Planning a trip to Mauritius is exciting, but choosing the right hotel can feel overwhelming. With over 100 hotels scattered across this beautiful island, from ultra-luxury beachfront resorts to charming boutique properties, making the right choice is crucial for your dream vacation.
I've spent years exploring Mauritius and helping travelers find their perfect accommodation. Whether you're planning a romantic honeymoon, a family adventure, or a solo escape, this guide will walk you through everything you need to know to make the best decision.
The Challenge: Why Choosing the Right Hotel Matters
Here's the truth: choosing the wrong hotel can completely derail your Mauritius experience. I've heard countless stories from travelers who made these common mistakes:
- Location disasters: Booking a hotel on the windy east coast during July-September when the weather is rough, or staying in the south when you wanted vibrant nightlife (which is in the north).
- Budget blowouts: Not understanding what's included in your rate and ending up paying double for meals, activities, and transfers you thought were covered.
- Amenity mismatches: Families arriving at adults-only properties, or couples seeking romance ending up at family-focused resorts with kids everywhere.
- Hidden disappointments: Booking based on beautiful photos only to discover the beach is rocky, the pool is tiny, or the rooms are outdated.
The worst part? Many of these mistakes are completely avoidable with the right information. Your hotel choice will determine not just where you sleep, but your entire Mauritius experience – from the beaches you wake up to, the activities available, the food you eat, and even the people you meet.
The Solution: Your 7-Step Hotel Selection Framework
Step 1: Choose Your Perfect Location
Mauritius isn't just one destination – it's four distinct regions, each with its own personality, weather patterns, and attractions. Your location choice will shape your entire experience.
North Coast (Grand Baie, Pereybere)
Best for: Nightlife, shopping, water sports, social atmosphere
Weather: Sheltered from southeast winds, calm seas year-round
Vibe: Lively and cosmopolitan with restaurants, bars, and beach clubs
East Coast (Belle Mare, Trou d'Eau Douce)
Best for: Pristine beaches, tranquility, authentic Mauritius
Weather: Windy June-September, perfect October-May
Vibe: Peaceful and unspoiled with the island's best beaches
West Coast (Flic en Flac, Tamarin)
Best for: Sunsets, dolphin watching, surfing, local culture
Weather: Warm and dry, spectacular sunsets daily
Vibe: Laid-back with a mix of tourists and locals
South Coast (Le Morne, Bel Ombre)
Best for: Luxury, seclusion, dramatic scenery, kitesurfing
Weather: Windier and cooler, ideal for water sports
Vibe: Remote and exclusive with stunning mountain backdrops
Pro tip: If you're visiting during winter (June-September), stick to the north and west coasts. The east and south can be windy and rough during these months. For summer (November-April), any coast is perfect.
Step 2: Set Your Realistic Budget
Mauritius hotels range from €80 to €1,500+ per night. Understanding what you get at each price point helps you make smart decisions without overspending or compromising on essentials.
Budget Hotels (€80-150/night)
Best ValuePerfect for independent travelers and those prioritizing experiences over accommodation. You'll get clean, comfortable rooms with basic amenities.
What's included: Room only or bed & breakfast, basic pool, simple restaurant, beach access
Examples: Tropical Attitude, Friday Attitude, Palms Hotel
Mid-Range Hotels (€150-300/night)
Most PopularThe sweet spot for most travelers. Great facilities, good food, beautiful settings without the luxury price tag.
What's included: Half-board or all-inclusive options, multiple pools, water sports, kids' clubs, evening entertainment
Examples: Preskil Beach Resort, Outrigger Mauritius, Sugar Beach
Luxury Hotels (€300-600/night)
PremiumElevated experiences with exceptional service, gourmet dining, and stunning design. Worth it for special occasions.
What's included: All-inclusive with premium drinks, multiple restaurants, spa access, personalized service, exclusive beach areas
Examples: Long Beach, LUX* Grand Baie, Westin Turtle Bay
Ultra-Luxury Hotels (€600-1,500+/night)
UltimateThe pinnacle of Mauritius hospitality. Impeccable service, world-class dining, and unforgettable experiences.
What's included: Everything imaginable – butler service, private pools, Michelin-level dining, exclusive excursions, spa treatments
Examples: Royal Palm Beachcomber, One&Only Le Saint Géran, Shangri-La Le Touessrok
Money-saving secret: Book half-board (breakfast + dinner) instead of all-inclusive at mid-range hotels. You'll save 20-30% and can explore local restaurants for lunch. All-inclusive makes sense only at luxury properties with multiple quality restaurants.
Step 3: Match the Hotel to Your Travel Style
Not all hotels suit all travelers. Here's how to find your perfect match based on who you're traveling with and what you want from your vacation.
Honeymooners & Couples
Look for: Adults-only sections, romantic restaurants, couple's spa treatments, private beach areas, in-room dining
Avoid: Large family resorts with kids' clubs and water slides
Top picks: Paradise Cove (intimate boutique), Royal Palm (ultimate luxury), 20 Degrés Sud (secluded romance)
Families with Children
Look for: Kids' clubs (ages 3-12), family rooms, shallow pools, children's menus, babysitting services, all-inclusive options
Avoid: Adults-only hotels, properties with only deep pools, hotels far from medical facilities
Top picks: Sugar Beach (excellent kids' club), Paradis Beachcomber (family-friendly luxury), Zilwa Attitude (great value)
Solo Travelers
Look for: Social atmosphere, group activities, good WiFi, safe location, easy access to attractions
Avoid: Isolated resorts, properties with high single supplements
Top picks: Salt of Palmar (social vibe), Tropical Attitude (budget-friendly), LUX* Grand Baie (vibrant scene)
Adventure Seekers
Look for: Water sports centers, dive shops, excursion desks, bike rentals, proximity to hiking trails
Avoid: All-inclusive resorts that discourage leaving the property
Top picks: Preskil Beach Resort (water sports hub), Tamassa (adventure-focused), Le Morne hotels (kitesurfing)
Step 4: Understand What's Really Included
This is where many travelers get confused and end up with unexpected bills. Here's what each meal plan actually means in Mauritius:
Room Only (RO)
Just accommodation. You pay for all meals separately. Best if you plan to explore local restaurants.
Bed & Breakfast (BB)
Accommodation + breakfast buffet. Gives you flexibility for lunch and dinner. Popular with independent travelers.
Half Board (HB)
Accommodation + breakfast + dinner. The sweet spot for most travelers. Lunch is free time to explore or grab something light.
Full Board (FB)
Accommodation + all three meals. Drinks usually not included. Less common in Mauritius.
All-Inclusive (AI)
Everything: meals, snacks, local drinks, water sports, entertainment. Premium AI includes imported alcohol and à la carte restaurants.
Warning: "All-inclusive" varies wildly between hotels. Always check what's actually included. Some exclude premium restaurants, imported drinks, motorized water sports, and spa treatments. Read the fine print!
Step 5: Check These Essential Amenities
Beyond the basics, these amenities can make or break your stay. Here's what to look for based on your priorities:
Must-Have Amenities:
- Beach quality: Sandy vs rocky, calm vs wavy, public vs private
- Pool situation: Number, size, heated options, adults-only areas
- WiFi: Free throughout property or paid? Speed adequate for work?
- Air conditioning: In rooms and restaurants (crucial November-April)
- Restaurant variety: Multiple options if staying 7+ nights
Nice-to-Have Amenities:
- Spa: On-site vs nearby, treatment variety, couple's options
- Water sports: Free non-motorized (kayak, SUP, snorkel gear)
- Fitness center: Modern equipment, classes, personal training
- Kids' facilities: Clubs, pools, playgrounds, teen zones
- Evening entertainment: Live music, shows, themed nights
Step 6: Read Reviews the Smart Way
Reviews are helpful, but you need to read them strategically. Here's how to separate genuine insights from noise:
What to Focus On:
- Recent reviews (last 6 months): Hotels change management, renovate, and update policies
- Travelers like you: Families reviewing family hotels, couples reviewing romantic properties
- Specific details: "Beach was rocky" is more useful than "bad beach"
- Patterns: One complaint about food is an outlier; ten complaints is a red flag
- Photos: Guest photos show reality; hotel photos show aspirations
What to Ignore:
- Complaints about weather (hotels can't control this)
- Reviews from wrong traveler types (solo traveler complaining about kids at family resort)
- Unrealistic expectations ("5-star hotel should have been 7-star")
- Very old reviews (2+ years old unless checking for consistent issues)
Step 7: Book at the Right Time
Timing your booking can save you hundreds of euros. Here's the insider strategy:
Best Booking Windows:
- 3-6 months ahead: Sweet spot for best rates and availability
- Early bird specials: Book 6-12 months ahead for 20-30% off (common for honeymoons)
- Last-minute deals: 2-4 weeks before for unsold inventory (risky but can save 40%)
- Shoulder season: May, June, September, October offer 30% lower rates than peak
Price Comparison Tips:
- Check hotel direct websites (often have best rate guarantees)
- Compare booking platforms (Booking.com, Expedia, Agoda)
- Contact local travel agents (can access wholesale rates)
- Look for package deals (flight + hotel can save 15-20%)
Ready to Find Your Perfect Mauritius Hotel?
Browse our curated selection of hotels across all regions and budgets. Every property is personally vetted and comes with honest, detailed reviews.
Frequently Asked Questions
How far in advance should I book my Mauritius hotel?
For the best selection and rates, book 3-6 months in advance, especially if traveling during peak season (October-April, July-August). Honeymoon couples should book 6-12 months ahead to secure romantic suites and take advantage of early bird discounts of 20-30%. If you're flexible and traveling during shoulder season (May, June, September), you can find great last-minute deals 2-4 weeks before arrival, though you'll have limited choice.
Is all-inclusive worth it in Mauritius?
It depends on your travel style and the hotel quality. All-inclusive makes sense at luxury resorts (€300+/night) with multiple quality restaurants, premium drinks, and extensive facilities – you'll actually use everything included. At mid-range hotels, half-board (breakfast + dinner) is often better value, saving you 20-30% while giving you freedom to explore local restaurants for lunch. Budget hotels rarely offer good all-inclusive packages. Calculate the cost of meals and drinks separately versus the all-inclusive supplement to decide.
Which coast of Mauritius has the best hotels?
There's no single "best" coast – it depends on what you want. The north (Grand Baie) has the most hotels, best nightlife, and sheltered beaches year-round. The east (Belle Mare) has the most pristine beaches and luxury resorts but can be windy June-September. The west (Flic en Flac) offers spectacular sunsets and a laid-back vibe. The south (Le Morne) is most exclusive and dramatic but windier. For first-timers, the north or west coasts are safest bets for consistent weather and easy access to attractions.
What's the difference between a resort and a hotel in Mauritius?
In Mauritius, "resorts" are typically larger beachfront properties with extensive facilities – multiple restaurants, pools, water sports centers, spas, kids' clubs, and entertainment programs. They're designed for guests to stay on-property for their entire vacation. "Hotels" are usually smaller, more intimate properties with fewer facilities, often in towns rather than isolated beaches. Boutique hotels offer personalized service and unique character but limited amenities. Choose resorts for all-inclusive relaxation, hotels for exploring the island independently.
Do I need to rent a car if I stay at a resort?
Not necessarily, but it depends on your plans. If you're staying at an all-inclusive resort and happy to relax on-property with occasional organized excursions, you don't need a car. Most resorts offer airport transfers and can arrange tours. However, if you want to explore independently, visit local restaurants, or see multiple parts of the island, renting a car gives you freedom and saves money on taxis. Mauritius is easy to drive (left-hand side), roads are good, and parking is free everywhere. A car costs €30-50/day versus €50-100 for each taxi trip.
Are Mauritius hotels good for families with young children?
Absolutely! Mauritius is one of the world's best family beach destinations. Many resorts have excellent kids' clubs (ages 3-12), baby clubs (ages 1-3), shallow pools, children's menus, and babysitting services. Look for family-friendly resorts like Sugar Beach, Paradis Beachcomber, or Zilwa Attitude which offer interconnecting rooms, kids' activities, and early dining options. Most beaches have calm lagoons perfect for young children. However, avoid adults-only hotels and check that your chosen property has family facilities – not all do.
What's included in a typical Mauritius hotel room?
Standard inclusions: air conditioning, ceiling fan, private bathroom with shower/tub, toiletries, hairdryer, safe, tea/coffee facilities, minibar (usually paid), TV with international channels, WiFi (free at most hotels now), balcony or terrace. Luxury hotels add: bathrobes and slippers, premium toiletries, Nespresso machines, pillow menus, turndown service, and sometimes private pools or beach access. Budget hotels may have more basic amenities. Always check what's included – some older properties charge for WiFi or have limited air conditioning hours.
Can I negotiate hotel prices in Mauritius?
Not directly with hotels, but you can find better rates through smart booking. Hotels rarely negotiate published rates, but you can: (1) Book during sales periods (Black Friday, January sales, flash deals), (2) Contact local travel agents who have access to wholesale rates, (3) Book longer stays (7+ nights often get discounts), (4) Join hotel loyalty programs for member rates, (5) Book directly with hotels and ask about unpublished specials, (6) Travel during shoulder season when hotels are more flexible. Honeymoon couples should always mention this – many hotels offer complimentary upgrades or extras.
What should I look for in hotel reviews before booking?
Focus on recent reviews (last 6 months) from travelers similar to you. Key things to check: (1) Beach quality – sandy or rocky, calm or wavy, (2) Food quality and variety – especially important for all-inclusive, (3) Room condition – renovated or dated, (4) Service quality – friendly and attentive or indifferent, (5) Noise levels – from roads, airports, or entertainment, (6) Hidden costs – WiFi, water sports, restaurant reservations. Look for patterns in complaints – one negative review is an outlier, but ten similar complaints is a red flag. Guest photos are more reliable than hotel photos for seeing the real property.
Is it better to book a hotel package or separately?
Packages (flight + hotel) can save 15-20% compared to booking separately, especially from Europe. Tour operators have bulk contracts with hotels and airlines, passing savings to you. Packages also offer financial protection if the operator goes bust. However, you'll have less flexibility with flight times and hotel choices. Book separately if you: want specific flights, plan to visit multiple hotels, have airline miles to use, or want a very specific hotel not in packages. For straightforward beach holidays, packages usually offer better value and peace of mind.