The South-East Coast is the nearest coastal area to the international airport, which makes it a practical choice for the first or last nights of a trip, as well as a base in its own right.
There are two main choices: the town of Mahébourg, or the beaches of Blue Bay and Pointe d’Esny just to the south.
In this guide
How the region is laid out
Mahébourg sits on the bay of Grand Port. Pointe d’Esny runs south along the lagoon to Blue Bay, which faces the Blue Bay Marine Park. The airport at Plaine Magnien is inland, a short drive away.
Mahébourg
A historic town on the bay of Grand Port with a waterfront, a busy local market and boat trips to Île aux Aigrettes; close to the airport.
It works if you want a local town with a market, waterfront and guesthouses, and easy access to the airport.
It works less well if you want a beach on your doorstep; Mahébourg’s waterfront is not a swimming beach.
Read the full Mahébourg guide.
Blue Bay & Pointe d’Esny
Beaches facing the protected lagoon of the Blue Bay Marine Park, known for snorkelling and glass-bottom boats, with villas and guesthouses.
It works if you want a beach and snorkelling in the marine park, with villas, guesthouses and small hotels.
It works less well if you want lots of restaurants within walking distance; the area is quiet and residential.
Read the full Blue Bay & Pointe d’Esny guide.
Do you need a car?
Both areas are close to the airport. Mahébourg is walkable; Blue Bay and Pointe d’Esny are quieter and more spread out, so a car or taxis help for outings.
Which area suits you?
| If you want… | Consider |
|---|---|
| First or last night near the airport | Mahébourg or Blue Bay |
| Local town atmosphere | Mahébourg |
| Beach and snorkelling | Blue Bay & Pointe d’Esny |
What to do next
Find accommodation in South-East Coast
Accommodation listings for this region are being prepared. Use the area guides above to choose where to stay.
Browse South-East Coast accommodation
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Area guides: Mahébourg, Blue Bay & Pointe d’Esny. Region guide: South-East Coast.
Sources
Opening hours, entry fees, boat and transport schedules, access rules and park conditions change; check the official source before you travel.
- Mauritius Tourism Promotion Authority (MTPA) — official visitor information
- Mauritian Wildlife Foundation — Île aux Aigrettes nature reserve
- Mauritius Meteorological Services — forecasts, warnings and cyclone bulletins
Transport and practical details were checked on 5 October 2026.