The Ultimate Island Hopping Experience 2026

When people imagine Mauritius, they often think of turquoise lagoons, white sandy beaches, and luxury resorts. But one of the greatest experiences on the island actually begins offshore.

Surrounding Mauritius are dozens of breathtaking islands, islets, sandbanks, and marine reserves that offer some of the most spectacular scenery in the Indian Ocean. From untouched beaches and crystal-clear lagoons to historic ruins, snorkelling spots, and wildlife sanctuaries, island hopping in Mauritius is one of the best ways to truly experience the beauty of the island.

As a local, I always tell visitors this: if you only stay on the mainland, you are missing half of what makes Mauritius special.

Why Visit the Islands Around Mauritius?

The islands around Mauritius each offer something different. Some are famous for snorkelling and lagoons, while others are known for wildlife, history, hiking, or complete isolation.

Island excursions allow visitors to experience:

• Crystal-clear lagoons

• Snorkelling and marine life

• Catamaran cruises

• Hidden beaches

• Wildlife and nature reserves

• Historic sites

• Sandbanks and untouched islands

Most excursions depart from the east, north, or west coast depending on the destination.

Île aux Cerfs — The Most Famous Island in Mauritius

No island guide is complete without Île aux Cerfs, the most famous island excursion in Mauritius. Located off the east coast near Trou d’Eau Douce, this paradise island is known for:

• White sandy beaches & Turquoise lagoons

• Water sports

• Snorkelling

• Catamaran cruises

Despite its popularity, the lagoon surrounding the island remains one of the most beautiful in Mauritius.

👉 Best for: first-time visitors, lagoon experiences, families, and catamaran trips.

Îlot Mangénie — A Private Island Paradise Near Île aux Cerfs

Located within the stunning lagoon of Île aux Cerfs on the east coast of Mauritius, Îlot Mangénie is an exclusive private island known for its pristine white beaches, crystal-clear water, and luxurious atmosphere. Surrounded by turquoise lagoons and tropical scenery, the island offers one of the most peaceful and refined beach experiences in Mauritius.

Accessible mainly to guests of selected luxury resorts and private excursions, Îlot Mangénie is famous for its calm lagoon, elegant beach setup, premium dining experiences, and relaxing atmosphere far from the crowds. The surrounding waters are ideal for swimming, snorkelling, and enjoying the natural beauty of the east coast lagoon.

👉 Perfect for couples, honeymooners, luxury travellers, and visitors looking for an exclusive tropical island experience in Mauritius.

Île aux Aigrettes — Nature & Conservation

Located near Blue Bay, Île aux Aigrettes is one of the most important ecological reserves in Mauritius. Managed as a conservation island, it protects rare endemic plants and wildlife once found across Mauritius.

Visitors can discover:

• Giant tortoises

• Rare endemic birds

• Native ebony forests

• Unique wildlife

Unlike beach-focused islands, this experience is about nature, conservation, and biodiversity.

👉 Perfect for eco-tourism and wildlife lovers.

Île Plate & Ilot Gabriel — Remote Paradise in the North

Also known as Flat Island, Île Plate is one of the most spectacular offshore islands in Mauritius. Located north of the mainland near Cap Malheureux, it offers a completely different atmosphere from the busier lagoon excursions.

The island is famous for:

• Crystal-clear water

• Incredible snorkelling

• Sea turtle sightings

• Historic lighthouse

• Remote untouched scenery

The journey itself often includes dolphin sightings and views of nearby islands such as Coin de Mire.

👉 One of the best day trips in Mauritius for snorkelling and island scenery.

Coin de Mire — Mauritius’ Iconic Island

Visible from the north coast, Coin de Mire (also called Gunner’s Quoin) is one of the most recognisable islands in Mauritius thanks to its dramatic volcanic shape rising from the ocean.

Although landing is restricted due to conservation protection, the surrounding waters are famous for:

• Snorkelling

• Dolphin sightings

• Deep blue water

• Boat excursions

Many northern catamaran cruises pass around the island, making it one of the most photographed offshore landscapes in Mauritius.

Île aux Bénitiers — Lagoon Life & Crystal Rock

Located off the southwest coast near Le Morne, Île aux Bénitiers is one of the most popular lagoon excursions in Mauritius.

The island is best known for:

• Relaxed beach atmosphere

• Crystal Rock

• Dolphin excursions

• Lagoon BBQ trips

• Shallow turquoise water

This is one of the classic Mauritian catamaran experiences and remains extremely popular with visitors.

👉 Best for: west coast lagoon trips and scenic boat tours.

Île d’Ambre — Mangroves & Hidden Nature

Located in the northeast lagoon, Île d’Ambre offers one of the most unique island experiences in Mauritius.

Unlike tropical beach islands, this area is known for:

• Mangrove forests

• Kayaking

• Quiet lagoons

• Hidden waterways

• Nature exploration

It feels wild, peaceful, and far removed from the more touristy parts of Mauritius.

Île de la Passe — History in the Lagoon

Located near Mahébourg, Île de la Passe is historically important due to its role in the famous Battle of Grand Port during the Napoleonic Wars.

Today, visitors can explore ruins and enjoy beautiful southeast lagoon scenery while learning about an important chapter of Mauritian history.

Île aux Deux Cocos — Luxury Island Escape in Blue Bay

Located inside the crystal-clear lagoon of Blue Bay, Île aux Deux Cocos is one of the most exclusive and picturesque island escapes in Mauritius. Surrounded by the protected waters of the Blue Bay Marine Park, the island is famous for its white sandy beaches, turquoise lagoon, coral reefs, and peaceful tropical atmosphere.

The island is especially popular for:

• Luxury day experiences

• Snorkelling in Blue Bay Marine Park

• Private beach relaxation

• Catamaran excursions

• Crystal-clear lagoon swimming

One of the highlights of Île aux Deux Cocos is the stunning Mauritian villa designed by architect Jean-François Adam, adding a unique touch of elegance and history to the island.

The surrounding marine park is considered one of the best snorkelling areas in Mauritius, home to colourful coral gardens and tropical fish species.

👉 Perfect for couples, luxury travellers, snorkelling lovers, and anyone looking for a peaceful tropical island experience in Mauritius.

Best Ways to Explore the Islands

Island excursions in Mauritius are usually done through:

Catamaran Cruises

Perfect for relaxed lagoon experiences with food and drinks onboard.

Speedboat Tours

Ideal for visiting multiple islands in one day.

Kayaking Tours

Best for mangroves and shallow lagoons.

Snorkelling Excursions

Many island trips include coral reef exploration and marine life.

The islands around Mauritius can be explored in many different ways depending on the experience you are looking for. Catamaran cruises are perfect for relaxed lagoon days with food, drinks, and swimming stops, while speedboat tours are ideal for visiting multiple islands in a single day. Kayaking excursions allow visitors to explore peaceful mangroves and shallow lagoons, and many island trips also include snorkelling among coral reefs and tropical marine life. Mauritius can be enjoyed year-round, but the best conditions are usually during dry season months with calm mornings and clear lagoon waters.

Island hopping reveals a completely different side of Mauritius — one filled with untouched beaches, turquoise lagoons, marine life, and offshore adventure. From snorkelling near Île Plate and relaxing on Île aux Cerfs to exploring the mangroves of Île d’Ambre or cruising past Coin de Mire at sunset, every island offers a unique atmosphere and experience. For many travellers, discovering the islands around Mauritius becomes one of the most unforgettable highlights of their holiday.