Mauritius is almost completely ringed by coral reef, so the lagoons are calm, clear, and perfect for gentle adventures. You can snorkel straight from many beaches, particularly on the north and west coasts, spotting parrotfish and rays, or join a catamaran cruise to remote sandbars, tiny islands, and reef‑edge snorkel spots. Kayaking, paddleboarding, and glass‑bottom boat trips let you explore without getting fully wet. It is ideal for couples, families, and mixed‑ability groups who want relaxed, tropical water time without big waves, strong currents, or complicated logistics.

A day around Chamarel in the south‑west packs in several of Mauritius’ signature sights. You can see the surreal Seven Coloured Earth geopark, where mineral‑rich sands form rippling bands of red, purple, and ochre, and nearby Chamarel Waterfall plunging into jungle below. Many tours include a stop at a local rum distillery for tastings and a Creole lunch with both mountain and ocean views. Scenic drives take you past viewpoints such as Macchabée or Gorges Viewpoint, making this one of the island’s most rewarding and photo‑friendly outings.

In Black River Gorges National Park you can swap beach loungers for lush, mountainous scenery. Hiking trails of different difficulties lead through native forest, along ridges, and to viewpoints with sweeping vistas over valleys and the south‑west coast. Along the way, keep your eyes peeled for the pink pigeon, echo parakeet, and Mauritian kestrel. It is a brilliant way to add manageable adventure and cooler air to a Mauritius itinerary that might otherwise keep you stuck on the beach.

Mauritian street food is one of the best ways to taste the island’s Creole, Indian, Chinese, and French influences. At markets, and small stalls, you can try dholl puri (soft flatbread stuffed with spiced lentils), gateaux piments (chilli fritters), samosas, rotis, and fresh sugarcane juice. Central Market in Port Louis, coastal village markets, and tiny roadside kiosks all serve delicious and inexpensive bites. A guided food tour is a great way to sample boldly flavoured snacks, learn what’s what, and eat like a local with confidence.

With the Indian Ocean all around, seafood is a highlight in Mauritius. Beachfront restaurants and rustic grills serve just‑caught fish, prawns, and lobster, often cooked over charcoal with garlic butter and creole sauces. Enjoy leisurely lunches with your toes in the sand, or romantic dinners as the sun sets over the lagoon. Many hotels host seafood barbecues or themed nights, while local beach shacks offer a more casual, authentic feel. It is simple, fresh, and exactly what you need in a tropical setting.

Many Mauritian resorts offer excellent fine dining that puts a modern spin on local ingredients. You can enjoy multicourse tasting menus featuring seafood, tropical fruits, and island spices, paired with international wines or Mauritian rums. Some properties have speciality restaurants focusing on specific cuisines or fusions, giving you plenty of variety on a longer stay. Rum distilleries and hotel bars offer tastings of aged, spiced, and flavoured rums, sometimes paired with decadent chocolate or desserts. It is a lovely way to end sun‑soaked days on a luxurious note.

Victoria Beachcomber is a friendly, relaxed resort with great sunsets. Located on the north west coast, it has a long beachfront, spacious rooms, and a warm, easy-going feel. You can enjoy snorkelling straight from the shore, watch the sky turn pink in the evenings, and choose from several restaurants, including an adults-only wing option. It’s ideal for families, couples, and friends who want comfort, space, and a classic Mauritian beach holiday vibe.

Trou aux Biches Beachcomber is the epitome of picture-perfect white sand beach and tropical garden living. Set on the sheltered north west coast, it offers suites and villas laid out like a village, many with pool access. You can enjoy calm, clear water ideal for swimming, beautiful sunsets, and a choice of restaurants serving international, Indian, and Mauritian flavours. Ideal for couples and families who want space, romance, and a postcard perfect setting.

You can stay at Shangri La Le Touessrok if you want a luxurious barefoot-elegance escape on the east coast. Overlooking a turquoise lagoon and two beautiful off shore islands, it offers soft beaches, stylish rooms, and a serene spa. You can play golf on its island course, take a boat to the private beach island, or simply unwind under palm trees with lagoon views. Step into a refined, romantic feel, clear water, and a sense of exclusivity.

This 16-day itinerary balances exploration and relaxation, from Cape Town’s mountain-framed dining and a self-drive along the Garden Route to Big Five safari in the Eastern Cape, before unwinding on Mauritius’s beaches. Find out more here.

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