If there’s one thing you shouldn’t leave Mauritius without doing, it’s snorkelling in the island’s warm water and cool lagoons. If it’s your first time you won’t have to worry about any special skills, you will need a mask and the joy of doing it. Snorkelling in Mauritius is a relaxing way to spend a few hours connecting with the marine world and enjoying the island’s beauty. Get ready to make the most of this exciting experience!
The Ideal Places for Snorkelling in Mauritius
Mauritius is a snorkeller’s playground with clear waters and colourful marine life all around the island. While enjoying the underwater world, you will see a mix of lively spots full of fish and quiet corners where you can float in peace. Many of the best snorkelling areas are protected, which helps keep the coral healthy and the marine life abundant. If you’re looking to spot turtles, colourful reef fish, or just enjoy the calm water, these ideal snorkelling places make it simple to plan a fun and memorable day under the surface.
Blue Bay Marine Park
Location: South East Coast
Blue Bay is one of the most popular snorkelling spots and it’s easy to see why. The water is usually clear and the reefs are full of life. Float above colourful coral patches and watch parrotfish, butterflyfish and small reef creatures swimming between the rocks. Every snorkel at Blue Bay is a chance to spot something unexpected and create memories you’ll want to relive again and again.
Quick tip: Get there early to avoid the crowds and enjoy peaceful waters.
Best time of the day: Early morning, when visibility is at its best and the water sparkles under the sun
Nearby: After your snorkel, stroll to nearby cafés, enjoy a refreshing coconut water or join a short boat trip to explore neighbouring reefs
Le Morne Lagoon
Location: South West Coast
Le Morne Lagoon is a true gem for snorkellers of all levels. Its steady and shallow waters make it ideal for beginners, while experienced snorkellers will appreciate the steady conditions and the chance to explore at a relaxed pace. Unlike the busier northern lagoons, Le Morne feels peaceful and private, giving you the space to really connect with the underwater world.
The lagoon is a lively underwater world, with colourful fish weaving between coral patches and small reef creatures peeking out from hidden corners. The scenic view of Le Morne Brabant mountain adds a stunning view both above and below the water, making your snorkelling experience even more memorable.
Quick tip: You can bring a small waterproof camera, the light here is perfect for underwater photos.
Family-friendly: It is a safe spot for kids as the slow current makes it easy for anyone who wants to snorkel at his own pace
Bel Ombre Beach & Lagoon
Location: South West Coast
If you want to experience a quieter snorkelling experience, you can opt for Bel Ombre. Coral areas are just a short swim from the shore, making colourful fish easy to spot. The water is gentle and the surroundings are quiet, ideal for a relaxed afternoon under the sun. Families love it here as the safe water gives children confidence while they explore a fascinating underwater world.
Quick tip: Light water shoes are helpful when entering the lagoon, as the sandy bottom can hide small rocks.
Best for: Short snorkelling adventures or a peaceful experience.
La Prairie
Location: South West Coast
La Prairie is simple and open, with shallow water that makes slow snorkelling a true joy. Fish and coral are abundant and you can explore at your own pace, taking the time to enjoy every tiny detail. The gentle water makes it ideal for beginners, families, or anyone who wants a relaxed underwater experience. While snorkelling, you’ll have a wonderful view of Le Morne Brabant mountain. It’s a perfect spot to enjoy a gentle morning or a lazy late afternoon snorkel with family or friends.
Quick tip: Try snorkelling in different parts of the lagoon, even a few metres can reveal new fish, coral formations, or little surprises.
Caution: Stay away from the eastern side near Maconde. The reefs are broken, the currents are strong and the water gets deep, so only experienced kitesurfers should go there.
Pointe d’Esny
Location: South East Coast
Pointe d’Esny is quiet and less developed compared to the more commercialised beaches. The water is incredibly clear and while snorkelling you can admire small coral formations. Fish are easy to spot and the area is often not crowded, making it a peaceful place to explore. Onshore, the beach is just as beautiful: soft sand, gentle waves and turquoise water stretching as far as the eye can see. As you float along the reef, you might notice tiny creatures hiding in the coral or even a shy turtle passing by. The calm water lets you take your time and enjoy every little detail under the surface. It’s a perfect spot to relax and enjoy the beauty of Mauritius at your own pace.
Quick tip: Because shade is limited, remember to bring sun protection if you plan to linger between swims and a light snack or water to keep refreshed.
Best for: Couples or anyone seeking a serene escape from busier lagoons.
Marine Life You’ll Discover while Snorkelling
The coral patches themselves are amazing to look at. Protected areas help the reefs stay healthy, creating bright, magical landscapes under the water. Pink, orange and green corals form patterns that hide small creatures, like camouflaged shrimp or sea urchins. Fish swim all around you, parrotfish, butterflyfish and damselfish swim through the coral, making the lagoon feel alive. If you’re lucky, you might see a turtle gliding slowly by, a ray floating just under the surface, or even a reef shark in deeper water. Every snorkel is different and the little surprises make each trip a new adventure.
Quick tip:
– Never touch coral or feed fish.
– Make sure you always check currents, tides and visibility before entering the water.
– Move slowly and gently to spot more creatures and remember to keep a respectful distance from marine life.
Tips for a Perfect Snorkelling Day
A great snorkelling day in Mauritius starts with a little planning and a relaxed mindset. Here’s how to enjoy every moment in the lagoon.
Best time to go: Plan your snorkel between April and June or from September to early December, when the water is clear and the weather is just right.
What to pack: You will need a mask, snorkel, fins, UV shirt, waterproof bag. Consider an underwater camera or GoPro for memorable photos.
Maximise your day: Think about alternating short swims with relaxing breaks and check local conditions before heading out.
Respect nature: Observe quietly, avoid touching coral and choose reef-safe sunscreen.
Check local advice: Ask the hotel staff for advice for security measures and local guides for the best spots.
Ready for Your Snorkelling Adventure?
Mauritius is calling and there’s no better way to enjoy its waters than with a mask. Whether it’s your first time or you’re a seasoned explorer, the lagoons are abundant, colourful and little surprises around every coral patch. Grab your mask and fins, float at your own pace and let the underwater world do the rest. Some of the best moments happen when you just drift along, watching fish go about their day or spotting a shy turtle gliding by. If this is your first snorkelling adventure, don’t worry about doing it “right”, the joy is in the experience itself. If you have a waterproof camera, bring it along so you can capture those magical moments you’ll want to remember again and again.
