Mauritius with Kids — The Complete Family Travel Guide

Mauritius is one of the world's great family beach destinations. A protected barrier reef means most beaches have calm, shallow lagoons — the kind of child-safe water that's almost impossible to find in Europe. The island is safe, English-speaking, the food is excellent and varied, and the resort infrastructure is among the best in the Indian Ocean.

But choosing the right area and resort makes a huge difference. Here's everything families need to know.

---

The Best Beaches for Children

Belle Mare (East Coast) ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

The best beach for families with young children. The lagoon at Belle Mare is genuinely extraordinary — shallow, warm, and crystal-clear for 200–500m from shore. The water is knee-deep even 100m out. No current, no waves, no coral underfoot in the swimming zone. Children can wade freely.

Trou aux Biches (North Coast) ⭐⭐⭐⭐

The best beach on the north coast for families. Also a very shallow lagoon, wide sandy beach, and the Trou aux Biches Beachcomber resort has excellent children's facilities.

Flic en Flac (West Coast) ⭐⭐⭐

The longest public beach strip on the island. Good for older children (8+) who want snorkelling, beach football, and more activity. Spectacular sunsets.

Île aux Cerfs (East) ⭐⭐⭐⭐

The private island off the east coast is one of the best half-day trips for families. The lagoon on the north side is ankle-to-knee deep, warm as a bath, and completely safe for toddlers.

Avoid for young children:

• Le Morne (trade winds create chop in the lagoon, popular with kitesurfers)
• South coast beaches (windier, rougher)

---

Family Resorts

Constance Belle Mare Plage — East

The most complete resort for families. Two beaches, two pools (one specifically for children), an excellent kids' club (Club Kaz, 3–12), a teen lounge, and a vast range of included watersports. The beach is the best on the island for young children.

Best for: Families wanting maximum facilities and the best beach.

Trou aux Biches Beachcomber — North

Beachcomber is Mauritius's most experienced resort group for families. Trou aux Biches has a beautiful beach, a good kids' club, and a water park. Better value than the east coast five-stars.

Best for: Families wanting value and good facilities in the north.

Paradis Beachcomber — Le Morne (West)

Beachcomber's luxury offering on the Le Morne Peninsula. Two kids' clubs (by age group), a water sports centre, and a golf course. More expensive.

Best for: Older children and teenagers who want watersports and activities.

Attitude Hotels Group — Various Locations

Mid-range prices, consistently over-deliver. The Ravenala Attitude in the north and Long Beach in the east are particularly well-regarded.

Best for: Families wanting good quality at a sensible price.

---

Activities for Children

Casela Nature Parks — West Coast

The island's best day out for children. Nature park section (zebra, ostrich, giraffe, parrots), adventure section (zip lines, canyon swing, quad bikes), and a water park. Allow a full day.

Mauritius Aquarium, Pointe aux Piments

Small but well-maintained aquarium. The touch tank (starfish, sea cucumbers) is particularly good for young children. Takes 1–1.5 hours.

Île aux Cerfs Day Trip

A glass-bottom boat from Trou d'Eau Douce with snorkelling stops over coral gardens. The lagoon is ideal for children nervous about deeper water. Usually includes lunch.

Pamplemousses Botanic Garden

The giant Amazonian water lilies (Victoria amazonica) consistently fascinate children. The tortoise enclosure is a highlight. Free entry, 1–2 hours.

Dolphin Swimming, Tamarin

Children 8+ can participate in supervised dolphin swimming in Tamarin Bay. Wild spinner dolphins visit the bay most mornings from June to October. Morning departures at 6:30–7am.

---

Practical Information for Families

Health

• Mosquitoes: Mauritius is malaria-free. However, dengue fever outbreaks occur occasionally. Use DEET-based insect repellent at dawn and dusk.
• Sun: Very high UV index — SPF 50+ for children is mandatory; re-apply every 2 hours.
• Medical: Wellkin Hospital (Moka), Clinique du Nord (Grand Baie), and Fortis Clinique Darné (Floréal) all have excellent paediatric departments.

Food

Children tend to eat very well in Mauritius. Rice, noodles, grilled fish, and fresh fruit are universally available. The main caution: chilli is used extensively in local food — always ask for "sans piment" (without chilli) if ordering for young children.

Getting Around

A rental car is by far the best option for families. Car seats are available from most hire companies — request in advance. Driving is on the left.

When to Go

• July–August: Peak family season. Resorts most lively and most expensive. Book well ahead.
• October–November, April–May: Fewer families, lower prices, excellent weather.
• December–February: Hot, humid, and occasional tropical showers.

Budget

Family holidays range widely:

• Budget/mid-range (Attitude Hotels, guesthouses): EUR 200–300/night
• Mid-range resort (Beachcomber group): EUR 400–700/night, typically half board
• Luxury (Constance, Four Seasons): EUR 900–2,000+/night

Most five-star resorts offer children under 12 (sometimes under 16) stay-free, eat-free packages during certain periods — check before booking.