Where to Stay in Mauritius: 4 Best Areas & Hotels

This blog may contain affiliate links. Read our disclosure policy for more info.

Planning a trip to Mauritius and not sure where to stay? You’re in the right place!

This island in the Indian Ocean is famous for its white-sand beaches and luxury resorts, but there’s a lot more to it than just fly-and-flop holidays. It also offers lush mountains, waterfalls, lively beach towns, and some incredible boat trips out to offshore islands.

With so much on offer, the tricky part is choosing where to base yourself! Each coast has a completely different feel, and where you stay can really shape your trip. In this guide, we’ll break down the best areas to stay in Mauritius and share our favourite hotels for every budget.

Where to Stay in Mauritius Map

Overview of the Best Areas to Stay in Mauritius 

Mauritius is an island paradise that really does have it all. It’s most famous for its white-sand beaches and turquoise lagoons, but you’ve also got lush mountain scenery and secret waterfalls, as well as gorgeous offshore islands to explore. 

Where you stay here makes a big difference, as each coast has its own feel. The North Coast is usually the best choice for first-time visitors thanks to its lively atmosphere and range of beaches. The West Coast is great if you want a mix of beach time and fun activities, while over on the East Coast, things are quieter and more resort-focused. Last but not least, the South Coast is the most rugged and least developed, which is ideal if you want dramatic scenery and a less touristy feel. 

The island of Mauritius is small enough for day trips, but it’s not the kind of place where you can just pick one base and walk everywhere. We rented a car to explore the island, and it made life a lot easier, although there are plenty of taxis and tours available. There are public buses, too, but they can be a bit tricky for first-timers to navigate. It’s also worth noting that the east and south tend to be windier, while the north and west are generally calmer and more sheltered.

• North Coast – Best for first-time visitors – The most popular and lively part of the island, with calm beaches, plenty of restaurants, and easy access to day trips. Domaine de Grand Baie is a great mid-range base here.

• West Coast – Best for families & beach lovers – This area is known for its long sandy beaches and epic sunsets! La Mariposa Mauritius is a lovely hotel right by the water.

• East Coast – Best for couples & quiet luxury – This peaceful stretch of coastline is home to lots of lovely resorts, as well as beautiful lagoons and fewer crowds. SALT of Palmar is a stylish adults-only boutique hotel with lots of activities on offer.

• South Coast – Best for nature & wild landscapes – This is the most rugged part of Mauritius, and it offers dramatic scenery and a more off-the-beaten-track feel. Tamassa Bel Ombre is a well-priced all-inclusive resort with everything you need (and more).

Where to Stay in Mauritius

North Coast 

BEST FOR FIRST-TIME VISITORS

Pros

• Calm, sheltered beaches that are great for swimming
• Wide choice of restaurants, shops, and nightlife

Cons

• Can feel busy and more touristy, especially around Grand Baie
• Fewer dramatic landscapes compared to the south or west

The North Coast is usually the best place to stay in Mauritius if it’s your first visit. It’s the most developed part of the island, with a great mix of beaches, restaurants, and things to do. The area stretches around Grand Baie and includes smaller coastal towns and villages, all connected by a string of calm, turquoise lagoons.

In fact, Grand Baie itself is the hub of the north. What was once a quiet fishing village has grown into a lively resort town filled with cafés, boutiques, beach bars, and a smattering of nightlife. It’s one of the few places on the island where you’ll find that busier, social atmosphere, especially in the evenings. That said, you’re never far away from quieter spots, and just a short drive takes you to more relaxed beaches and traditional fishing villages.

Some of the most popular beaches in this area include Mont Choisy, with its long stretch of sand, and Pereybere, which is great for swimming thanks to its calm waters. The north is also a good base for boat trips to nearby islets and snorkelling spots. All in all, we think that this area is a great all-rounder, with something to offer most travellers.

LUX* Grand Baie Resort & Residences – $$$$

LUX* Grand Baie Resort & Residences is easily one of the most stylish luxury stays in Mauritius, set right on the beachfront in the heart of Grand Baie. The whole place feels very modern and trendy, with open spaces and a bit of a beach club atmosphere. It definitely has a more social, contemporary edge compared to some of the island’s more traditional resorts.

The rooms and residences are spacious and beautifully done, and there’s a strong focus on lifestyle here, from the rooftop infinity pool to the lively beach club and excellent dining options. You’re also within easy reach of Grand Baie’s restaurants and nightlife, which makes it a great choice if you want a luxury stay that still feels connected to the action. Rooms here typically start at around $600 USD per night.

Check availability and book your stay here!

If LUX* Grand Baie Resort & Residences is fully booked,  Seapoint Boutique Hotel is a quieter, adults-only option set slightly away from the main buzz. It has a more intimate feel and is ideal if you prefer a peaceful beachfront stay.

Paradise Cove Boutique Hotel is another great pick located on the northern tip near Anse la Raie. It’s especially popular with couples thanks to its secluded coves and more romantic atmosphere.

LUX* Grand Gaube Resort & Villas – $$$

LUX* Grand Gaube Resort & Villas offers a more laid-back take on luxury, set on a peaceful peninsula just outside the busier Grand Baie area. The setting feels more secluded, with calm waters on both sides of the resort and views across to the northern islands.

The resort has a slightly more playful style, with multiple restaurants and plenty of space to spread out. It’s a great option if you want a balance between relaxation and activity, with water sports and easy access to the north’s main sights. Rooms here typically start from around $350 USD per night.

Get the best prices by booking in advance here!

Another top choice, Mauricia Beachcomber Resort & Spa is a lively beachfront option right in Grand Baie with a fun, social atmosphere. It’s a great choice if you want to be within walking distance of restaurants and bars.

Veranda Grand Baie Hotel & Spa is also a solid backup nearby with a more relaxed feel. It offers good value for money and an easy location close to shops and the beach.

Domaine de Grand Baie – $$

We think that Domaine de Grand Baie is a great mid-range option if you’re looking for something a little more flexible than a traditional resort stay. Located just outside the main beachfront area, it offers modern apartment-style accommodation in a quieter setting. 

The apartments are spacious and well-designed, with a clean, contemporary feel, and lots of natural light. We think that the property’s relaxed atmosphere is perfect for longer stays. Plus, you’re just a short drive from Grand Baie’s beaches, restaurants, and boat trips, so it’s a practical base for exploring. Rooms typically start from around $180 USD per night.

Find the best prices and book your stay here!

If Domaine de Grand Baie is unavailable, Mon Choisy Beach Resort is a fantastic alternative located right by one of the best beaches in the north. It also has a stunning beachfront pool that I would happily spend all day in! 

Coin de Mire Attitude is another lovely option set near Cap Malheureux with a bit more of a local feel and beachy, tropical decor. It’s a good choice if you want to stay somewhere quieter while still having access to the north’s main sights.

West Coast

BEST FOR FAMILIES & BEACH LOVERS

Pros

• Long sandy beaches with calm water, great for swimming
• Plenty of activities, from boat trips to national parks

Cons

• Some areas can feel more built-up and resort-heavy
• Less of the “untouched” feel you’ll find on the south coast

The West Coast is often called the sunset coast, and once you watch the sun go down here, you’ll totally understand why. With unobstructed ocean views and colorful evening skies, this place offers some of the best sunsets we’ve ever seen, anywhere in the world – and at this point, that’s really saying something. 

This stretch of coastline runs from Port Louis down to the dramatic Le Morne Peninsula and features numerous beautiful beaches and pristine lagoons. It’s also a very popular area with families thanks to its wide, swimmable beaches and range of activities. Flic-en-Flac is one of the main hubs, known for its long sandy shoreline, relaxed vibe, and mix of resorts, restaurants, and casual street food spots. Tamarin is another popular town, and we like it for its more local feel and the fact that it’s a prime place to spot dolphins! 

Beyond the beaches, the West Coast is also a great base for exploring inland. You’re close to Black River Gorges National Park, where you’ll find hiking trails, waterfalls, and some of the island’s best mountain scenery. Then, at the southern end, Le Morne Brabant is one of Mauritius’ most iconic landmarks – we definitely recommend hiking it if you get the chance.

Sands Suites Resort & Spa – $$$

Sands Suites Resort & Spa is a relaxed beachfront resort located on the quieter end of Flic-en-Flac, with beautiful views across the lagoon towards Le Morne. The setting feels peaceful and slightly more secluded, which makes it a great choice if you want a calmer stay while still being close to the main area.

The suites are spacious and comfortable, and the resort has a laid-back feel with direct beach access and a good range of dining options, plus a giant swimming pool. It’s a solid pick for couples or families who want a classic beachfront stay without the crowds of larger resorts. Rooms here typically start from around $320 USD per night.

Check availability and book your stay here!

If Sands Suites Resort & Spa is sold out for your travel dates, Hilton Mauritius Resort & Spa is another great beachfront option in Flic-en-Flac with more facilities and a larger resort feel. It’s a good choice if you want more dining options and activities in one place.

Labourdonnais Waterfront Hotel in Port Louis is another good alternative if you prefer being closer to the capital, with a modern setting right on the waterfront. It’s fun and lively, with five different restaurants on site and easy access to Port Louis’ best bars, shops, and day trips. 

La Mariposa Mauritius – $$

La Mariposa Mauritius is a charming hotel set right on the beachfront in the Black River area, with incredible views of Le Morne in the distance. It has a smaller, more relaxed feel than larger resorts, making it a great choice if you want something low-key but stylish and scenic.

The rooms are simple but comfortable, and the real highlight is the location, with direct beach access and a peaceful atmosphere throughout. It’s also well placed for exploring both Flic-en-Flac and the natural attractions of the southwest. Rooms typically start from around $250 USD per night.

Find the best prices and book your stay here!

Anelia Resort & Spa in nearby Flic-en-Flac is another great mid-range option with a beachfront setting and good facilities, including a gorgeous tropical spa. It’s slightly larger and offers more on-site amenities for a resort-style stay.

Villa Anakao Mauritius – $

Villa Anakao Mauritius is a small, budget-friendly stay just outside Port Louis, offering a quieter, more local experience than the main beach resorts. The property has a simple, laid-back atmosphere with a small pool and views over the water.

The rooms are basic but comfortable, and it’s a good option if you’re looking to keep costs down while still being within reach of the West Coast’s main attractions. It also works well as a base if you plan to explore both the beaches and the capital. Prices here usually start at around $100 USD per night.

Check availability and book your stay here!

Another affordable option to consider in Flic-en-Flac is Gosun Beach Hotel. It offers simple rooms close to the beach with cute, Boho decor, and it’s a convenient base for enjoying the West Coast without stretching your budget.

East Coast

BEST FOR COUPLES & QUIET LUXURY

Pros

• Peaceful beaches with fewer crowds and a more secluded feel
• Beautiful lagoons and luxury resorts with plenty of space

Cons

• Can be windier, especially during the winter months
• Fewer restaurants and things to do outside of resorts

The East Coast of Mauritius is all about space, calm, and a slower pace. It’s less developed than the north and west, which means you’ll find long stretches of white-sand beaches and wide lagoons with way fewer people around. If you’re planning a romantic trip or just want to switch off for a few days, this is one of the best places to stay.

This side of the island is known for its luxury resorts, many of which are spread out along the coastline with direct beach access and plenty of privacy. Belle Mare is one of the main areas to explore here, with a beautiful beach that stretches for miles, while nearby villages like Trou d’Eau Douce offer a glimpse of local life and serve as a departure point for boat trips to Île aux Cerfs.

You’ll also find the historic town of Mahebourg further south, which has a more local feel and some interesting cultural sights. One thing to keep in mind is that the East Coast tends to be breezier due to winds from the Indian Ocean. This can be refreshing in hotter months, but it’s something to consider depending on the time of year.

Constance Belle Mare Plage – $$$

Constance Belle Mare Plage is a large beachfront resort set along one of the most beautiful stretches of sand on the East Coast. The property has a classic resort feel with expansive grounds, four pools, and direct access to a long, swimmable beach. We especially love the beachfront cabanas, which were basically made for Instagram!

There’s plenty to do here, from water sports to golf on two championship courses, which makes it a great option if you want a mix of relaxation and activities. Despite its size, it still manages to feel calm and spacious, especially along the beachfront areas.

You can also opt to go all-inclusive here, which is the perfect way to get the most out of the variety of stylish on-site restaurants. Rooms here typically start from around $400 USD per night.

Check availability and book your stay here!

If Constance Belle Mare Plage is fully booked, C Mauritius in Belle Mare is a top-rated option with a fun and relaxed atmosphere. It’s beautiful and offers first-class fitness facilities, Insta-worthy beachfront swings, and lovely tropical decor.

Seasense Boutique Hotel & Spa is another lovely alternative located along the same stretch of coast with a more intimate, adults-only feel. It’s ideal for couples looking for a quieter and more romantic setting.

SALT of Palmar – $$

SALT of Palmar is one of the most unique mid-range stays in Mauritius, with a bold, design-led style that really stands out. The hotel has a strong focus on local experiences and sustainability, which gives it a more personal and thoughtful feel compared to larger resorts.

The atmosphere is relaxed and social, and it’s particularly popular with couples looking for something a bit different from the typical resort setup. It’s set right by the beach in Belle Mare, so you still get that classic Mauritius setting, just with a more modern twist. Rooms typically start from around $200 USD per night.

Find the best prices and book your stay here!

Another great option, slightly further north, is Radisson Blu Poste Lafayette Resort & Spa. It’s adults-only and has a more classic resort feel with good on-site facilities and a peaceful beachfront setting.

Tropical Attitude in Trou d’Eau Douce is also a charming alternative with a laid-back vibe and a focus on local experiences. It’s also well placed for boat trips to Île aux Cerfs, which is a big highlight in this part of the island.

South Coast

BEST FOR NATURE & WILD LANDSCAPES

Pros

• Dramatic scenery with cliffs, mountains, and fewer crowds
• More authentic, less developed feel compared to other coasts

Cons

• Fewer swimmable beaches due to stronger waves
• Limited restaurants and activities outside of resorts

The South Coast of Mauritius feels completely different from the rest of the island. It’s the most rugged and untamed region, with dramatic cliffs, crashing waves, and wide open landscapes that give it a more off-the-beaten-track feel. It really took our breath away! If you’re looking for something quieter and a bit more raw, this is a great place to stay.

This part of the island is better suited to nature lovers and anyone who wants to explore beyond the typical beach resort experience. You won’t find as many calm lagoons here, but the scenery more than makes up for it. For us, a major highlight in this area was hiking the towering Le Morne Brabant, a UNESCO-listed mountain with incredible views. We also loved exploring the wild coastline around Gris Gris near Souillac and watching the waves crash loudly against the cliffs.

We’ve also included the southwest corner in this section, as it shares a similar feel but with a few more resort options. Bel Ombre is one of the main areas here, known for its golf courses and beachfront resorts, while still feeling quiet and spacious. Overall, the South Coast offers a more natural and less polished side of Mauritius.

Dinarobin Beachcomber Golf Resort & Spa – $$$$ 

Dinarobin Beachcomber Golf Resort & Spa is one of the most luxurious stays on the island, set at the foot of Le Morne Brabant with one of the most dramatic backdrops in Mauritius. The beachfront here is stunning, with calm waters compared to other parts of the south and a long stretch of sand that feels peaceful and uncrowded.

The resort has a refined, tranquil atmosphere with spacious suites, multiple pools, and access to excellent golf facilities nearby. It’s a fantastic choice if you want a high-end stay that still feels connected to nature. Rooms here typically start from around $600 USD per night during peak season.

Check availability and book your stay here!

If Dinarobin Beachcomber Golf Resort & Spa is sold out for your dates, LUX* Le Morne Resort is a beautiful beachfront option set right at the base of the mountain with a relaxed luxury feel. It’s serene and modern, with four restaurants and five swimming pools – what more could you want?

Shanti Maurice Resort & Spa in Bel Ombre is another excellent alternative with a focus on wellness and spacious villas. It’s ideal if you’re looking for something quieter and more secluded on the south coast.

Heritage Le Telfair Golf & Wellness Resort – $$$ 

Heritage Le Telfair Golf & Wellness Resort is an elegant beachfront resort in Bel Ombre, inspired by classic plantation-style architecture. The setting feels spacious and refined, with wide lawns, palm trees, and direct access to a quiet stretch of beach. Families are welcome, but there’s an adults-only wing with exclusive perks for those traveling without kids.

The resort is part of a larger estate, which means you also have access to golf courses, nature reserves, and a range of activities nearby. It’s a great option if you want a polished stay with plenty to do while still enjoying the quieter side of the island. Rooms here typically start from around $400 USD per night.

Get the best prices by booking in advance here!

Tamassa Bel Ombre – $$

Tamassa Bel Ombre is a lively beachfront resort set in tropical gardens on the quieter south coast, with a fun atmosphere and great value for money. The property has a more social feel than some of the area’s luxury resorts, with a large pool, direct beach access, and plenty of space to relax.

Rooms are modern and comfortable, and there’s a good range of dining options across the Bel Ombre estate, which adds a bit of variety during your stay. You’ve also got access to activities like snorkelling and water sports – in fact, you can even do your PADI diving certification here! 

Rooms typically start from around $250 USD per night during peak season.

Read the great reviews and book your stay here!

Top Activities to Do in Mauritius

Now that you’ve picked out your favorite area and hotel, it’s time to start planning your itinerary! While beach time is always tempting in Mauritius, there’s so much more to experience beyond the shoreline. These are the activities we wouldn’t skip!

• Sail to Île aux Cerfs – Sailing along the east coast with turquoise water and mountain views made this catamaran cruise to Île aux Cerfs one of our favorite days in Mauritius. Between snorkeling stops, unlimited drinks, and a BBQ lunch (definitely upgrade to crayfish), this tour felt more like a floating beach day than a typical excursion.

• Hike Le Morne Brabant – Climbing one of the island’s most iconic landmarks made this Le Morne Brabant hike the most rewarding experience of our trip. The final stretch is steep and hands-on, but this tour is worth it for the incredible views and the powerful history behind the mountain.

• Go dolphin and whale watching – Heading out at sunrise is what makes this dolphin and whale watching tour so special, with calmer waters and a better chance of spotting dolphins. Along with wildlife encounters, this tour includes snorkeling, a stop at Crystal Rock, and a BBQ lunch on Île aux Bénitiers.

• Take a southwest Mauritius tour – Seeing beyond the beaches is easy with this southwest Mauritius tour, which covers everything from crater lakes to waterfalls and sacred sites. With private transport included, this tour is a stress-free way to experience one of the most scenic and diverse parts of the island.

• Try a Port Louis street food tour – Exploring the capital through its food made this food tour such a fun and eye-opening experience. With stops at places like Chinatown and the Central Market, this tour lets you taste local favorites like dholl puri and roti while learning how Mauritius’ mix of cultures shaped its cuisine.

Thanks for reading!

Planning a trip to Mauritius can feel overwhelming at first, but once you choose the right coast, everything else falls into place. Whether you want beach days in the north, sunsets on the west, or a quieter escape in the east or south, each area offers something a little different. Just keep in mind that the best hotels sell out fast, especially in peak season. Booking a few months in advance will give you the best options—and save you from scrambling later!

If you’re still mapping out your plans, we’ve got plenty more Africa travel blogs here to help you put together a trip you’ll be talking about long after you leave Mauritius. Or take a look through some of our favorites below for more inspiration!

How to Spend THREE DAYS in Johannesburg, South Africa: 3-Day Itinerary

Where to Stay in Fes: 2 Best Areas & Hotels

How to Spend SEVEN to TEN DAYS in Egypt: 7 to 10-Day Itinerary