Why Go to Mauritius?

An Indian Ocean Island Oasis

Mauritius is a tropical playground set in the Indian Ocean, ringed by coral reefs, white sand beaches and clear calm water. World-class holiday resorts are scattered along the island’s coastline offering enormous swimming pools, endless water sports and shaded sun loungers a few steps from the sea. The service at these resorts is superb, the facilities excellent and all tastes are catered for. That’s the beauty of a Mauritius holiday – it’s easy and stress-free with everything conveniently close at hand.

These sunny shores have been a firm favourite for family holidays for years and you couldn’t really ask for a better setting. Splash about in the warm shallow ocean and pick adventures – snorkelling, water skiing, parasailing, or windsurfing – from the seemingly endless array of activities offered at your accommodation. Many Mauritius holiday resorts feature an on-site kids club which means that you can slip away to dive coral reefs or play a round of golf, confident that your youngsters are having a great time under professional supervision. It’s not just families who have all the fun though: this beautiful little island has a romantic side too. Away from the large resorts are secluded coves and quiet beaches, home to some of our favourite honeymoon retreats and luxury villas.

With all this sun, sea and sand, it’s easy to understand why most visitors on vacation in Mauritius don’t venture any further than the nearest beach, but we’d recommend setting aside a morning to explore the hiking and horse-riding trails that wind through the island’s forested hills. You could also go shopping at the Port Louis or Grand Baie markets and pick up a few colourful reminders of your Mauritian island holiday.

 

1. Best Beaches & Snorkelling Sensations

Mauritius epitomises idyllic island living – its spectacular white sandy beaches, crystal clear water, and breathtaking sunsets come together to create a veritable paradise. Mauritius beaches feature as some of the best in the world; their powder-like sand and picturesque surroundings make them the perfect place to sit back, relax, and unwind. Dotted around the island, and usually in resorts, thatched palapas adorn the beach creating natural shade.

Due to its coral reef, waves break further out than expected, creating a serene lagoon-like ocean to enjoy. Often, beaches will have a demarcated swimming area making it easy to keep track of children who wish to enjoy the warm water. The island of Mauritius is lauded for its snorkelling – whether it be with sea turtles, dolphins, or simply the myriad of fish found around the reef and closer to shore.

Many of the beaches are also ideal for swimming, stand-up paddleboarding, kayaking, and watersports such as parasailing, windsurfing, and waterskiing. There are also more than 200 dive sites around the island, but around 13 PADI recommended diving experiences in Mauritius for those who wish to explore more of the ocean.

 

2. A Romantic Island Getaway Destination

When it comes to romantic destinations, Mauritius is undoubtedly near the top. With its breathtaking vistas and easy-going lifestyle, a Mauritius honeymoon is always a favourite amongst newlyweds. Better yet, combine sea, sand, and wildlife on a safari and Mauritius holiday – try South Africa’s Cape Town and Kruger National Park before basking on a glorious beach in Mauritius.

Lounge on palm-fringed beaches with year-round warmth and a layer of gentle humidity and discover sights around the island from Hindu temples and national parks to dormant volcanoes and the fascinating underwater waterfalls in Mauritius. Following a warm welcome, enjoy the continuous smiles and ‘no worries’ attitude from locals. As many Mauritius holidays are all-inclusive, enjoy local and international fare with a cocktail and indulge in a spa treatment or two. If that doesn’t sooth any lingering post-wedding stress, then a candlelit beach dinner might just do the trick.

When looking at honeymoon destinations, there is always the consideration of Mauritius vs Seychelles and the Maldives; each has unique attributes that are specifically suited to certain couples, but all are exceptional options.

 

3. All-inclusive Luxury & Paradisical Resorts

There is nothing quite like an all-inclusive Mauritius holiday. Transfers from the airport are often included, and sometimes additional transfers to various sights and activities, make resorts an attractive option when it comes to Mauritius travel. Aside from that, many of the hotels and resorts that offer inclusive packages are found on a spectacular stretch of beach, complete with loungers and palapas. Relax as the resort team ensures a seamless experience where excellent service is the standard instead of the exception.

With varying levels of luxury and size, there is a suitable option for any kind of Mauritius vacation, especially when it comes to Mauritius honeymoon resorts. Select anything from an exclusive-use villas like Villa Infinity and Anahita Villa to beautiful beachside resorts such as Cannonier Beachcomber Golf Resort & Spa and Belle Mare Plage. There are also always ample options for a family vacation in Mauritius with various kids’ clubs, supervised activities, and secure swimming areas.

Mauritius is also fortunate enough to feature sensational golf courses, including two incredible 18-hole courses built by designed by Ernie Els and Bernhard Langer. Some resorts, such as Cannonier Beachcomber Golf Resort & Spa, enjoy exclusive or complimentary access to golf courses.

 

4. Delicious & Multicultural – Foodies in Mauritius

Mauritius is a true melting pot of cultures courtesy of its rich historical background. The island and its food have been influenced by this myriad of cultures and now features a host of delicious cuisines from Indian, Chinese, African, and European cultures, as well as Creole. Local dishes include dholl puri, boulet, biryani, fish vindaye, and rougaille (or rougail). Street markets and beachside food vendors are popular with both visitors and locals alike offering spiralised Victoria Pineapples, samosas, noodles, and seafood, to name a few.

Mauritians are known for their welcoming attitude and friendly demeanour, not to mention excellent service. Typically, transfer drivers and tour guides are friendly, professional, and many speak several languages to try and communicate with as many of their guests as possible. The same welcoming attitude can be expected of most locals.

 

5. Boats, Cruises & Other Island Delights

No Mauritius vacation is complete without an excursion. While an island in its own right, Mauritius also has several smaller islands just off its shores, which can be visited by boat. One of the most popular islands being Ile Aux Cerfs, 87 hectares of exquisite untouched land off the east coast of Mauritius. Its beautiful white beaches and bright clear water welcome guests to relax and soak in the scenery, while its 18-hole championship course entices golfers to stay while.

But island visits are not the only reason to hop on a boat – venture out to snorkel with the dolphins in Tamarin Bay and the sea turtles in Trou Aux Biches or simply cruise along the crystal waters at sunset.