Port Louis, the capital of Mauritius is on the North West coast and vibrant mix of markets, business and history. The North coast has fine beaches with a good range of accommodation and is popular for water sports.
Main beaches here include the pretty white sandy bay of Trou Aux Biches, shaded by casuarina trees. Good area for novice snorkellers with easily reached reefs near the shore. At Mon Choisy the beach stretches from Trou Aux Biches to Grand Bay, which is a shopping and leisure paradise.
Grand Baie is where tourists and locals head for a night out and has many bars, restaurants and shops. It is a good area also for sailing, wind surfing and water skiing. The bay is a favourite anchoring spot for sailboats and a starting point for many day excursions by boat around the islands. Several hotels here are in easy walk or drive from the restaurants and markets.
Cap Malheureux with it's red roof church has good views of the islets to the north of the coast and this village supports a large fishing community. Kite surfing bases can also be found around this area of the coast.
Underwater in this region you can take the 'Blue Safari Submarine' to see marine life and wrecks under the sea. There is also a unique 'Captain Nemos Undersea Walk' where visitors can see the marine life without complicated diving equipment, using helmets fed with fresh air!
Diving in this region includes areas around Gunner's Coin, Whale Rock Morey Eel Reefs, Stella Maru and Holt's Rocks.
Inland there is the famous Botanical Gardens, the Mauritius Aquarium at Pointes Aux Piments and a Sugar Cane Factory and Sugar Mill.
The area is rich in heritage and you can visit the Old Cemetery near Pamplemousses, historical churches and the Bassin des Esclaves, where slaves used to be washed.
Shopping - There are plenty of places to shop including local handicrafts, fashions, paintings and jewellery. Goodlands Market is a great place for vibrant atmosphere and a range of local goods.
The Northern Islets, are a small cluster of islands off the north coast, where many day trips and sailing boats can take visitors. Gunner's Coin rises sharply out of the water and is a good place for snorkeling and birdwatching. Flat Island and Ilot Gabriel are good clear water spots for swimming and picnics. There is a retural reserve at Round Island, protecting various species of plants and reptiles.
