11 Best Things to Do in Bellemare + Where to Stay
Is Bellemare on your list of places to visit in Mauritius?
Then this article is for you!
Located on the East coast, with its turquoise blue lagoon and dream beaches, Bellemare is one of the must-visit places in the country.
In this article, I detail the 11 best places to visit and activities to do in Bellemare and its surroundings.
What awaits you includes stunning white sandy beaches, hiking in a forest natural park, a boat excursion to a heavenly islet, as well as plenty of exciting water activities like parasailing!
To help you plan your stay, I’m sharing my tips, good deals, and my selection of the best hotels to stay in Bellemare and the surrounding area.
So, what to do and see in Bellemare during your vacation in Mauritius? Where to stay?
Follow the guide!
Sommaire
- 11 Best Things to Do in Bellemare + Where to Stay
- 1. Bellemare Beach
- 2. Go Diving
- 3. Trou d’Eau Douce
- 4. Île aux Cerfs
- 5. Palmar Beach
- 6. Grande Rivière Sud-Est Waterfall
- 7. Poste Lafayette Beach
- 8. Bras d’Eau National Park
- 9. Try Parasailing
- 10. Walking Under the Sea
- 11. Fun at Splash and Fun Water Park
- Where to Stay in Bellemare?
- Travel Insurance for Mauritius: My Tips
- You’re traveling to Mauritius? These articles will help you!
1. Bellemare Beach
Bellemare is a small coastal village that is home to THE iconic beach on Mauritius’s East coast.
Bellemare Beach stretches its 10km of white sand along a turquoise blue lagoon lined with palm trees.
It’s a true postcard scene that awaits you on this long beach which remains very pristine.
Apart from a few luxury hotels, you won’t have trouble finding a peaceful spot to lay your towel.
Here, there are no hordes of tourists but mainly peace and tranquility.
Water sports enthusiasts will also find their paradise near the recreational hotels and establishments.
If you decide to visit Bellemare beach on the weekend, you can enjoy the festive atmosphere brought by Mauritian campers who are accustomed to gathering there with family.
It’s really nice to immerse yourself in the local vibe 🙂
2. Go Diving
In Bellemare, you can also take advantage of an ideal setting for diving!
Along the coast, you’ll find numerous beautiful diving spots to explore, whether you’re scuba diving or even just snorkeling.
Whether you want to experience your first dive or you are an experienced diver, you can enjoy a great underwater adventure by getting in touch with one of these diving centers in Bellemare:
Prefer snorkeling? In that case, put on your fins, mask, and snorkel and freely enjoy the lagoon to meet the colorful fish of the reefs!
You will easily see them near the beach, there’s no need to go far to admire them.
If you want to go diving in Mauritius, I have prepared a complete article on the subject: Scuba Diving in Mauritius – The Ultimate Guide
Diving in Mauritius
3. Trou d’Eau Douce
Just a 10-minute drive from Bellemare is the picturesque village of Trou d’Eau Douce, a must-see during your visit to the East coast.
This seaside resort is home to many interesting sites.
First and foremost, its magnificent beach with brilliant white sand and azure blue water.
At the heart of the village, it’s a lively beach, frequented by fishermen and lined with beautiful villas.
Trou d’Eau Douce is also the departure point for boat trips, particularly cruises to Île aux Cerfs, which I’ll talk about next.
In Trou d’Eau Douce, you can also visit Café des Arts, a former sugar factory converted into an art gallery and fine dining restaurant.
It’s a pleasant cultural visit to enjoy, with an opportunity to feast in a sophisticated and artistic setting!
The restaurant is open only in the evening and by reservation (click here for contact details).
4. Île aux Cerfs
A major attraction in the Bellemare region, Île aux Cerfs is an islet located about 500m off the coast.
Known for its crystal-clear lagoon and heavenly beaches, Île aux Cerfs is a highly sought-after destination, both by visitors and locals.
It is uninhabited, but it has many leisure facilities:
- several restaurants
- shops
- lounge chairs and umbrellas for rent
- water sports agencies (water-skiing, windsurfing, parasailing, kayaking, glass-bottom boat…)
- an 18-hole golf course (rated among the top 10 most beautiful golf courses in the world!)
You’re spoiled for choice to enjoy your time on this little paradise island.
If you prefer walking over just relaxing, it’s also possible to tour the islet in 1.5-2 hours to discover its wilder North side.
You’ll easily find a secluded beach spot to quietly enjoy the lagoon’s beauty.
The only way to get to Île aux Cerfs is, of course, by boat (the sea journey to the islet is breathtakingly beautiful).
For this, you have the choice between:
- taking a taxi-boat (departure from Trou d’Eau Douce beach or at the ferry terminal)
- boarding a catamaran for a day cruise.
For an unforgettable day, I highly recommend the catamaran cruise which includes lunch on board, snorkeling stops in the lagoon, a pass by the Grande Rivière Sud-Est waterfall, and several hours of free time on Île aux Cerfs.
To book your catamaran excursion to Île aux Cerfs, simply click below:
5. Palmar Beach
Another exceptional beach to see on the East coast of Mauritius: Palmar Beach.
It’s located just 5 minutes from Bellemare Beach and is not very well-known among tourists.
Wild and windswept, it offers a sublime landscape and is often deserted, adding to its authentic charm!
In fact, Palmar Beach is divided into two parts separated by residences and hotels.
The first part, to the left of the buildings, is the “official” public beach. It has a large parking area and a designated swimming area.
But what I recommend is to explore its wilder side, which I personally find even more stunning.
To do this, head back to the road, go past the large parking of the main beach followed by the group of residences (named Fantasea, Badamiers, and Villa Palmar Bay). Just after this residential area, you’ll see a small grassy parking lot on your left. There’s an entrance about 100m further down.
Park here and walk to the wild beach. With its black rocks, white sand, leaning trees and turquoise water, it is truly breathtaking.
6. Grande Rivière Sud-Est Waterfall
On your way to Île aux Cerfs, you’ll have the opportunity to get close to the Grande Rivière Sud-Est waterfall, one of the most beautiful and famous on the island.
It’s located at the mouth of Mauritius’ longest river, which flows into the Indian Ocean after a 30km journey.
The waterfall presents a spectacular view of boiling waters cascading down enormous volcanic rocks.
You usually visit the waterfall by boat, while going to or coming from Île aux Cerfs (for example, included in the catamaran cruise to Île aux Cerfs).
One of my favorite places to stay in Mauritius is L’Otentic – Eco Tent Experience!
It’s a unique location where you can sleep in a comfortable large safari tent right on the banks of the Grande Rivière Sud-Est, just a few meters from the waterfall.
On-site, kayaks and stand-up paddleboards are available for you to use, allowing you to paddle along the river and up to the waterfall.
I 100% recommend this place if you love nature and are searching for an unusual accommodation near Île aux Cerfs.
7. Poste Lafayette Beach
Among the most beautiful beaches to see in the East of Mauritius, don’t miss Poste Lafayette Beach.
Approximately 20 minutes’ drive north of Bellemare, it’s unique for being surrounded by mangroves and volcanic rocks.
You probably won’t come here to swim, but rather to appreciate its wild and pristine landscape.
You’ll discover a rugged coastline punctuated by large black rocks forming small successive white sand coves.
The sea, turquoise blue, is often rough at this location, so it’s advised not to swim here (especially with children!).
Here, few people, allowing you to enjoy the tranquility.
You might see kitesurfing enthusiasts, who love this spot for its exposure to the wind and its great waves.
Other water sports activities like pedal boating, windsurfing, or kayaking are also practiced on this beach.
Parts of the beach are lined with villas but you can easily find open areas by following the coastal path.
This is the beach I would recommend in the East of Mauritius if you’re looking for the perfect spot for a picnic!
And if you’re an early riser, the sunrise here is extraordinary!
8. Bras d’Eau National Park
When you’re in the East of Mauritius, I recommend planning a half-day to take a walk in the Bras d’Eau National Park, located right next to Poste Lafayette.
It’s a 500-hectare forest nature reserve, with beautiful hiking trails.
The perfect place to cool off in the shade and take a break from the beaches!
The entrance is easy to find, and a parking lot allows you to park right by the “Visitor’s Center”.
From there, you can enter the park and follow the trail for a 2-hour walk in this beautiful lush forest.
Look up during your walk as it’s not uncommon to spot certain endemic birds (such as the Mascarene Paradise Flycatcher or the Mauritius Grey White Eye) as well as monkeys and fruit bats!
Here are some directions to help you find your way once inside the park:
Take the trail right at the entrance to the forest and pass the “Puits des Français” on the right. Follow the “Coq des Bois Trail” and “Nature Trail” signs.
After the lava rock trail, turn right and pass the well. You’ll then enter an eucalyptus forest. Continue straight at the picnic table.
Follow the red markers to reach Mare Mahogany and then, a bit further, Mare Chevrettes.
There, you can either return the way you came or complete the full loop by following the “Visitor’s Center” signs.
9. Try Parasailing
Do you want to enjoy a thrilling experience between sky and sea during your holiday in Mauritius?
Parasailing (or parachute ascensionnel) is one of the highlight activities to try at Bellemare Beach or on Île aux Cerfs!
Suspended by a wide parachute at several tens of meters in height and pulled by a boat, you can admire the turquoise waters of the lagoon while getting an adrenaline rush!
Parasailing is an unmissable and very popular activity in the East of Mauritius.
To ensure you get a spot on the day, I recommend you book your parasailing session now, by clicking on the link below:
10. Walking Under the Sea
How about a little underwater walk?
Yes, in Bellemare, it’s possible to walk under the sea!
How does it work?
Equipped with a diving helmet connected to an air tank that allows you to breathe normally and keep your head dry, you descend to a depth of 4 meters and find yourself standing on the seabed, surrounded by corals and fish!
And there’s no need to swim!
This unique experience is offered by the Aquaventure team and is available to book online by clicking here.
A fabulous activity that can be enjoyed by people who can’t swim as well as children.
Here’s a sneak peek of what awaits you in video:
11. Fun at Splash and Fun Water Park
If you love water games, you can also plan an afternoon of laughter at the Splash’n’Fun Water Park in Bellemare!
An enormous pool under the coconut trees, exciting slides, and other water attractions await you for a day of fun under the Mauritian sun.
A great family activity to do in Mauritius!
For more practical information, visit their official website (click here).
Where to Stay in Bellemare?
Looking to stay in the east of Mauritius and need accommodation that fits your budget and your desires?
To help you choose, here’s my selection of the top 5 accommodations near Bellemare, from the most affordable to the most expensive:
- EvaZion: A hotel surrounded by nature located in Grande Rivière Sud-Est, 20 minutes from Bellemare beach. Enjoy a comfortable double room starting at 80€/night. The hotel also has a pool, a restaurant, free access to kayaks, and shuttles to Île aux Cerfs.
- Otentic Eco Tent Experience: Stay in a spacious, comfortable tent in the midst of nature, glamping style, starting at 130€ per night. Each tent can accommodate 2 to 5 people. Extremely warm welcome, numerous activities on the site (pool, kayak, shuttle to Île aux Cerfs), and special mention for the delicious cuisine made with fresh, local products. My favorite accommodation in East Mauritius!
- Veranda Palmar Beach Hotel: A charming and luxurious small hotel by the lagoon in Bellemare. With direct beach access, an outdoor pool, and spa. Spacious double room with balcony starting at 175€/night, meals included.
- Constance Bellemare: One of the largest and most beautiful hotels on Mauritius’ East Coast, located on Bellemare beach. A 5-star establishment featuring 6 restaurants and several pools surrounded by tropical gardens. Spacious double rooms with marble bathrooms starting from 255€/night (breakfast included).
- Le Touessrok: A grand luxury hotel opposite the Trou d’Eau Douce lagoon. Several pools, restaurants, a wellness center, and even a private island! Luxurious double room with balcony and sea view for 450€/night, breakfast included. The perfect choice for a luxury stay in Mauritius!
Travel Insurance for Mauritius: My Tips
Many travelers mistakenly think that healthcare in Mauritius is affordable and that they don’t need travel insurance. But in reality, the public healthcare system is fragile, and even the slightest consultation in a private clinic can be very expensive!
That’s why it is essential to get a travel insurance policy that provides good medical coverage before you leave.
To ensure a safe trip, I recommend the following two insurances (both include epidemic guarantee – like for COVID-19, which is very important!)
Signing up is very easy, you just have to click on the links below:
- ACS AMI Globe Partner: Medical and repatriation insurance
- Assur Travel Summum: Premium insurance (medical, repatriation, baggage theft, flight delays, cancellation, and more!)
Now you know all about the best things to do and see in Bellemare and the east of Mauritius!
Feel free to leave a comment if you have any questions, feedback, or if you want to share your travel experience 🙂
And you, what have you planned to do in Bellemare during your vacation in Mauritius?
🚗 Rent a car
🗽 Book your tickets and guided tours
🏄 Book your sports activities
🚤 Rent a boat
🌍 Get your travel insurance
✈️ Book your flight
You’re traveling to Mauritius? These articles will help you!
Discover all my articles about Mauritius: All my articles to help you plan your trip to Mauritius are listed there.
- Best Time to go to Mauritius? – Seasons, weather, activities, prices
The best itineraries for your trip
- Itinerary: 5 days in Mauritius – An amazing itinerary for a short stay in Mauritius
- Itinerary: One week in Mauritius – The perfect itinerary to visit the island in 7 days
- Itinerary: 10 days in Mauritius – The perfect itinerary to visit Mauritius in 10 days
- Itinerary: 2 weeks in Mauritius – The ultimate guide to Mauritius in 15 days
- Itinerary: 3 weeks in Mauritius – Plan your 20-21 day stay in Mauritius easily!
- Road-trip in Mauritius – The 6 best itineraries for your trip!
Places to Visit
- Bellemare: Top 11 places and activities
- Underwater waterfall in Mauritius – How to get there + Tips
- Chamarel: 11 Epic Things to Do
- Flic-en-Flac: Top 10 places to visit and things to do
- Grand Baie: The Ultimate Guide
- Grand Bassin: All the Best Things to Do
- Île aux Bénitiers: How to Visit Benitiers Island?
- Île aux Cerfs: The Definitive Guide to Plan Your Visit
- Mahébourg: Best Places to Visit + Tips
- Morne Brabant: How to Visit Morne Brabant?
- Black River Gorges National Park: What to See and Do?
Activities
- The Best Activities in Mauritius – Water sports, cruises, day trips, guided tours…
- The Best Boat Trips in Mauritius – Top 5 + Rates and booking
- Scuba diving in Mauritius: The Definitve Guide
Organize your stay
- Where to Stay in Mauritius: The Definitive Guide – All types of accommodation for all budgets
- 4-Star Hotels in Mauritius: My selection of the best!
- 5-Star Hotels in Mauritius: The Definitive Guide
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