Which Coast of Mauritius is the Best for Your Holiday?

The answer might surprise you. There isn't one "best" coast. Instead, each part of the island offers a completely different experience. The north is lively and social, the east is elegant and luxurious, the west is famous for sunsets and dolphins, while the south is wild, peaceful, and wonderfully unspoilt.

As someone who knows Mauritius well, my advice is simple: choose the coast that matches the holiday you're dreaming of—not just the hotel. This guide will help you do exactly that.

Before You Choose…

Although Mauritius is only about an hour and a half from north to south by car, every coastline has its own character. Ask yourself a few simple questions:

• Do you want lively restaurants and nightlife?

• Are you planning a honeymoon?

• Are you travelling with children?

• Do you want to play golf?

• Would you rather explore nature than spend every day by the pool?

  
  

Once you know what kind of holiday you want, choosing where to stay becomes much easier.

North Mauritius

Best for First-Time Visitors, Nightlife, Restaurants, and Exploring

If it's your first visit to Mauritius, I'd usually recommend starting in the North. Grand Baie is the island's most vibrant seaside town, where beach life meets fantastic restaurants, boutique shopping, and lively nightlife. Unlike some of the quieter parts of Mauritius, there's always something happening here. Whether you're enjoying a sunset cocktail, browsing local markets, or setting off on a catamaran cruise, you’ll find plenty to do.

The North is also one of the easiest regions to explore. Within a short drive, you'll find Château de Labourdonnais, the famous Botanical Garden, L'Aventure du Sucre, and the departure point for cruises to the beautiful northern islands.

You'll Love the North If You...

✔ Enjoy eating out every evening

✔ Want plenty of choice for shopping

✔ Like lively beaches and beach clubs

✔ Want easy access to sightseeing

Beach at Grand Baie in Mauritius.

Where to Stay

20° Sud 5* is a charming boutique hotel perfect for couples looking for privacy, personalized service, and romantic dinners by the water. For honeymooners, Paradise Cove Boutique Hotel 5* is one of Mauritius' most romantic adults-only resorts, featuring secluded coves, beautiful gardens, and intimate dining experiences.

If only the very best will do, Royal Palm Beachcomber Luxury has long been regarded as one of the island's finest hotels. It offers exceptional service, spacious suites, and one of the most beautiful beaches in Mauritius.

Travellers looking for contemporary luxury will love LUX Grand Baie 5*, with its rooftop restaurant, stylish design, and vibrant atmosphere. For a relaxed stay with excellent value, Coin de Mire Attitude 4* and Mystik Lifestyle Boutique Hotel 3* both offer a friendly Mauritian welcome without the formality of larger luxury resorts.

If you're travelling with family or planning a longer holiday, Domaine de Grand Baie 4* provides spacious self-catering accommodation with the flexibility to explore at your own pace.

North-East Mauritius

Best for Authentic Island Life and Peaceful Beaches

The North-East feels like Mauritius before tourism arrived. Life moves more slowly here. Colourful fishing boats bob gently in the lagoon, locals gather in village cafés, and quiet beaches often feel like your own private paradise. If you're looking to experience everyday Mauritian life while still enjoying excellent accommodation, this coast is well worth considering.

Choose the North-East If You Want...

✔ Peace and quiet

✔ Authentic local culture

✔ Hidden beaches

✔ Kitesurfing

✔ Fewer crowds

Where to Stay

LUX Grand Gaube 5* combines contemporary design with one of the island's most peaceful settings. It's ideal for couples looking to relax while enjoying outstanding dining and wellness facilities. Families love Zilwa Attitude 4*, thanks to its welcoming atmosphere, children's activities, and all-inclusive options inspired by local culture.

For couples, Veranda Paul & Virginie 4* offers a wonderfully intimate adults-only escape overlooking the lagoon. Travellers wanting complete privacy should consider Jolly's Rock Villa 3*, while Lagoon Attitude 3* is an excellent adults-only resort with a strong commitment to sustainable tourism.

Local Tip: The nearby villages of Goodlands and Rivière du Rempart are fantastic places to sample authentic Mauritian street food away from the main tourist areas.

North-West Mauritius

Best for Families, Snorkelling, and Unforgettable Sunsets

If your ideal holiday involves calm lagoons, family-friendly beaches, and spectacular sunsets, you'll feel right at home on the North-West coast. This coastline stretches from Mont Choisy to Turtle Bay, where crystal-clear water makes swimming and snorkelling a pleasure throughout much of the year.

Stay Here If You Want...

✔ Calm swimming beaches

✔ Great snorkelling

✔ Family-friendly resorts

✔ Beautiful sunsets

Where to Stay

Trou aux Biches Beachcomber 5* is one of Mauritius' most loved resorts, famous for its powder-soft beach, spacious suites, and excellent facilities for both couples and families. Families also enjoy Victoria Beachcomber 4*, The Westin Turtle Bay 5*, and Ravenala Attitude 4*, all offering plenty of activities, restaurants, and children's facilities.

For something smaller and more intimate, Le Cardinal Exclusive Resort 5* and Veranda Pointe aux Biches 4* provide a relaxed boutique atmosphere just steps from the sea.

East Mauritius

Best for Luxury, Honeymoons, and Golf

Ask someone to picture Mauritius, and they're probably imagining the East Coast. Long stretches of powder-soft sand, swaying palms, and brilliant turquoise lagoons make this one of the island's most beautiful regions. It's also home to many of Mauritius' finest luxury resorts.

This Coast is Perfect If You...

✔ Are celebrating a honeymoon

✔ Love luxury resorts

✔ Enjoy golf

✔ Prefer quieter beaches

Where to Stay

[One&Only Le Saint Géran Luxury](https://www.mauritiustravel.co.uk/saint-geran), Four Seasons Resort Mauritius 5 Luxury at Anahita*, [Shangri-La Le Touessrok ](https://www.mauritiustravel.co.uk/shangri-new) Luxury, Constance Prince Maurice 5 Luxury*, and Constance Belle Mare Plage 5* are among the finest luxury resorts in the Indian Ocean. Each offers exceptional service, beautiful beaches, and world-class dining.

For stylish contemporary luxury, LUX Belle Mare 5* is always a favourite. Families will appreciate the facilities at Long Beach 5* and Crystals Beach Resort 4*, while Ambre Mauritius 4* offers excellent adults-only all-inclusive value. Eco-conscious travellers should consider SALT of Palmar Superior or Sunrise Attitude 4, both known for sustainability and authentic experiences.

Local Tip: The East Coast is often breezier during the Mauritian winter (May to October). It's perfect for watersports, but if you're travelling with very young children and prefer calmer conditions, the North-West is often a better choice.

South-East Mauritius

Best for Snorkelling, Wildlife, and History

The South-East offers a completely different side of Mauritius. Historic Mahébourg still retains its old-world charm, while nearby Blue Bay Marine Park is home to some of the island's healthiest coral reefs. Nature lovers will also enjoy visiting Île aux Aigrettes, where rare native wildlife has been carefully protected.

Shandrani Beachcomber 4* is an excellent choice for active families, while Le Preskil Island Resort 4* is particularly popular with watersports enthusiasts. Couples looking for a quieter stay will enjoy the intimate atmosphere at Astroea Beach Hotel 3*.

South Mauritius

Best for Nature, Wellness, and Complete Relaxation

The South is Mauritius at its most dramatic. Here you'll find rugged cliffs, waterfalls, nature reserves, and peaceful beaches instead of bustling towns and shopping centres. If your idea of luxury is peace, space, and beautiful scenery, you'll love this part of the island.

Heritage Le Telfair 5* combines elegant colonial charm with championship golf, while Heritage Awali 5* offers a premium all-inclusive experience. Tamassa Superior and Outrigger Mauritius 4* provide excellent value for families, while Anantara IKO Mauritius Resort & Villas 5 is ideal for wellness, spa retreats, and peaceful luxury. For something completely different,Kaz'Alala 3 offers an authentic village stay where guests experience genuine Mauritian hospitality.

South-West Mauritius

Best for Adventure and Spectacular Scenery

If there's one landscape that defines Mauritius, it's Le Morne Brabant. This UNESCO World Heritage Site dominates one of the island's most spectacular coastlines and attracts hikers, photographers, and kitesurfers from around the world.

For luxurious beachfront living, JW Marriott Mauritius Resort Luxury, Paradis Beachcomber 5, andDinarobin Beachcomber 5 all enjoy exceptional locations with direct views of Le Morne. For couples seeking something quieter and more intimate,Lakaz Chamarel 3 offers an unforgettable stay surrounded by tropical forest.

West Mauritius

Best for Sunsets, Dolphins, and Laid-Back Beach Life

The West Coast offers the perfect balance between relaxation and adventure. Spend the morning watching dolphins in Tamarin Bay, explore Black River Gorges National Park during the afternoon, then enjoy one of Mauritius' famous sunsets with your feet in the sand.

[Sugar Beach Mauritius ](https://www.mauritiustravel.co.uk/sugar-beach-resort) combines elegant colonial architecture with one of the island's finest beaches. Families love La Pirogue 4 * Superior, with its charming thatched bungalows and welcoming atmosphere, while La Mariposa 3 offers a peaceful boutique experience overlooking Le Morne. If you're after something younger and more relaxed,Veranda Tamarin 3 has a fun, surf-inspired vibe and a great location close to cafés and bars.

Which Coast Is Right for You?

Final Thoughts

The wonderful thing about Mauritius is that there isn't a wrong choice—only different experiences. Whether you wake up overlooking the lively lagoon of Grand Baie, the tranquil beaches of Belle Mare, or the dramatic scenery of Le Morne, you'll discover the same warm Mauritian hospitality that keeps visitors coming back year after year.

Choose the coast that suits your travel style, and Mauritius won't just meet your expectations—it will almost certainly exceed Request a quote now.