Holidays in Mauritius – East Coast or West Coast ?

The east coast of Mauritius is known for its untouched natural beauty, stunning beaches, and luxurious resorts. It’s a bit quieter than the west, making it ideal for those seeking peace, relaxation, and postcard-perfect scenery. We hired a car and drove around to visit some off the beaten track beaches and found it both easy (they drive on the same side as us in the UK) and were amazed to be able to just park up on a verge to see the stunning scenery. No parking charges & no 'No Parking' signs.

We stayed at Long Beach resort about half way up the east coast and managed to see nearly everything from mid point, around the top of the island, back through the middle stopping at the lush botanical gardens on one day, and down to the south east to the stunning blue bay area on the second day.

We visited at the beginning of May which is at the very start of Mauritian winter, and the east coast is known for being windy which we found to be true. If you’re travelling between May-October bear this in mind.

The east boasts some of the best beaches – Belle Mare, Île aux Cerfs, and Trou D’Eau Douce offer soft white sand and breathtaking blue lagoons. Many high-end resorts are dotted along this coast, perfect for honeymooners and couples but bear in mind the wind at certain times of year.

You'll find the east has untouched beauty with fewer crowds so you can enjoy a more authentic island experience. The sunrises are something to get excited about – If you’re an early riser, the sunrises here are truly magical.

Things to consider
• The east coast can be windier, especially from May to early October (great for kitesurfing but not always ideal for sunbathing).
• It’s quieter in terms of nightlife and restaurants, so if you want buzzing nightlife, the west might be better.

We loved the beauty of the east, the people were super friendly, the resort was lovely but the weather at this time of year could have been better.

The west coast is known for calmer seas, breathtaking sunsets, and a vibrant atmosphere. It’s the perfect mix of relaxation and adventure, with plenty of activities, lively towns, and some of the best snorkelling and diving spots on the island.

We chose to spend the second part of our holiday on the west coast. As we left the east it was like crossing into a different country. Heading west, the sun got brighter, the skies became bluer and the vibe became less unspoilt country and more urban with more cars on the roads, more restaurants and more people.

Our resort, Sugar Beach, was part of the same group of hotels as our east coast stay and again the feel here was very different. It was a bit more luxurious - it has been featured on many TV shows such as Married at First Sight and Made in Chelsea.

We instantly fell in love with the west - maybe it was because it was less windy and much warmer, with endless blue skies. The Flic-en-Flac beach the resort is situated on is picture postcard, tropical island through and through. We loved it so much that we have already rebooked to come back!

This coast has the sunset views to die for, unlike the east, here you’ll get to enjoy breathtaking sunsets over the Indian Ocean. It is definitely warmer & less windy – The west coast is sheltered from the trade winds, making it warmer and more pleasant year-round.

There are far more activities & nightlife – The west has bustling towns like Flic en Flac and Tamarin, with great restaurants, bars, and markets. Wildlife & nature are in abundance here, you can swim with dolphins in Tamarin Bay, go hiking in Black River Gorges National Park, or explore the famous Chamarel Seven Coloured Earths.

Things to consider
• Popular areas like Flic en Flac can get busy, especially during peak season.
• While the beaches are stunning, some (like Tamarin) have darker sand, unlike the powdery white beaches on the east coast.

We loved the west and again we hired a car to drive down to the south west area of Le Morne and inland to the seven coloured earth and Chamarel waterfalls.

If you choose to go during high season it doesn’t matter where on the island you go, but if you want to relax in the sun and you're visiting during the windy season then the west coast would suit you better.

You love secluded, pristine beaches and a luxurious, quiet retreat.
You’re planning a romantic honeymoon or a peaceful escape.
You don’t mind a little wind in exchange for stunning, untouched beauty.

You prefer warmer weather, calm waters, and stunning sunsets.
You want more activities, lively towns, and great nightlife.
You’re keen on snorkelling, dolphin watching, or hiking.

Ultimately, you can’t go wrong with either side—Mauritius is paradise no matter where you stay! Like us you can split your holidays between them to experience the best of both worlds.

Mauritius is an island that captures your heart and we can’t wait to go back this year for our second Mauritius holiday in the sun.

Thanks for reading,
Sarah