Mauritius has long been a favourite beach destination for South Africans. It’s the perfect beach getaway for families, honeymooners and groups alike. It’s also popular with golfers and other sport and outdoor enthusiasts. This tropical paradise is alive with adventure, sun-soaked activities, warm water, fantastic food and rich culture.
Each side of the island offers its own charm and there’s always been a debate over which coast is best. We believe that all 4 corners of the island are worth a visit and that each side offers its own magical experience.
The south coast is home to some of the island’s most dramatic landscapes – From rugged and rocky coastlines to the beautiful mountain gorges and lush forests with hidden waterfalls. The South is also known to be the quieter side of the island. The South is not yet as commercialized as some of the other coasts and offers only a handful of hotels. The best time to visit southern Mauritius is between September and December. Most visitors avoid the south from June to August as this is when the trade winds are at their strongest.
The South Coast of Mauritius is best for:
The north coast is without a doubt the busier, and more vibrant part of the island, and is home to Grand Baie village which is seen as the hub. This little town has a wonderful tourist atmosphere dotted with restaurants and pubs. Visitors can enjoy local cuisine served ‘street style’, several historical sites and some good bargain shopping. The best time to visit the north of Mauritius is between October and December when temperatures are warm, the skies are predominantly clear, and the trade winds are light, however the North is also protected from the cooler wind in the Winter months (May to September).
The North Coast of Mauritius is known for:
Known as the ‘sunset coast’ for its picturesque sunset views. The west coast offers warmer temperatures in winter months, long beaches fringed with beautiful resorts and is a haven for water sports. This is one of the most popular areas of the island. Temperatures on this side are at their hottest during the island’s summer months from October to April. The north and west coasts are more sheltered than the south and east Coasts during the windy season, making this part of the island ideal for summer holidays most of the year.
The West Coast of Mauritius is best for:
The east coast is both rugged and beautiful and considered more exclusive, as it’s home to some of the islands most luxurious hotels. The stunning white sands of Belle Mare Beach and Ile aux Cerfs make this side of the island very appealing. This corner of the island offers a variety of activities for visitors, so it is a great choice for those who like to explore and get immersed in local life. The east coast of Mauritius is more affected by the trade winds that blow between June and September, which makes sitting out on the beach and snorkelling much less fun. For better weather conditions it is best to visit the east coast between October and May.
The East Coast of Mauritius is best for:
Planning your next trip to Mauritius? Contact Pentravel now or browse our list of Mauritius family holidays and fully-inclusive trips.
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