Destination guide · South coast
Blue Bay & Mahébourg, Mauritius
Blue Bay and Mahébourg sit side by side on Mauritius's south-east coast, a short hop from SSR Airport. Blue Bay is famous for its marine park, a protected lagoon of clear, shallow water and living coral that makes it one of the island's best snorkelling spots. Next door, Mahébourg is a working fishing town with colonial history, a lively Monday street market and waterfront seafood. The mood here is laid-back and authentically Mauritian rather than resort-polished, suiting families, snorkellers, history buffs and travellers who want local character. It also makes an ideal first or last night given how close it is to the airport.
Things to do in Blue Bay & Mahébourg
- Snorkel the Blue Bay Marine Park, a protected lagoon with vivid coral gardens and reef fish, by glass-bottom boat or straight off the beach
- Take a glass-bottom boat trip over the coral and out toward the reef
- Explore Mahébourg's waterfront and the National History Museum, which covers the 1810 naval Battle of Grand Port
- Browse the busy Monday market in Mahébourg for produce, spices, street food and crafts
- Boat out to Île aux Aigrettes nature reserve to see giant tortoises and rare endemic plants and birds
- Visit the Rault Biscuit Factory near Mahébourg, where manioc biscuits are still made by hand using a 1870s method
- Picnic and swim at the long public beach in Blue Bay under the filao trees
Beaches near Blue Bay & Mahébourg
Getting to Blue Bay & Mahébourg
Blue Bay and Mahébourg are roughly 10-15 minutes (about 8 km) from SSR Airport, the closest beach area to the terminal. A pre-booked private transfer with Belle Mare Tours is the simplest way in, with meet-and-greet at arrivals. Getting around is easy on foot, by taxi or private driver.
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Frequently asked questions
How far is Blue Bay & Mahébourg from the airport?
Very close. SSR Airport sits in the south-east, so Blue Bay and Mahébourg are only about 8 km away, roughly a 10-15 minute drive. It is the nearest beach area to the airport, which makes it a popular choice for the first or last night of a trip.
What is Blue Bay known for?
Blue Bay is best known for its marine park, a protected lagoon with clear, shallow water and healthy coral. It is one of the top snorkelling spots in Mauritius, and glass-bottom boat trips let you see the coral and fish without getting in the water.
What is the best beach in Blue Bay & Mahébourg?
Blue Bay Beach is the standout, with calm turquoise water ideal for families and snorkellers. Neighbouring Pointe d'Esny has a long, quieter stretch of sand lined with villas and is good for a relaxed swim away from the crowds.
When is the best time to visit?
May to December brings drier, cooler weather and excellent water clarity for snorkelling and diving. The south-east coast can be breezier and catches the trade winds, so calm mornings are often the best time to be in the lagoon.