Mauritius has long been considered one of the Indian Ocean’s most desirable destinations, combining white sandy beaches, turquoise waters and tropical landscapes with a fascinating mix of cultures. However, beyond the picture-perfect coastline, the island offers plenty of opportunities for adventure, exploration and authentic local experiences.
For our visit, we stayed at Shandrani Beachcomber Resort & Spa, a beautiful beachfront resort on the island’s south-eastern coast. With its exceptional location, relaxed atmosphere and impressive selection of activities, it provided the perfect base for discovering Mauritius.
Staying at Shandrani Beachcomber
Situated on a private peninsula near Blue Bay, Shandrani Beachcomber enjoys a particularly beautiful setting, surrounded by tropical gardens, beaches and the Indian Ocean.
One of the resort’s biggest attractions is its location. Unlike some of the more developed tourist areas, this part of Mauritius feels wonderfully peaceful, with natural scenery and quieter stretches of coastline.
The resort offers an excellent balance between relaxation and activity, making it particularly appealing for couples, families and travellers looking to experience more than simply lounging beside the swimming pool.
For us, having so many activities available within easy reach made the experience particularly memorable.
Cycling to the Local Market in Mahébourg
One of the highlights of our stay was getting out on two wheels and exploring the surrounding area.
We took a bike ride towards the local marketplace, an experience that offered a completely different perspective on Mauritius.
Cycling through the surrounding villages, with tropical greenery, local homes and everyday island life unfolding around us, was a refreshing change from the resort.
The nearby town of Mahébourg is particularly worth exploring. Known for its traditional market, the town offers everything from fresh tropical fruit and vegetables to spices, clothing and locally produced souvenirs.
The famous Monday market is especially popular, attracting locals and visitors looking to experience authentic Mauritian culture.
For anyone staying at Shandrani, we would certainly recommend considering a cycling excursion. It provides an opportunity to experience the island beyond its beaches.
Water Sports and Exploring Blue Bay
Mauritius is famous for its crystal-clear waters, and Shandrani makes the most of its enviable beachfront location.
During our stay, we enjoyed spending time on the water, with the resort offering an impressive variety of activities directly from the beach.
From kayaking and paddleboarding to sailing, windsurfing and water-skiing, there is something for almost every ability.
One of the biggest advantages is that many of these activities are included within the resort’s offering, although specialist lessons and certain excursions carry additional charges.
For those who prefer exploring beneath the surface, nearby Blue Bay Marine Park is an absolute must.
This protected marine environment is home to colourful coral formations and tropical fish, making it one of Mauritius’s most celebrated snorkelling destinations.
Glass-bottom boat excursions are another excellent option, allowing visitors to appreciate the underwater scenery without getting wet.
Discovering Île aux Aigrettes
Another worthwhile excursion close to Shandrani is Île aux Aigrettes, a small island nature reserve situated off the south-eastern coastline.
Managed by the Mauritian Wildlife Foundation, the reserve is dedicated to protecting and restoring the island’s native wildlife and vegetation.
Guided visits offer an opportunity to learn about Mauritius’s unique ecosystem and the conservation efforts helping to protect endangered species.
It is an excellent addition to a beach-focused holiday, particularly for anyone interested in nature and wildlife.
Relaxation, Golf and Island Living
Of course, not every day needs to involve an excursion.
Shandrani offers plenty of opportunities to unwind, whether enjoying its beautiful beaches, visiting the spa or spending an afternoon beside the swimming pool.
Golf enthusiasts can also enjoy the resort’s nine-hole pitch-and-putt course, while tennis and fitness facilities provide additional options for keeping active.
For those wanting to venture further, the island’s southern region offers dramatic coastal scenery, nature reserves and picturesque villages.
Final Thoughts
What makes Mauritius such a special destination is its ability to combine luxury and relaxation with genuine opportunities for exploration.
Staying at Shandrani Beachcomber allowed us to enjoy both sides of the island, from relaxing on beautiful beaches and trying water sports to cycling through local communities and discovering the marketplace.
For travellers planning a Mauritius escape, we would recommend making time to explore beyond the hotel grounds.
After all, while the beaches might initially attract you to Mauritius, it is often the experiences beyond them that make the trip truly memorable.
Discover more at Shandrani Beachcomber Resort & Spa.