houses are built very close to the ocean, right next to the beach,” said Thuhufa. During monsoon season, from May to November, big swells wash away the beaches, but a healthy reef can break the wave energy before it reaches the island, she said.

The fate of coral reefs are in resorts’ hands

To Thuhufa, coral bleaching is one of the most pressing issues for the islands and “something the whole world is experiencing.” The last mass bleaching event , which occurred between 2014 and 2017, saw 15% of the world’s reefs die off. The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration predicts a fourth, even worse mass bleaching this year. 

"It's looking like the entirety of the Southern Hemisphere is probably going to bleach this year," said ecologist Derek Manzello, the coordinator of NOAA's Coral Reef Watch which serves as the global monitoring authority on coral bleaching risk.

“We are literally sitting on the cusp of the worst bleaching event in the history of the planet,” he said. Up to 90% of the world’s corals could be lost. 

Story continues below.

Thuhufa recalled an uninhabited island she visited for volunteer research work in high school. “The reef was so beautiful with so many vibrant colors,” she said. After the 2016 bleaching, she returned to the island to see how it was affected. “It was the most devastating thing I’ve seen,” she said. “Everything was bleached, everything was covered in algae.” 

With tourism as the country’s biggest industry, resorts play a vital role in the protection of coral reefs. 

Although construction and increased human activity can damage the fragile ecosystems of reefs, many resorts in the Maldives are working to protect their house reefs by hiring in-house marine biologists and creating nurseries for coral planting. New resorts in the Maldives need to undergo an impact assessment before they can break ground (or sand in their case). 

A 2018 study analyzing the direct impact of seven luxury Maldivian resorts on coral reef health found that the amount of live coral and the size of colonies increased over time if the resort had conservation initiatives in place. 

“Your reef is protected in the sense that there’s no fishing, and guests are told not to touch corals,” Thuhufa said. “A lot more is put into the reefs to keep them healthy.”

However, the study also revealed that resorts with poor management practices and more sedimentation and runoff can harm the reefs. 

What is it like to plant coral?

I tried coral planting for the first time during my stay at Siyam World Maldives, and it was surprisingly easy and engaging. 

Guests can book the experience via the resort app, which they download during check-in, or their resort ambassador can arrange it. 

Coral planting is an emerging type of coral restoration , and since it’s only been done on a small scale, it doesn’t tackle the root of the problem of coral bleaching or warming temperatures. It can, however, help make a specific reef a bit more habitable and spread awareness of the condition of coral reefs. 

The marine biology team met me on the beach with a hexagon-shaped metal frame and two containers filled with coral fragments they found. One by one, we attached the coral pieces to the frame using zip ties, ensuring they were flush with the metal. This way, the coral will merge and regrow over the frame. 

We splashed water on the corals every half hour to ensure they didn’t dry out. When the frame was finished, we placed it in a shallow snorkeling area to join over 100 other coral frames. The marine biology team checked on the frames and removed any algae so the coral could breathe. The frames come in shapes like hearts or rays but remain open for fish to swim through. 

Although coral is sensitive, it’s also a resilient animal – yes, corals are technically considered tiny animals since, unlike plants, they don’t make their own food. Sometimes as small as a pencil tip, polyps make up the coral structure we see and attach to rocks, the seabed or in this case, a metal frame. 

Depending on the species of coral – and there are hundreds – the coral can take around five months to attach to the frame and then a few more months to regrow, according to Thuhufa. 

As I dove underwater to explore the coral nursery, I noticed batfish, triggerfish and other colorful reef fish seamlessly swimming between anemones and among the coral frames. 

Kathleen Wong is a travel reporter for USA TODAY based in Hawaii. You can reach her at [email protected] .

Contributing: Reuters