You know when you’re meditating and the zen dude that’s guiding it says, imagine you’re on a beautiful beach with the sun shining and waves crashing…
Mauritius is where my mind goes to.
Mauritius is one of those exotic, far-flung spots that we all fantasize about visiting. With its white sandy beaches, crystal clear waters and lush green mountains it is the ULTIMATE holiday destination.
But isn’t Mauritius a luxury destination, exclusive to honeymooners and the rich and famous?
You’ll be pleased to hear that’s not the case, not at all! Whilst the island is brimming with luxury resorts, there are plenty of affordable options. So you don’t need to dig as far into your pockets as you might think to enjoy this tropical paradise.
Once you’ve locked in your trip to this enchanting island, you’ll probably kick back and relax, thinking that’s the hard work done. However, next, you’ll need to decide where to stay in Mauritius when you arrive.
There are many different areas in Mauritius that each offer their visitors something a bit different. The best area is completely dependent on YOU and what you want to get out of your trip. Deciding where to stay is important, as you’ll want to stay somewhere near the activities you enjoy most.
Lucky for you (and me!), I’ve explored every little nook of Mauritius and have compiled the best areas into this guide. Whether you’re a budget traveller or have some cash to splash, I’ve got you covered.
Ready to dive in? Let’s go.
Mauritius can be visited in all sorts of styles. Whether you’re here for adventure in the mountains, chilling on the beach, or backpacking the whole of Mauritius, you’ll likely have the time of your life. But just like everywhere else, your accommodation can make or break your trip, so choose carefully. Looking for a specific place to stay? These are the best places to stay in Mauritius.
ONS Guesthouse | Best Hostel in Mauritius
This gem is 10 minutes from Blue Bay Beach in the heart of budget-friendly Mahebourg. The hostel offers affordable (and remarkably spacious) private rooms rather than dorms, each with its own bathroom.
A free breakfast will appease any traveler, whilst gym buddies will be chuffed with the hostel fitness suite!
Studio apartment “Le Reve’’ | Best Airbnb in Mauritius
Located in the serene Flic en Flac Beach resort, this suite provides dreamy sea views. Guests have access to a pool shared only with the host family.
There are large living quarters and bags of space outdoors to soak up the sun. 10 minutes walk to the beach and shops!
Le Capricorne Villas Mauritius | Best Luxury Hotel in Mauritius
This elegant villa in Mauritius is located in the beach resort of Pereybere, within easy access of Grand-Baie and Port Louis. This gives you a chance to sample a piece of everything Mauritius offers (which is a lot!).
It offers affordable luxury, with sophisticated rooms and a terrific pool flanked by palms.
Port Louis
The colorful capital city of Mauritius is located in the north-west of Mauritius. It has a backdrop of lush mountains and many beach resorts are accessible from the city by public bus or car.
Mahebourg
Mahebourg is the closest town to Sir Seewoosagur Ramgoolam International Airport, which is where most tourists in Mauritius will begin their adventure. It’s 48 kilometers southeast of Port Louis.
Grand-Baie
For the best nightlife on Mauritius, look no further than Grand-Baie. 28 kilometers from Port Louis in a sheltered cove. It is easily one of the coolest areas to stay in Mauritius.
Le Morne
Le Morne is a small peninsula on the southwestern tip of Mauritius. The surrounding area is blessed with some of the island’s most intoxicating wildlife. The town itself is chill and popular with divers.
Flic en Flac
The main draw of Flic en Flac is its white sand beach – one of the longest on Mauritius. The town is located 15 kilometers south of Port Louis on the west coast.
Does Mauritius need an introduction? Well, actually it does. There’s a lot more to this island nation than palm trees and powdery beaches.
Mauritius is found about 2,000 kilometres off the coast of the African continent. It covers 2,040 square kilometres, making it a similar size to Greater London, UK. The island is divided into nine districts which consist of towns, villages and beach resorts. Although it is not the biggest island, you’ll find numerous amazing things to do in Mauritius since it’s such a diverse place.
The north-west is where you’ll find the most developed areas, including the capital, Port Louis.
Its proximity to the Tropic of Capricorn gives Mauritius a tropical climate with two seasons. November to April provides a warm, humid summer, whilst June to September is dry with an average temperature of 68.7 °F.
Still pretty toasty! The center of Mauritius is mountainous, with dense forestry, waterfalls and a scattering of volcanoes. Meanwhile, the coast is fringed with typical Mauritian white sand beaches, crystal clear waters and coral reef. Under the water, you’ll find some of the best dive sites in the world.
If you’re looking for where to stay for your first time in Mauritius, check out Port Louis. Here you can connect with Mauritian culture between beach trips.
We promised you that Mauritius can be explored on a budget! The best area in Mauritius to stay in for low-cost accommodation is Mahebourg. If you’re looking for the best place to stay in Mauritius with kids, check out our guide to Flic en Flac.
Those looking to party should look no further than Grand-Baie. By far this is the best area in Mauritius to stay in for nightlife. If you’re searching for the coolest place to stay in Mauritius, Le Morne gets the thumbs up from us!
5 Best Places to Stay in Mauritius
Let’s take a look at the 5 best towns to stay in Mauritius. They’re each a little different, depending on the type of experience you’re after. Before you choose where you want to stay, find out what the best places to visit in Mauritius are. Depending on your transport, you might not want to end up miles away from your preferred hotspots.
#1 Port Louis – Staying in Mauritius for the First Time
The colorful capital city of Mauritius is located in the north-west of Mauritius. It has a backdrop of lush mountains and many beach resorts are accessible from the city by public bus or car.
Port Louis has a rich history that dates back to the 17th century. It’s where you can find many colonial buildings, an old fort and government offices mingling with modern buildings.
Although Port Louis has a lot of charm and culture to digest, it’s a small city. Most of the key tourist attractions are near one another. This makes your sightseeing itinerary a breeze!
If you’re planning on staying in Mauritius for one night as part of a tour around the island, don’t skip Port Louis.
Things to See and Do in Port Louis:
- Wander the banyan tree-lined gardens, fountains and statues of Les Jardins de la Compagnie
- Visit Champs de Mars, the second oldest racecourse in the world – founded in 1812
- Get 360-degree panoramas from La Citadelle (Fort Adelaide), which has watched over Port Louis for two centuries
- Follow the easy hiking trail to the summit of Le Pouce, the island’s third highest peak and one of its iconic landmarks
- Smell the spices and grab your 5 a day at Central Market
- Snap a photo of the Government House
- Dip into the Photographic Museum of Mauritius
- Potter around the Caudan Waterfront – you’ll find a craft market and plenty of restaurants. Not ideal for budget travelers, mind!
- Satisfy your history craving at the Aapravasi Ghat World Heritage Site and museum
The Pine Haven 86 – A modern and impeccable apart! | Modern House in Port Louis
This 1st-floor apartment is modern and equipped with a sea-facing porch. There are even mango trees in the garden. There is a huge kitchen so you can whip up your own meals.
Only 15 minutes from the center of town, it’s one of the best places to stay in Port Louis!
Stunning Designer Condo in Villa | Luxury Studio in Port Louis
Looking for amazing design, top location, luxury and an affordable price? No need to look any further, you’ve just found the perfect Airbnb. The stunning studio is part of a high-end villa, with a pool, amazing sea and mountain view and the kindest hosts you could wish for. The kitchen, gym, jacuzzi and common areas are shared with the owner.
Le Suffren Hotel & Marina | Best Luxury Hotel in Port Louis
This 4-star hotel is one of the coolest places to stay in Port Louis. There’s an outdoor pool and a Turkish steam bath and spa if you feel like a spot of pampering.
Funky rooms are stylish and many come with a tub. Enjoy a drink in the bar overlooking the marina.
Hotel Champ De Mars | Best Hotel in Port Louis
This hotel in Port Louis offers budget rooms with free wi-fi, and optional breakfast. Rooms are tasteful and simple, with all the amenities you’ll need.
There is a babysitting service if you’re looking for where to stay with kids in Port Louis! An ideal base for exploring the city and island.
#2 Mahebourg – Where to stay in Mauritius on a budget
Mahebourg is the closest town to Sir Seewoosagur Ramgoolam International Airport, which is where most tourists in Mauritius will begin their adventure. It’s 48 kilometers southeast of Port Louis.
This historic town was the site of the Battle of Grand Port, in which the French defeated the British. Mahebourg has a decent number of museums and Creole architecture to explore. For balance, the town is also surrounded by beautiful beaches and nature.
Mahebourg is one of the best places to stay in Mauritius if you’re on a budget. There are a couple of hostels here, albeit dormless ones.
Nonetheless, they save you some dollars and you find cheap eats in the town – amazing, considering Mauritius can be quite expensive. Just watch out for the waterfront restaurants where prices spike.
Things to See and Do in Mahebourg :
- Take a boat tour around Ile Aux Aigrettes Nature Reserve and scout for birds
- Pay a visit to the Natural History Museum
- Trawl for souvenirs and steaming local grub at the Monday market
- Replenish your snacks at the Rault Biscuit Factory
- Stroll along the Mahebourg waterfront
- Head to the hills of the Kestrel Valley. Four walking trails zigzag through the terrain for stunning views
- Tuck into seafood straight from the boat at Chez François – a nondescript haunt love by locals
- Clock your beach hours at Blue Bay Beach. Great snorkeling here, too!
- Hire some kayaks and get paddling!
- Mooch around the picture-perfect Notre Dame des Anges
- Feed up at Le Bazilic, one of the best restaurants on the island
Pingouinvillas Holiday Rental 7 | Top Apartment in Mahebourg
These air-conditioned modern mini-apartments are surrounded by a small garden in the shade of tropical trees. Hosted by a local family, the rooms have homely touches and private bathrooms.
There’s a cool terrace where guests can kick back (or dry their clothes!). They’re close to Blue Bay – 5 minutes walking!
Le Bamboo Guesthouse | Best Hostel in Mahebourg
Beautiful, charming and very hospitable, this is our favorite hostel in Mahebourg. No dorms, but private rooms are affordable. Each has air-con, free Wi-Fi and a private bathroom.
As well as free breakfast, you get free bicycle hire! The hostel has awesome views over the river and ample common spaces.
Chillpill Bed & Breakfast | Best Hotel in Mahebourg
If you’re watching the pennies but don’t want to miss out on an infinity pool, this hotel in Mahebourg has your name on it. The property boasts a stunning variety of views, be sure to ask if you want a sea view.
You’ll love the awesome location and friendly staff!
Private Room in Top Location | Affordable Bed and Breakfast in Mahebourg
Whether it’s the sunrise that made us fall in love with this place to the fact that it’s in an incredible location but still very affordable – we’re not sure. This Airbnb offers so much value for the nightly rate that you’ll probably entend your stay for a bit longer. You’ll be located in a quiet part of Mahebourg, right on the edge of a lagoon. The view is absolutely stunning!
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View on Osprey View on REI#3 Flic en Flac – Best Area to Stay in Mauritius for Families
The main draw of Flic en Flac is its white sand beach – one of the best beaches in Mauritius. The town is located 15 kilometers south of Port Louis on the west coast.
Comprising hotels and eateries, the town is well-equipped for tourists. You’ll find plenty of family-friendly accommodation in Flic en Flac, for those looking for the best area in Mauritius to stay with kids.
But, make sure you get away from your resort for the odd day. Flic en Flac is surrounded by natural attractions and activities, ideal for outdoor and hiker enthusiasts.
Underwater, the dive spots off Flic en Flac are some of the best in the country.
Things to See and Do in Flic en Flac:
- Visit the crater of the dormant volcano Trou aux Cerfs
- Take the kids to the Casela Nature Parks for a day of zip-wiring, safari tours and much more!
- Explore the many restaurants in town such as the Creole Shack
- Take a dip in the Tamarind Falls, accessible via an easy hike
- Rent a 4×4 (or hire a guide) and head to the somewhat overlooked Domaine des 7 Vallées
- Sign up to go whale watching or swimming with dolphins
- Spend a day underwater with one of the local dive shops, Sundivers are highly respected
- Breathe in the ocean views from the hillside Chateaux La Pointe Koenig
- Catch a wave at nearby Tamarin – one of the best places in Mauritius to surf
- Visit the lighthouse at Albion
Short walk to the beach & mountain views | Stunning Condo in Flic en Flac
With plenty of space to accommodate the whole family, this condominium has two bedrooms and lots of communal areas. There is a pool on-site, as well as a Jacuzzi, and the beach is across the road.
The balcony permits a view of the ocean.
Bayview Villa Seaside | Big Family Villa in Flic en Flac
Travelling with the family can be very stressful, but it doesn’t have to be. Keep the whole group together by booking this amazing Airbnb. The duplex villa accommodates up to 7 people at a time, has 2 pools, amazing outdoor areas and even a security guard at the gate for your safety. Located in a quiet neighborhood, you’ll still be close to most of Flic en Flac’s action and the beach.
Seavilla Mauritius | Best Hotel in Flic en Flac
This modest hotel in Flic en Flac features family apartments (cots available) with balconies. Some of which have sea views, so be sure to request one at booking.
Units come with basic appliances such as a fridge and microwave. There is a spacious pool and the beach is moments away.
Pearle Beach Resort & Spa | Best Luxury Hotel in Flic en Flac
This upscale but affordable hotel in Flic en Flac has beachfront access and a variety of rooms available. There is a pool, spa and gym on the premises.
For kids, there is a kids’ club and a separate pool. A top place for those looking where to stay with kids in Mauritius!
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Grab an eSIM!#4 Grand-Baie – Best Area to Stay in Mauritius for Nightlife
For the best nightlife on Mauritius, look no further than Grand-Baie. 28 kilometers from Port Louis in a sheltered cove.
It is easily one of the coolest areas to stay in Mauritius. It is well-developed for tourists, with plenty of resorts, guesthouses, restaurants, shopping and activities. Particularly if you’re hoping to get out in the ocean; there are heaps of watersports in the area as well as some of Mauritius’s best scuba dive sites.
But, in terms of after-hours, Grand-Baie is the top pick for the best place in Mauritius for nightlife. Depending on what you’re after, the town has casual bars, late night eateries, nightclubs and casinos.
There are plenty of live music nights going around.
Things to see and do in Grand-Baie:
- Banish that hangover – SkyDive Mauritius is the ultimate hair of the dog!
- Pick up handicrafts at the Bazaar
- Wade in the calm waters of La Cuvette Beach
- Hit up the Safari Bar, one of the liveliest (and largest) nightclubs on the island
- Catch live music over a cocktail at the Banana Beach Club
- Rock up for a hog roast and live entertainment Sunday evenings at Cocoloko
- Ride the ‘dolphin’ with Sea Bob
- Take your pick from one of the reputable dive shops and discover the aquatic life of Mauritius
- Warm up your night with a retro game of bowls at Lucky Strike
- Go on a dolphin-watching excursion
- Start your night with a meal at the popular Beach House Restaurant & Bar
- Laze the day away at Mont Choisy Beach
Charming Small Studio, 30 meters from the beach | Modern Home in Grand-Baie
This newly renovated studio comes with a fully equipped kitchen. It’s pretty compact, but well designed with homely finishes. The balcony is perfect for breakfasting or a sipping glass of wine in the evening.
There is a pool available for guests to use, and the beach is less than 5 minutes away.
Cute Waterfront Apartment | Private Studio in Grand-Baie
Going out at night is great – but having to cure a hangover in a smelly and loud dorm is definitely not the best thing. This private studio offers you an amazing location close to the main bars and restaurants but you’re still able to enjoy a good nights sleep and a bit of peace and quiet until you feel better. The beach is literally 5m from your doorstep, so even without the hangover part, this home is an amazing place to stay in Mauritius.
Auberge Miko | Best Hotel in Grand-Baie
These homely vacation studios provide you with air conditioning, a private bathroom and a kitchenette. Most rooms have charming balconies for relaxation. Breakfast is available at an extra cost.
The welcoming owners will go out of their way to take care of their guests and help you plan your stay!
Bleu de Toi Boutique Guesthouse | Best Hotel in Grand-Baie
This compact guesthouse is right by Pereybere Beach and not far from the center of Grand-Baie. There are only a handful of rooms so it has a homely feel and the decor is very atmospheric.
There is a small pool and breakfast is available. Furthermore, guests are welcome to use the kitchen.
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View on REI Read the Review#5 Le Morne – Coolest Place to Stay in Mauritius
Le Morne is a small peninsula on the southwestern tip of Mauritius. The surrounding area is blessed with some of the island’s most intoxicating wildlife. The town itself is chill and popular with divers.
Le Morne attracts all different kinds of traveler. Here, you can find some of the most luxurious resorts on the island as well as honeymoon retreats.
The peninsula is marked by the breathtaking Le Morne mountain and both the peak and the surrounding forests and beaches make for some Mauritius’s most spectacular hiking trails. Head up the coast towards neighboring La Gaulette and you can find some of the coolest places to stay in Mauritius, and reap the benefits of Le Morne.
Things to See and Do in Le Morne:
- Hike Morne Brabant and look out for the national flower, known as Trochetia boutoniana
- Choose one of the many hiking trails through one of Mauritius’s top attractions, the Black River Gorges National Park
- Book a boat excursion to Ile aux Benitiers to see enchanting landforms and views of the island
- On as sunny a day as possible, visit the Seven Colored Earth
- Take a hike through the Ebony Forest Reserve
- Chase waterfalls – Chamarel Waterfalls and Alexandra Falls are accessible via hikes or accessible viewpoints
- Book a diving package and discover La Cathédrale, the Japanese Garden or Passe St Jacques
Baie du Cap Espace Vert 1 | Oceanview Home in Le Morne
This spacious accommodation in Le Morne has all the amenities you could need in an Airbnb. Plus, an ocean view! Savour the sight of the ocean from the spacious balcony over your morning coffee. A great spot to relax after a day at the beach or taking in the local sights.
Mountain Maison with Stunning View | Luxury Villa in Le Morne
Now, if you’re visiting the coolest place in Mauritius, your accommodation needs to be just as amazing. This Airbnb is definitely one of the cheapest, but it offers everything you could possibly want and even more. Accommodating up to 8 people, you can even bring some friends. Enjoy the private pool, paddleboard, massive outdoor area and a maid (4 hours a day) during your stay.
Pingo Studios | Best Hotel in Le Morne
These colorful vacation homes will put a spring in your step! Fetching rooms feature kitchenettes and private patios or balconies to chill on. This hotel in Le Morne is located mere moments from the Indian Ocean and surrounding natural attractions. Easily one of the coolest places to stay in Mauritius!
Blue Pearl Resort La Gaulette | Best Luxury Hotel in Le Morne
This atmospheric resort is as glamorous as it is comfortable. Sleek rooms provide views of the outdoor pool and sun deck. The reception can provide bicycles for hire to explore the local area. They even have a barbecue for guests! One of our favorite picks for where to stay in Le Morne.
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Hide Yo’ Money!FAQ about Finding a Place to Stay in Mauritius
Here’s what people usually ask us about the areas of Mauritius and where to stay.
What To Pack For Mauritius
Pants, socks, underwear, soap?! Take it from me, packing for a hostel stay is not always quite as straightforward as it seems. Working out what to bring and what to leave at home is an art I have perfected over many years.
Ear Plugs
Snoring dorm-mates can ruin your nights rest and seriously damage the hostel experience. This is why I always travel with a pack of decent ear plugs.
Hanging Laundry Bag
Trust us, this is an absolute game changer. Super compact, a hanging mesh laundry bag stops your dirty clothes from stinking, you don’t know how much you need one of these… so just get it, thank us later.
Sea To Summit Micro Towel
Hostel towels are scummy and take forever to dry. Microfibre towels dry quickly, are compact, lightweight, and can be used as a blanket or yoga mat if need be.
Monopoly Deal
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Grayl Geopress Water Bottle
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Check out my definitive Hotel Packing list for even more top packing tips!
Don’t Forget Travel Insurance for Mauritius
ALWAYS sort out your backpacker insurance before your trip. There’s plenty to choose from in that department, but a good place to start is Safety Wing.
They offer month-to-month payments, no lock-in contracts, and require absolutely no itineraries: that’s the exact kind of insurance long-term travellers and digital nomads need.
SafetyWing is cheap, easy, and admin-free: just sign up lickety-split so you can get back to it!
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Final Thoughts on Where to Stay in Mauritius
So, that’s Mauritius! We hope we’ve convinced you that this blissful island has something for all traveler needs. Sure, it has luxury resorts but it also has homely guesthouses, a wealth of affordable Airbnbs and even a handful of hostels.
What’s more, there is simply so much to see and do on Mauritius that no day need be the same.
To recap our guide, we recommend that those of you planning your first visit to Mauritius choose a hotel in St Louis or the surrounding area. One of the best places to stay in Mauritius we found is Le Capricorne Villas Mauritius, which lets you experience the best of Port Louis and Grand-Baie.
Those looking for where to stay on a budget, check out a hostel in Mahebourg such as Le Bamboo Guesthouse.
One of the best areas to stay in Mauritius for families is the dreamy resort town of Flic en Flac. Hotels here have plenty of appeal for kids!
The coolest place to stay in Mauritius, and perhaps our favorite overall, is Le Morne. Le Morne accommodation such as Pingo Studios provide the perfect place to recoup after exploring the bountiful nature in the area.
- Check out our ultimate guide backpacking around Mauritius.
- Next up you’re gonna need to know all the best places to visit in Mauritius to plan your trip.
- Swing by our super epic backpacking packing list to prep for your trip.
And for transparency’s sake, please know that some of the links in our content are affiliate links. That means that if you book your accommodation, buy your gear, or sort your insurance through our link, we earn a small commission (at no extra cost to you). That said, we only link to the gear we trust and never recommend services we don’t believe are up to scratch. Again, thank you!
