A guide to the best beaches in Mauritius
Many say that west is best in Mauritius, as the beaches on this side of the island have excellent diving conditions as well as stunning sunsets. Even so, the north has the widest variety of activities, the quieter east provides more seclusion, and the south delivers dramatic scenes of waves crashing against rocks.
As well as the vast stretches of white sand, there are mini island beaches to explore, lagoons and coral reefs ripe for snorkelling around and all types of watersport and boat tours. Here’s our round-up of which of Mauritius’s 330 kilometres of beach to choose.
Flic-en-Flac
One of the best known beaches in Mauritius and the longest on the west coast, Flic-en-Flac comes complete with shops, bars and restaurants.
Even so, the area isn’t as lively as other parts of the west. The calm waters mean swimming and snorkelling here are very pleasant, particularly as the reefs are so colourful.
The beach is protected from the southeast winds so there are less windsurfing opportunities than you might expect, but you can still hire a kayak and float along on the water.
Le Morne
The southwestern Le Morne peninsula has beaches all along its western side that gaze up at the imposing Le Morne Mountain.
The wind conditions on the lagoon here allow for some of the best windsurfing and kiteboarding on the island. You can also play a round on the golf course, make the most of the dramatic scenery, go horse-riding or just wander along the shore.
Belle Mare
Fighting for the position of longest beach in Mauritius, Belle Mare is over on the east coast and boasts 10 kilometres of brilliant white sand. The shallow bay is protected by the coral reef, which houses the east’s most famous dive site – The Pass.
There’s also a deep lagoon that runs parallel to the beach and a number of places to eat at the southern end of the shoreline.
Ile aux Cerfs
You might think that this tiny island off Mauritius’ east coast would be a quiet idyll, but it’s actually one of Mauritius’ most popular attractions. Hop on a boat and soak up the atmosphere on the beautiful Ile aux Cerfs, whose beach wraps around the island.
Although there’s pretty much every watersport activity imaginable here, you can also find a chilled out spot to sit whatever time of day you visit. Head back from the shore and the island also has a market, a variety of shops and good restaurants.
Gris Gris
The rustic landscape of the south coast is epitomised at Gris Gris beach, with its imposing cliffs providing stunning views.
Waves crash onto the cliffs at La Roche Qui Pleure and you can sit on a bench in the nearby garden to take in the scene. The beach here is small but people tend to come more for the scenery and soundtrack of roaring waves than beach activities.
Blue Bay
South-eastern Blue Bay beach is known for its marine park, which has over 50 species of coral and some of the best snorkelling in Mauritius. The semi-circular beach is backed by filao trees and – as well as swimming – provides activities including windsurfing, yachting, parasailing and banana boat rides.
Trou aux Biches
Located in the northwest of the island, just south of busy Grand Baie, Trou aux Biches has ultra-clear and calm waters for snorkelling around the coral reef or just swimming and spotting fish below. It’s a favourite spot with families due to the gently shelving sands and vicinity to some good food vendors.
If it gets too busy, just wander along the sand to peaceful Pointe aux Piments.