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Day Cruises & Islet Visits
Mauritius is famous for its warm tropical climate, beautiful beaches, and relaxed island lifestyle - but some of its greatest treasures lie just beyond the coastline. Scattered around the main island are a series of small, uninhabited islets, each offering its own unique charm, crystal-clear waters, and postcard-worthy scenery.
Some, like Île aux Cerfs, are lively and full of activities. Others remain peaceful refuges where you can kayak, snorkel, or simply soak up the quiet beauty of untouched nature. For more ideas on planning your island adventures, explore our guides on Sailing in Mauritius and the 10 Best Islets in Mauritius.
Below is a countdown of the 12 best day-cruise destinations in Mauritius - each one offering a memorable experience.
12. Bénitiers Island
Located in the southwest lagoon near Crystal Rock, Bénitiers Island is known for its wide beach, calm waters, and the chance to see wild dolphins up close. The area is a favourite for day cruises, snorkelling outings, and family trips.
Book Your Trip to Bénitiers Island
11. Île au Phare (Île aux Fouquets)
Standing proudly at the entrance of Grand Port Bay, Île au Phare is known for its dramatic cliffs and historic lighthouse - a reminder of Mauritius’ maritime past. With panoramic lagoon views and a wild, untouched landscape, it’s a paradise for nature lovers and photographers.
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10. Île de la Passe
Once a key strategic point in the 1810 Battle of Grand Port, Île de la Passe now offers a peaceful setting for exploring coastal ruins and enjoying rugged natural beauty. Conservation efforts focus on restoring its native vegetation.
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9. Île des Deux Cocos
An all-inclusive luxury escape to Île des Deux Cocos offers the kind of tropical day most visitors dream about. This small private island blends natural beauty with refined comfort, creating a peaceful retreat where you can unwind and reconnect with the serene lagoon landscape.
Spend the day relaxing on soft sandy beaches, swimming in the clear waters of the Blue Bay Marine Park, or snorkelling among vibrant coral life. A friendly and attentive team ensures that every moment feels effortless. Enjoy a generous lunch buffet, sample local rums, sip unlimited drinks, and take your time exploring the island’s quiet corners and exclusive villa setting.
Book Your Trip to Île des Deux Cocos
8. Île aux Aigrettes
Just off the coast of Mahébourg, Île aux Aigrettes is a 26-hectare nature reserve managed by the Mauritius Wildlife Foundation. The guided eco-tour introduces visitors to rare species such as the pink pigeon, Aldabra tortoise, and endemic flora found nowhere else on Earth.
Book Your Trip to Île aux Aigrettes
- Île aux Aigrettes Island - Visit & Tour
- Île aux Aigrettes + Blue Bay Marine Park Tour
- Endemic Mauritius Nature Tour
7. Îlot Mangénie
This peaceful East Coast islet offers a serene escape framed by turquoise water and soft sandy beaches. With boats arriving regularly, it’s a perfect spot for swimming, light snorkelling, and enjoying the quiet beauty of a lagoon protected by coral reefs.
6. Île d’Ambre (Amber Island)
Part of a national park, Île d’Ambre is an eco-treasure with mangrove forests, shaded trails, and colonial-era ruins hidden among native vegetation. The island’s kayaking routes are among the most scenic in Mauritius, winding gently through mangrove tunnels.
Book Your Trip to Île d’Ambre
5. Coin de Mire (Gunner’s Quoin)
Shaped like a whale resting on the sea, Coin de Mire is a striking 65-hectare islet known for nesting seabirds and excellent snorkelling conditions. Spinner dolphins and sea turtles are often spotted in the surrounding waters.
Book Your Trip to Coin de Mire
- Exclusive Catamaran Cruise - Coin de Mire & Flat Island
- Coin de Mire - Private Snorkeling Trip
- Private Speed Boat - Gabriel Island & Coin de Mire
4. Round Island (Île Ronde)
Visible far out to the northeast, Round Island is one of Mauritius’ most important ecological sites. Rising dramatically to 300 metres, it shelters rare plants and reptiles not found on the mainland.
Access is restricted and requires special permits, but scenic helicopter flights offer a breathtaking perspective of this protected island.
3. Flat Island (Île Plate)
Home to a historic lighthouse and long stretches of beach, Flat Island is the largest of Mauritius’ northern islets. Its coastline is excellent for snorkelling, while nearby Pigeon Rock attracts nesting seabirds.
Experienced divers also visit the renowned “Shark Pit” dive site.
Book Your Trip to Flat Island
- Catamaran Cruise - Flat Island & BBQ Lunch
- Exclusive Catamaran Cruise - Coin de Mire & Flat Island
- Exclusive Catamaran Cruise - Flat Island & Breakfast, Lunch
2. Gabriel Island
One of Mauritius’ most loved day-trip destinations, Gabriel Island offers clear shallow waters, powdery beaches, and a relaxed atmosphere. Catamaran cruises from Grand Baie often include snorkelling stops and a delicious BBQ lunch.
The island’s natural beauty and calm lagoon make it ideal for couples, families, and groups of friends.
Book Your Trip to Gabriel Island
- Catamaran Cruise - Gabriel Island & Lunch, Drinks
- Exclusive Cruise - Gabriel Island & Breakfast, Lunch
1. Île aux Cerfs
Topping the list is the iconic Île aux Cerfs, one of the most famous attractions in Mauritius. With nearly 100 hectares of beaches, turquoise lagoons, vibrant activity centres, and restaurants, it offers something for everyone - from watersports to lazy afternoons under the sun.
It is also home to the Île aux Cerfs Golf Club, one of the world’s most spectacular championship courses. For those wanting a deeper experience, the island now offers Bubble Lodge stays, allowing guests to enjoy a magical overnight eco-escape.
Accessible by catamaran, speedboat, taxi-boat, yacht or helicopter, Île aux Cerfs is the island adventure travellers dream of.
Book Your Trip to Île aux Cerfs
Plan Your Island Adventure
Each of Mauritius’ islets has its own story, scenery, and experiences - from marine parks and hidden ruins to secluded beaches and sparkling lagoons. Whether you’re seeking adventure, nature, or a peaceful day by the sea, these island escapes belong on every traveller’s list.
For more ideas and combinations, explore:
Enjoy discovering Mauritius, one island at a time.
