Mauritius is more than just a paradise for honeymooners and luxury travellers. This tropical island is also a haven for families seeking memorable experiences. We offer luxury and budget Mauritius holidays tailored to your preferences, ensuring an unforgettable tropical escape. In this article we will discuss the best things to do in Mauritius with your kids.
One of the greatest strengths of Mauritius as a family-friendly destination is its variety of attractions and activities that cater specifically to children. Many resorts and hotels go the extra mile to ensure families feel welcome, offering kids’ clubs and family-oriented excursions, as well as tailored amenities designed to make travel with children stress-free and enjoyable.
Mauritius also excels as a destination for curious young minds. From exploring marine life through snorkelling or glass-bottom boat tours to discovering the island’s rich history at interactive museums, there is never a dull moment.
Combining the right balance of education and play, Mauritius allows children to learn about different cultures and the natural world—all while having the time of their lives. For parents, this makes the island a rewarding choice where everyone can unwind and create lasting memories.
Beach Fun for Kids
Mauritius is home to some of the world’s most beautiful beaches, making it the perfect playground for families with kids. The island’s pristine shores and crystalline waters provide a safe and enjoyable environment for children to explore and play. Many of Mauritius’ beaches feature calm, shallow lagoons protected by coral reefs, making them ideal for younger swimmers who can paddle around in safety while parents relax nearby.
Top family-friendly beaches in Mauritius include Flic en Flac, Belle Mare, Mont Choisy, and Trou-aux-Biches. These beaches offer more than just gorgeous scenery; they come with plenty of child-friendly amenities such as nearby snack stalls and gentle waves.
Flic en Flac Beach, for example, is famous for its extensive stretch of white sand and tranquil water, perfect for sandcastle building and family picnics. Belle Mare is another excellent choice, providing spacious sandy areas for beach games like soccer, frisbee, and volleyball.
For kids who love being active, shallow-water swimming is an all-time favourite. The lagoons are not only safe but also teem with colourful fish, which makes a simple swim more exciting and memorable.
Families can rent snorkelling gear to introduce children to the underwater wonders, creating an unforgettable experience. Building sandcastles along the shore is another must-do activity. Mauritius’ fine, soft sand lends itself beautifully to constructing imaginative fortresses.
Beach games such as scavenger hunts, kite flying, and simple splash contests bring hours of joy. Many resorts and local organizers also host children’s activities like treasure hunts or mini-Olympics on the beach, allowing kids to meet and play with other young visitors.
Exploring Nature and Wildlife
Mauritius offers a captivating blend of nature and wildlife experiences that are sure to fascinate children and adults alike. Immersing your family in the island’s rich biodiversity is not only educational but also wildly entertaining.
Casela Nature Parks
Casela Nature Parks is one of Mauritius’ most popular family attractions. This sprawling park is a wonderland of interactive experiences designed to delight children. Kids can get up close and personal with a range of friendly animals at the petting zoo, feeding and petting goats, deer, and rabbits.
The park also offers exciting safaris where families can board special vehicles and spot zebras, ostriches, antelopes, and even big cats like lions and cheetahs. Casela’s adventure rides, including zip-lining and canyon swinging, provide thrills and adrenaline for older children and parents.
La Vanille Nature Park
La Vanille Nature Park, located in the southern part of Mauritius, offers a truly unique experience for families. This park is home to one of the largest collections of giant tortoises in the world, and children can walk among and even touch these gentle creatures.
The park also features crocodile enclosures and a fascinating insectarium, which showcases thousands of brightly coloured butterflies and rare insects.
Black River Gorges National Park
For families who enjoy spending time in nature, Black River Gorges National Park offers easy hiking trails that wind through lush greenery, waterfalls, and panoramic viewpoints.
While Mauritius’ only national park is a paradise for trekkers, many of the trails are suitable for families with young children. Along these paths, kids can spot monkeys swinging through trees, observe native bird species, and take in the island’s stunning flora. The park provides a refreshing escape into nature where families can enjoy picnics and experience the breathtaking beauty of Mauritius.
Water Activities and Sports
Mauritius is an aquatic wonderland with water-based activities that captivate children and adults alike. The warm, turquoise waters that surround the island are perfect for families who want to explore life beneath the surface or simply enjoy fun and engaging water sports.
Snorkelling
Snorkelling is a must-try activity for families visiting Mauritius, as the island is surrounded by extensive coral reefs teeming with colourful marine life.
Kids and parents alike can witness vibrant fish, corals, and perhaps even sea turtles in their natural habitats.
Glass-bottom boat tours
For families with younger children or those who prefer a dry yet immersive experience, glass-bottom boat tours are the ideal way to explore the underwater world without getting wet. These tours offer captivating views of the coral reefs and marine species beneath the waves, making it a memorable experience for everyone.
Lagoon visits
The island’s safe lagoons, protected by coral reefs, offer calm, shallow waters perfect for swimming with kids. Parents can relax as their children paddle around or play in the gentle waves without fear of strong currents.
Paddleboarding
Paddleboarding is another excellent family-friendly water sport that allows beginners to glide over the tranquil lagoon waters at their own pace. With easy-to-rent equipment and instructors available to provide guidance, children and adults can enjoy learning this skill together while taking in beautiful coastal scenery.
Dolphin and whale-watching tours
For a truly magical experience, families can embark on dolphin and whale-watching tours. These guided excursions take visitors to areas where dolphins frolic and swim, often just a few meters away from the boat.
Observing these playful creatures in their natural habitat is an exhilarating experience for kids, leaving lasting impressions of wonder and awe.
Seasonal whale-watching tours are also available, offering families the chance to glimpse majestic humpback or sperm whales on their annual migrations. These tours prioritize safety and respect for marine life, making them suitable and memorable for families.
Cultural and Educational Experiences
Beyond its stunning beaches and natural wonders, Mauritius offers enriching cultural and educational experiences that captivate both children and parents. Immersing your family in the island’s rich history and vibrant heritage not only deepens appreciation for its culture but also makes for fascinating and memorable outings.
Port Louis’ Blue Penny Museum
A great starting point is Port Louis’ Blue Penny Museum, located in the capital city. This museum offers a journey through Mauritius’ past, with exhibits that showcase the island’s colonial history, maritime heritage, and unique cultural tapestry.
The museum’s highlight is its rare collection of Blue Penny and Red Penny stamps, considered some of the world’s most valuable. Interactive displays and historical artifacts bring the island’s story to life, making it an engaging learning experience for older children curious about history.
Sugar Adventure Museum
For a fun and educational family day out, the Sugar Adventure Museum, housed in a former sugar factory, offers an interactive experience that introduces visitors to the history of sugar production on the island.
Through multimedia displays, hands-on exhibits, and sensory experiences, families can learn about sugar’s role in shaping Mauritius’ economy, culture, and cuisine. Kids especially enjoy tasting different varieties of sugar and exploring the old machinery, making the museum visit both educational and entertaining.
Château de Labourdonnais
Château de Labourdonnais, a beautifully restored colonial mansion, provides another enriching cultural experience. This grand estate offers guided tours that take visitors back to the 19th century, with rooms filled with period furniture, artwork, and family heirlooms.
Families can stroll through the lush gardens, enjoy fruit tastings from the estate’s orchards, and visit the distillery to learn about Mauritian rum-making. The château is a captivating way to introduce children to the island’s colonial heritage while appreciating its architecture and traditions
Adventure Parks and Rides
For families seeking thrills and excitement, Mauritius offers a variety of adventure parks and rides designed to keep kids entertained and parents just as engaged.
Splash N Fun Leisure Park
One of the most popular destinations for water-based fun is the Splash N Fun Leisure Park. This water park is a paradise for children of all ages, featuring twisting water slides, wave pools, and lazy rivers. Younger kids can enjoy dedicated splash zones and mini-slides, while older children and parents can race down high-speed slides or brave the wave pool’s swells.
Domaine de L’Étoile
For families craving outdoor thrills, Domaine de L’Étoile is a must-visit destination. This adventure park offers a range of activities that cater to different ages and skill levels.
Zip-lining through the treetops provides breathtaking views of Mauritius’ forests and mountains, with courses designed to suit both beginners and more experienced participants.
Quad biking is another favourite, offering an exhilarating way to explore the terrain, with routes tailored for families to ensure safety and age-appropriate challenges.
For a more leisurely experience, horse riding trails allow children and parents to connect with nature and enjoy stunning vistas at a relaxed pace.
Scenic Train and Boat Rides
For parents seeking a more relaxed pace, train and boat excursions provide the perfect opportunity to explore Mauritius while keeping children entertained and delighted.
Train ride at Château de Labourdonnais
A highlight for families is the train ride at Château de Labourdonnais. While the château itself captivates visitors with its colonial charm and lush gardens, the miniature train ride adds a touch of whimsy and fun for younger visitors.
The train meanders through the estate’s orchards, offering children a closer view of tropical fruit trees and fragrant gardens. It’s a gentle and engaging way for kids to learn about the estate’s history while enjoying a scenic journey around the grounds.
Catamaran trips to nearby islands
For families looking to explore Mauritius’ stunning coastline, catamaran trips to nearby islands offer an unforgettable adventure.
The catamaran cruises gently across the clear waters, with stops at idyllic spots perfect for swimming, snorkelling, or simply relaxing on the sand. Many trips include kid-friendly activities like beach games and guided snorkelling sessions. Stops at islands such as Île aux Cerfs often come with additional amenities, from shallow lagoon swimming to beach picnics, creating an all-day family outing full of fun.
Rainy Day Activities
Mauritius is known for its sunny weather, but on the occasional rainy day, there are plenty of indoor activities to keep children entertained and engaged.
Indoor play centers
Indoor play centers are a great way to let kids burn off energy while staying dry. These centers often feature soft play areas, climbing walls, ball pits, and obstacle courses for children of all ages.
Movie theatres
For a more relaxed family outing, movie theatres in major towns such as Port Louis and Grand Baie offer the latest releases, including family-friendly films. Movie outings can provide a cozy escape from the rain, complete with popcorn and comfortable seating.
Crafts workshops
Crafts workshops are another engaging option for creative minds, allowing children to participate in activities like painting, bead-making, or pottery. These workshops not only keep kids occupied but also encourage creativity and self-expression.
Aquariums and science centers
For families interested in marine life or science, visits to aquariums and science centers offer both entertainment and education.
The Mauritius Aquarium, for example, showcases a diverse range of marine species found around the island, including colourful fish, eels, and even sharks. Kids can learn about marine ecosystems and conservation through interactive displays and feeding sessions.
Similarly, science centers in Mauritius often feature hands-on exhibits and demonstrations that introduce children to various scientific concepts in a fun and accessible way. These centers provide a mix of learning and play, sparking curiosity and inspiring young minds. View our Mauritius packages and start planning your dream vacation today
