Where to Stay in Mauritius – 9 TOP Spots + Great Hotels

Welcome to paradise on earth: the stunning island of Mauritius (Ile Maurice in French), located in the Indian Ocean, awaits with beautiful beaches and lush landscapes. This magical island has many attractive areas with different weather conditions throughout the year, so deciding where to stay in Mauritius can be difficult. 

Lucky for you, I did my research and compared all parts of Mauritius. The result is my comprehensive list of areas – 9 to be exact – on each side of the island: North, West, South, and East. To make your decision that much easier, I also handpicked the best hotels for each area and each price category. 

The best place to stay in Mauritius, especially if you’re visiting for the first time, is Grand Baie in North Mauritius. This seaside village has amazing white sand beaches, booming nightlife, and an extensive selection of hotels. 

Once you find the perfect hotel for your holiday, make sure you book it right away. Everyone wants a spot in paradise… and you don’t want to lose yours!

Let’s go!

If you are in a hurry

No time to read the whole post? Here’s a list of the best hotels in Grand Baie, Mauritius:

Here’s a map to give you a mental image of the Mauritius areas you will discover in the post:

NOTE: Although all areas are great options for longer stays in Mauritius, if you have some extra time and want to explore the entire island, you can also use this guide as an itinerary. Starting North at Grand Baie and driving counter-clockwise all the way to Belle Mare in the East, you can visit each of the areas featured in this article, seeing as the driving distance between any 2 is no longer than an hour and a half. 

1. North Mauritius – the most popular tourist spot

The North of Mauritius is the most-frequented tourist destination on the island and is renowned for its amazing beaches, abundance of water sports, and vibrant nightlife.

In this section, I’ll be recommending 2 great spots, but if you have the time, you can also check out other cool places like Grand Gaube. 

This part of Mauritius is blessed with warm weather all year round, so you don’t have to worry: any month is perfect for enjoying the white sandy beaches and calm waters.

1.1 Grand Baie – where to stay in Mauritius for the first time

Located on the North coast of the island, Grand Baie is Mauritius’ main tourist hub. In this village, you’ll find all the best hotels, shopping centers and restaurants, a beautiful coastal beach and the best nightlife!

In fact, with all its fun bars and pubs, Grand Baie will keep you entertained at any hour of the day… but if you’re not looking for parties and young crowds, you may want to avoid this part of the island!

However, if you want to enjoy some tranquility and relaxation, you can still find some quiet spots right on the beautiful beaches. Be sure to check out La Cuvette Public Beach (map) and Pereybere Public Beach (map) and try some water sports – I’d recommend scuba diving or kayaking. 

Grand Baie is also an extremely popular shopping destination: La Croisette shopping mall (map) has an upscale vibe and boasts a variety of stores, as well as a food court. However, if you’re looking to buy some souvenirs to remember your trip, head to Grand Baie Bazar (map) and look for handcrafted objects. 

Otherwise, Grand Baie hosts the largest variety of accommodations, from holiday apartments and villas to budget or luxurious hotels! My top picks are featured below:

Other accommodation options in Grand Baie

1.2 Trou aux Biches – where to stay in Mauritius on a honeymoon

Located on the Northwest coast of Mauritius, just a 15-min drive from Grand Baie and a 30-min drive to the capital, Port Louis, Trou aux Biches, is THE spot for a romantic getaway. With its turquoise blue waters, beautiful beach, and green tropical gardens, you won’t ever want to leave.

In fact, this quiet village is blessed with a very laid-back vibe and a local feeling, perfect for couples.

With the coral reef only 250m (820 ft) from the beach, this is also one of the best spots for snorkeling in Mauritius. Get ready to see the most diverse and colorful marine wildlife!

Relax on Trou aux Biches Beach (map) and stay for the sunset – the views are absolutely breathtaking! And to end your day in the best way, this little town hosts some great restaurants offering different cuisines influenced by Asian and Mauritian flavors… all delicious!

The accommodation here ranges from apartments and villa rentals to luxurious hotels with golf courses… check them out for the months from May to October, when you’ll have the best weather. 

Other accommodation options in Trou aux Biches

Things to do in North Mauritius

• Go swimming at La Cuvette Public Beach and Pereybere Public Beach in Grand Baie
• Spend a day shopping at La Croisette 
• Try your luck at Ti Vegas Casino (map)
• Embark on a full-day catamaran cruise to the Northern Isles
• Enjoy the sun at Trou aux Biches Beach
• Grab a quick meal at Souvenir (map) near the beach at Trou aux Biches
• Go on a guided tour of the Northern part of the island

2. West Mauritius – the best place for an active vacation

If you like to stay active during your vacation, then West Mauritius is the best destination for you. There are plenty of opportunities for hiking and water sports, and if you’re into sunsets, this is the best place to catch the most amazing views. 

2.1 Port Louis – the best place to stay for an urban vibe

Port Louis is the capital of Mauritius, situated on the island’s Western coast, a 30-min drive from Grand Baie. The city has a very lively atmosphere and boasts many examples of French colonial architecture, as well as many great shopping and dining spots, making it the ultimate place to visit if you want an urban getaway. 

One of the top attractions in Port Louis is Citadelle, also known as Port Adelaide (map), a 19th-century fortress that provides the best views of the city. I would also highly recommend a visit to the Blue Penny Museum, where you can learn more about the island’s colonial history and how that helped in shaping the current culture. 

There are quite a few other museums situated in the heart of the city, so if that’s your jam, you can also check those out. However, if you’re looking for something else to do, shopping is always a good idea! The Caudan Waterfront (map) is a large outdoor shopping complex that hosts plenty of shops, restaurants, and cute cafes.

While you’re shopping, don’t forget to stop by Umbrella Square (map) and snap a photo with the colorful umbrellas. But if you’re looking for a more local vibe, head to the Central Market (map) and chat up some of the vendors. Of course, you have to get some delicious fresh fruit and maybe even handcrafted souvenirs – just don’t forget to bargain! 

Other accommodation options in Port Louis

2.2 Flic en Flac – best Mauritius lodging for families

Flic en Flac, located on the West coast (a 35-min drive South of Port Louis), is a serene village boasting one of the best beaches on the island and offering a wide range of fun activities for all ages. So, if you were looking for where to stay in Mauritius with family, look no further than Flic en Flac. 

Stretching for 3 km (1.8 miles) of white sandy shoreline and reef-protected water, Flic en Flac Beach (map) even has a playground, and sometimes it hosts a local circus and some cool shows… your kids will go crazy!

For a different kind of fun, I suggest you head to Casela Nature Parks, an amusement park offering many cool activities like zip-lining, camel rides, and safaris. I guarantee that both kids and adults will have a great time here! 

The fishing village itself also hosts some shopping centers, cool casinos, and local restaurants (some of them featuring shows of traditional Sega dancing!) if you want to enjoy a lazy evening after a day spent chilling on the beach.

But if you’re here, make sure you also engage in some outdoor activities: in fact, Flic en Flac is surrounded by natural attractions like the Corps de Garde peak (map), perfect for hiking.

Regarding the weather, it is sunny for the most part of the year, but between June and August, you may experience some wind and cloudy days… so just take it into consideration if you want to book your holiday here.

Enough talking… check out the following family-friendly hotels, and make sure you book them at least some months in advance if you don’t want to lose the best spot:

Other accommodation options in Flic en Flac

Things to do in West Mauritius

• Go up to the Citadelle and enjoy the best views over Port Louis
• Learn about the country’s history at the Blue Penny Museum
• Spend the day shopping at the Caudan Waterfront and stop by Umbrella Square
• Get some fresh fruit and souvenirs from Port Louis’ Central Market
• Relax under the sun at Flic en Flac Beach
• Have an adventure at Casela Nature Parks
• Hike up to the Corps de Garde peak
• Embark on a guided tour of South West Mauritius

3. South Mauritius – the ultimate spot for nature lovers

The Southern part of the island is sometimes referred to as the ‘Wild South’ due to its impressive natural landscapes; you’ll get to experience everything, from lush mountains and rocky cliffs to sandy beaches and gorgeous waterfalls. Whether you’re into surfing or hiking, South Mauritius has plenty to offer! 

The best time to go here is definitely from spring to autumn (from October to June) when the weather is sunny. Between June and September, there can be more rain, so plan your trip according to the weather forecast. 

3.1 Le Morne – where to stay in Mauritius for luxury

Le Morne is a small, dreamy peninsula located on the Southeast coast of Mauritius, about a 45-min drive South of Flic en Flac. It offers pristine beaches, shallow waters, and some of the best luxury resorts in Mauritius, all in a very calm and relaxed atmosphere. 

At the very center of the peninsula, you will find Le Morne Brabant (map), a unique monolithic peak that’s been declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site. I highly suggest you climb to the top to enjoy the most spectacular views of the lagoons… but I advise you to do that in the morning when there’s no wind. 

If you want to swim, sunbathe, or surf, then you’ll spend most of your time on Le Morne Public Beach (map). However, if you want to switch things up a bit, then there are plenty of other ways to spend your time in and around Le Morne. 

One of the most stunning natural attractions in the area is the Chamarel Seven Colored Earth Geopark (map), a geological formation consisting of sand dunes made of 7 different colors, situated just half an hour’s drive away from Le Morne. From there, head to the Chamarel Waterfall (map) and enjoy the views (you can’t get close to the waterfall!). 

TIP: since most of the attractions in the area are a bit further away from the beach and all the luxury resorts, it’s a good idea to rent a car and explore everything this region has to offer. 

Being based in Le Morne is also a great choice if you want to visit one of the island’s main attractions, Black River Gorges National Park (map). This is a large rainforest park that offers plenty of hiking trails and some great picnic spots, and best of all? It’s less than an hour’s drive away from Le Morne! 

Other accommodation options in Le Morne

3.2 Blue Bay & Pointe D’Esny – for the best beaches in Mauritius

Blue Bay and Pointe D’Esny are charming fishing villages, just a 3-min drive away from each other, and an hour and a half away from Le Morne by car. These 2 villages are renowned for their white sandy beaches with crystal clear waters, and although they’re very popular among tourists, they’ve managed to retain an authentic, local vibe. 

If you decide to stay in Blue Bay, you’ll have access to the shimmering Blue Bay Beach (map) and its Blue Bay Marine Park, a preserved marine area with a coral garden and an abundance of fish and sea turtles. This is the absolute best place to snorkel and dive, but I also recommend taking a glass-bottom boat tour! 

Close to the beach, you also find many street food stands offering tasty local snacks or delicious restaurants serving different kinds of cuisines, from traditional to international. Plus, you’ll have the best views of the Ile aux Deux Cocos island, which is also a great spot for a day trip!

Pointe D’Esny boasts one of the most well-preserved lagoons on the island and one of the most beautiful beaches in Mauritius. Pointe d’Esny Beach (map) boasts turquoise waters and white sands, perfect for swimming and snorkeling, and the best thing about it is that it’s not crowded, seeing is not (yet) as popular as some other beaches on the island. 

There’s not much to do in Pointe D’Esny besides the beach, making it the ideal spot for beach bums and/or for people who want to have a relaxing vacation without a packed itinerary. 

This part of Mauritius may be cloudy or rainy from June to August (sometimes even in September), but Blue Bay is perfect for visiting during the summer months, between December and March!

Other accommodation options in Blue Bay

3.3 Mahebourg – best area to stay in Mauritius for relaxation

Mahebourg is a coastal town on the Southeast coast of Mauritius, situated just a 15-min drive North of Blue Bay and Pointe D’Esny. The town has a very laid-back and welcoming atmosphere, plus quite a few attractions and cool dining spots, so you’ll find plenty of ways to spend your time here. 

If you want a typical beach vacation, Mahebourg is not the best match for you; even though it’s a coastal town, it’s primarily a port, so there aren’t any good swimming spots. However, you can always rent a car and hit the beach at Blue Bay or Pointe D’Esny, then come back in the evening to enjoy the charming Mahebourg atmosphere. 

During your stay, go for a stroll along the Mahébourg Waterfront (map) and stop by the Pointe Canon (map), a monument dedicated to the abolition of slavery. The Mahebourg Museum has a great collection of art, artifacts, and weapons commemorating the island’s naval history. 

As for dining, there are plenty of good restaurants to choose from, offering a variety of cuisines from around the world. I’d recommend Coin Casse Croute (map) for seafood and Saveurs de Shin (map) for some great Chinese food. 

In terms of accommodation, there are plenty of options in each price category – my top picks are featured below: 

Other accommodation options in Mahebourg

Things to do in South Mauritius

• Hike up to Le Morne Brabant
• Pay a visit to the Chamarel Seven Colored Earth Geopark and Chamarel Waterfall
• Explore Black River Gorges National Park
• Embark on a glass-bottom boat and snorkeling tour of Blue Bay Marine Park
• Swim at Blue Bay Beach and Pointe d’Esny Beach
• Go on relaxing walks along the Mahébourg Waterfront
• Immerse yourself in history at the Mahebourg Museum
• Have a delicious dinner at Coin Casse Croute or Saveurs de Shin

4. East Mauritius – best side of Mauritius for adventurers

Going full circle, we arrive in East Mauritius, with its unspoiled nature, long sandy beaches, and numerous opportunities for outdoor activities. If you like to try out different things, this is a great spot; you can go hiking, kayaking, diving, snorkeling, or golfing – or try a little bit of everything. 

This side of the island is a little windier, so it’s best to visit in summer, between December and March, when the winds are not as strong, and you can spend all your time outdoors. 

4.1 Trou D’Eau Douce – where to stay for an authentic vibe

Trou D’Eau Douce is yet another traditional fishing village located on the East Coast of the island, less than an hour’s drive away from Mahebourg. Like other villages on the island, Trou D’Eau Douce has a long history, and it has managed to retain its authentic atmosphere, something you should definitely experience during your visit! 

There are a couple of small beaches in Trou D’Eau Douce, but I highly recommend you take a boat trip to the nearby Ile aux Cerfs Island and enjoy the beach there. Many local operators offer tours to the island, but I suggest you book one of the tours offered on the official website and explore this stunning island. 

Besides its convenient location for exploring Ile aux Cerfs, Trou D’Eau Douce is a haven for foodies. You can sample various dishes from the street food vendors, or you can hit up one of the restaurants, like Green Island Beach Restaurant (map), and treat yourself to a seafood platter. 

Other accommodation options in Trou D’Eau Douce

4.2 Belle Mare – the best spot for cool activities

Located on the East Coast, Belle Mare is the ultimate spot for a relaxing beach break. It hosts some of the top resorts and one of the best beaches on the island and boasts a large offer of cool activities like deep sea fishing, kayaking, and snorkeling, giving the area a very lively and adventurous vibe. 

At Belle Mare Beach (map), you will enjoy 2 km (1.2 miles) of fine sand and crystal clear, shallow waters … all protected by the beautiful coral reef. The beach is lined with palm trees, giving some respite from the hot sun, but you should still be prepared to spend your days splashing, chilling, and sunbathing in this paradise.

And if one day you feel like doing some cool activities, you can either enjoy some deep-sea fishing for tuna, marlin, and mako shark (very popular in this part of Mauritius) or venture out to Splash N Fun Leisure Park and spend the day trying out the different rides. 

NOTE: if you want to stay in a luxurious resort on the East Coast of the island, I have to recommend the One&Only Le Saint Géran, situated in Poste de Flacq. Situated on a private peninsula, the One&Only Le Saint Géran is surrounded by coral reefs and beautiful lagoons, and it’s one of the ultimate places to stay in Mauritius. 

Other accommodation options in Belle Mare

Things to do in East Mauritius

• Take a day trip to Ile aux Cerfs Island
• Book a tee time at Ile aux Cerfs Golf Club
• Sample the seafood platter at Green Island Beach Restaurant
• Enjoy the sun at Belle Mare Beach
• Spend a day at Splash N Fun Leisure Park
• Drive out to the Central Flacq Market (map) and do some shopping

FAQs about where to stay in Mauritius

📍Which is the best area to stay in Mauritius?

💑 Where to stay in Mauritius for a honeymoon?

📆 Where to stay in Mauritius in December and January?

The best place to stay in Mauritius from December through January is Le Morne in South Mauritius, where the weather is sunny and warm during these months. The top spots for a stay in the area are the JW Marriott Mauritius Resort and Boutik Le Morne. 

🔍 What are the best things to do in Mauritius?

The best things to do on the island are to visit Mauritius’ Black River Gorges National Park, take a day trip from Trou D’Eau Douce to Ile aux Cerfs Island, or visit Port Louis’ Central Market!

🏖️ Which side of Mauritius is best for beaches?

The South side of the island is the best place for a beach vacation in Mauritius. Here, you’ll find some of the best beaches on the island, such as Blue Bay Beach and Pointe D’Esny Beach, and amazing resorts like Anantara Iko Mauritius Resort & Villas. 

🌞 What is the warmest part of Mauritius?

The coastal regions, particularly the Northern and Western coasts, experience the warmest temperatures in Mauritius due to their proximity to the equator and the Indian Ocean.

🗺️ What are the best areas to stay in Mauritius in April or July?

For a delightful stay in Mauritius in April or July, consider popular regions like Grand Baie and Trou aux Biches in North Mauritius, where the weather is warm year-round, and you can enjoy the beautiful beaches and vibrant atmosphere.

⏳ How many days are enough in Mauritius?

I recommend a trip to Mauritius lasting between 7 and 10 days. This way, you can spend some time relaxing on the beach and also explore some of the island’s prominent landmarks, such as the Black River Gorges National Park and Ile aux Cerfs. 

Final thoughts on the best places to stay in Mauritius

Here we are, at the end of this comprehensive guide on where to stay in Mauritius! We’ve been through so many options for different interests and budgets that, by now, you should know where to stay in Mauritius for your perfect holiday!

But if you’re still undecided, no worries: below, you will find my 2 absolute favorite hotels in Grand Baie, North Mauritius: 

• Hôtel 20 Degrés Sud – an amazing hotel featuring intimate accommodation on a private beach right at the mouth of Grand Baie
• Azure Beach Boutique Hotel – a very comfortable hotel minutes away from the beach, boasting a restaurant and free parking 

If you like them (or any of the hotels in the post), make sure you book them as soon as you can: places sell out extremely fast in paradise!

If you have any questions or doubts about your trip to Mauritius, just leave them in the comments below. I’ll be more than happy to answer and help! 

Have an unforgettable holiday, 

Hristina

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