South-East Region of Mauritius — Blue Bay, Mahebourg, Snorkeling and Authenticity
The south-east may be the most endearing region in Mauritius — not for its sweeping beaches or luxury hotels, but for its unspoiled character and authenticity. Blue Bay, Mahebourg, Pointe d'Esny: it's a world away from the buzz of the north, and that's precisely what draws travellers who have already seen the postcard version of Mauritius and are looking for something else.
Blue Bay Marine Park is unquestionably the jewel of the region — and one of the most outstanding snorkeling spots in the whole Indian Ocean. The marine park protects a remarkably well-preserved coral ecosystem: sea turtles, rays, parrotfish, fan-shaped corals. The water is shallow and clear, and the beach along the park is one of the finest on the island. You can rent mask and fins on site, or reach the park by glass-bottom boat.
Mahebourg is the main town in the region, and it's a town on a human scale. Its seafront is pleasant for an evening stroll, its Monday market is one of the liveliest on the island, and the Mahebourg Historical Museum tells the story of the Battle of Grand Port — the only naval victory inscribed on the Arc de Triomphe in Paris. The atmosphere here is genuinely local and largely untouched by tourism, and the restaurants serve honest Mauritian cooking at reasonable prices.
Pointe d'Esny, just north of Blue Bay, is a residential village that draws expats and retirees won over by its calm beaches and colonial houses. It's the ideal spot for anyone who'd rather rent a villa than a hotel room and live at a different pace. A little further on, Pointe-des-Nids offers lagoon views without Blue Bay's crowds.
Access to the south-east is made easy by its proximity to the airport — just 10-15 minutes away. That's a real bonus for travellers on a short stay who want to maximise beach time without losing hours to transfers. And for those who rent a car, the region makes an excellent base for exploring south (Gris-Gris, Rochester Falls) or east (Belle Mare).
Destinations de la région south-east
Blue Bay
Blue Bay, a gem in southeast Mauritius: protected marine park, exceptional snorkeling, turquoise waters and authentic local atmosphere. 2026 Guide.
Mahébourg
Mahébourg, an authentic town in the southeast: a lively Monday market, a historical museum, a scenic bay and an ideal base for exploring the south. 2026 guide.
Île aux Aigrettes
Île aux Aigrettes: island nature reserve, giant tortoises, endemic birds, fossil coral. Complete guide to visiting this island.
Pointe d'Esny
Pointe d'Esny, a hidden beach in southeast Mauritius: clear lagoon, exceptional snorkeling, protected mangroves, and an atmosphere far from the crowds.
Que faire dans la région south-east
Snorkeling at Blue Bay Marine Park is the main reason to come to the south-east. The corals are healthy and diverse, visibility is excellent, and the waters teem with marine life. You can go it alone from the beach, or take a glass-bottom boat trip that lets you explore deeper areas. Entry to the park is free; only equipment rental and boat transfers come at a cost.
Ile aux Aigrettes is a case apart: a small coral island 800 metres from shore, turned into a nature reserve for reintroducing endemic species — giant tortoises, nesting birds, native palms. Guided tours are the only way to visit, and the experience is unforgettable for anyone interested in island biodiversity and the natural history of Mauritius.
The Monday market in Mahebourg is one of the liveliest moments on the island. Colours, sounds, the scent of spices and tropical fruit — you don't come here as a tourist but as a participant. Mahebourg's Waterfront is also a great spot for a fish lunch with a view over the lagoon and the outlying islands.
For the adventurous, the coast between Pointe d'Esny and Blue Bay can be walked in 30 minutes — one of the loveliest coastal strolls on the island, with constant views over the lagoon and Ile aux Aigrettes. Early in the morning, before the first tourists arrive, the atmosphere here is especially magical.
Réserver des activités dans la région
Toutes les activités ci-dessous sont sélectionnées parmi les offres vérifiées de GetYourGuide, avec avis voyageurs et annulation flexible.