What to do in the North of Mauritius? Grand Baie, Pereybère & Cap Malheureux

If you’re planning a stay in Mauritius, the North of the island almost naturally stands out as a base. Just 45 minutes from the airport, this region concentrates the best-known beaches, the liveliest nightlife in the country and the departure point for most sea excursions. It is also where Sailset Tours, your local tour operator, is based. Here is everything not to miss in the North of Mauritius.

Grand Baie: the vibrant heart of the North

Grand Baie is the tourist capital of the Mauritian North. Its turquoise lagoon protected by a coral reef, its lively marina and its many restaurants make it a destination in its own right. There you’ll find:

• The public beach: ideal for swimming safely, with calm, shallow waters.
• Shopping: souvenirs, local rums, textiles.
• Nightlife: beach bars, Creole restaurants, lounges overlooking the lagoon.
• The marina: departure point for catamaran excursions to Coin de Mire and Gabriel Islet.

To book these activities in advance, see our excursions departing from the North page.

Pereybère: the locals’ favourite beach

Two kilometres from Grand Baie, Pereybère has a more laid-back feel. The water is particularly clear, making it an excellent snorkelling spot accessible from the shore: turtles, parrotfish and shoals of damselfish await. Pereybère is where our Sailset Tours team is based — which lets us organise early-morning departures before the crowds arrive.

Mont Choisy: the long wild beach

Mont Choisy is one of the island’s most beautiful beaches: two kilometres of white sand lined with century-old casuarina trees, with shallow water perfect for families. Park early, as the car park fills up fast at weekends.

Cap Malheureux and Coin de Mire

At the northern tip, Cap Malheureux is famous for its red-roofed church facing the sea. The view of Coin de Mire is breathtaking, especially at the end of the day. This islet is a protected nature reserve accessible only by boat: the catamaran excursion from Grand Baie with a snorkelling stop at Gabriel Islet is the must-do sea outing of the North.

Trou aux Biches: discreet elegance

Between Grand Baie and Port Louis, Trou aux Biches charms with its well-kept beach and crystal-clear waters. Less crowded, it attracts visitors who prefer peace and quiet. To find accommodation, browse our selection of northern hotels.

Why choose the North as a base?

• Close to the airport: about 45 minutes via the M2.
• Varied accommodation: from guesthouses to 5-star resorts.
• Departure point for excursions: catamaran, diving, dolphin watching, Port Louis.
• Complete infrastructure: supermarkets, pharmacies, banks, car rental.
• Dining: the most diverse choice on the island.

By choosing the North, you have the freedom to roam to the wild South, the peaceful East or the West as you please. Also discover the must-do excursions in Mauritius.

Ready to discover the North with Sailset Tours?

Based in Pereybère, we know every beach, every guide, every tide time. Contact us for a free, personalised quote: reply within 24h.