Why go?
Grand Baie has blossomed from a sleepy seaside village into a flourishing modern town – but its sandy shoreline is still its biggest appeal.
Head to one of the many pristine beaches and you’ll find all sorts of adrenaline-filled activities like windsurfing, sailing, or diving amongst the coral reefs. Delicious smells waft over from beachside restaurants, with specialities like Creole fish rougaille, or daube – beef or chicken stew – on the menu. You’ll also find beach shacks serving rum cocktails made with fresh tropical juices.
Aerial view of people kitesurfing on ocean
Away from the waterfront, Grand Baie’s retail options are a shopaholic’s paradise. In the heart of town is the bazaar, a myriad of stalls selling freshly made flavoured tea, perfume oils and even handmade model ships representing the island’s maritime history.
When to go?
Warm summers and mild winters make Grand Baie an ideal place to visit all year round. During summer (November to March), the north of Mauritius gets very hot and humid, with temperatures peaking at around 30°C in February.
Where to stay?
Veranda Grand Baie Hotel & Spa – Grand Baie, Mauritius
The Veranda Grand welcomes its guests to the beat of a traditional drum, played by a local musician in ceremonial dress. Located in the heart of Grand Baie, the hotel features a private sandy beach, two restaurants and a bar overlooking the sea.
Grand Bay Suites – Grand Baie, Mauritius
Situated right next to the golden sands of Grand Baie, these private apartments are surrounded by a tropical garden and stylish sundeck with barbecue facilities. Restaurants and bars are just a five-minute walk away, but if you fancy dining in then you can make use of the apartments’ modern kitchens.
Mauricia Beachcomber – Grand Baie, Mauritius
Mauricia Beachcomber extends out onto Grand Baie’s sandy beach, overlooking the swirling blue waters of the Indian Ocean. It’s within walking distance of the town’s nightlife, shopping centres and casinos, but the live music evenings and on-site nightclub make staying in equally tempting.
Merville Beach – Grand Baie, Mauritius
Merville Beach sits right on the shore, overlooking impeccably white sand and enticing turquoise water – making it an ideal base for dolphin-spotting trips, big-game fishing and water skiing.
Once you’ve worked up an appetite, dine al fresco under starlit skies at the on-site restaurant.
Baystone Boutique Hotel & Spa – Grand Baie, Mauritius
Designed with luxury in mind, Baystone Boutique Hotel & Spa encourages you to spoil yourself – its on-site wellness centre includes a Turkish bath and beauty parlour. The hotel also has its own boathouse and watersports equipment, with stand-up paddleboarding and kite surfing on offer.