Mauritius is often presented as a destination for beaches and luxury resorts, but the island offers a far broader range of watersports than many visitors realise. Its protected lagoons support kayaking, paddleboarding, sailing and snorkelling, while the outer reefs, ocean drop-offs and trade winds create opportunities for surfing, kitesurfing, scuba diving and big-game fishing.
The exact activities available depend on where you stay. Some luxury resorts include non-motorised watersports within the room rate, while diving, specialist tuition, fishing charters and private boat trips are usually booked separately. Conditions also vary around the coastline: the south and southwest are particularly important for wind and wave sports, while calmer lagoons elsewhere suit beginners, families and slower exploration.
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Table of Contents
This guide covers the principal Mauritius watersports verified as available in June 2026, using information published by the Mauritius Tourism Promotion Authority, Shangri-La Le Touessrok, Shanti Maurice, Heritage Resorts and other established providers.
Kayaking in Mauritius
Kayaking is one of the most accessible Mauritius watersports. It can be enjoyed recreationally in protected lagoons or as part of a guided journey through mangroves and around smaller islands.
Shangri-La Le Touessrok includes standard kayaking within its published watersports programme. It also offers chargeable guided kayak tours, while its hotel factsheet identifies eco-kayaking through the mangroves of private Ilot Mangénie as one of the resort’s signature experiences.
Shanti Maurice, on the quieter south coast at Saint Félix, also lists kayaking among its on-site watersports. Its resort information confirms that stand-up paddleboarding, kayaking and snorkelling are available from the boathouse, while diving is arranged through an off-site PADI centre.
Kayaking is also offered at Heritage Le Telfair and other Heritage Resorts properties in Bel Ombre. The resort distinguishes between complimentary kayak use and separately charged activities such as kitesurfing and big-game fishing.
For travellers seeking more than a short paddle outside their hotel, guided sea-kayaking routes are available around areas such as Île d’Ambre in the northeast and Tamarin Bay on the west coast. These are better treated as proper excursions than casual resort activities, particularly where the route involves mangroves, currents or open coastal water.
Who is kayaking in Mauritius best for?
Kayaking suits beginners, active families, couples and travellers interested in exploring the coastline quietly. Lagoon kayaking is generally the simplest version, while guided mangrove or coastal tours offer more depth and should be booked with an experienced operator.
Stand-Up Paddleboarding in Mauritius
Stand-up paddleboarding, usually shortened to SUP, is widely available at Mauritius resorts. Calm lagoons provide the most manageable conditions, particularly for beginners who are learning to balance and steer.
Shangri-La Le Touessrok lists stand-up paddleboarding as an included activity. Shanti Maurice also offers SUP from its on-site boathouse, while Heritage Le Telfair lists paddleboarding as a chargeable activity within its current resort programme.
Paddleboarding can be used simply as a gentle morning activity, but it can also form part of an active Mauritius holiday alongside kayaking, yoga, swimming and cycling. Conditions are normally easier inside protected lagoons than near reef passes or exposed sections of coast.
Visitors should not assume that paddleboarding is always complimentary. Inclusion depends on the resort and package, and equipment may only be released when the boathouse team considers the conditions suitable.
Kitesurfing in Mauritius
Kitesurfing is one of the island’s most established specialist Mauritius watersports. The official Mauritius tourism platform identifies the south as particularly well known for strong and consistent trade winds, especially from April to November. July and August are generally the windiest months, and Le Morne is the island’s best-known kitesurfing area.
Le Morne
Le Morne, on the southwest coast, combines protected lagoon areas with more technically demanding reef and wave conditions. The flat, shallower sections can support supervised learning, while exposed wave locations should be reserved for experienced riders.
One Eye, near Pointe du Morne, is among the island’s most famous advanced kitesurfing areas. It should not be treated as a beginner location simply because it appears frequently in destination guides.
Tamarin
Cap Dal in the Tamarin area is another recognised kitesurfing location. The official tourism authority identifies both One Eye and Cap Dal as prominent places for the sport, with surf and kite schools operating around the relevant coastal areas.
Kitesurfing from Shanti Maurice and Bel Ombre
Shanti Maurice confirms that kitesurfing and wave-riding sessions can be booked through partner schools approximately ten minutes from the resort. These are not represented as on-site complimentary activities, and transfers are not automatically included.
Heritage Resorts in Bel Ombre also lists kitesurfing among its payable activities. The area’s large lagoon offers protected water inside the reef, with more demanding wave conditions farther out.
Is Mauritius suitable for beginner kitesurfers?
Yes, but beginners should book structured tuition in an appropriate lagoon rather than choosing a location solely because it is famous. Wind direction, tides, reef position and local restrictions matter. Experienced riders may deliberately seek stronger winds and reef breaks, while novices need a controlled teaching environment.
Surfing and Wave Riding
Mauritius has genuine surf conditions, particularly around its west and southwest coasts. Tamarin is one of the island’s recognised surfing areas, while Le Morne combines wind sports with reef and wave riding.
Shanti Maurice advertises access to wave-riding and kitesurfing sessions through nearby partner schools. The official Mauritius tourism platform also identifies Tamarin Bay and the coastline towards Le Morne as established surfing territory.
Surf conditions around reefs can be technically demanding. Travellers without experience should use a recognised school and avoid assuming that every attractive wave is suitable for instruction.
Surfing should also be separated from kitesurfing when planning a holiday. Although both depend heavily on local conditions, conventional surfing needs swell, while kitesurfing depends substantially on wind. A hotel can be well placed for one without guaranteeing ideal conditions for the other every day.
Windsurfing
Windsurfing remains available at a number of Mauritius resorts and works particularly well where steady breezes meet protected lagoon water.
Shangri-La Le Touessrok includes windsurfing within its published watersports offering. Heritage Resorts identifies windsurfing as a payable activity, while Le Morne is officially promoted as an area suited to windsurfing as well as kitesurfing, paddleboarding and sailing.
Windsurfing lessons, advanced equipment and independent hire arrangements vary considerably. Anyone travelling specifically to windsurf should confirm board types, sail sizes, lesson availability and equipment condition before booking the hotel.
Sailing, Hobie Cats and Pedal Boats
Sailing is widely available in Mauritius, ranging from short Hobie Cat sessions inside resort lagoons to private yacht and catamaran journeys around the coast.
Shangri-La Le Touessrok includes Hobie Cat sailing and pedal boating in its resort programme. Its factsheet also lists sailing among its watersports, alongside kayaks, paddleboards, water skiing and glass-bottom boats.
Heritage Resorts offers complimentary use of selected sailing craft, kayaks, pedal boats and water bikes, while lessons and more specialist sailing activities may involve additional fees.
Pedal boats and water bikes are among the gentlest Mauritius watersports. They suit families and travellers who want time on the lagoon without specialist training, although their operation remains subject to weather and the boundaries set by the resort boathouse.
Snorkelling in Mauritius
Snorkelling is one of the easiest ways to experience Mauritius beneath the surface. It is offered by many resorts, either directly from the beach, on scheduled boat trips or through guided reef excursions.
Shangri-La Le Touessrok includes snorkelling in its published watersports programme. Shanti Maurice also offers snorkelling from its boathouse and refers to the reef at Saint Félix as part of its marine experience. Heritage Resorts includes snorkelling and glass-bottom boat outings among selected complimentary activities.
Not every stretch of beach offers the same underwater experience. Visibility, tides, wind, coral condition and the distance to the reef all affect the quality of a snorkelling session. Boat-based trips may provide access to more suitable sites than swimming directly from shore.
Responsible snorkelling
Mauritius’ tourism authority advises visitors not to touch or walk on coral, remove shells or marine organisms, feed fish, or anchor on living coral and seagrass. These are not minor etiquette points: coral can be damaged by contact, trampling and anchors, while feeding changes natural marine behaviour.
Reef-safe behaviour should be treated as part of the experience rather than an optional extra.
Scuba Diving in Mauritius
Mauritius supports diving for beginners and experienced divers, including reefs, basalt formations, islets, tunnels and wreck sites.
Shangri-La Le Touessrok offers chargeable scuba diving through PADI and CMAS programmes from beginner to advanced level. Shanti Maurice works with an off-site PADI dive centre approximately 20 minutes from the resort and can arrange introductory sessions and dives through its experience team.
The Mauritius Tourism Promotion Authority highlights Blue Bay Marine Park as a potential learning area and references wrecks such as Stella Maru, alongside coral reefs, islets and basalt tunnels.
Diving should always be booked according to certification, experience and recent dive history. Beginners can undertake supervised introductory sessions, while certified divers should provide their qualification details and discuss depth, currents and site conditions with the dive centre.
Glass-Bottom Boat Trips
Glass-bottom boats allow non-divers and less confident swimmers to see into the lagoon without entering deep water.
Shangri-La Le Touessrok includes glass-bottom boat tours in its listed programme. Heritage Le Telfair also identifies glass-bottom trips among its complimentary activities, and other established Mauritius resorts operate similar scheduled departures.
These trips are particularly useful for families, non-swimmers and multigenerational groups. They can also be combined with snorkelling, although the content of each trip varies.
A glass-bottom boat should not be described as equivalent to scuba diving or a dedicated snorkelling excursion. Its value lies in accessibility and the chance to observe the lagoon from a different perspective.
Water Skiing and Wakeboarding
Water skiing and wakeboarding are available at selected Mauritius resorts where lagoon space and operating conditions permit.
Shangri-La Le Touessrok currently lists both water skiing and wakeboarding as included activities, subject to its operating arrangements. Banana tube rides are also available but are chargeable.
These motorised activities are normally controlled by the resort boathouse and may be limited to designated times or areas. Age, swimming ability and previous experience can affect participation.
Anyone booking specifically for water skiing or wakeboarding should confirm whether tuition is offered, how many sessions are included, and whether repeated use is subject to availability.
Parasailing
Parasailing is available in several established visitor areas, including Grand Baie, Ile aux Cerfs and Belle Mare. Participants are attached to a specially designed parachute and towed behind a boat, giving an elevated view over the coastline and lagoon.
The Mauritius Tourism Promotion Authority states that parasailers may rise to approximately 60 metres, although the exact height and operating format will depend on the provider and local conditions.
Parasailing is generally sold by specialist operators rather than being automatically included by luxury hotels. Weight limits, age restrictions and weather policies should be checked before booking.
Big-Game Fishing in Mauritius
Big-game fishing is one of Mauritius’ most distinctive offshore activities. The island’s deep surrounding waters support professionally operated fishing trips targeting species including blue marlin, black marlin, tuna, mahi-mahi and bonito.
The official tourism authority states that full-day excursions may travel approximately 25 nautical miles offshore in search of pelagic fish. Guides select fishing areas according to the season and prevailing conditions.
Heritage Resorts lists big-game fishing as a chargeable activity, while Shanti Maurice has previously published both half-day and full-day deep-sea fishing arrangements departing via Black River, including fishing equipment and refreshments. Current pricing and operating details should always be reconfirmed before travel.
Light-tackle and lagoon fishing
Not every fishing experience requires a full offshore charter. Shanti Maurice has also offered shorter light-tackle sessions around Saint Félix and Bel Ombre. These can be more suitable for beginners or travellers who do not want to spend an entire day offshore.
Fishing cannot guarantee a catch. Boat quality, crew experience, safety equipment, fishing method and responsible handling policies should be considered alongside price.
Catamaran Cruises and Boat Trips
Boat trips are an essential part of the Mauritius watersports and marine-experience landscape. Options include shared catamaran cruises, private charters, sunset sailing, island hopping, speedboat outings and dining cruises.
The official tourism authority recommends private catamaran journeys for swimming, snorkelling, coastal views and sunset experiences. Heritage Resorts also lists catamaran cruises, island-hopping and sunset excursions among the marine experiences available from the southwest.
Popular routes vary by departure point and may include:
- Ile aux Cerfs and the eastern lagoon
- Ile aux Bénitiers and the southwest
- Gabriel Island and the northern islands
- Private sunset cruises
- Snorkelling and swimming stops
- Beach lunches or onboard barbecues
- Private Champagne cruises
Shangri-La Le Touessrok also lists a private Champagne boat cruise among its authentic resort experiences.
The best boat trip is not necessarily the longest. Private or small-group arrangements can provide more flexibility, while larger shared catamarans may offer better value.
Dolphin and Whale Watching
Dolphin and whale watching is available in Mauritius, particularly from the west coast, but it must be approached responsibly.
Mauritius requires marine wildlife trips to follow specific rules. Visitors must use a licensed whale and dolphin-watching provider. Boats must approach animals from the side, follow a parallel course and travel at no-wake speed. Feeding, touching, attracting, circling or attempting to swim with whales is prohibited.
The regulations also limit how swimming with dolphins is conducted. Guests should receive a briefing, and no more than three swimmers—including a designated lifesaver—should enter the water at the same time.
A credible operator should prioritise animal welfare rather than promising close contact. Wild sightings can never be guaranteed.
Underwater Sea Walks and Submarine Experiences
Mauritius also offers ways to see beneath the surface without conventional scuba diving. Established tourism and resort sources reference underwater sea walks and submarine tours as beginner-friendly marine excursions.
During an underwater sea walk, participants typically use a specialised air-supplied helmet and walk on a controlled section of the seabed under supervision. Submarine experiences allow guests to remain inside a vessel while viewing underwater scenery.
These activities are usually operated by external specialists rather than hotel watersports centres. Medical requirements, minimum ages and mobility considerations should be checked directly.
Open-Water Swimming
Open-water swimming takes place recreationally around suitable beaches and through organised events. Mauritius hosts open-water competitions, but everyday sea swimming should still be treated differently from swimming in a resort pool.
Currents, boat traffic, reef channels and changing weather can create risks even where the water appears calm. Guests should follow local advice, swim only in recognised areas and avoid exposed southern beaches where strong currents or heavy surf make conditions unsuitable.
The official tourism authority specifically warns that parts of the wild southern coastline are not appropriate for swimming.
Where Is Best for Watersports in Mauritius?
East coast
The east coast offers large lagoons and strong resort-based programmes. Shangri-La Le Touessrok provides kayaking, paddleboarding, sailing, snorkelling, water skiing, wakeboarding and glass-bottom trips, alongside access to Ilot Mangénie. The east is also known for cooling breezes and can support kitesurfing in suitable areas.
South and southwest
The south and southwest are strongest for kitesurfing, surfing, windsurfing and more exposed ocean experiences. Le Morne is the key specialist hub, while Bel Ombre and Saint Félix provide access through resorts including Heritage Le Telfair and Shanti Maurice.
West coast
The west is important for Tamarin surf, kitesurfing, dolphin trips, sunset cruises and departures towards Ile aux Bénitiers. It is also a major starting area for deep-sea fishing excursions.
North
Grand Baie and the north offer sailing, parasailing, diving, catamaran trips and access to northern islands such as Gabriel Island. The area has a well-developed excursion market and is a practical choice for travellers wanting a broad selection of bookable activities.
When Is the Best Time for Mauritius Watersports?
The best period depends on the activity rather than one universal “watersports season”.
For kitesurfing and wind-dependent sports, April to November offers the most established season, with stronger breezes around the east and south and the windiest conditions typically occurring in July and August.
Kayaking, paddleboarding, snorkelling, diving and boat trips operate across the year, but individual departures remain dependent on wind, rain, visibility, swell and sea conditions.
Travellers building a holiday around one specialist activity should not rely only on general Mauritius weather advice. The relevant coast, season and operator should all be checked.
Are Mauritius Watersports Included at Luxury Resorts?
Some are, but there is no universal policy.
At Shangri-La Le Touessrok, the currently published included activities comprise snorkelling, kayaking, stand-up paddleboarding, water skiing, pedal boating, windsurfing, Hobie Cat sailing, glass-bottom boat trips and wakeboarding. Guided kayaking, banana tubing and scuba diving are chargeable.
At Shanti Maurice, kayaking, paddleboarding and snorkelling are available on site, while diving, surfing and kitesurfing are arranged through partner specialists or off-site centres.
At Heritage Le Telfair, kayaks, water bikes, pedal boats, selected sailing craft, glass-bottom trips and snorkelling are listed as complimentary. Kitesurfing, stand-up paddleboarding, windsurfing, sailing lessons, fishing and selected boat excursions are chargeable.
These inclusions can change. They should be verified against the final hotel package rather than assumed from an older brochure or general resort description.
Planning a Mauritius Watersports Holiday with Nomadical Tracks
The strongest Mauritius watersports journey is rarely built around trying every activity in one resort. The island’s different coasts suit different experiences, so the hotel and itinerary should be chosen according to what matters most.
A tailored journey might combine:
- Kitesurfing and surfing around Le Morne
- Kayaking and wellness at Shanti Maurice
- Golf, sailing and lagoon watersports at Shangri-La Le Touessrok
- Diving and snorkelling around established reef sites
- A private catamaran or Champagne cruise
- Big-game fishing from Black River
- A quieter second stay for spa, beach and recovery
Nomadical Tracks works with selected luxury hotels, destination specialists and established suppliers to create Mauritius journeys around real interests rather than a generic resort package. We can combine active days with golf, wellness, gastronomy, private experiences and carefully chosen accommodation, while confirming current inclusions and operator arrangements before booking.
Mauritius Watersports FAQs
What watersports are most widely available in Mauritius?
Kayaking, stand-up paddleboarding, snorkelling, sailing, glass-bottom boat trips and pedal boats are among the most common resort activities. Diving, kitesurfing, surfing, parasailing and fishing are normally booked through specialist operators or selected hotels.
Is Mauritius good for kitesurfing?
Yes. Le Morne is the best-known area, while Tamarin and parts of the south also offer recognised kitesurfing conditions. The principal wind season runs from April to November.
Can beginners try kitesurfing in Mauritius?
Beginners can take lessons in suitable lagoon areas through recognised schools. Advanced reef and wave locations should not be attempted without the required experience.
Is paddleboarding available at Mauritius resorts?
Yes. Shangri-La Le Touessrok, Shanti Maurice and Heritage Resorts all verify paddleboarding within their watersports programmes, although whether it is complimentary varies by property.
Can you go big-game fishing in Mauritius?
Yes. Full-day and half-day charters operate offshore, targeting species including marlin, tuna and mahi-mahi. Catching a fish is never guaranteed.
Can you swim with whales in Mauritius?
No. Mauritius prohibits swimming, diving or snorkelling with whales. Dolphin interactions are also regulated and must be conducted by licensed providers under defined operating rules.
Which coast is best for watersports in Mauritius?
The southwest is strongest for kitesurfing and surfing; the west for fishing, dolphins and sunset cruises; the east for resort-based lagoon sports; and the north for diving, parasailing and island-hopping. The best choice depends on the specific activity rather than one coast being universally superior.
Are watersports in Mauritius free?
Some non-motorised activities are included by luxury resorts, but diving, tuition, fishing, private cruises and specialist excursions normally cost extra. Inclusions should always be confirmed for the exact hotel and package.
