Best Things to Do in North Mauritius (2025 Complete Guide)

The North of Mauritius is famous for its turquoise lagoons, vibrant nightlife, and luxury resorts. But if your itinerary only includes beach hopping and catamaran cruises, you’re missing the soul of the region. Beyond the sunbeds lies a rich tapestry of culture, history, and artistic heritage.

Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned island lover, here is your curated guide to the best experiences in the North—starting with a hidden gem that most tourists walk right past.

1. Beaches in the North: The Classics

No trip to the North is complete without touching the sand. These three spots remain the gold standard:

Mont Choisy Beach

Stretching over 3 kilometers, Mont Choisy is the longest public beach in the north. Lined with casuarina trees providing natural shade, it’s perfect for long morning walks and sunset picnics. The lagoon here is calm, making it ideal for swimming.

Pereybère Beach

Small, bustling, and incredibly scenic. Pereybère is surrounded by rocky outcrops that create a natural pool effect. It’s a favorite for families and snorkelers who want to see tropical fish just meters from the shore. Tip: Arrive before 10 AM to secure a spot under the trees.

Cap Malheureux

Home to the iconic red-roofed church (Notre Dame Auxiliatrice), Cap Malheureux offers one of the most photographed views in Mauritius. On a clear day, you can see the Coin de Mire island straight ahead. It’s less about swimming here and more about soaking in the serene fishing village atmosphere.

2. Water Activities & Island Excursions

The North is the launchpad for the island’s best marine adventures.

• Catamaran to Flat Island: A full-day cruise usually includes lunch, snorkeling, and time on the pristine sands of Flat Island and Gabriel Island.
• Scuba Diving: The northern reefs are teeming with life. Look for operators in Grand Baie offering dives at "The Cathedral" or "Shark Rock."

3. Culture & Art: The Side Most Tourists Miss

While everyone rushes to the beach, a quieter, more profound experience awaits in Grand Baie. If you want to take home a piece of Mauritius that isn’t a magnet, this is where you go.

Sir Seewoosagur Ramgoolam Botanical Garden

Just 15 minutes from Grand Baie, these historic gardens (often called Pamplemousses) are home to giant water lilies and centuries-old trees. It’s a lush, green escape that feels worlds away from the coast.

4. Shopping, Food & Nightlife

Grand Baie transforms at night. La Croisette shopping mall offers high-end brands, while the local market is better for spices and vanilla. For dinner, skip the tourist traps and head to smaller bistros in Pointe aux Canonniers for authentic Creole cuisine.

How to Plan Your Day in the North

To avoid the rush, try this balanced itinerary:

1. 08:30: Sunrise walk at Mont Choisy.
2. 10:30: Visit Gallery Degav in Grand Baie (beat the midday heat).
3. 12:30: Lunch at a local restaurant in Cap Malheureux.
4. 14:30: Explore the Botanical Gardens.
5. 17:30: Sunset drinks at a beach club in Pereybère.