Mauritius is a tropical paradise that offers turquoise waters, palm-fringed beaches, and some of the kindest people I’ve met on my travels. It’s also a destination where careful planning makes all the difference. In this blog, I’ll share essential tips for visiting, reviews of the three hotels I stayed in, and things I wish I had known before I arrived.
General Travel Tips for Mauritius 🌴
- Language: The main languages spoken are English, French, and Mauritian Creole. Most people in hospitality speak English fluently.
- Currency: Mauritian Rupee (MUR) is used, but many places accept credit cards.
- Best Time to Visit: The most popular time to visit is from November to December, when the summer season kicks off—expect warm, sunny days and higher prices during this peak period. I visited at the end of April, and while the island was starting to transition into winter, it was still very hot and humid. Be prepared for the occasional rainy day, but overall, the weather stays beach-perfect.
- Sunset Times: One thing that really surprised me—sunset comes early. Around 6:30pm in winter and 7:30pm in summer, meaning your days are shorter than expected. If you want to make the most of your trip, start your days early.
- Transportation Tip: If you’re comfortable driving, renting a car will save you a lot compared to taxis. That said, if you’re a solo traveller like me and don’t want to drive, I found a lovely local taxi driver, Nitesh, who made my trip smoother and more enjoyable. You can reach him on WhatsApp number +23059846201.
- Solo Travel Safety: I felt very safe travelling around Mauritius. Locals are kind and respectful, but a bit more reserved. They give you space, which I appreciated.
Accommodation Strategy 🏝️
Each side of the island has different beach types, vibe, and overall energy. The west and southwest coasts—like Flic en Flac and Tamarin—felt peaceful, ideal for slowing down, enjoying nature, and watching beautiful sunsets. The beaches here had a more rugged, natural feel, and were less crowded, which I loved. They’re perfect if you’re looking for a slower pace and fewer distractions.
In contrast, the north is known for its lively atmosphere, more developed tourism infrastructure, and nightlife—something I completely missed because I listened to a friend’s advice and decided to skip it. Later on, I realised I had probably made a mistake, especially after hearing how gorgeous and vibrant that area can be. So, if you’re looking for a bit more action and don’t mind a busier beach scene, the north might actually be the better fit.
That’s why I recommend trying different hotels on opposite sides of the island. It’s a great way to explore Mauritius more fully and experience both relaxation and activity—without constantly driving back and forth.
Hilton Mauritius Resort & Spa (Flic en Flac Area)





This resort blends luxury with nature and is designed in a way that makes you feel relaxed from the moment you arrive. Hilton is a brand I trust, and once again, they delivered—great food, excellent service, and a peaceful atmosphere that made it a perfect place to begin my trip. I’ll be honest, I was initially a bit unsure about booking Hilton because the reviews weren’t as strong compared to other properties I was considering. But I’m so glad I went ahead—it turned out to be a fantastic decision.
- Room & Grounds: My room was spacious, modern, and had a view of the gardens leading to the beach. The bed was incredibly comfortable, the bathroom well-stocked, and the layout gave off a calm, luxurious feel. The grounds are beautifully maintained and ideal for strolls at sunset.
- Food & Restaurants: The hotel has three main restaurants: Indian, Thai, and a buffet with rotating themes. I suggest booking ahead for the Indian and Thai restaurants—they get busy quickly. The food at the buffet was varied and high quality, with something for everyone.
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- Service: As always with Hilton, the staff were professional, kind, and efficient. Whether it was front desk help, restaurant service, or the watersports team, everyone made the stay seamless.
- Beach & Activities: The beach is picturesque, though not ideal for swimming due to the coral. It’s perfect for kayaking and paddleboarding (both free). I did their sunset paddling experience (available on Monday and Wednesday only), and it was magical—paddling out while the sun dipped below the horizon was unforgettable.
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- Snorkeling & Dolphin Tour: You can also snorkel further up on the same beach. I booked a private dolphin tour that was not only amazing but also a third of the price compared to what the hotels offered. My guide David was incredibly respectful of marine life and made the experience unforgettable. Contact him on WhatsApp at +230 5834 2916.
Restaurants Nearby: I walked to the nearby village and found the oldest lobster restaurant in Flic en Flac—Leslie Seafood Restaurant. It may look simple, but the food was excellent and the staff were warm and passionate. Another great local favourite is King Snack, a casual spot locals love for authentic seafood dishes. Don’t just stay in the resort—get out and try the local food!
Weather Warning: Mauritius can get unpredictable. When I arrived, the island faced a flood warning, and many shops were closed. If you’re planning outdoor activities or island hopping, be flexible.
Hilton Mauritius
I highly recommend Hilton Mauritius for a beachfront stay. It’s set on a beautiful coral beach with rich sea life — perfect for snorkeling and paddling, which are free for guests.
The beach is one of the best in the area, and the nature around the hotel is stunning. The staff were welcoming and helpful, making it a very easy and relaxing stay.
Tamarina Golf & Spa Boutique Hotel



This hotel is located on what I can confidently say was the nicest beach I visited during my stay in Mauritius. It’s not just about the soft sand or the turquoise water—it’s the setting. The beach is beautifully tucked between a dramatic mountain backdrop and the peaceful Tamarin River, creating a setting that feels almost cinematic. The grounds are intimate and charming, and the whole vibe is calm and soothing—ideal if you’re looking to escape the buzz of larger, busier resorts.
Room:
The rooms are large, sea-facing, and beautifully decorated. If you’re planning to stay here, I definitely recommend booking a sea view room—it’s worth it. Sitting on the balcony in the evening, listening to the gentle sound of the waves, is simply unforgettable.
Beach:
This was by far the nicest beach I experienced in Mauritius. The water here is calm, making it perfect for swimming, sunbathing, or just relaxing under the palms. The beach is also connected to the Tamarin River, which adds a peaceful, almost private feel. Tamarina Public Beach is nearby as well, where you can rent surfboards and bodyboards if you want to mix in some water sports.
Dining:
The hotel offers a buffet for breakfast and dinner with generous, high-quality choices. Drinks are extra, but the food experience overall felt balanced and satisfying.
Free Detox Drink:
A nice touch—guests can enjoy a complimentary detox drink at the beach bar, perfect for a refreshing break during the day.
Location:
The hotel is well located for exploring key attractions like Casela Nature Park, Black River Gorges, and the Seven-Coloured Earth—all within an hour’s drive.
Exclusive Perk:
Since the hotel shares ownership with Casela Nature Park, guests get free entry to the park—just ask at reception for your pass.
Casela Park Review: I joined a safari, and while the guide was lovely, the experience wasn’t very efficient. Many activities are extra cost (eco rider, quad safari, tiger walk), and I waited over an hour for food with limited options (they only had fries). Arriving late (noon) meant I barely had time for one activity before the park closed at 5 pm, although each activity lasts around 45min -1h. I was hoping to see more and felt, in a way, that I wasted a lot of time waiting. Tip: Go early and plan ahead, or the queues and costs can stack up quickly.
Free activities included with entry:
- Flying Hippo
- Little Traveller
- Monkey Swing
- Bumper Car
- Tulawaka
- African Safari Truck
- Toboggan
- Medine Foundation
Tamarina Golf & Spa Hotel
If you’re looking for a quieter, boutique vibe, Tamarina Golf & Spa Boutique Hotel is a fantastic choice. Located next to the mountains and Tamarin River, it’s perfect for kayaking and beach lovers.
The hotel has an intimate atmosphere with a great half-board option (note: drinks are paid separately). The beach is uncrowded and the views are beautiful, especially if you love nature and want a less touristy spot.
Riu Palace Mauritius (Le Morne) – Adults Only, All Inclusive
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This is the largest resort I’ve ever stayed in—it truly feels like a world of its own. The scale of the property is impressive, with everything you could possibly need on-site, from multiple restaurants to entertainment spaces. It’s sleek, modern, and designed for maximum ease, especially for travellers who prefer convenience and plenty of options without needing to venture far.
Rooms:
The rooms are huge, fresh, and modern—it’s a newly built resort, so everything still feels brand new.
Dining:
There are two à la carte restaurants, but be sure to book as soon as you arrive—they fill up quickly. The buffet was excellent, with a wide range of seafood, vegetarian, and healthy options. The staff are attentive and will happily refill items if you ask.
Beach:
While you can swim here, the beach itself wasn’t the most inviting during my stay. There were quite a few algae along the shoreline, and the wind can make it feel less ideal for lounging. However, it’s a hotspot for kitesurfing, which adds some action to the scene if you’re into watersports.
Pool & Entertainment:
The resort boasts a massive pool area, complete with a bar and snacks. In the evenings, there’s live music, adding a nice touch to your stay without having to leave the resort.
Watersports:
There’s a scuba centre on-site offering various activities, but one thing I didn’t love was that paddleboarding is only available at 9 am and needs to be booked in advance—which felt a bit restrictive. Also, I noticed that the prices for the scuba centre were much higher than what I experienced in other hotels during my trip.
Things I Wanted to Try But Didn’t
- Helicopter Tour: These must be booked at least one week in advance. A 15-minute ride is available, but if you want to see the underwater waterfall illusion, go for 45 minutes.
- Whale Watching: I skipped this after learning it’s not legal in Mauritius. It’s worth checking with ethical tour providers before booking.
Riu Palace Hotel
For an all-inclusive experience, RIU Palace Mauritius is a great pick. It’s adults-only, set on a long sandy beach, and perfect if you want a no-stress holiday.
Expect multiple pools, a spa, several restaurants, and easy access to water sports. It’s ideal for those looking to relax without worrying about extra costs.
Final Thoughts: Is Mauritius Worth Visiting?
Mauritius is also a perfect destination if you’re looking for a more relaxing holiday with a partner. With its peaceful beaches, beautiful resorts, and slow evenings, it’s ideal for couples who want to unwind together.
For me, this trip was a mix of beauty, peace, and small lessons. I came looking for adventure and found stillness, especially during those early sunsets where the island seemed to slow down and invite you to just be present. I realised how much I appreciated the quiet mornings, the way the sea shimmered at sunset, and the unexpected kindness of people who left me to my thoughts but always smiled when our paths crossed.
Mauritius is a beautiful destination with unforgettable nature, beaches, and friendly (but slightly reserved) locals. I felt completely safe as a solo traveller. However, since nightlife is almost non-existent and sunset comes early, plan your days well to make the most of it—or you may get bored in the evenings.
I didn’t get to explore local life on the east side, and I’d love to return to dive deeper into that part of the island. I know there’s more to uncover, and I left with that feeling of wanting just a little more time.
Until then, I hope this guide helps you plan the Mauritius trip you’ve been dreaming of!
And of course, if you have any other questions, feel free to drop a comment or DM me on Instagram