Mauritius often feels like a destination pulled straight from a dream—warm turquoise waters, palm-fringed beaches, mountains shaped by volcanic history, and a culture layered with flavours from India, China, Africa, and France. Whether you’re planning a family vacation, a honeymoon, or a solo escape, the island offers a mix of relaxation and adventure that is hard to match.

This guide covers the most loved attractions, beaches, cultural sites, food, outdoor activities, and travel tips, helping you plan the perfect Mauritius holiday.

Top Things to Do in Mauritius

Mauritius may be a small island, but it is packed with beauty and experiences. From coastal drives to mountain hikes, underwater adventures to cultural landmarks, here are the experiences travellers appreciate the most. 

1. Explore the Beaches of Mauritius

You can’t talk about Mauritius without mentioning its beaches—each coast offers something different.

Best Beaches by Region

• East Coast: Belle Mare, Palmar – Wide open beaches, peaceful mornings
• West Coast: Flic en Flac, Tamarin – Perfect for sunsets, snorkelling, dolphin watching
• North Coast: Mont Choisy, Trou aux Biches – Calm waters, ideal for families
• South Coast: Gris Gris, St. Felix – Rugged, wild and less commercial

Some luxury resorts also have private beaches where you can enjoy quiet sunbathing, paddleboarding, or simply listening to the waves with a book in hand.

2. Discover Mauritius’ Colonial History

Mauritius has a fascinating past shaped by Dutch, French, and British rule. Travellers who enjoy culture and architecture will find many places worth visiting.

Must-Visit Historical Sites

• Château de Labourdonnais – Restored 19th-century mansion with gardens and orchards
• Eureka House – A Creole mansion with antique furniture and beautiful rivers nearby
• Aapravasi Ghat – UNESCO site marking the start of indentured labour immigration
• Port Louis Museums and Markets – The Blue Penny Museum, Central Market

A walk through these places gives you a deeper appreciation of how Mauritius became the multi-cultural society it is today.

3. Go Diving or Snorkelling in Mauritius

Mauritius is surrounded by a coral reef system, creating calm lagoons perfect for underwater exploration.

Top Diving Spots

• Flic en Flac (La Cathédrale site) – Cathedral-shaped caves
• Blue Bay Marine Park – Excellent visibility and coral diversity
• Trou Aux Biches – Great for beginners and families

Even if you’re not a certified diver, snorkelling is easy and accessible in many public beaches. The west coast lagoon, in particular, is rich with marine life.

4. Hike the Mountains of Mauritius

Mauritius isn’t only beaches—its volcanic mountains create stunning landscapes for hiking.

Popular Hiking Spots

• Le Morne Brabant – UNESCO site with stunning views from the top
• Black River Gorges National Park – Waterfalls, rare birds, picnic points
• Pieter Both – A unique peak shaped like a human head
• Chamarel Region – Scenic drives, restaurants in the hills, and cool breezes

The famous Seven-Coloured Earth in Chamarel is also a must-see natural wonder.

5. Enjoy Mauritius’ Luxury Resorts

Mauritius is known globally for its exceptional resorts. Many tourists spend entire days inside the resort simply because there is so much to do.

What Resorts Usually Offer

• Private beaches
• Infinity and lagoon-style pools
• Spa and wellness treatments
• Water sports: Kayaking, paddleboarding, snorkelling, boat trips
• Kids clubs
• Multiple restaurants and beachfront dining

Whether you're travelling as a couple or with children, you’ll find a resort designed around your comfort.

6. Taste Mauritius’ Local Food

Mauritian cuisine is one of the most enjoyable parts of the trip. It blends Indian spices, Creole flavours, Chinese cooking styles, and French techniques.

Must-Try Food

• Dholl puri
• Creole rougaille
• Seafood curry
• Fried noodles
• Octopus salad
• Gateau piment
• Fresh grilled fish on the beach

Restaurants like Le Barbizon in Chamarel, local food trucks, and beachfront cafés in Trou aux Biches and Pereybere make food a memorable part of your holiday.

7. Visit the Botanical Gardens

The Sir Seewoosagur Ramgoolam Botanical Garden in Pamplemousses is one of the oldest botanical gardens in the southern hemisphere. It is famous for:

• Giant water lilies
• Rare palm species
• Giant tortoises
• Peaceful shaded walkways
• Historic chateau nearby

It’s a calm place to spend an afternoon, especially for nature lovers.

How to Get Around Mauritius

Best option: Renting a car

Renting a car in Mauritius is the most convenient way to explore the island. It gives you the flexibility to visit hidden beaches, take scenic routes, and make your own schedule.

Why renting a car is recommended

• Budget-friendly compared to daily taxis
• Perfect for families, couples, and long stays
• Easy road network
• Airport and hotel pickup options
• Freedom to explore remote areas

Booking your Mauritius car rental in advance ensures better prices, especially during peak season.

Conclusion



Mauritius is an amalgam of sunny white beaches, blue waters, dramatic mountains, and lagoons, with a culture that is influenced by different countries around the world. The thriving tourism industry is a result of the high-end resorts and spas besides the natural beauty.

This is one of the top destinations for adventures and travelers who come from not only different countries but continents as well. To make the trip more satisfying, it is better to create a plan in advance regarding the places they wish to visit or the expenses they would have. The purpose of this article is to provide information on some such things they can enjoy in Mauritius.