Clear warm water and endless white beaches: Mauritius makes this tropical dream come true!

Its large lagoons lined with fine white sand are the embodiment of paradise to those who want to enjoy the sea or just up soak the sun. All around the island, large strips of public beaches offer unbeatable relaxing possibilities during the week and great opportunities to mix with the local population at the weekends.

Most public beaches are safe for swimming, and are ideal for coastal walks and scenic sightseeing.

The north is famous for watersports such as water-skiing, windsurfing, sailing, deep-sea fishing and parasailing. In the evenings, with their unparalleled vista of the sunset, the region’s trendy bars, restaurants and clubs buzz with life.

The east is wilder and less developed, offering a spectacle of nature. The white beaches of Palmar and Belle Mare stretch endlessly along the coast here, fringed on one side by shady green casuarinas trees and edged by the lagoon on the other.

The south-east is known for its high cliffs, which provide a great photo opportunity as you journey round the southern tip of the island. Here, the breaks in the reef allow the open sea to come right up to the land, crushing against the rocks, creating a craggy and dramatic coastline.

On the west coast, meanwhile, visitors can enjoy magnificent sunsets and deep-sea fishing. Surfers also love it here and frequently head for Tamarin – the surf centre of Mauritius – which is as popular with beginners as it is with more experienced surfers.

Most beach hotels in Mauritius provide complimentary watersports facilities to their clients. Scuba diving, parasailing and deep-sea fishing are available at extra cost.

Motor boats are not allowed to exceed five knots in specific zones inside the lagoon – particularly in Flic en Flac and Trou d’Eau Douce. Other regions are expected to follow suit soon.