South of Port Louis lies the best known – and longest – beach on the west coast: Flic-en-Flac.Trou aux Biches can get busy at times but if that's the case then simply stroll along the coast to neighbouring Pointe aux Piments – a refreshingly quiet stretch of sand, although it is rocky in places. As for Trou aux Biches, clear water and safe swimming make this stretch of coast particularly popular with families, and with coral reef just a short swim from shore, it’s also great for snorkelling.And it's Le Morne that has the most dramatic setting on the entire island: its long stretch of sand, reef-protected lagoon and superb golf course are all laid out at the foot of an imposing mountain. It’s often said that 'west is best' and we certainly agree: Mauritius's west coast has unbeatable beaches ranging from the fine white sands of Trou aux Biches in the far north to the isolated Le Morne Peninsula on the south-west tip of the island. The North Coast is the gateway to even tinier islets like the prosaically named Flat and Round Islands, and ones with more evocative monikers like Gunners’ Quoin and Serpent Island.Secluded coves, luxurious accommodation and world-class spas have made this north-east coast of Mauritius an increasingly popular choice for honeymooners or those seeking a romantic break. On the eastern side of Grand Baie lies the quieter Rivière du Rempart region which has just a handful of resorts.The waters around Grand Baie are dotted with fishing boats and the beaches of La Cuvette and Grand Baie Public Beach aren't ideal for swimming but lying just a short drive away is the peninsular of Pointe aux Canonniers, the start of an unbroken chain of sugar-white sand beaches running all the way down the island’s west coast.After shopping all day, have a nap to catch the nightclubs, which get going after midnight. Grand Baie is an excellent spot for browsing clothes, jewellery, upscale mementos and high-end labels.It is only a 25km / 16mi to the capital, Port Louis, and is the best place to visit for a classic 'resort vacation'. Although Grand Baie has evolved from a sleepy fishing village into a thriving tourist destination, it still retains its friendly small-town feel along with a fine collection of hotels, restaurants and bars that line the pretty, horseshoe-shaped bay. The north of Mauritius is full of bustling energy: there are interesting shops, a fantastic selection of water sports and the island’s only resort town - Grand Baie. Its coastal roads make for lovely driving and, along with a staggering selection of beaches, there are plenty of places of interest, like welcoming towns to pretty gardens and nature reserves in the island's green and mountainous interior. Of course, Mauritius is small enough that you can rent a car for the day and drive yourself to another beach or to see a particular landmark or tourist attraction – you won’t be ‘stuck’ in one place at all. The northern and western beaches are generally busier and have more amenities and tourist attractions if you’re after an action-packed, sight-seeing vacation while the eastern and southern beaches are quieter and lend themselves to a ‘doing nothing much’ holiday. The easiest way to decide where to go in Mauritius is to divide the island into four and match your interests and expectations with the best stretch of coastline and best places to visit. While sunny skies, sandy beaches and the warm Indian Ocean (the water is rarely cooler than a balmy 23☌ / 73☏!) all come standard on a Mauritius holiday, this diverse island can truly be said to have something for everyone, whether you want a vibrant resort town with ample nightlife or a quiet nook where you can go hiking or birding. Mauritius is the twinkling jewel in the Indian Ocean off the south-east coast of Africa that punches way above its weight.
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