Blue Bay

The relatively undeveloped south coast of Mauritius boasts beautiful, wild mountainous landscapes and the lack of sandy beaches has protected the region from too many resorts. The area around Blue Bay is the exception to this and here travellers can find stunning white beaches and a number of huge luxury hotels which have opened over the years. Often called one of the best beaches in the world, the white sand of Blue Bay contrasts with its brilliant turquoise water. Blue Bay (also called Bel Ombre) is probably the most popular beach in Mauritius, and can get crowded on weekends when the locals from Mahebourg come in droves, though week days are pleasantly quiet. Blue Bay is renowned for its colourful coral reefs, and snorkelling and scuba diving are popular activities. Non-swimmers can enjoy the view from a glass-bottomed boat on the way to the Islets of Mauritius, also known as the Ile de Deux Cocos. Land-based activities include tennis and volleyball; and Blue Bay has some excellent restaurants. The south of Mauritius is the most traditional and unspoiled region of the island and a delight to explore.