The white beach
A sandy curve under trees.
GrandEscogriffe — CC BY-SA 4.0 · Lukas von Daeniken from Schweiz — CC BY-SA 2.0 · Z thomas — CC BY-SA 4.0 · "dronepicr" — CC BY 2.0 · Z thomas — CC BY-SA 4.0
Blue Bay Marine Park is a 353-hectare marine reserve in southeastern Mauritius, fronted by a white sand beach and shallow, intensely blue water. It is among the island's best known spots for swimming and seeing coral, popular with residents and visitors alike, especially at weekends. The area was declared a national park in October 1997, then gained marine park status in June 2000 under the Mauritian Fisheries and Marine Resources Act. The aim is to protect the reefs and sea life, so rules apply in the water: do not touch the coral or take anything from it. The beach curves under trees, and the clear, calm water suits children near the edge. Beyond it lie dark volcanic rocks and coral areas, and glass-bottom boats take visitors out over the reef. The beach has shaded places to sit, and stalls selling light local snacks. It is 4.4 km in a straight line from the Mahébourg waterfront and 3.6 km from Île aux Aigrettes. Sundays and holidays get crowded, so early morning is calmer. Bring sun protection, and water shoes if you plan to walk near the rocks. Agree the glass-bottom boat price before boarding, and follow the crew's instructions when swimming near coral.
A sandy curve under trees.
Coral from above the water.
Good for children near the edge.
Blue Bay, southeast coast of Mauritius
Yes, the water is calm and shallow near the beach, with constant supervision.
Early morning, outside Sundays and holidays.