10 Best Places to Go Snorkeling in Mauritius

Nestled in the enchanting seaside village of Blue Bay on the southeast coast, Blue Bay Marine Park is a marine reserve that offers an inviting blend of adventure and relaxation. Renowned as one of the best places for families to go snorkeling in Mauritius, snorkelers can easily access the calm, shallow waters of the coral reef from the beach.

Beyond the shoreline, snorkelers are captivated by the rich biodiversity of this underwater park with dozens of coral species, including a 1-000-year-old brain coral. Over 70 species of fish, such as butterflyfish, damselfish and schools of blue-green chromis can be seen on the reef. Green sea turtles are also often spotted by snorkelers exploring this treasured marine sanctuary.

La Prairie Beach, found between Baie-du-Camp and Le Morne Brabant Mountain on the southwest coast, boasts easy reef access from a scenic public beach. Snorkeling at this beach is ideal for those who seek a quiet, uncrowded shoreline to enjoy sunbathing, bathing and snorkeling in a shallow lagoon.

Discover the reef’s vibrant marine life, including the blue-barred parrotfish. Explore patches of staghorn coral where the whitetail dascyllus are commonly observed. Scan the rocks and crevices for sea urchins and cushion starfish, a small, puffy starfish. Look for sea cucumbers and cone snails traversing the sand where yellow goatfish use their whisker-like barbels to probe the sandy seafloor for a meal.

Embark on a catamaran tour from the fishing village of Le Morne for a captivating snorkeling excursion to Ile aux Benitiers, a hidden gem off the island’s southwestern coast. In a lagoon with shallow coral reefs, this is an ideal setting for first-time snorkelers to discover vibrant marine life beneath the surface, including parrotfish, surgeonfish and green sea turtles.

The famous Crystal Rock at the center of the lagoon, a striking rock formation, is a popular subject of photographers, especially at sunset. Excursions typically include a delicious meal of barbecued fish or meat, broiled prawns, fruit kebabs and roast bananas. On the beach, shop for souvenirs at makeshift stands where local artisans sell their handicrafts, shells and other goods.

At the heart of Mahebourg Bay, the Anemone Garden is an enchanting underwater destination for snorkelers. Immerse yourself in the mesmerizing beauty of brightly colored anemone gracefully swaying in the gentle lagoon current. These marine animals, closely related to corals and jellyfish, are endemic to Mauritius. The anemone provides a habitat for large communities of Mauritian clownfish and in return, the clownfish protect the anemone from predators and parasites.

Enjoy watching the clownfish dart in and out of the swaying anemone tentacles. In shallower neighborhoods, look for the black and white scissortail sergeants, white tail dascyllus and brown mesh sea stars in sandy neighborhoods. Excursions typically include snorkeling at multiple snorkeling sites.

Flic en Flac, derived from Old Dutch, means "free, flat land". Nestled on the western coast of Mauritius, this charming beach town lures sun-seekers with a long stretch of white sandy beach, the shade of wispy casuarina trees and spectacular mountain scenery.

For snorkelers, a fascinating underwater world awaits. Look for angelfish, Moorish idols, white-spotted boxfish and wrasse. Watch scores of tiny shrimp and crayfish scurrying about. Arrive early to spot playful dolphins. After snorkeling, paddleboard on the Tamarin River to birdwatch or tour a rum distillery. At night, enjoy a seafood barbecue on the beach before diving into the island’s nightlife. Embrace the joy of living as you dance to the beat of DJ-curated music.

Renowned as one of the best places to go snorkeling in Mauritius, Trou aux Biches is a lively coastal town. It’s characterized by family-friendly hospitality, leisure activities and resorts dotted along its picturesque coastline. Snorkeling adventures await in the shallow lagoon, where the waters rarely exceed 2 meters.

As you float above the reef, immerse yourself in the magnificent underwater scenery. A dazzling array of colorful corals and marine life dance with the reflections of waves on the sandy seafloor. Common sightings include Moorish idols, convict tangs and whitetail dascyllus. Keep an eye out for cornetfish, pufferfish and the solitary triggerfish. After a remarkable day of snorkeling, catch an epic Mauritian sunset.

Discover the treasures of Pointe aux Piments, often referred to as Le Meridien Beach, between Port Louis and Grand Baie. The vibrant coral gardens are home to diverse marine life, including angelfish, butterflyfish and surgeonfish. Keep an eye out for elusive moray eels seeking refuge in the reef’s nooks and crannies. Snorkelers can also observe sea turtles visiting the reef’s cleaning stations where fish help remove parasites and algae.

For landside activities, visit the nearby Sir Seewoosagur Ramgoolam Botanical Gardens, also known as the Pamplemousses Botanical Garden. Established in 1736, the garden features giant Victoria amazonica water lillies. Spot Mauritius ornate day geckos sunning themselves on garden rocks and red, bell-shaped Trochetia blooms, the National Flower of Mauritius.

Leisure travelers are drawn to the allure of the postcard-like scenery of Pereybere Beach. Located near Grand Baie on the island’s northern coast, the beach’s calm crystal-clear waters are ideal for snorkeling in the morning when there are few beachgoers. You can enjoy a refreshing morning swim, admire ocean views from your beach blanket or snorkel on the sea surface and gaze at life on the reef.

Look for several species of coral, including brain coral and staghorn coral. Watch angelfish and damselfish playfully dart in and out of the coral. After a day at the beach, sip on handcrafted tropical cocktails and dine on scrumptious seafood amid a tranquil beach atmosphere.

A haven for surfing enthusiasts and snorkelers, Tamarin Bay is known for its world-class waves and underwater wonders. At sunrise, board a charter boat and venture to deep waters to encounter the island’s resident spinner dolphins. The dolphins hunt offshore at night and return to the island’s sheltered bays and coastlines for rest. Interactions are restricted to early morning, to prevent disrupting their rest.

Gather with family and friends for a sunset picnic and recount your day’s adventures, capping off a memorable day spent together exploring the natural wonders of this tropical paradise. Watch the sun slip beneath the horizon and immerse yourself in the tranquil moments as the sky’s changing colors reflect on the ocean and surrounding landscape.

Embark on a sailing adventure to Coin de Mire, or Gunner’s Quoin, a hidden gem nestled among the northern islets of Mauritius. This island is renowned as one of the best places to go snorkeling in Mauritius. Look for dolphins riding the boat’s wake or bathing in pods during your journey to the island.

Coin de Mire offers a unique snorkeling experience with diverse coral species and marine life. Explore the crystal-clear waters around the island’s rust-coloured cliffs and shores, discovering boulders, crevices and vibrant coral gardens teeming with angelfish, damselfish, parrotfish and schools of blue-green chromis. After snorkeling, enjoy a delightful barbecue lunch, savoring the rich flavors of Mauritius in this idyllic island setting.