Blue Bay Marine Park

Blue Bay, near Mahébourg on the south-east coast, is a protected marine park with some of the healthiest coral in Mauritius. Its shallow lagoon is wonderfully clear, and the beach is a favourite with Mauritian families at weekends.

Glass-bottom boats glide over the coral gardens so that non-swimmers and grandparents can see the fish too, with a stop to snorkel among the corals. Some trips continue to Île des Deux Cocos or the nature reserve of Île aux Aigrettes.

The park is close to the airport, so it fits well on an arrival or departure day. Go in the morning, when the water is calmest and clearest. Snorkelling gear is provided on most boat trips, and the old fishing town of Mahébourg, with its waterfront promenade, is just across the bay.