Scuba diving boosts relaxation, reduces stress and maximizes the feeling of well-being. It's also a great way to discover new destinations and strengthen bonds between loved ones. Mauritius is one of the most popular destinations for divers. Renowned for its heavenly beaches, this Indian ocean island also offers diving spots which suit all levels. The diversity of the landscape, the many underwater species, the beauty of the flora and the accessible wrecks are all great assets. The best spots guarantee unforgettable memories. Follow the guide.

Grand Baie : a wide choice of spots

This seaside resort in the north of mauritius attracts many tourists. There are several diving sites nearby. Divers will  swim with colourful fish and turtles. Beginners will stay close to the shore, while the more experienced will head for the open sea. Connoisseurs will appreciate the spots around the Coin de Mire islet. The shark pit is ideal for thrill-seekers. The mam'zelle sharks accept the presence of divers. Of course, safety instructions must be followed.

Grand bay is also a good starting point for visiting shipwrecks, notably the Silver Star and Stella maru. This Japanese ship, sunk in 1987, lies at a depth of 20 meter and forms an artificial reef. The ease of access adds to its appeal.

Récif aux murènes

The spot is made up of small reefs with white sandy bottom. Very good visibility makes for great photos. As well as moray eels, divers will encounter a variety of species, including flying scorpion fish, scorpion fish and young octopus. The site is suitable for beginners, thanks to its shallow depth.

Silver star

The wreck of this trawler lies at 39 meters. The soft corals add special charm to this area. A session here also offers the chance to see barracudas, jacks and masters. Toad fish require more patience, as they blend into the background. Visiting the inside of the boat maximize the sensations.

Flic-en-Flac : a varied landscape

Flic-en-Flac is located in the west of the island. This scuba diving site provides access to a varied landscape after passing through the coral reef. Exploring the canyons, caverns and arches increases the sensations tenfold. The session is an opportunity to meet a wide variety of fish.

Aquarium

Aquarium illustrates the richness of Mauritius. Located between 9 and 20 meters, it is easily accessible. Tropical species such as angelfish, red castagnole, squirrels, barbets and scorpion fish abound. The weak current makes for easy manoeuvring and photo opportunities.

In the same area, Tamarin Bay offers different experience. Divers will discover other species such as rays, sea turtles, dolphins and whales.

Bellemare, spots for all divers

Located in the east of the island, the Bellemare pass stands out by the presence of various spots. The rich fauna attracts divers. Wrecks can also be explored here.

Belle Mare lagoon

An ideal site for beginners and snorkellers, with a depth of 3 meters. The beauty of the stag's horn corals will captivate divers. Reef fish such as convict fish, sergeant majors and trumpet fish are particular attraction.

La Passe de Belle Mare

Belle mare pass requires great caution due to flow intensity. The area has four attractive spots: Shark Point (25 m), Sea Fan Valley (30 m), Forêt des Gorgonnes (23 m) and Jardin Japonais (19 to 24 m). Large predators such as black sharks and barracudas inhabit there.

Trou aux biches, a rich flora

Trou-aux-biches is famous for its long white sandy beach. It is 2 km long and has been awarded a prize by world tourism experts. This north-western town is close to several diving spots.

Water Lily and Emily

Water Lily and Emily lie 25 meters down on a sandbank. The area benefits from maximum light for contemplating the abundance of wildlife.

King Fish

King Fish requires more abilities. The descent follows a long drop-off and a large fault for around thirty meters. Seeing butterfly mitratus and harlequin grouper is a great experience. Numerous moray eels come to be cleaned by Stenopus shrimps on the wall of a cliff with holes.

Corsaire Wall

Corsaire wall drops down to 40 meters. This rock face is ideal for spotting big fish such as barracuda, hammerhead sharks, big tuna and jacks.

Stenopus Ref

A must-see site, thanks to its rich flora. Giant gorgonians, alcyonaria and tubastrea corals form an original landscape. The green coral tree of the latter reaches 2 meters. Emperor angels, banana tunas and diodons complete the picture.

Pointe aux canonniers : breathtaking beauty

Roche Baleine

This immense natural arena stands out for its breathtaking beauty. Gorgonians and branching corals grace the rocks. Angelfish, butterflies and triggerfish are plentiful up to 20 meters. After that, descending to 38 meters requires greater abilities. Seeing leopard moray eels, large diodons, sailfish and hammerhead sharks rewards effort.

Peter Holt's Rock

The basalt boulders set the tone. Crevices and caves multiply the possibilities. Its diverse fauna is an added bonus. There are titan triggerfish, parrotfish, lutjans banns, lobsters and beaded moray eels. The 2 m long Javanese moray eel is a common sight in the crevices.

Ancre Perdue

The spot lies between 24 and 30 meters, but is classified as level 1. A succession of three peaks, covered in glass coral, form a very pretty landscape. Large Javanese moray eels, scorpion fish, lobsters and large diodons roam the area. A large sea anchor stands in the middle. It rests above a small grotto hidden by gorgonians.

The lost islands : a wide-ranging experience

These spots are concentrated in the northern part of Mauritius.

Sleeper shark cave

This cave is home to three species of sleeping shark. Lobsters and reef fish are also plentiful in this area.

Confetti Bay

This spot guarantees a cocktail of colors. A gentle slope of rock and coral forms a magnificent landscape. Anemones and a diversity of coral sublimate the depths.

Jabeda

This wreck lies at almost 30 meters on a large sandy plain. Barracudas, rays and squid roam the area.

Diving in Mauritius: some practical details

Diving centers introduce beginners to the basics of the discipline. Experienced instructors accompany beginners. The centers hire out the necessary equipment. The centers organize courses for those who want to improve their skills or become an instructor. Scheduling your stay between November and April is a very good idea. The conditions in the southern summer are ideal for diving. The water temperature is just right and visibility is excellent. And if you need to buy your scuba diving equipment, it's here with our partner : Diveavenue