Mauritius is famed for its pristine beaches, sumptuous seafood and tranquil resort escapes. As an island nation surrounded by warm seas, it shouldn’t surprise that this nation is a prime destination for watersports.
Thrillseekers and adrenaline junkies alike will find an endless number of activities available from paddle boarding and kayaking to windsurfing along the coastal resorts. Mauritius is a paradise waiting to be explored, so let's dive in!
The best watersports in Mauritius
- Snorkelling
- Paddle boarding
- Kayaking
- Windsurfing
- Water skiing
- Kitesurfing
- Parasailing
- Diving
- Sailing
- Swimming with dolphins
1. Snorkelling
If you want to explore the underwater world of Mauritius, then you’ll want to go snorkelling. You certainly won't be disappointed with the kaleidoscopic colours to discover below the waves, home to a variety of wonderful marine life.
One of the most popular places to snorkel is the leisure island Île aux Cerfs. There is further fantastic wildlife at Blue Bay Marine Park ocean preserve, home to sharks, colourful reef fish and rays.
2. Paddle boarding
Paddle boarding is another watersport to add to your itinerary and is a tranquil way to explore the beaches and lagoons of this island nation. Whether you’re a seasoned pro or balancing on your board for the first time, there are plenty of courses available throughout the country, suitable for all experience levels.
Mont Choisy is one of the more popular spots for paddle boarding in Mauritius. The sugar-like sand stretches for nearly three kilometres along the coastline, forming an arc. And thanks to its calm waters, this is a great spot for beginners.
3. Kayaking
Sea kayaking is an amazing activity allowing you to discover an unexpected side to Mauritius. Explore numerous islands and their rock caves - you'll also find basalt rock formations known as 'rock gardens' - on a day of adventure you won't forget in a hurry.
Alternatively, head to Ile d’Ambre, or Amber Island, where you can take a guided kayaking tour through the mangroves and lose yourself in the beauty of the natural surroundings.
4. Windsurfing
Ever sat on a sunlounger and watched sunkissed windsurfers ride the waves, with their salty hair trailing behind them? Want to try it for yourself? Mauritius has so many amazing spots to give this sport a go. Calm waters and gentle winds make it ideal for beginners.
Many resorts offer lessons and the top places to experience windsurfing in Mauritius include the Le Morne Peninsula, Small Reed, Tamarin Bay and Manawa.
5. Water Skiing
Take to the waves on a water ski for a real adrenaline rush. Give this a go when the water is relatively calm and you'll soon pick up the technique for a smooth, yet high octane ride. It's a taxing sport, so you'll need to have bags of energy and enthusiasm!
Two of the best places to try water skiing in Mauritius are Trou D'eau Douce and Grand Baie.
6. Kitesurfing
The winds are so reliable here, you can almost guarantee kitesurfing weather - experts can also find the best spots to jump the waves and try out their tricks. Mauritius is full of locations with the right conditions for beginners, and there are many experts on hand to show them the ropes.
Head to Bel Ombre, Pointe D'esny, Le Morne Pont or Flic en Flac for some amazing kitesurfing experiences.
7. Parasailing
Explore the Mauritian coastline from the air on a parasailing adventure. You can spot some of the country's fascinating wildlife, the famous waterfalls and view hikers taking on some of the many trails.
You'll discover places to give this sport a go all over the island but Grand Baie, Ile aux Cerfs and Trou d'eau Douce are three of the best.
8. Diving
We've already mentioned how amazing it is to snorkel the reefs around the coastline of Mauritius so imagine what you can experience with a scuba dive. You can even opt to go wreck diving if you're interested in exploring beyond the reefs.
You’ll be presented with the opportunity to dive off the coast of Mauritius and you'll find something different in each area. If you're staying a little longer than a few days, our tip would be to book dives in more than one area so you can experience just how eclectic diving can be in Mauritius.
9. Sailing
If you've always wanted to learn how to sail, your holiday to Mauritius could be just the opportunity you're looking for. Get your friends or family on board - pun intended! - and book in for lessons. Or if you're already a pro then hire a boat and explore the lagoons, speak to the staff at your resort about booking a sailing trip or boat hire around the islands.
10. Swimming with dolphins
Snorkelling alongside frolicking dolphins is a magical experience from start to finish and getting to observe these incredibly intelligent creatures up close is a privilege. One of our best tips for this adventure is to arrange for an early-morning excursion to avoid the tourist crowds. Trips depart from western Mauritius in Tamarin and last around two and a half hours.
The best resorts for watersports in Mauritius
You'll discover that most of these watersports are available at many of the sensational resorts across Mauritius. Here are some of the best, including what activities they offer.
Paradis Beachcomber Golf Resort & Spa
Paradis Beachcomber Golf Resort & Spa will keep you active with complimentary watersports.
Great for: Its diving programme as well as mountain bikes for hire
The Ravenala Attitude
The Ravenala Attitude has an amazing range of leisure options to choose from.
Great for: Snorkelling, glass-bottom boat rides, pedal boats, catamarans, canoes, stand up paddle boarding and windsurfing, all free of charge. Plus, deep-sea fishing and scuba diving at a charge
One&Only Le Saint Géran
One&Only Le Saint Géran will cater to your watersport needs with complimentary paddle boards and kayaks in the lagoon.
Great for: The hotel is in the path of south-easterly trade winds and is amazing for waterskiing and kite surfing and guests can also book onto big game fishing excursions aboard a 55-foot boat
LUX* Belle Mare
LUX* Belle Mare is the place to be in Mauritius for exhilarating watersports.
Great for: Swimming with dolphins, catamaran excursions, kite surfing, windsurfing, wakeboarding and more
Shangri-La’s Le Touessrok Resort & Spa
Shangri-La’s Le Touessrok Resort & Spa has an impressive selection of complimentary watersports.
Great for: Kayaking, stand-up paddle boarding, snorkelling, pedal boating and windsurfing. Chargeable activities range from undersea walks and banana tube riding to parasailing.
Long Beach
Long Beach offers both motorised and non-motorised watersports from the shallow lagoon to the depths of the sea.
Great for: Snorkelling, diving, water skiing (some activities are complimentary) plus additional watersports on Ile aux Cerfs Leisure Island.
Excited to take to the water? Browse our collection of Mauritius holidays, offers and multi-centres for a trip packed with adventure, offering luxury at every turn.