Where to Swim, Snorkel, Stay & Explore — by Region (North, West, East, South)

Last Updated 20 September 2026

Planning a beach holiday in Mauritius? This comprehensive 2027 guide to the best beaches in Mauritius is designed to help travellers choose where to swim, snorkel, stay, and explore across the island. Mauritius is not defined by one perfect beach; instead, it offers four distinct coastal regions, each with its own character and advantages. The north is known for calm lagoons, accessibility, and lifestyle; the west for sunsets, dolphins, and balanced beach conditions; the east for pristine lagoons and luxury resorts; and the south for raw, dramatic, and untouched coastal scenery. This guide also highlights the best snorkelling spots, nearby hotels. When planning a trip, it is recommended to stay in one main region and explore the others by car or guided excursions, as distances are short and the island is easy to navigate.

Quick Best Beaches in Mauritius by Region

Mauritius is one of the most beautiful beach destinations in the Indian Ocean, known for its turquoise lagoons, soft white sand, coral reefs, mountain backdrops and calm tropical waters. But not all beaches in Mauritius are the same. Each region of the island has its own atmosphere, scenery and travel style.

The north coast is lively, easy to access and great for families. The east coast is peaceful, luxurious and famous for long beaches and island excursions. The west coast is perfect for sunsets, swimming and mountain scenery. The south coast is wilder, more dramatic and ideal for travellers who want rugged beauty.

This guide breaks down the best beaches in Mauritius by region, helping you choose where to swim, where to stay, where to snorkel, where to watch the sunset and which beaches are best for couples, families and first-time visitors.

North Coast - Choose the north if you want convenience, restaurants, hotels, boat trips and family-friendly beaches.

Best for: first-time visitors, families, restaurants, nightlife
Top beaches: Trou aux Biches, Mont Choisy, Pereybere, La Cuvette

East Coast - Choose the east if you want quiet luxury, long beaches, peaceful lagoons and resort stays.

Best for: couples, honeymooners, luxury hotels, relaxation
Top beaches: Belle Mare, Palmar, Poste Lafayette, Île aux Cerfs

West Coast - Choose the west if you want sunsets, swimming, mountain scenery, restaurants and adventure activities.

Best for: sunsets, families, couples, dolphin tours, Le Morne scenery
Top beaches: Flic en Flac, Le Morne, Tamarin, La Prairie, Albion

Choose the east if you want quiet luxury, long beaches, peaceful lagoons and resort stays.

South Coast - Choose the south if you want wild landscapes, dramatic coastlines and fewer crowds.

Best for: photography, nature, scenic drives, quiet exploration
Top beaches: Blue Bay, Pointe d’Esny, Gris Gris, St Félix, La Cambuse

 North Mauritius Beaches — Calm Lagoons & Easy Access

The north coast of Mauritius is the most popular region for travellers thanks to its warm weather, sheltered lagoons, and easy access to restaurants, shops, and nightlife. Mont Choisy stands out as the longest beach on the island, offering a wide stretch of white sand and calm shallow waters ideal for families and long walks. Nearby, Trou aux Biches is one of the best snorkeling beaches in Mauritius, with coral reefs located close to shore and excellent water clarity, making it a top choice for both beginners and experienced snorkelers. Pereybere Beach offers a more vibrant and local atmosphere, combining clear water with food stalls and a lively weekend vibe. A short distance away, La Cuvette provides a quieter alternative, a small hidden beach perfect for those looking to escape the crowds while still being close to Grand Baie, the main tourism hub in the north known for its restaurants, cafés, shopping, and nightlife.

For iconic views, Cap Malheureux offers one of the most photographed coastal settings on the island, with its red-roofed church overlooking the lagoon and northern islets. Hotels in the north range from budget guesthouses to mid-range resorts such as Mon Choisy Beach Resort and Casuarina Resort, as well as premium options like Beachcomber properties, making it one of the most flexible regions for accommodation.

Mont Choisy — Longest Beach in Mauritius

Mont Choisy is one of the best beaches in Mauritius for swimming and relaxing, stretching in a wide arc of soft white sand. is ideal for long sandy walks, picnics, shade and relaxed swimming on the north coast. This beach is better for swimming and family beach days than serious snorkelling. It has parking, food vendors and plenty of space, although it can become lively on weekends. The best nearby stay areas are Mont Choisy and Grand Baie.

Why visit:

• Calm, shallow lagoon perfect for families

• Ideal for long beach walks

• Less crowded than nearby hotspots

Snorkeling: Moderate near rocky edges

Hotels nearby:
•Mon Choisy Beach Resort

• Canonnier Beachcomb

Trou aux Biches — Best Snorkeling in the North

Trou aux Biches Beach is one of the best beaches in Mauritius for families, swimming and sunsets. The lagoon is usually calm, making it a great choice for easy swimming and relaxed snorkelling on clear days. It has good nearby facilities, including restaurants, parking, hotels and shops. It is a popular beach rather than a secluded one, but it is very convenient and beautiful. The best nearby stay areas are Trou aux Biches and Pointe aux Biches.

Why visit:

• Crystal-clear water

• Calm lagoon year-round

• Stunning sunsets

Snorkeling: ⭐⭐⭐⭐

Hotels nearby:

• Trou aux Biches Beachcomber

• Casuarina Resort

La Cuvette — Hidden Beach Near Grand Baie

La Cuvette Beach is best for a peaceful swim, clear lagoon water and a quiet beach escape close to Grand Baie. This is not the most secluded beach in Mauritius, but it feels calmer than the busy centre of Grand Baie and is perfect for couples, families and travellers looking for an easy north coast stop. Snorkelling can be pleasant around the rocky areas when the water is calm. Facilities are simple, but restaurants, shops and hotels are nearby. The best nearby stay areas are Grand Baie, Pereybere, Mont Choisy and Pointe aux Canonniers.

Why visit:

• Quiet atmosphere

• Clear water for swimming

Pereybere Beach — Lively & Local

Pereybere is best for easy swimming, convenience and a lively north coast beach experience. The water is usually clear and inviting, making it popular with families and visitors staying near Grand Baie. Snorkelling is limited, but you may see fish near rocky areas. Restaurants, cafés, shops and accommodation are all nearby, so it is one of the easiest beaches to visit. The best nearby stay areas are Pereybere and Grand Baie.

Best for:

• Swimming

• Street food

• Social vibe

West Mauritius Beaches — Sunsets, Dolphins & Balance

The west coast of Mauritius offers some of the most balanced beach conditions on the island, with calm seas, warm temperatures, and spectacular sunsets. Flic en Flac is one of the most popular beaches, featuring a long stretch of sand, easy swimming conditions, and a wide selection of restaurants and beachfront hotels such as Sugar Beach Resort and Hilton Mauritius. Snorkeling is possible near the reef areas, especially in calmer conditions. Tamarin Bay provides a more natural and authentic coastal experience, known for dolphin encounters, surfing waves, and mountain backdrops. Further south, Le Morne Brabant is widely considered the most iconic beach in Mauritius, combining a UNESCO-listed mountain with a turquoise lagoon and world-class kitesurfing conditions. This area is also home to luxury resorts such as St Regis Le Morne and RIU Le Morne, making it a top destination for high-end travellers. Nearby, excursions to Île aux Bénitiers and the famous Crystal Rock add to the experience, offering unique lagoon landscapes and popular boat trip routes. For quieter alternatives, Albion Beach provides a peaceful west coast escape with scenic views and fewer crowds.

Flic en Flac — Best All-Round Beach

Flic en flac is One of the most versatile beaches in Mauritius. Flic en Flac is ideal for all types of travellers, from families to couples and solo visitors. is best for sunsets, local food, families and a lively beach day. Snorkelling is possible near reef or rocky areas, while the long public beach is ideal for swimming, walking and relaxing under the trees. It is one of the most convenient beaches in Mauritius, with food stalls, restaurants, parking, shops and hotels nearby. The best nearby stay areas are Flic en Flac and Wolmar.

Why visit:

• Long sandy coastline

• Easy swimming with calm lagoon

• Restaurants, cafés, and bars nearby

Snorkeling: Good near reef areas

Hotels nearby:

• Sugar Beach Resort

• Hilton Mauritius

• La Pirogue

• Sofitel Imperial

Tamarin Bay — Dolphins & Surf

Tamarin Bay offers a more authentic and natural coastal experience, with a strong connection to marine life and outdoor activities.

Why visit:

• Dolphin watching in the wild

• One of the best surf spots in Mauritius

• Scenic mountain and river backdrop

Hotels nearby:

• Veranda Tamarin Hotel

• Tamarina Golf & Spa Boutique Hotel

Le Morne Brabant — Most Iconic Beach

Le Morne combines a UNESCO World Heritage mountain with a turquoise lagoon, creating one of the most breathtaking landscapes in Mauritius.

Why visit:

• World-class scenery

• Global kitesurfing hotspot

• Premium luxury beach experience

Hotels nearby:

• St Regis Le Morne

• RIU Le Morne

• Le Pardis Beachcomber

• Dinarobin

• Lux* Le Morne

East Mauritius Beaches — Luxury & Lagoon Perfection

The east coast of Mauritius is known for its pristine beaches, long lagoons, and concentration of luxury resorts. Belle Mare is one of the longest and most peaceful beaches on the island, offering wide open spaces, soft white sand, and beautiful sunrise views, making it ideal for relaxation. Hotels such as LUX Belle Mare and Constance Belle Mare Plage dominate this coastline, providing high-end beachfront experiences. Île aux Cerfs is a must-visit destination, accessible by boat and famous for its crystal-clear lagoon, white sandy beaches, and range of activities including parasailing, snorkeling, and speedboat excursions. Nearby, the Grand River South East waterfall is often included in day trips, adding a scenic inland element to the coastal experience. Pointe d'Esny is one of the most underrated beaches in Mauritius, offering one of the clearest lagoons on the island and a peaceful setting away from major tourist crowds. Blue Bay Marine Park is the best snorkeling spot in Mauritius, with protected coral reefs and abundant marine life, making it a top attraction for underwater exploration

Belle Mare — Long & Peaceful

Belle Mare is one of the longest beaches in Mauritius, Belle Mare offers a wide stretch of white sand and calm waters, making it perfect for relaxation and sunrise views. is perfect for sunrise, long beach walks and a peaceful east coast atmosphere. Snorkelling can be pleasant in some sections, but the beach is best known for its wide sandy coastline, soft morning light and calm resort-style setting. Facilities vary depending on the area, with some public access points and many nearby hotels. The best nearby stay areas are Belle Mare and Palmar.

Why visit:

• Wide, uncrowded beach

• Soft white sand and clear water

• Ideal for quiet luxury escapes

Hotels nearby:

• LUX* Belle Mare

• Constance Belle Mare Plage

Île aux Cerfs — Lagoon Paradise

Île aux Cerfs is best for a classic island excursion, lagoon photos and boat trips on the east coast. Snorkelling depends on the tour and reef stops included, but the main attraction is the turquoise lagoon, white sand and island atmosphere. It has restaurants, activities and organised beach areas, but it is popular, so visit early or choose a private boat if you want a quieter experience. The best nearby stay areas are Trou d’Eau Douce, Belle Mare and the east coast.

Why visit:

• Stunning turquoise lagoon

• One of the most famous excursions in Mauritius

• Perfect balance of relaxation and activities

Top experiences:

• Parasailing

• Snorkeling

• Speedboat excursions

Hotels nearby:

• Shangri-La Le Touessrok

• Four Seasons Resort Mauritius at Anahita

Pointe d'Esny — Hidden Lagoon Gem

Pointe d’Esny Beach is one of the best beaches in Mauritius for clear lagoon water and a quieter escape. Snorkelling can be very good because it is close to Blue Bay Marine Park and the south-east lagoon. Facilities are limited, so bring your own water, snacks and beach essentials. It feels more peaceful and less commercial than many popular beaches. The best nearby stay areas are Pointe d’Esny, Blue Bay and Mahébourg.

Why visit:

• Crystal-clear shallow lagoon

• Quiet and uncrowded

• Authentic and natural setting

Hotels nearby:

• Preskil Island Resort

• Astroea Beach Hotel

Blue Bay — Best Snorkeling Spot

Blue Bay is one of the top beaches in Mauritius for snorkelling and marine life. Located near Blue Bay Marine Park, it is known for coral gardens, tropical fish and clear lagoon water. You can find food vendors, parking and boat tours nearby, although it can become busy during weekends and holidays. The best nearby stay areas are Blue Bay, Mahébourg and Pointe d’Esny.

Why visit:

• Exceptional water clarity

• Abundant tropical fish and coral

• Suitable for all snorkeling levels

Hotels nearby:

• Shandrani Beachcomber Resort

• Anantara Iko Mauritius Resort

South Mauritius Beaches — Wild & Untouched

The south coast of Mauritius presents a completely different landscape, characterized by rugged cliffs, stronger waves, and fewer crowds. Gris Gris is the most dramatic coastal area on the island, where powerful waves crash directly against cliffs due to the absence of a protective coral reef, making it unsuitable for swimming but spectacular for views. Riambel Beach offers a quieter and more local experience, combining wild scenery with stretches suitable for walking and occasional swimming. La Cambuse is a hidden gem near the airport, known for its raw, untouched beauty and natural setting. St Felix Beach adds another layer of diversity, offering a mix of soft sand and wild ocean energy near Bel Ombre. The south is best suited for travellers seeking nature, photography, and a more authentic side of Mauritius.

Gris Gris — Dramatic Cliffs

Powerful waves crash against cliffs, creating one of the most impressive natural spectacles in Mauritius.

Why visit:

• Unique coastline without coral reef

• Spectacular ocean views and photography

• One of the most iconic south coast landmarks

Not suitable for swimming at high tides

Riambel Beach — Quiet Escape

A peaceful and lesser-known beach offering a mix of wild scenery and calm areas, perfect for those looking to disconnect.

Why visit:

• Quiet and uncrowded

• Ideal for long beach walks

• Authentic local atmosphere

Hotels nearby:

• So Sofitel Mauritius Bel Ombre

• Tamassa Bel Ombre

• Heritage Le Telfair Golf & Wellness Resort

• Heritage Awali Golf & Spa Resort

La Cambuse — Hidden Gem

A raw and untouched beach near the airport, offering one of the most natural coastal settings in Mauritius.

Why visit:

• Unspoiled and wild environment

• Great for photography and exploration

• Close to Blue Bay region

Hotels nearby:

• Shandrani Beachcomber Resort

• Anantara Iko Mauritius Resort

Hidden Beaches in Mauritius (Insider Picks)

Hidden beaches play a key role in differentiating this guide and capturing long-tail search traffic. Locations such as Albion Beach, Butte à l’Herbe, and St Felix Beach offer quieter alternatives to the main tourist hotspots, appealing to travellers searching for secret or less crowded beaches in Mauritius. These locations can be expanded into dedicated content pages such as /hidden-beaches-Mauritius.

Beyond the famous spots, Mauritius hides some incredible lesser-known beaches:

• Albion Beach — quiet west coast escape

• Butte à l’Herbe — authentic northern village

• St Felix Beach — wild southern beauty

Best Snorkelling Beaches in Mauritius

For snorkelling in Mauritius, the best locations include Blue Bay Marine Park for its exceptional coral ecosystems, Trou aux Biches for easy access reefs, Pointe d’Esny for clear lagoon conditions, and selected reef areas in Flic en Flac. These locations cater to different levels of experience, from beginners to more advanced snorkelers. Travellers interested in underwater exploration should prioritize calm weather conditions and morning sessions for the best visibility.

Top spots:

• Blue Bay ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

• Trou aux Biches ⭐⭐⭐⭐

• Pointe d’Esny ⭐⭐⭐⭐

• Flic en Flac ⭐⭐⭐

Full guide: /best-snorkelling-Mauritius

In conclusion, the best beaches in Mauritius depend entirely on travel preferences. Le Morne offers the most iconic scenery, Blue Bay delivers the best snorkelling, the west coast provides the best sunsets, the east excels in luxury and space, and the south reveals the island’s raw natural beauty

Why Mauritius Beaches Are So Special

Mauritius beaches are protected by coral reefs around much of the island, creating calm lagoons with warm, clear water. This makes many beaches excellent for swimming, snorkelling, kayaking, stand-up paddleboarding and family beach days.

What makes Mauritius different from many other tropical destinations is the variety. Some beaches are calm and shallow, while others are dramatic and exposed. Some are lined with luxury resorts, while others feel quiet and local. Some are ideal for long walks, while others are better for snorkelling, sunset views or boat trips.

The best beach for your trip depends on what you want:

• Best for swimming: Trou aux Biches, Mont Choisy, Belle Mare, Flic en Flac

• Best for snorkelling: Blue Bay, Trou aux Biches, Pointe d’Esny, Flic en Flac

• Best for sunsets: Flic en Flac, Le Morne, Tamarin, Mont Choisy

• Best for families: Trou aux Biches, Mont Choisy, Belle Mare, Blue Bay

• Best for couples: Le Morne, Belle Mare, Trou aux Biches, Pointe d’Esny

• Best for luxury hotels: East Coast, Le Morne, Belle Mare, Grand Baie area

• Best for dramatic scenery: Le Morne, Gris Gris, La Prairie, La Cambuse

Recommended Beach Itinerary in Mauritius

Day 1: North Coast Beaches

Start with Mont Choisy in the morning for a relaxed swim and long beach walk. Continue to Trou aux Biches in the afternoon and stay for sunset. This is a great first beach day if you are staying around Grand Baie, Trou aux Biches or Pointe aux Biches.

Day 2: East Coast Lagoon

Wake up early for sunrise at Belle Mare, then continue to Trou d’Eau Douce for a boat trip to Île aux Cerfs. This gives you both a peaceful beach walk and a classic island excursion in one day.

Day 3: South-East Snorkelling

Spend the morning at Blue Bay Marine Park, then relax around Pointe d’Esny or visit Mahébourg for lunch. This is one of the best days for snorkelling, lagoon colours and local culture.

Day 4: South-West Adventure

Explore Le Morne Beach, La Pointe, the kitesurf lagoon and La Gaulette. If you enjoy mountain views, add Chamarel or the Le Morne Brabant hike depending on your fitness and timing.

Day 5: Grand Baie and La Cuvette

Spend the morning at La Cuvette Beach for a peaceful swim close to Grand Baie. After relaxing by the lagoon, continue to Grand Baie for lunch, shopping or a boat trip. You can also combine La Cuvette with Pereybere, Cap Malheureux and Mont Choisy for a full north coast beach day.

Final Thoughts: The Best Beach in Mauritius Depends on Your Mood

There is no single best beach in Mauritius for everyone.

If you want snorkelling, go to Blue Bay.
If you want family comfort, go to Trou aux Biches,Flic en flac, Grand Baie or Mont Choisy.
If you want sunset and food, go to Flic en Flac, Grand Baie
If you want romance and scenery, go to Le Morne.
If you want an island excursion, go to Île aux Cerfs, Ile Plate.
If you want quiet lagoon beauty, go to Pointe d’Esny.
If you want a peaceful beach near Grand Baie, go to La Cuvette.

The magic of Mauritius is that all these beaches exist on one island. You can wake up near a calm lagoon, spend the day snorkelling, drive through coastal villages, watch kites at Le Morne, and end the evening with a sunset on the west coast.

That is why I always tell visitors: do not stay on only one beach.

Explore.

Mauritius is small enough to discover, but rich enough to surprise you every day. The best beach is not always the most famous one. Sometimes it is the one you find after a slow road trip, when the light is perfect, the water is calm, and you feel the island exactly as locals love it: simple, warm, wild and beautiful.

Frequently Asked Questions About Beaches in Mauritius

What is the best beach in Mauritius?

There is no single best beach for everyone, but Trou aux Biches, Belle Mare, Le Morne, Flic en Flac and Blue Bay are among the most popular beaches in Mauritius. Trou aux Biches is excellent for families and swimming, Belle Mare is ideal for peaceful beach holidays, Le Morne is best for dramatic scenery, Flic en Flac is great for sunsets, and Blue Bay is one of the best places for snorkelling.

Which side of Mauritius has the best beaches?

The north and west coasts are excellent for swimming, sunsets, restaurants and easy access. The east coast is best for luxury resorts, long beaches and peaceful scenery. The south coast is best for dramatic landscapes and coastal photography. The best side depends on your travel style.

Which beach in Mauritius is best for families?

Trou aux Biches, Mont Choisy, Belle Mare, Blue Bay and Flic en Flac are among the best family beaches in Mauritius. They offer calm lagoon areas, good access and nearby facilities.

Which beach in Mauritius is best for couples?

Le Morne, Belle Mare, Pointe d’Esny, Trou aux Biches and Flic en Flac are excellent choices for couples. Le Morne is especially romantic because of its mountain backdrop, while Belle Mare is ideal for luxury resort stays.

Which beach is best for sunset in Mauritius?

Flic en Flac is one of the best sunset beaches in Mauritius. Le Morne, Tamarin, Mont Choisy, Trou aux Biches and Albion are also excellent sunset spots.

Which beach is best for snorkelling in Mauritius?

Blue Bay is one of the best-known snorkelling areas in Mauritius. Trou aux Biches, Flic en Flac and Pointe d’Esny can also offer good snorkelling depending on conditions.

Is Belle Mare Beach worth visiting?

Yes, Belle Mare is worth visiting if you enjoy long beaches, peaceful surroundings and beautiful lagoon colours. It is especially good for couples, honeymooners and travellers staying in east coast resorts.

Is Trou aux Biches better than Grand Baie?

Trou aux Biches is better for beach quality and relaxed swimming, while Grand Baie is better for restaurants, nightlife, shopping and convenience. Many travellers stay near Grand Baie but visit Trou aux Biches for the beach.

Is Flic en Flac a good beach?

Yes, Flic en Flac is one of the best all-round beaches in Mauritius. It is long, accessible, good for sunsets and close to restaurants and accommodation.

Can you swim at Le Morne Beach?

Yes, parts of Le Morne are suitable for swimming, but conditions can vary by area. Le Morne is also popular for kitesurfing, so it is important to choose a safe swimming section and pay attention to local conditions.

Are all beaches in Mauritius public?

Most beaches in Mauritius are public up to the high-water mark, but access can vary depending on hotels, private properties and coastal roads. Public beaches such as Mont Choisy, Flic en Flac, Belle Mare, Blue Bay and Trou aux Biches are easier to access.

What is the calmest beach in Mauritius?

Trou aux Biches, Mont Choisy, Blue Bay and parts of Belle Mare are often calm, especially on good weather days. Lagoon conditions can change depending on wind, tide and season.

Which beach is closest to the airport in Mauritius?

Blue Bay and La Cambuse are among the closest well-known beaches to the airport. Pointe d’Esny and Mahébourg are also nearby.

What is the best beach region for first-time visitors?

The north and west are usually best for first-time visitors because they offer a good mix of beaches, restaurants, hotels, tours and easy access to other attractions.

What is the best beach region for honeymooners?

Le Morne, Belle Mare and the east coast luxury resort areas are excellent for honeymooners. These regions offer beautiful scenery, luxury hotels and a romantic atmosphere.