Top 10 things to do in Mauritius with Family

There’s a moment every family remembers… that first breath of warm island air, the sound of waves gently brushing the shore, and your children already asking, “What are we doing first?” 😊 That’s Mauritius. It doesn’t wait to impress you—it welcomes you instantly.

As someone who drives across this island almost every day, meeting families from all over the world, I can tell you this: Mauritius isn’t just beautiful, it’s easy, safe, and full of little surprises that make traveling with kids a real pleasure.

Let me walk you through the things to do in Mauritius with family—not just the usual list, but the kind of experiences we actually recommend to our guests when they sit in our car and ask, “Where should we go today?”

🌴 1. Beach Days That Feel Effortless (Flic en Flac & Belle Mare)

There’s a reason why families fall in love with our beaches. It’s not just about the views—it’s about how easy everything feels.

On the west coast, Flic en Flac is one of our go-to spots. The lagoon is calm, shallow, and perfect for children. You can literally walk far into the sea without worrying about strong currents. Parents relax under the shade, while kids spend hours building sandcastles or chasing tiny fish in the water.

On the east, Belle Mare offers a different atmosphere. Mornings here are peaceful, almost poetic. If you arrive early, you’ll see the sun rising over the ocean, lighting up the lagoon in soft shades of blue and gold. It’s less crowded, more spacious—perfect for families who want a quiet escape.

👉 Local tip: bring snacks or even a small picnic. Mauritian families love doing this, and it turns a simple beach outing into a full-day experience.

🦁 2. A Day at Casela Nature Parks (Where Kids Go Wild)

If your kids love animals, this is where their eyes light up.

Casela Nature Parks is more than just a visit—it’s an experience. You can take a safari ride and see zebras and antelopes roaming freely, or feed giraffes up close. For older kids (and adventurous parents), there are zip lines and even the famous lion walk.

What I personally like about Casela is how interactive it is. Children are not just observers—they’re part of the experience. They touch, feed, explore, and learn without even realizing it.

👉 Insider advice: go early in the morning to avoid the heat and crowds. And wear comfortable shoes—you’ll walk more than you expect.

🌊 3. Snorkeling or Glass-Bottom Boats at Blue Bay

If there’s one place where the ocean truly feels alive, it’s Blue Bay Marine Park.

The water here is incredibly clear. Even before you step into the lagoon, you can see fish swimming beneath the surface. For families, this is perfect. Kids can snorkel safely in shallow water, or if they’re too young, a glass-bottom boat gives them the same magical view.

Floating above coral reefs, watching colorful fish move around you—it’s one of those quiet moments that stays with you.

👉 Local tip: mornings are best for visibility. The sea is calmer, and the colors are brighter.

🚤 4. Catamaran Cruises – A Full Day of Family Joy

A catamaran trip is one of those experiences where everyone finds their happiness.

You’re sailing across a turquoise lagoon, music playing softly, the crew preparing lunch while the kids explore the boat. There’s space to relax, space to play, and stops along the way for swimming and snorkeling.

Most trips head toward Île aux Cerfs, and along the journey, you’ll feel that sense of freedom that only the ocean can give.

👉 Practical tip: choose a family-friendly cruise, not a party one. The atmosphere matters when you’re traveling with kids.

🌿 5. Chamarel – Nature, Colors & Fresh Air

When families ask me for something different from beaches, I always suggest heading southwest to Chamarel.

Here, you’ll find the famous Seven Colored Earth—a natural phenomenon that fascinates children. It’s like looking at sand painted in different shades. Just a few minutes away, the Chamarel waterfall offers one of the most impressive views on the island.

The drive itself is part of the experience. Winding roads, lush greenery, and panoramic viewpoints make the journey just as enjoyable as the destination.

👉 Insider tip: combine this trip with lunch at a local restaurant in Chamarel. The views are incredible.

🐢 6. Meet Giant Tortoises at La Vanille Nature Park

Sometimes, the simplest experiences are the most memorable.

At La Vanille Nature Park, children can meet giant tortoises that are over 100 years old. They can feed them, touch them, and walk among them. It’s gentle, slow-paced, and perfect for younger kids.

The park also has crocodiles and small wildlife exhibits, making it both fun and educational.

👉 Local advice: bring a hat and water—it can get warm, especially in the south.

🏙️ 7. Discover Port Louis with Kids (Markets & Culture)

To understand Mauritius, you need to step into Port Louis, our capital.

The central market is full of life—colors, smells, voices, and local flavors. Kids love the energy here. You can try street food like dholl puri or fresh juices, and introduce them to a different side of travel.

Then, head to Caudan Waterfront for a more relaxed experience. Shops, cafés, and open spaces make it easy to explore with children.

👉 Practical tip: go in the morning when it’s less crowded and more comfortable.

🚠 8. Light Adventure Activities for Families

If your family enjoys a bit of excitement, Mauritius has plenty to offer.

Places like Chamarel or La Vallée des Couleurs offer ziplining and light adventure activities. Nothing too extreme, but just enough to bring a little adrenaline into your holiday.

Teenagers especially love this. It adds variety to the trip and breaks the routine of beach days.

👉 Local tip: check age and height restrictions before booking.

🏝️ 9. Île aux Cerfs – A Classic Family Escape

This small island is one of the Best Leisure & Family Places in Mauritius for a reason.

Soft sand, shallow lagoons, and wide open spaces make it ideal for children. You can relax while they run freely, swim safely, and enjoy the beach without stress.

There are also optional water activities for those who want a bit more action.

👉 Insider advice: go early to enjoy the island before it gets busy.

🚗 10. Explore with a Local Driver (The Game Changer)

If there’s one thing I always recommend, it’s this: explore Mauritius with a local driver.

Why? Because it changes everything.

You’re not rushing. You’re not following a strict schedule. You stop where you want, take breaks when needed, and adapt the day to your family’s rhythm.

More importantly, you get local stories, hidden spots, and genuine recommendations. It feels less like a tour and more like a day out with someone who truly knows the island.

This is exactly how we see our role at Taxi Service Mauritius—not just driving, but guiding, sharing, and making your experience smoother.

🌍 A Little Extra for Curious Travelers

If you’re planning deeper exploration, you might also come across guides like Mauritius for First-Timers: 15 Things to Know Before You Go, or discover routes covering the best places to visit in the South and even suggestions like 10 beautiful places to visit in the North of Mauritius. These can complement your journey and help you shape your itinerary further.

And if you’re still wondering about other activities to do in Mauritius, don’t worry—you’ll quickly realize that this island always has more to offer than you can fit into one trip.

🌅 Final Thoughts from a Local Perspective

Traveling as a family is not always easy. But in Mauritius, it feels different.

The distances are short. The people are welcoming. The experiences are diverse yet accessible. And most importantly, the island adapts to you—you don’t have to adapt to it.

Every day here feels like a balance between discovery and relaxation. And those little moments—your child laughing in the water, your family sharing a meal by the beach—those are the ones that stay.

That’s what makes Mauritius special.