Best Beaches to Visit Right After Landing in Mauritius
Why Head to the Beach After Your Flight?
After a long flight, there’s no better way to shake off jet lag than feeling the warm sand under your feet and the turquoise waters of the Indian Ocean lapping at your toes. Instead of heading straight to your hotel, why not make your first stop a breathtaking Mauritian beach?
Luckily, Sir Seewoosagur Ramgoolam International Airport (MRU) is located in the southeast of Mauritius, just minutes away from some of the island’s most stunning coastal spots. Whether you want a quick swim, a beachfront meal, or a moment to unwind, these nearby beaches are perfect for starting your trip on the right note.
1. Blue Bay Beach – The Closest Paradise (10 min from Airport)
🏝️ Best for: Snorkeling, crystal-clear waters, and a quick tropical escape
Just 10 minutes from the airport, Blue Bay Beach is the perfect first stop for travelers craving an immediate tropical experience. Known for its turquoise lagoon and marine park, it’s ideal for swimming, relaxing, or even taking a glass-bottom boat tour to see the vibrant coral reefs.
Why Visit Right After Landing?
✔️ Unbeatable Convenience – A short drive means you can dip your toes in the ocean within minutes of arrival.
✔️ Blue Bay Marine Park – Snorkel among exotic fish and coral just offshore.
✔️ Laid-Back Vibes – Grab a fresh coconut from a beach vendor and let the island life sink in.
👉 Quick Tip: Pack swimwear in your carry-on so you can change as soon as you land!
2. Pointe d’Esny – A Secluded Slice of Heaven (15 min from Airport)
🏝️ Best for: Peaceful relaxation, soft white sand, and untouched beauty
If you want to escape the crowds and experience a more secluded, pristine beach, Pointe d’Esny is the perfect spot. Located just south of Blue Bay, this long stretch of soft white sand offers a peaceful atmosphere with minimal tourist activity.
Why Visit Right After Landing?
✔️ Less Crowded – Perfect for those who want a quiet start to their vacation.
✔️ Crystal-Clear Waters – Ideal for a refreshing swim after your flight.
✔️ Stunning Sunsets – If you arrive in the evening, this is one of the best places to watch the sky turn golden.
👉 Quick Tip: There aren’t many restaurants here, so if you’re hungry, grab a snack at Blue Bay before heading to Pointe d’Esny.
3. La Cambuse Beach – The Hidden Gem (8 min from Airport)
🏝️ Best for: Adventure seekers, photographers, and untouched nature
Looking for something a little off the beaten path? La Cambuse Beach is a raw, untouched stretch of coastline just 8 minutes from the airport. With strong waves and fewer tourists, it’s the perfect first stop for those wanting a wild, rugged beach experience.
Why Visit Right After Landing?
✔️ Unique, Unspoiled Beauty – One of Mauritius’ last undeveloped beaches.
✔️ Great for Photography – Dramatic waves and endless blue skies make for amazing shots.
✔️ Close to Airport – Just a short drive away, yet feels like a secret escape.
👉 Quick Tip: This beach is not ideal for swimming due to strong currents, but it’s amazing for a scenic walk and fresh ocean air.
4. Belle Mare Beach – For a Relaxing Beachfront Lunch (35 min from Airport)
🏝️ Best for: Fine dining, luxury vibes, and a long, scenic shoreline
If you don’t mind a slightly longer drive, Belle Mare Beach offers an incredible post-flight lunch experience. Known for its luxury resorts, soft white sand, and shallow waters, this beach is ideal for those who want to start their trip with a little indulgence.
Why Visit Right After Landing?
✔️ Luxury Beachfront Restaurants – Enjoy a gourmet meal with a sea view at nearby hotels.
✔️ Shallow, Calm Waters – A safe and relaxing place for a post-flight swim.
✔️ Great for Sunbathing – The long, open shoreline is perfect for stretching out after a cramped flight.
👉 Quick Tip: Try fresh seafood at one of the beachside restaurants like The Plantation at One&Only Le Saint Géran.
5. Gris Gris Beach – The Wild & Dramatic Coastline (45 min from Airport)
🏝️ Best for: Nature lovers, dramatic scenery, and feeling the power of the ocean
While Gris Gris Beach is a bit farther from the airport, it’s worth the 45-minute drive if you’re looking for jaw-dropping scenery and a totally unique beach experience. Unlike the calm lagoons of Blue Bay or Belle Mare, Gris Gris is famous for its powerful waves, dramatic cliffs, and wild beauty.
Why Visit Right After Landing?
✔️ No Coral Reefs = Big Waves – Unlike other beaches in Mauritius, the ocean here is wild and untamed.
✔️ The Famous “Roche Qui Pleure” – A rock formation that looks like it’s "crying" when the waves hit.
✔️ Great for Hiking & Photography – Walk along the cliffs for epic ocean views.
👉 Quick Tip: Swimming is NOT recommended here due to strong currents, but the views alone make it worth the visit.
Final Thoughts: Your First Stop in Paradise
Mauritius is famous for its world-class beaches, and you don’t have to wait until you check into your hotel to enjoy them! Whether you want a quick swim, a scenic picnic, or a luxurious beachfront lunch, these stunning beaches near the airport provide the perfect start to your island escape.
🚖 Want a seamless transfer straight to the beach? Book a private airport transfer to your favorite beach and start your vacation the moment you land!