15 Most Beautiful Places To Visit In Mauritius (+ Map & Tips)

Looking for the most beautiful places to visit in Mauritius? Before our trip, I expected beautiful beaches and luxury resorts. What I didn’t expect was just how diverse the island would be. One day we were hiking through native forest to a breathtaking viewpoint, the next we were wandering around colorful Hindu temples, exploring the lively streets of Port Louis, or relaxing on a beach with hardly anyone else around.

Over two weeks, we drove all around Mauritius, visiting the island’s best-known attractions as well as a few places that rarely make it into the typical travel guides. Some completely lived up to the hype, while others became our favorites simply because they were so peaceful and uncrowded.

This guide brings together the places we enjoyed the most. If you’re planning your first trip to Mauritius, these are the destinations I’d recommend adding to your itinerary.

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1. Cap Malheureux 

Cap Malheureux is one of my absolute favorite places to visit in Mauritius. Located just a short drive from Grand Baie, this charming fishing village feels like a world away from the island’s busier resorts. It’s the perfect escape if you’re looking for a quieter side of Mauritius.

Its name means “Cape Misfortune,” referring either to the many shipwrecks that once occurred along its rocky coastline or to the French defeat by the British here in the 18th century. Fortunately, there’s nothing unfortunate about visiting this beautiful corner of the island today.

The village’s most recognizable landmark is the iconic Notre-Dame Auxiliatrice Church, better known as the Red Roof Church. Step inside for a moment of tranquility before walking down to the picturesque pier, where you’ll be rewarded with postcard-worthy views of the bright red church overlooking the turquoise lagoon, with Coin de Mire Island rising in the background.

Take a few extra minutes to stroll around the waterfront or relax beneath the shade of the nearby trees. It’s one of those places where there’s not much to do. Yet that’s exactly what makes it so special.

When we visited, we had the village almost entirely to ourselves. Sitting quietly by the water, with nothing but the sound of the waves and fishing boats nearby, turned out to be one of our favorite moments in Mauritius.

2. Mon Choisy Beach

Located on the northwest coast of Mauritius, Mon Choisy Beach is one of the island’s longest and most beautiful beaches. With its calm, crystal-clear water and powdery white sand, it’s the perfect place to spend a relaxing day swimming, sunbathing, or simply enjoying the tropical scenery.

One of the things we loved most about Mon Choisy is the long row of Casuarina trees stretching along the beach, providing plenty of natural shade throughout the day.

Despite being one of the most popular beaches in Mauritius, there’s so much space that it’s usually easy to find your own quiet spot, especially if you walk a little farther from the main parking area.

We visited during the week, so the beach was incredibly quiet. On weekends, though, Mon Choisy becomes a favorite picnic spot for local families. You’ll also find a few food stalls under the Casuarina trees selling fresh fruit, grilled seafood, and other local snacks.

3. Trou aux Biches Beach

Sunsets don’t get much better than this. Just south of Mon Choisy, Trou aux Biches is another beach that deserves a place on any Mauritius itinerary. This long stretch of soft white sand is famous for its calm, turquoise waters, making it one of the best beaches on the island for swimming, snorkeling, and families traveling with children.

Although it’s one of the most popular beaches in Mauritius, Trou aux Biches never felt overcrowded during our visit. The beach is wide enough that you can always find a peaceful place to relax, while the crystal-clear water is so inviting that it’s hard to resist jumping in.

We ended our afternoon here watching the sun slowly sink into the Indian Ocean as colorful fishing boats gently floated offshore. Before leaving, we grabbed a few local snacks from one of the nearby food stalls. The perfect way to end the day.

4. The Capital City of Port Louis

No list of the best places to visit in Mauritius would be complete without Port Louis, the island’s lively capital. While many travelers pass through on their way to the beaches, it’s well worth spending at least half a day here to experience a completely different side of Mauritius.

I recommend starting your visit at Le Caudan Waterfront. From there, it’s an easy walk to the Blue Penny Museum, the Aapravasi Ghat, and the lively Central Market.

But don’t spend your entire visit ticking attractions off a list. Some of our favorite moments in Port Louis came from simply wandering around without a plan.

We loved walking through the old streets, browsing small local shops, stopping for street food, and seeing a completely different side of Mauritius than the one we’d experienced on the beaches.

Port Louis ended up being one of our biggest surprises on the island, and we enjoyed it so much that I wrote a dedicated guide with all the best things to do, where to eat, and a few practical tips for planning your visit. You can read my comprehensive article HERE.

If you prefer to let others do the work, consider joining a Port Louis guided tour. Uncover the northwest coast of Mauritius on a full-day tour of Port Louis and the beautiful Sir Seewoosagur Ramgoolam Botanical Garden. You’ll get the chance to visit a sugar factory and discover the unique Cap Malheureux.

5. Albion

Most visitors drive straight past Albion and that’s exactly why we loved it. This small coastal village on the west coast offers dramatic cliffs, a quiet beach, and a much more relaxed atmosphere than nearby Flic en Flac or Grand Baie.

The area’s most recognizable landmark is the white Albion Lighthouse, perched on the cliffs overlooking the Indian Ocean. It’s one of the best viewpoints on this side of the island, especially around sunset, when the rugged coastline is bathed in warm golden light.

Just a short drive away, Albion Beach is much quieter than many of Mauritius’ better-known beaches. The calm water makes it a great spot for a swim or a bit of snorkeling. It’s also the kind of place where you can just lay down your towel and enjoy a few peaceful hours by the ocean.

6. Flic en Flac

Flic en Flac has a completely different vibe from places like Le Morne or Albion. During the day, it’s all about the long sandy beach and the calm lagoon, while in the evening the restaurants, bars, and cafés fill up with both locals and tourists.

If you’re looking for somewhere to combine beach time with a livelier atmosphere, this is one of the best places to visit in Mauritius.

The town’s biggest highlight is Flic en Flac Public Beach, a long stretch of golden sand bordered by turquoise water and rows of Casuarina trees. With the mountains rising in the distance, it’s the kind of beach where you can easily spend an entire day swimming, reading a book in the shade, or simply enjoying the view.

Once the sun goes down, Flic en Flac comes alive. The beachfront is lined with restaurants, bars, and cafés serving everything from fresh seafood and traditional Mauritian dishes to international cuisine. Whether you’re after a relaxed dinner or a cocktail by the ocean, you’ll find plenty of options.

Before leaving, take some time to browse the local souvenir shops and small markets. They’re great places to pick up Mauritian rum, locally grown tea, spices, or handmade gifts to bring home.

7. Le Morne Peninsula

If Mauritius had a postcard, this would probably be on it.

With its powdery white sand, crystal-clear lagoon, and the dramatic silhouette of Le Morne Brabant rising in the background, it’s one of the most breathtaking places to visit in Mauritius.

Despite its popularity, the beach never felt crowded during our visit. The calm lagoon, protected by an offshore coral reef, is perfect for swimming and snorkeling. The southern end of the beach attracts kite surfers thanks to its stronger winds and waves.

Towering 556 meters above the coastline, Le Morne Brabant is much more than a spectacular backdrop. Recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the mountain played an important role in Mauritian history and is one of the island’s most iconic landmarks.

If you’re up for a challenge, hiking to the summit is one of the most rewarding experiences in Mauritius. The trail is relatively straightforward at first, but the final section involves a steep scramble over rocks, so many visitors choose to join a guided hike for both safety and to learn more about the mountain’s fascinating history.

8. Ile Aux Benitier 

It probably sounds like I have a new favorite place every few paragraphs, but Île aux Bénitiers truly deserves a spot near the top of the list. Just a short boat ride from the mainland, this small island offers some of the most spectacular views of Le Morne Brabant and the turquoise lagoon surrounding it.

The best way to experience Île aux Bénitiers is on a catamaran or speedboat excursion. Most tours include the chance to spot dolphins, a stop at the famous Crystal Rock, free time on the island, and a delicious BBQ lunch served on board or on the beach. This is the catamaran tour we booked and would happily recommend. It was easily one of the highlights of our Mauritius itinerary.

Once you arrive on the island, don’t stay near the main docking area. Walk a little farther along the beach and you’ll quickly find quieter stretches of sand where you can relax, swim in the crystal-clear water, and simply enjoy the incredible scenery.

9. Gris Gris Beach

Mauritius is famous for its calm lagoons, but Gris Gris shows you the island’s wild side. Without the protection of a coral reef, the Indian Ocean crashes directly against the cliffs, creating some of the island’s most dramatic coastal scenery.

We happened to visit on a gloomy, overcast day, and honestly, the weather made the experience even more memorable. Sitting on a bench overlooking the ocean with a cup of coffee in hand, watching enormous waves slam into the cliffs, felt almost hypnotic.

A short path leads down to the beach, where you can walk along the golden sand while listening to the roar of the ocean. From there, continue to La Roche Qui Pleure (“The Crying Rock”), a spectacular viewpoint where the crashing waves create one of the most impressive natural landscapes in Mauritius.

Although swimming isn’t safe here because of the strong currents, Gris Gris is absolutely worth adding to your Mauritius itinerary if you’re exploring the island’s south coast.

10. Grand Bassin

After spending days exploring beaches, visiting Grand Bassin felt like discovering a completely different side of Mauritius. Also known as Ganga Talao, this sacred crater lake is the island’s most important Hindu pilgrimage site and offers a fascinating glimpse into Mauritius’ cultural and religious diversity.

Located around 550 meters above sea level, the peaceful lake is surrounded by colorful temples, shrines, and impressive Hindu statues. The first thing you’ll notice is the towering 33-meter statue of Lord Shiva standing proudly at the entrance, followed by the equally impressive statue of Goddess Durga across the road.

Take your time walking around the lake and soaking up the peaceful atmosphere. You’ll often see worshippers making offerings and families feeding the fish. You’ll also notice curious monkeys wandering through the temple grounds, so keep an eye on your belongings.

If you decide to visit, remember that this is an active place of worship. Dress modestly and remove your shoes before entering any of the temples as a sign of respect.

11. Chamarel Waterfall and Seven-Colored Earth

If you’re exploring southwest Mauritius, don’t miss Chamarel. Home to the island’s highest waterfall and the famous Seven-Colored Earth, it’s one of the best places to experience Mauritius’ volcanic landscapes.

Plunging nearly 100 meters into a lush green gorge, Chamarel Waterfall is the tallest waterfall in Mauritius. The first viewpoint is just a short walk from the parking area, but continue a little farther for an even better perspective over the falls and the surrounding rainforest.

If you’re feeling adventurous, it’s also possible to hike down to the base of the waterfall. The trail involves several river crossings and scrambling over rocks, so hiring a guide is highly recommended.

Just a few minutes away, you’ll find one of Mauritius’ most unusual natural attractions: the Seven-Colored Earth. Formed by the weathering of volcanic rock over thousands of years, these rolling sand dunes display shades of red, brown, purple, blue, and yellow that seem to change depending on the light. It’s a unique landscape unlike anything else we saw on the island.

12. Ebony Forest

Looking for a place that most visitors completely overlook? Ebony Forest was one of the biggest surprises of our trip to Mauritius and remains one of my favorite places on the island.

Located close to Chamarel, this protected nature reserve shows a completely different side of Mauritius. Instead of beaches and lagoons, you’ll hike through native ebony forest before reaching incredible viewpoints overlooking Le Morne Brabant, Île aux Bénitiers, and the west coast.

There are three ways to reach Sublime Point. The easiest is by shuttle, while the second follows the steep access road on foot.

We chose the forest trail, and I’d happily do it again. Along the way, we spotted giant tortoises, colorful birds, geckos, and even a few monkeys, making the walk just as memorable as the viewpoint itself.

When we finally reached Sublime Point, we understood why everyone talks about it. The view stretches across the coastline, with Le Morne rising above the turquoise lagoon in the distance.

Out of all the viewpoints we visited in Mauritius, this was one of our favorites. Not only because of the incredible scenery, but also because we shared it with only a handful of other people.

13. Mahebourg

If you’re curious to see a more authentic side of Mauritius, make time for Mahébourg. Located on the island’s southeast coast, this charming seaside town was Mauritius’s first capital and still feels refreshingly local compared to the island’s more touristy areas.

We loved wandering through its quiet streets, colorful market, and relaxed waterfront, where life moves at a much slower pace. It was a nice change after visiting some of the busier beach towns on the west coast.

Start your visit at the lively Mahebourg Market to experience everyday Mauritian life. Then take a stroll along the waterfront, where a wooden pier offers beautiful views across the bay, especially around sunrise.

If you’re interested in the island’s history, don’t miss the National History Museum, where you’ll find exhibits about Mauritius’ colonial past, including remains of the extinct dodo and giant tortoises.

Another stop worth making is Biscuiterie Rault, where traditional cassava biscuits are still made entirely by hand using methods that have barely changed in generations.

If you have extra time, finish your day with a swim at nearby Blue Bay Beach.

And if you’re planning to explore the town in more detail, I’ve also written a complete guide to the best things to do in Mahebourg.

14. Île aux Cerfs

If there’s one piece of advice I’d give anyone visiting Île aux Cerfs, it’s this: don’t stop where everyone else does. Most visitors spend their time near the restaurants and water sports area, but the island becomes much quieter if you keep walking along the shoreline.

That’s exactly what we did, and before long we found ourselves on almost empty stretches of white sand with crystal-clear water all around.

Getting there is part of the experience. We joined a catamaran cruise, which included snorkeling, a BBQ lunch, and plenty of time to explore the island at our own pace. It turned out to be one of our favorite days in Mauritius.

Whether you prefer relaxing on the beach or trying one of the many water sports available, Île aux Cerfs is absolutely worth adding to your itinerary. If you’re interested, this is the catamaran tour we booked and would happily recommend.

15. Belle Mare Beach

Belle Mare was one of the quietest beaches we visited in Mauritius. Stretching along the island’s east coast, this long strip of white sand never felt crowded, making it the perfect place to slow down for a few hours.

The calm, turquoise lagoon is protected by a coral reef, which meants it’s ideal for swimming and snorkeling. If you’re not planning to get in the water, simply find a spot beneath the Casuarina trees and enjoy the peaceful surroundings. It’s the kind of beach where time seems to pass a little slower.

One thing we didn’t expect to find was a small Hindu shrine near the end of the beach. A local who was looking after the site showed us around and explained its significance.

If you’re looking for a quieter alternative to some of Mauritius’ more popular beaches, I wouldn’t hesitate to recommend Belle Mare.

Other Places Worth Adding to Your Mauritius Itinerary

Although we visited many more places during our two weeks in Mauritius, the 15 destinations above are the ones we’d recommend to first-time visitors. If you have more time, here are a few additional places worth adding to your itinerary.

Bois Chéri Tea Plantation (The Tea Route). If you’re interested in Mauritius’ tea-growing heritage, follow the Tea Route to Bois Chéri. You’ll learn how tea is produced, sample a variety of local blends, and enjoy beautiful views over the surrounding plantations.

La Vanille Nature Park. Located in southern Mauritius, this wildlife park is best known for its giant Aldabra tortoises and Nile crocodiles. It’s a great stop for families or anyone wanting to see some of the island’s unique wildlife up close.

Sir Seewoosagur Ramgoolam Botanical Garden (Pamplemousses Botanical Garden). One of the oldest botanical gardens in the Southern Hemisphere, it’s famous for its enormous giant water lilies, towering palms, and impressive collection of tropical plants from around the world.

Black River Gorges National Park. If you enjoy hiking, don’t miss Mauritius’ largest national park. Its network of trails leads through native rainforest, waterfalls, scenic viewpoints, and habitats for many of the island’s endemic birds and plants.

Map of the Best Places to Visit in Mauritius

Underneath, you’ll find a customized map of the best places to visit in Mauritius. Just open up this article on your phone and click on the frame in the upper right corner of this map. The Google Maps app will open, and you can check all the details. I hope it helps!

Suggested 5-Day Mauritius Itinerary

If you’re visiting Mauritius for the first time, here’s how I’d group these places into a logical 5-day road trip around the island.

Start with Day 1 on the North Coast: Cap Malheureux, Mon Choisy Beach, Trou aux Biches Beach, and Port Louis.

On Day 2, explore the West Coast: Flic en Flac, Le Morne Peninsula, and a catamaran trip to Île aux Bénitiers.

Day 3 takes you to Southwest Mauritius: Chamarel Waterfall, Seven-Colored Earth, and Ebony Forest.

For Day 4, head south: Grand Bassin, Gris Gris Beach, and Mahébourg.

Wrap up your trip on Day 5 along the East Coast: Île aux Cerfs and Belle Mare Beach.

If you have 7–10 days, I’d recommend slowing down and spending more time on each coast instead of trying to see everything in just five days.

FAQ

What are the best places to visit in Mauritius?

Some of the best places to visit in Mauritius include Le Morne Peninsula, Île aux Bénitiers, Chamarel Waterfall, Seven-Colored Earth, Grand Bassin, Port Louis, and the beautiful beaches of Mon Choisy, Trou aux Biches, and Belle Mare. If it’s your first trip, I’d recommend combining a few cultural attractions with the island’s stunning beaches and natural landscapes.

What is the most beautiful place in Mauritius?

If I had to choose just one, I’d pick Le Morne Peninsula. The combination of the iconic Le Morne Brabant Mountain, the turquoise lagoon, and the long white-sand beach creates one of the most spectacular landscapes on the island.

How many days do you need in Mauritius?

I’d recommend spending at least 7 to 10 days in Mauritius. That gives you enough time to explore the different regions of the island, relax on the beaches, and enjoy activities like hiking, snorkeling, or a catamaran trip without feeling rushed.

Do you need a car in Mauritius?

While it’s possible to get around by bus or taxi, renting a car is by far the best way to explore Mauritius. It gives you the flexibility to visit viewpoints, beaches, waterfalls, and smaller villages that are difficult to reach using public transport.

Which side of Mauritius is the best?

Each coast offers something different. The north is great for beaches and nightlife, the west is ideal for sunsets and calm waters, the south is known for its dramatic cliffs and wild scenery, while the east has some of the island’s quietest and most beautiful beaches.

Is Mauritius worth visiting?

Absolutely. Mauritius offers far more than just luxury resorts. During our two weeks on the island, we discovered spectacular beaches, lush mountains, waterfalls, colorful temples, charming towns, and some of the friendliest people we’ve met while traveling.

What should I not miss in Mauritius?

If it’s your first visit, I wouldn’t miss Le Morne Peninsula, a catamaran trip to Île aux Bénitiers or Île aux Cerfs, Chamarel Waterfall, Seven-Colored Earth, Grand Bassin, and at least one afternoon exploring Port Louis. 

Final Thoughts on the Best Places to Visit in Mauritius

From postcard-perfect beaches and dramatic coastlines to vibrant towns and sacred sites, Mauritius truly offers something for every kind of traveler. Whether you’re chasing sunsets, exploring hidden gems, or simply soaking in the laid-back island life, this small island is packed with unforgettable experiences.

Narrowing down the best places to visit in Mauritius wasn’t easy. But I hope this list helps you craft your perfect itinerary.

If you’re dreaming of a trip that blends relaxation, adventure, and soul-stirring landscapes, Mauritius might just steal your heart like it did ours. If you have questions or want to share your favorite places in Mauritius, feel free to drop a comment. I’d love to hear from you!

Also, feel free to check out my other articles:

TOP 10 BEST TOURS IN MAURITIUS (SELF-GUIDED OR GUIDED)

10 UNIQUE PLACES TO VISIT IN MAHÉBOURG, MAURITIUS

A QUICK GUIDE TO VISITING PORT LOUIS IN MAURITIUS

15 EXCITING THINGS TO DO IN GRAND BAIE, MAURITIUS

TOP 10 BEST BEACHES IN MAURITIUS YOU NEED TO VISIT

TOP 10 PLACES TO VISIT IN SOUTH MAURITIUS FOR FIRST TIMERS