East Mauritius Travel Guide
Paradise found - pristine beaches, island escapes, and authentic Mauritian charm
East Mauritius is where tropical dreams come true. Home to the famous Île aux Cerfs, the stunning Belle Mare beaches, and some of the island's most luxurious resorts, the east coast offers an idyllic escape with pristine white sands, turquoise lagoons, and authentic Mauritian culture.
Unlike the bustling north, East Mauritius maintains a peaceful, laid-back atmosphere while still offering world-class amenities. The region is protected by an extensive coral reef, creating calm, crystal-clear lagoons perfect for swimming, snorkeling, and water sports. Charming villages like Trou d'Eau Douce and Mahébourg provide glimpses into traditional Mauritian life.
This comprehensive guide covers everything you need to know about exploring East Mauritius - from the best beaches and attractions to hotel recommendations, dining options, and detailed itineraries for making the most of this beautiful region.
East Mauritius Weather Guide: Month by Month
East Mauritius receives more rainfall than the west coast due to the prevailing trade winds, but enjoys beautiful weather year-round. The region is slightly cooler and breezier than the north.
January - April (Summer)
Temp: 24-32°C | Rain: High
Warmest months with tropical showers. Sea temperature 27-28°C. Lush green landscapes. Cyclone season - monitor forecasts.
May - August (Winter)
Temp: 18-25°C | Rain: Low
Cooler, drier months. Perfect for outdoor activities. Sea temperature 22-24°C. Peak tourist season.
September - October (Spring)
Temp: 20-27°C | Rain: Low
Ideal weather - warm days, minimal rain. Excellent for all activities. Shoulder season offers good value.
November - December (Early Summer)
Temp: 23-30°C | Rain: Moderate
Warming up with occasional showers. Sea warms to 26°C. Festive season atmosphere.
Best Time to Visit East Mauritius
Overall Best: September-November (perfect weather, fewer crowds)
Peak Season: July-August (dry, busy, higher prices)
Budget Season: February-April (lower rates, some rain)
Top Attractions in East Mauritius
1. Île aux Cerfs - Paradise Island
The crown jewel of East Mauritius, Île aux Cerfs is a stunning island with pristine white beaches, crystal-clear waters, and excellent facilities. Accessible by speedboat from Trou d'Eau Douce, the island offers water sports, golf, restaurants, and pure relaxation. A must-visit destination.
2. Belle Mare Beach - Endless White Sands
Belle Mare boasts one of the longest and most beautiful beaches in Mauritius. Stretching for several kilometers, this pristine beach features powdery white sand, calm turquoise waters, and is home to some of the island's finest luxury resorts. Perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and romantic walks.
3. Trou d'Eau Douce - Charming Fishing Village
This picturesque fishing village is the gateway to Île aux Cerfs and offers authentic Mauritian charm. Explore the waterfront, visit the local market, enjoy fresh seafood at waterside restaurants, and watch fishermen bring in their daily catch. A perfect base for exploring the east coast.
4. GRSE Waterfall - River Adventure
The Grand River South East Waterfall is best experienced by boat. Cruise up the river through mangroves and tropical vegetation to reach this impressive waterfall. Many tours combine this with Île aux Cerfs for a full day of adventure.
5. Mahébourg - Historic Waterfront Town
Mahébourg is a charming historic town with colonial architecture, a vibrant Monday market, and the Naval Museum. Explore the waterfront promenade, visit local shops, and enjoy authentic Mauritian cuisine at affordable prices. A great place to experience local culture.
6. Bras d'Eau National Park
This peaceful national park protects native forest and is home to endemic birds including the Mauritius Fody. Easy walking trails wind through the forest, and the park includes ruins of old sugar mills. A quiet escape for nature lovers and birdwatchers.
Best Beaches in East Mauritius
Belle Mare Beach
Best for: Luxury resorts, swimming, long walks
One of Mauritius' finest beaches with kilometers of pristine white sand and calm, clear waters.
Île aux Cerfs Beaches
Best for: Day trips, water sports, photography
Multiple stunning beaches on this paradise island with excellent facilities and activities.
Palmar Beach
Best for: Quiet relaxation, families, swimming
Peaceful beach with calm waters and fewer crowds. Perfect for those seeking tranquility.
Poste Lafayette Beach
Best for: Seclusion, local experience, picnics
Off-the-beaten-path beach popular with locals. Authentic atmosphere and beautiful scenery.
Best Hotels in East Mauritius
Luxury Hotels
Long Beach Mauritius
Contemporary luxury resort on Belle Mare beach with stunning design, multiple pools, excellent dining, and world-class spa.
Sugar Beach Mauritius
Elegant plantation-style resort with colonial charm, beautiful gardens, and excellent family facilities.
La Résidence
Intimate boutique luxury hotel with personalized service, elegant suites, and exclusive beachfront setting.
Outrigger Mauritius Beach Resort
Family-friendly luxury resort with excellent facilities, multiple restaurants, and beautiful Belle Mare beachfront.
Best Restaurants in East Mauritius
Chez Tino
Cuisine: Seafood, Mauritian | Location: Trou d'Eau Douce
Waterfront restaurant famous for fresh seafood and stunning views. Perfect for lunch before or after Île aux Cerfs.
Symon's Restaurant
Cuisine: Creole, Seafood | Location: Mahébourg
Authentic local restaurant serving traditional Mauritian dishes at affordable prices. Popular with locals.
La Maison d'Été
Cuisine: Fine Dining, French-Mauritian | Location: Poste Lafayette
Elegant restaurant in a beautiful colonial house. Refined cuisine and romantic atmosphere.
Île aux Cerfs Golf Club Restaurant
Cuisine: International | Location: Île aux Cerfs
Upscale dining on the island with beautiful views. Great for a special lunch during your island visit.
Suggested Itineraries for East Mauritius
Perfect 1-Day East Mauritius Itinerary
Depart for Trou d'Eau Douce, catch speedboat to Île aux Cerfs
Arrive at Île aux Cerfs, beach time and water activities
Lunch at island restaurant, more beach relaxation
Return to mainland, explore Trou d'Eau Douce village
Sunset dinner at Chez Tino with waterfront views
3-Day East Mauritius Adventure
Day 1: Île aux Cerfs
Full day on Île aux Cerfs - beach, water sports, parasailing, lunch, snorkeling. Evening dinner in Trou d'Eau Douce.
Day 2: Belle Mare & Nature
Morning at Belle Mare beach, afternoon visit to Bras d'Eau National Park, evening at resort spa.
Day 3: Mahébourg & Culture
Explore Mahébourg town and market, Naval Museum, lunch at local restaurant, afternoon at Blue Bay.
1-Week East Mauritius Experience
Day 1:
Arrival, check into Belle Mare resort, beach relaxation, welcome dinner
Day 2:
Full day Île aux Cerfs with water sports and beach time
Day 3:
GRSE Waterfall boat trip, afternoon at resort, spa treatment
Day 4:
Mahébourg exploration, Naval Museum, local lunch, Blue Bay snorkeling
Day 5:
Bras d'Eau National Park hike, afternoon beach, romantic dinner
Day 6:
Water activities - kayaking, paddleboarding, snorkeling at Belle Mare
Day 7:
Final beach morning, shopping, farewell lunch, departure
Practical Tips & FAQs
Getting to Île aux Cerfs
- • Speedboat from Trou d'Eau Douce (10 mins)
- • Catamaran tours available
- • Book through hotels or local operators
- • Cost: Rs 500-800 return
Transportation
- • Car rental recommended
- • Taxis available but expensive
- • Hotels offer transfers
- • 1 hour from airport
Is Île aux Cerfs worth visiting?
Absolutely! Despite being touristy, the beaches are stunning and facilities excellent. Go early to avoid crowds and consider weekdays over weekends.
How many days for East Mauritius?
3-5 days is ideal to experience the beaches, Île aux Cerfs, and local culture. A week allows for complete relaxation and exploration.
Best beach in East Mauritius?
Belle Mare is considered the best for its length, beauty, and calm waters. Île aux Cerfs beaches are also exceptional but require a boat trip.
Your East Mauritius Paradise Awaits
East Mauritius offers the perfect tropical escape with its pristine beaches, island adventures, and authentic Mauritian charm. From the paradise shores of Île aux Cerfs to the endless white sands of Belle Mare, this region delivers unforgettable experiences for every traveler.