Things to Do in Grand Baie: 12 Ideas in the North of Mauritius

Grand Baie is the ideal base for exploring the north of Mauritius: a sheltered bay, beaches a few minutes away, boat trips, and everything you need to eat and go out. Here are our 12 ideas, from morning to evening.

To start the day in style, discover our beach brunch in Grand Baie or our breakfast delivered to your villa.

On the beach

1. Swim in the bay and at La Cuvette

Grand Baie public beach sits in the heart of the village, handy for a quick swim. Right next to it, La Cuvette is a small white-sand cove, sheltered and lovely early in the morning, before the crowds arrive.

2. Spend a morning at Pereybère

A few minutes north, Pereybère is one of the local favourites: clear water, a sandy bottom and some snorkelling along the sides. It gets busy in the afternoon, so come in the morning.

3. Walk Mont Choisy and Trou aux Biches

South of Grand Baie, Mont Choisy stretches out as a long beach lined with casuarina trees, followed by Trou aux Biches and its turquoise lagoon. Perfect for a walk with your feet in the water or finding a shady spot.

4. Have brunch by the lagoon

Instead of a hotel buffet, treat yourselves to a table set on the sand, just for you. That's our Beach Experience (Rs 6,500 for 2 people, 2 hours) on the beaches of the north. If you'd rather stay in, the Brunch Box (Rs 2,700 for 2) brings a full breakfast to your villa.

Good to know: Brunch Moris works like a caterer, by reservation only. We do not have a restaurant where we can welcome you: you book, then we set up your brunch on a beach in the north or deliver it straight to your door.

At sea

5. Take a catamaran to the northern islets

This is the classic trip from Grand Baie: a day on a catamaran to Coin de Mire, Île Plate and Îlot Gabriel, with swimming, snorkelling and lunch on board. Book a day or two ahead in high season, and check the weather: in strong wind, the trip may be rescheduled.

6. Go snorkelling or take a glass-bottom boat

The northern lagoon is shallow and full of fish. A mask and snorkel are enough at Pereybère or Trou aux Biches; for non-swimmers, a glass-bottom boat lets you see the coral without getting wet.

7. Dive or try water sports

Grand Baie has several dive centres, for a first dive or experienced divers. In the bay you'll also find parasailing, kayaking and paddleboarding. Go in the morning if you can, when the sea is calmest.

Around the north

8. See the red-roofed church at Cap Malheureux

About ten minutes from Grand Baie, the small red-roofed church of Cap Malheureux faces Coin de Mire. It's one of the most photographed views on the island, especially late in the day.

9. Browse the bazaar and the shops

The Grand Baie bazaar gathers crafts, sarongs, spices and souvenirs. For more classic shopping, the village's shopping centres are open every day and handy when the weather turns.

10. Visit the Pamplemousses garden

About half an hour's drive away, the Pamplemousses botanical garden is famous for its giant water lilies, palm trees and tortoises. Allow two hours and bring water.

11. Discover Château de Labourdonnais

A former colonial mansion surrounded by orchards, Château de Labourdonnais can be visited along with its gardens and distillery. Labourdonnais jams are also part of our brunches.

In the evening

12. Watch the sunset over the bay

The north-west coast faces the sunset: Grand Baie bay and the beaches of Mont Choisy offer beautiful sunsets. In the evening, the village comes alive with its restaurants and bars.

When to visit Grand Baie?

From May to November, the weather is dry and the sea calm in the morning: the best time for boat trips and outdoor activities. From December to April, it's hotter and more humid, with short showers; mornings are often still lovely, which is why it pays to start early.

Frequently asked questions