Since moving to Mauritius with my husband and our two Yorkies, we’ve explored every corner of this beautiful island, and Grand Baie Mauritius has become one of our absolute favorite places.
From stunning beaches to bustling nightlife, there’s always something to do in this lively coastal town.
If you visit Grand Baie for a short stay or living on the stunning island of Mauritius, Grand Baie has something for everyone.
Here you will find my detailed guide to the top 15 things to do in Grand Baie, which will make your stay in Grand Baie Mauritius an unforgettable experience.
Getting to Know Grand Baie
Grand Baie, located in the north of Mauritius, is often referred to as the “Riviera” of the island, and it’s easy to see why.
With a unique blend of lively city vibes and beachside relaxation, this area quickly became our go-to spot for weekends.
There’s always something happening in Grand Baie, from beachside markets to fun water activities.
The variety of things to do and the laid-back lifestyle are what make Grand Baie such a fantastic place to explore.
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How to Get to Grand Baie
From Mauritius Airport to Grand Baie
The journey from Mauritius Airport to Grand Baie takes about an hour, and there are several options to get there.
You can take a taxi, book an airport shuttle, or, like us, rent a car. Renting a car has been our favorite way to get around since it allows us to explore other parts of the island at our own pace.
You can read my article on Renting a Vehicle in Mauritius here.
Pro tip: If you’re staying at a resort, check if they offer a free airport transfer—it’s a convenient way to travel without the hassle of arranging transport after a long flight.
From Grand Baie to Port Louis
Getting from Grand Baie to Port Louis is straightforward. It’s about a 30-45 minute drive depending on traffic, and it’s a great day trip if you want to explore the capital.
You can drive yourself, take a bus, or hire a taxi. We usually rent a car, as it gives us the freedom to explore Port Louis and stop at interesting spots along the way.
Pro tip: Leave early in the morning to avoid traffic and have plenty of time to explore places like the Central Market, Blue Penny Museum, and the Caudan Waterfront in Port Louis.
Top 15 Things to Do in Grand Baie, Mauritius
Here are our top 15 things to do in Grand Baie Mauritius as expats living on this beautiful Island:
1. Relax on the Beautiful Beaches
The beaches of Grand Baie are some of the best in Mauritius. La Cuvette Beach is my secret haven when I want a quieter, more relaxed experience.
With its calm waters and fewer crowds, it’s perfect for sunbathing or reading a book.
On days when we’re looking for something more vibrant, we head over to Pereybere Beach.
This beach is not only a local favorite but also offers some of the clearest waters for snorkeling. If you visit on a weekday, you’ll likely have a peaceful experience, but weekends can be busier with families and tourists alike.
Pro tip: Get to Pereybere Beach early in the morning to secure a good spot and enjoy the calm before it gets too crowded. We love bringing a picnic, as the local beachside stalls sell fresh fruits and snacks.
2. Try Water Sports and Sailing
For the adventure seekers, Grand Baie is a water sports playground. From jet skiing to paddleboarding, there’s no shortage of thrilling activities.
My family loves taking catamaran cruises from Grand Baie to nearby islands, especially with our guests. These cruises usually include snorkeling stops, and lunch is often served on board.
We’ve even done a sunset catamaran trip, which was such a romantic way to end the day. If you’re not into sailing, don’t worry—there’s plenty more to do. I have even tried tried paragliding, and although I wasn’t the best at it, the adrenaline rush was worth it!
Pro tip: Many water sports companies offer package deals, so if you’re planning to try a few activities, ask about discounts for multi-activity bookings.
3. Enjoy Grand Baie’s Nightlife
When the sun goes down, Grand Baie comes alive! A great spot is Banana Beach Club in Grand Baie Mauritius.
It’s a great mix of laid-back beach vibes and live music, perfect for a relaxed evening. If you’re in the mood to dance, Les Enfants Terribles is one of the top nightclubs in the area.
On weekends, the club is packed with both locals and tourists, and it’s a great place to experience Mauritius’ party scene. For those like me who prefer something quieter, there are plenty of beachfront bars where you can sip a cocktail while enjoying the ocean breeze.
Pro tip: If you’re looking for a quieter evening, go for drinks at one of the beachfront bars before heading to the nightclub. The mix of relaxation and excitement makes for the perfect night out!
4. Shop Around Grand Baie
Grand Baie shopping is a mix of modern malls and local markets. I love exploring the Grand Baie Bazaar, where you can find unique handmade crafts, souvenirs, and Mauritian textiles.
It’s the perfect place to pick up gifts for friends and family. For a more modern shopping experience, we head to La Croisette, a shopping mall that has everything from international brands to a cinema. It’s a great place to spend an afternoon, especially if you want to escape the heat for a while.
Pro tip: Haggle at the local markets! While most shops have fixed prices, the bazaar often allows you to negotiate, and you can score some great deals if you’re polite and friendly.
5. Savor the Best Restaurants in Grand Baie
There’s no shortage of fantastic dining options in Grand Baie. For an authentic taste of Mauritian cuisine, we love La Rougaille Creole.
The seafood here is incredible, and the flavors are vibrant and fresh. Another favorite is The Beach House, where you can sit right on the sand while enjoying burgers and seafood. It’s perfect for a casual meal after a day at the beach.
Pro tip: Try the local rougaille dish at La Rougaille Creole—it’s a flavorful tomato-based sauce typically served with fish or chicken. It’s a must-try if you’re new to Mauritian cuisine!
6. Explore the Nearby Islands on a Tour
Island hopping is one of the best ways to explore the natural beauty around Grand Baie.
There are a variety of tours that will take you to the surrounding islands, each offering something unique.
One of our favorites is the day trip to Île aux Cerfs, where you can enjoy white sandy beaches and clear turquoise waters.
Most tours include snorkeling stops and lunch on the island. If you’re looking for something more secluded, trips to Île aux Gabriel are fantastic for a quieter beach day.
We love taking these island tours as it allows us to discover hidden gems that you wouldn’t find on the main island.
Pro tip: Bring plenty of sunscreen, a hat, and your camera to capture the stunning landscapes. Book your tour in advance during peak season, as island tours are very popular among both locals and tourists.
7. Explore the Underwater World of Grand Baie
One of the most unique experiences we’ve had in Grand Baie is the underwater walk, which lets you explore the ocean floor without needing to be a certified diver.
This activity is perfect for those who want to get up close with marine life but aren’t comfortable diving or snorkeling.
Wearing a special helmet that provides a continuous flow of oxygen, you walk along the seabed at around 3-4 meters deep, surrounded by vibrant coral reefs and schools of colorful fish.
It’s such a surreal feeling to be completely submerged and able to breathe normally while admiring the underwater world.
What I loved most was how interactive the experience is. We got to feed fish directly from our hands, and they swarmed around us in a flurry of bright colors.
The walk typically lasts around 20-30 minutes, which is just enough time to fully take in the beauty of the underwater environment.
Even though I was a little nervous at first, the guides were so helpful and made sure we were comfortable throughout the entire experience. The underwater walk is ideal for all ages, making it a fantastic family activity.
Pro tip: Don’t forget to bring an underwater camera or rent one from the tour operator—they offer some fantastic photo opportunities of you surrounded by fish and coral!
Bonus: Most operators also provide a video of your underwater adventure, so you can relive the experience and show it off to friends and family.
8. Visit the Local Grand Baie Hindu Temples
The cultural diversity in Mauritius is something I’ve come to appreciate even more after moving here.
The vibrant colors and intricate carvings of the temples make it a stunning sight, and it’s a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of town.
It’s also a great way to learn about the island’s rich religious and cultural history.
Pro tip: Visit the temple early in the morning when it’s quieter and more serene. Remember to dress respectfully, as it’s an active place of worship.
9. Take a Glass-Bottom Boat Tour
We recently did a glass-bottom boat tour in Grand Baie, and it was such a fun and relaxing way to see the coral reefs and marine life.
The best part is that you don’t need to get wet! It’s perfect for families or anyone who prefers to stay dry while enjoying the underwater scenery.
Pro tip: Bring a hat and sunscreen, as you’ll be out in the sun for a while. These tours are great for kids and travelers who may not want to snorkel but still want to experience Mauritius’ incredible marine life.
10. Visit Cap Malheureux Mauritius
One of the most peaceful and picturesque spots near Grand Baie is Cap Malheureux.
This charming fishing village is famous for its stunning views of the islets just off the northern coast of Mauritius, including Coin de Mire.
The highlight of Cap Malheureux is the iconic red-roofed church, Notre-Dame Auxiliatrice, which sits against the backdrop of turquoise waters and palm trees.
It’s the perfect place for a quiet afternoon, strolling by the beach and taking in the serene atmosphere and it’s also a great spot for some scenic photography.
Pro tip: Visit in the late afternoon to capture the most stunning sunset views. It’s also a lovely spot for a picnic by the beach.
11. Visit Trou aux Biches Mauritius
Just a short drive from Grand Baie is Trou aux Biches, one of the most beautiful beaches on the island.
The soft, white sand and crystal-clear water make it a favorite for both locals and tourists.
Unlike the bustling beaches in Grand Baie, Trou aux Biches offers a more relaxed vibe, making it perfect for swimming, snorkeling, or just lounging on the beach.
My husband, daughter and I often come here when we want a change of pace from the busier beaches, and our Yorkies love it too!
Pro tip: Snorkeling is a must here! The coral reefs are teeming with vibrant marine life, and you can rent snorkeling gear right on the beach.
12. Relax at Mont Choisy Beach
Mont Choisy Beach is another gem just a few minutes away from Grand Baie.
This long, curving stretch of beach is ideal for a lazy beach day or a peaceful walk.
The shallow waters make it a great spot for swimming, especially if you’re with children. It’s one of the longest beaches in Mauritius, so even on busy days, there’s plenty of space to relax.
We often pack a picnic and spend the day lounging here—it’s also one of the best spots on the island to catch the sunset.
Pro tip: On weekends, you’ll find local food vendors selling delicious Mauritian street food like gateaux piments and fresh coconut water—perfect for a beachside snack.
13. Mont Choisy Mall Grand Baie Shopping
For a convenient shopping experience close to Grand Baie Mauritius, the Mont Choisy Mall is a great spot to pick up essentials and enjoy some retail therapy.
This modern shopping complex offers a mix of local and international brands, along with a supermarket, cafes, and a food court.
It’s the perfect place to grab a quick bite or pick up groceries before heading back to the beach.
Pro tip: Visit the Mont Choisy Mall on a weekday morning to avoid crowds and take your time browsing through the shops.
14. Go Shopping at La Croisette Mall Grand Baie Mauritius
If you’re looking for a more upscale shopping experience, La Croisette Mall in Grand Baie is the place to go.
It’s a one-stop destination for everything from high-end fashion to home goods and even a cinema.
I love wandering through the boutiques, grabbing a coffee at one of the cafes, and occasionally treating myself to something special.
The mall is spacious, modern, and even has a dedicated kids’ area, making it a great spot for family outings.
Pro tip: La Croisette Mall is also home to some of the best restaurants in Grand Baie—perfect for a relaxed lunch or dinner after a day of shopping.
15. Indulge in Spa Day while in Grand Baie Mauritius
After a busy week exploring Grand Baie, there’s nothing quite like indulging in a relaxing spa day.
Many of the resorts in the area offer world-class spa facilities, including the Victoria Beachcomber Resort & Spa and Royal Palm Beachcomber.
We had a wonderful stay at the Victoria Beachcomber Resort. You can read my review here.
Whether it’s a soothing massage, a refreshing facial, or just lounging in the sauna, treating yourself to some pampering is the perfect way to recharge.
I love booking a full day of treatments when I need to unwind, and most spas offer packages that include access to pools, steam rooms, and relaxation areas.
Pro tip: Book your spa treatments in advance, especially during peak tourist seasons, to ensure you get the best time slots and therapists.
Final Thoughts on Grand Baie
Since making the move to Mauritius, Grand Baie has truly become one of our favorite places.
There’s always something to do, from beach hopping to enjoying the vibrant nightlife or just relaxing by the pool at one of the incredible resorts.
Whether you’re visiting for a few days or planning to stay longer like us, Grand Baie offers the perfect blend of adventure and relaxation.
With its lively atmosphere, beautiful beaches, and fantastic food, it’s no wonder why so many people, including expats, fall in love with this part of the island.
I hope this guide helps you make the most of your time in Grand Baie!
