Best beaches in Mauritius

Mont Choisy

Located in the northwest of the island, this long stretch of soft white sand curves around a turquoise bay fringed by native casuarina trees. Popular with visitors and locals, there’s plenty of space for all to enjoy its picture-postcard views. Located a 30-minute drive from the capital of Port Louis, there are watersports and restaurants to keep you entertained – but it’s the calm and crystal clear ocean that’s the main draw here. Swim, float or snorkel to make the most of this magical spot.

St Felix

St Felix beach is renowned for being one of the best on the south coast. This picturesque spot is blessed with clear aqua waters, although offshore currents and coral reefs mean entering the water is best left to experienced swimmers. Thankfully, its soft and wide sandy beach offers plenty of space for beach activities, such as volleyball. Energetic types can frolic underneath the coconut trees, leaving others to simply enjoy the relaxing sound of waves meeting the shore… bliss.

Jardin Telfair

This secret spot in Souillac in the south of Mauritius is home to one of the most unique beaches on the island. Explore the cooling tropical vegetation of this enchanting garden – rumoured to be a favourite of Mauritian poet Robert Edward Hart – before following a coastal path which emerges on to a wild sandy beach. Pack a romantic picnic for two before settling down with a glass of something sparkling to watch the waves crash against the nearby cliffs – magical.

Belle Mare

Start the day as you mean to go on with a sunrise stroll on one of Mauritius’s longest beaches. Approximately six miles of white sand and transparent aquamarine waters make this a perfect spot for exploring marine life, whether you’re snorkelling, swimming or diving. Dry off in the shade of casuarina trees in this east coast idyll or, if you’re feeling active, head to one of the three world-class golf courses situated nearby. This unspoilt sanctuary is the ultimate place to linger.

Le Morne

Situated at the foot of the iconic Le Morne mountain, this beach really is top class for spectacular scenery and the perfect place to rest weary feet after a hike to the summit. If you’re still in search of an adrenaline rush, its slightly less-sheltered spot makes it a popular place for kitesurfing. White sand, clear water and coconut trees also make this a perfect place to simply relax – make sure you stick around to catch the amazing sunset.

Which coastline is best for a beach holiday?

You’ll find stunning white sand beaches all around the island, plus clear, calm lagoons perfect for snorkelling, swimming and paddleboarding. There are also offshore islets like Ilot Gabriel and Ile aux Cerfs, where you can spend the day on the beach.

To help you choose where to stay, here is a quick guide to the beaches on each coastline in Mauritius:

North: The north is known for its buzzy atmosphere, great bars and restaurants and beaches with views over the northern islands. It’s also a great place to catch a boat or catamaran to explore the northern islands, navigating to picture-postcard islets such as Ilot Gabriel. There are flat, sandy beaches, loads of watersports and calm waters.

East: You’ll find some of the longest and best beaches on the island, plus incredible lagoons with clear water. The east is great for swimming, snorkelling and diving. There is a tranquil vibe and a cooling breeze for most of the year, perfect for kitesurfing.

South: The south has a rocky coastline with steep cliffs, hidden bays and wild beaches. There are wide stretches of sand to be found in the south, though strong currents and coral reefs should be considered if you are in the water.

West: The west coast is the place to make the most of sunset cocktails in cool beach bars, snorkelling, and diving to treasures such as Crystal Rock. You’ll also see Le Morne Brabant mountain from this coastline and can make the most of the kitesurfing hotspot at Le Morne. There’s also more chance of spotting wild dolphin pods off the west coast.