Wild Coasts, Key Areas & Authentic Vibe
The East of Mauritius is the island’s glamour coast, renowned for endless stretches of white sand, turquoise lagoons, and high-end seclusion. It is the best choice for travelers seeking luxury resorts, world-class golf courses, and the island's most famous picture-postcard beaches, like Belle Mare and Île aux Cerfs.
The East primarily covers the Flacq District, stretching from the rocky coastline of Roches Noires in the north down to the fishing village of Trou d'Eau Douce. It feels more exclusive and spread out than the busy North or developed West.
Key areas you'll encounter:
Belle Mare: The star of the East. It boasts a miles-long stretch of powdery white beach and many of the island's top 5-star hotels.
Trou d'Eau Douce: A charming fishing village that serves as the main gateway (departure point) for boat trips to Île aux Cerfs.
Île aux Cerfs: A famous islet inside the lagoon with crystal clear water, water sports, and a championship golf course.
Poste de Flacq: A quiet, upscale peninsula known for luxury hotels (like Constance Prince Maurice) and mangroves.
Flacq Market: The largest open-air market in Mauritius, located in Centre de Flacq (about 15 mins inland from the coast).
Local Insight: The East is less built-up than the North. You won't find long strips of bars and shops here; instead, you'll find vast sugarcane fields separating isolated, magnificent resorts.
The East is the "windward" coast, meaning it faces the direct trade winds coming from the southeast. This makes the climate distinct from the sheltered West coast.
Summer (Nov–Apr): The best time to stay in the East. Temperatures range from 26-33°C. The ocean breeze acts as nature's air conditioning, making the humid summer heat much more comfortable here than elsewhere on the island.
Winter (May–Oct): Breezy and cooler (20-25°C). The wind picks up significantly. While this is paradise for kitesurfers and sailors, it can be too windy for sunbathing on the beach during peak winter (July/August).
The vibe in the East is sophisticated, slow, and aquatic. It is the playground for luxury travelers and golf enthusiasts. Unlike the North, which buzzes with energy, the East is about privacy and relaxation.
Daytime: Focused on the ocean and the greens. Life revolves around the beach, boat trips to the islets (Île aux Cerfs or Île aux Aigrettes nearby), and playing golf on world-renowned courses designed by legends like Bernhard Langer and Ernie Els.
Nighttime: Very quiet. Entertainment is almost exclusively confined to the resorts. Don't expect to walk out of your hotel and find a street full of clubs; you stay in the East to disconnect.
Choose the East if you want the classic "tropical paradise" aesthetic—stunning white sands and blue water—combined with luxury service. It is ideal for honeymooners and golfers who don't mind being away from the bustle.
It's perfect for you if:
You are a beach snob: Belle Mare is arguably the best beach on the island for swimming and walking.
You love golf: This region has the highest concentration of championship courses.
You are an early riser: Being on the East coast means spectacular sunrises over the ocean every morning.
You visit in Summer: The breeze makes the heat delightful.
It might not be for you if:
You want sunset views: The sun sets behind the mountains here; for ocean sunsets, go to Flic en Flac (West).
You want nightlife and street food: You won't find a "strip" of restaurants and bars within walking distance.
You are visiting in July/August: Unless you are kitesurfing, the wind might be too strong for a relaxing beach day.