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. Île aux Cerfs is one of the most famous islands to visit in Mauritius and a must-do excursion for travellers exploring the east coast. Located off Trou d’Eau Douce, this beautiful island is known for its white sand beaches, shallow turquoise lagoon, palm-lined scenery and postcard-perfect tropical atmosphere. Most visitors reach Île aux Cerfs by speedboat or catamaran, often combining the trip with snorkelling stops, a lagoon cruise, lunch on the beach and a visit near the Grand River South East waterfall. For first-time visitors, couples, families and groups of friends, Île aux Cerfs offers one of the most classic island day trips in Mauritius.
What makes Île aux Cerfs special is the variety of experiences packed into one small island escape. You can relax on the beach, swim in clear lagoon water, take beautiful travel photos, enjoy water activities or simply walk away from the busier arrival areas to find quieter corners of sand and sea. Although it is one of the most popular island excursions in Mauritius, it remains one of the best places to experience the east coast lagoon at its brightest. As a local tip, go early in the day or book a private boat if you want a calmer experience, better photos and more time to enjoy the natural beauty of Île aux Cerfs before the busiest hours.
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
Île aux Aigrettes is one of the most meaningful nature experiences in Mauritius, especially for travellers who want to discover the island beyond beaches and resorts. Located just off the south-east coast near Mahébourg, Pointe d’Esny and Blue Bay, this small protected island is a living conservation site where visitors can learn about Mauritius’ rare native plants, endemic birds and restored coastal forest. Unlike a typical island excursion focused on swimming and beach time, Île aux Aigrettes is about wildlife, ecology and the story of how Mauritius is working to protect species that once came close to disappearing.
A guided visit to Île aux Aigrettes is ideal for families, nature lovers, eco-travellers and anyone interested in conservation in Mauritius. During the tour, you may see giant tortoises, rare birds, ebony trees and other native species while walking through a peaceful island landscape surrounded by turquoise lagoon views. It is a perfect activity to combine with Blue Bay Marine Park, Mahébourg Waterfront, Pointe d’Esny or a south-east Mauritius road trip. For visitors looking for one of the best eco-tourism activities in Mauritius, Île aux Aigrettes offers a calm, educational and deeply local experience that shows the island’s natural heritage in a beautiful and responsible way.
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. Île Plate and Îlot Gabriel are two of the most beautiful northern islands to visit in Mauritius, perfect for travellers looking for white sand beaches, crystal-clear lagoon water and a true island escape away from the mainland. Located off the north coast, these islands are usually visited together on a catamaran or speedboat trip from Grand Baie, Bain Boeuf or the northern coast. Île Plate, also known as Flat Island, is larger and wilder, with open landscapes, coastal scenery and beautiful views across the northern lagoon. Nearby Îlot Gabriel is smaller, softer and especially loved for its powdery white sand, turquoise water and postcard-perfect beach setting.
A trip to Île Plate and Îlot Gabriel is one of the best island excursions in Mauritius for swimming, snorkelling, beach photography and relaxing in a peaceful tropical setting. The lagoon colours here can be spectacular on a sunny day, with clear blue water, coral reef scenery and views towards the northern islets. This excursion is ideal for couples, families, groups of friends and travellers staying in Grand Baie, Pereybere, Mont Choisy or Trou aux Biches. As a local tip, choose a calm-weather day and leave early in the morning for the best sea conditions, brighter lagoon colours and more time to enjoy the wild beauty of Île Plate and the dreamy beach atmosphere of Îlot Gabriel.
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
Coin de Mire, also known as Gunner’s Quoin, is one of the most iconic northern islands of Mauritius and a striking landmark seen from Grand Baie, Pereybere, Cap Malheureux and the north coast. Rising dramatically from the Indian Ocean with its sharp volcanic cliffs and rugged shape, Coin de Mire is not a typical beach island where visitors go to relax on the sand. Instead, it is admired for its wild natural beauty, birdlife, dramatic coastline and incredible views from the sea. Most travellers discover Coin de Mire during a northern islands catamaran cruise, speedboat trip or snorkelling excursion from Grand Baie or Bain Boeuf.
A trip around Coin de Mire is one of the best island experiences in Mauritius for nature lovers, photographers and ocean adventurers. The waters around the island are popular for snorkelling and diving, with clear lagoon colours, coral reef areas and marine life depending on sea conditions. Because the island is protected and access is limited, visitors usually enjoy it from the boat or in the surrounding water rather than landing on the island itself. As a local tip, choose a calm sunny day for the best views, bring a camera, and combine Coin de Mire with Îlot Gabriel, Île Plate, Cap Malheureux or a north coast road trip for a complete northern Mauritius island adventure.
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
Île aux Bénitiers is one of the most beautiful islands to visit on the west coast of Mauritius, located in the lagoon near Le Morne, La Gaulette and Black River. This small, flat island is famous for its relaxed tropical atmosphere, shallow turquoise water, sandy shoreline and postcard views of Le Morne Brabant in the background. Most visitors reach Île aux Bénitiers by speedboat or catamaran from Black River, Tamarin or La Gaulette, often combining the trip with dolphin watching, snorkelling stops, a beach barbecue and a visit to the famous Crystal Rock nearby.
A day trip to Île aux Bénitiers is perfect for couples, families, groups of friends and travellers looking for a calm island escape on the west coast of Mauritius. The lagoon around the island is ideal for swimming, relaxing in shallow water, taking photos and enjoying the peaceful beauty of the south-west coast. Compared to busier island excursions, Île aux Bénitiers has a more laid-back and local feeling, especially when visited early in the day or on a private boat. As a local tip, combine Île aux Bénitiers with Le Morne, Crystal Rock, La Gaulette and a west coast sunset for one of the most scenic island experiences 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
Île d’Ambre is one of the most peaceful and nature-rich islands to visit in Mauritius, located off the north-east coast near Grand Gaube, Roches Noires and Poste Lafayette. Unlike the more famous beach islands such as Île aux Cerfs or Îlot Gabriel, Île d’Ambre is best known for its mangroves, calm lagoon channels, wild coastal scenery and quiet eco-adventure atmosphere. The island is especially popular for kayaking tours, where visitors paddle through shallow water, mangrove forests and peaceful natural passages while discovering a more untouched side of Mauritius.
A trip to Île d’Ambre is ideal for nature lovers, families, couples and travellers looking for a soft outdoor adventure away from crowded beaches. The area is perfect for kayaking, birdwatching, photography and exploring the north-east lagoon at a slower pace. This is one of the best island experiences in Mauritius for eco-tourism because it focuses less on beach bars and more on nature, silence and coastal biodiversity. As a local tip, visit Île d’Ambre in the morning when the lagoon is calmer, bring sun protection and choose a guided kayaking tour to better understand the mangroves, history and natural beauty of this hidden island.
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
Île au Phare, also known as Île aux Fouquets, is one of the most historic islands to visit in Mauritius and a fascinating stop for travellers exploring the south-east coast. Located off Mahébourg in the Grand Port lagoon, this small rocky island is best known for its old lighthouse ruins, wild coastal scenery and powerful views over the reef, lagoon and surrounding islets. Unlike the more famous beach islands such as Île aux Cerfs or Îlot Gabriel, Île au Phare is not mainly about soft sand and swimming. It is about history, atmosphere and adventure, making it one of the best islands in Mauritius for travellers who love photography, heritage sites and off-the-beaten-path excursions.
A boat trip to Île au Phare is often combined with Île de la Passe, Îlot Vacoas, Île aux Aigrettes, Blue Bay or a five-island south-east lagoon tour from Mahébourg or Pointe Jérôme. The island’s abandoned lighthouse, stone ruins and dramatic ocean-facing cliffs give it a completely different character from the calmer lagoon islands of Mauritius. For visitors looking for unique things to do in Mauritius, Île au Phare offers a beautiful mix of colonial history, maritime heritage, coastal landscapes and raw island scenery. As a local tip, visit on a calm sunny day, wear proper shoes for walking around the rocky terrain, and bring a camera because the views across the south-east lagoon are some of the most scenic in Mauritius.
Île aux Deux Cocos — Luxury Island Escape in Blue Bay
Île des Deux Cocos is one of the most exclusive islands to visit in Mauritius, located just off the south-east coast near Blue Bay, Pointe d’Esny and Mahébourg. Surrounded by clear turquoise lagoon water and close to the famous Blue Bay Marine Park, this private island is known for its peaceful beach setting, tropical gardens, colonial-style villa and beautiful views over the south-east lagoon. Unlike larger island excursions, Île des Deux Cocos offers a more intimate and refined island experience, making it ideal for couples, families, private events and travellers looking for a quieter escape in Mauritius.
A day trip to Île des Deux Cocos is perfect for swimming, snorkelling, relaxing on the beach and enjoying one of the most scenic lagoon areas in Mauritius. The island’s location near Blue Bay makes it especially attractive for travellers who want to combine island luxury with marine beauty, colourful reef life and calm south-east coast scenery. For anyone searching for the best private island experience in Mauritius, Île des Deux Cocos is a beautiful choice because it feels close to the mainland yet completely removed from the busy tourist areas. As a local tip, combine your visit with Blue Bay Marine Park, Pointe d’Esny or Mahébourg for a complete south-east Mauritius itinerary.
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.
