A Mauritius Honeymoon Where Culture Meets Stunning Views

Honeymooners will revel in this secluded, luxurious island off the coast of Madagascar.
Aerial view of Le Morne Brabant mountain, Mauritius, Africa
Photo: Myroslava Bozhko | Shutterstock)
Holly Riddle - The Knot Contributor.
by
Holly Riddle
Holly Riddle - The Knot Contributor.
Holly Riddle
The Knot Contributor
  • Holly is a freelance contributor for The Knot Worldwide, with a focus on travel, honeymooning and wedding planning.
  • Holly has been a travel, food and lifestyle freelancer for her entire career.
  • Holly also works for a range of publications and brands as a ghostwriter and marketing copywriter.
Updated Apr 19, 2024
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If you're looking for an island that's a little less well-known, it's time you considered a Mauritius honeymoon. Renowned for its luxurious resorts, friendly locals and blend of cultures, Mauritius is one of the best honeymoon destinations for couples who want a mix of relaxation and adventure.

Volcanic mountains, lush forests and fragrant sugarcane fields await on this romantic island off the coast of Madagascar. You'll give your sweetie an excited squeeze when you arrive and see the stunning beachfront properties and boutique hotels perched right on the picturesque waters, waiting for you to enjoy a spot of snorkeling or scuba diving.

While you could spend an entire honeymoon here simply enjoying the beaches and your resort's amenities, Mauritius offers so much more, which is part of the reason why it stands apart among other Indian Ocean island destinations.

Ready to discover everything a honeymoon in Mauritius could offer you and your partner? Here's what to expect as you begin planning your romantic getaway.

Mauritius Honeymoon Tips in this Article:

Tropical fish under waves on coral reef, Indian Ocean, Mauritius
Photo: Roberto Moiola | Getty

    Best Time to Honeymoon in Mauritius

    If you're wondering when the best time to visit Mauritius is, you'll be pleased to know that its tropical climate offers spectacular weather, with hardly any bad time to visit based on temperature and rainfall alone. Even the coldest month of the year is quite agreeable, at a 70-degree average in July. The hottest average temperatures don't climb up much past 80 degrees. The water temperatures offshore are equally agreeable, with water temps in the 70s and low 80s.

    The rainiest months are December through April, but even in December, you can only expect about seven days of the month to be rainy.

    Best weather: May to December.
    Festival highlights: The vibrant Holi festival, celebrated in March with colorful powders and joyous gatherings, and Diwali, the festival of lights, in October or November, which fills the island with lights, fireworks and festivities. The Chinese Spring Festival in February, with its dragon dances and red lanterns, adds to the cultural tapestry, making any visit during these times uniquely memorable.

    Mauritius Honeymoon Planning Tips

    Mauritius is a great island destination for those who want a luxury resort experience or resort honeymoon package, but can't see themselves spending 10 to 14 days simply sunbathing and swimming. For those who need a little more on their itineraries, Mauritius provides plenty of entertainment options.

    When planning your honeymoon in Mauritius, consider booking well in advance to secure the best rates and availability, especially if targeting a stay during local peak seasons or festivals. Checking reviews and looking for packages that include special amenities (like spa sessions, romantic dinners or private tours) can enhance your experience.

    Entry requirements: A US passport that will be valid for the duration of your stay.
    Language:
    English, French, Mauritian Creole.
    Location: Mauritius is located in the Indian Ocean, about 2,000 kilometers off the southeast coast of Africa, east of Madagascar.
    Currency: The Mauritian Rupee (MUR).
    Flight time to Destination: From New York City, the total travel time including layovers is approximately 18 to 24 hours.
    Getting around: Renting a car is a popular option for couples wanting the freedom to explore at their pace. Taxis and buses are available, but less convenient for remote areas or for those with a packed itinerary. Consider arranging private transfers through your hotel if that's more your speed.

    Pro tip: Invite a honeymoon planning expert to join your vendor team. You can find travel agents near you on The Knot Marketplace for Mauritius honeymoon expertise, reviews, testimonials and more.

    Best Mauritius Honeymoon Hotels and Resorts

    Mauritius is renowned for its luxurious beachfront resorts, many offering honeymoon suites with exceptional views and services. These resorts often provide exclusive amenities like private plunge pools, couples spa and massages, as well as candlelit beach dinners—designed to create unforgettable romantic experiences.

    Port louis waterfront umbrellas
    Photo: 8vFanl | Getty

    One&Only Le Saint Géran

    Easily one of the most romantic and luxurious resorts on Mauritius, One&Only Le Saint Géran boasts a secluded location on a private peninsula. The property provides your arrival vehicle at the airport, with a choice between a private helicopter and a luxury car. Once you've arrived, you can kick back and enjoy long stretches of lagoon beach, a five-star spa (perfect for post-wedding spa treatments) and loads of water sports at your fingertips, from paddle-boarding and deep sea fishing to snorkeling and kayaking.

    4.5 Star Rating | Read Reviews

    The Oberoi Beach Resort Mauritius

    A well-known luxury hotel brand, this Oberoi outpost sits on a marine park and features 20 acres of landscaped gardens, beachfront views and thatched-roof villas. The property puts an emphasis on introducing visitors to the local culture, which it does through locally inspired dining options and daily cultural and mindfulness activities. Book a villa for endless views, ample outdoor space and your very own private pool.

    5.0 Star Rating | Read Reviews

    The JW Marriott Mauritius Resort

    The JW Marriott property on Mauritius sits on a perfectly secluded beach. The luxury amenities are near-endless here; choose from a range of high-end room options, from spa villas to beach-access suites. The resort also features its own private cinema and library, but we have a feeling you'll have plenty to do as you explore the island from this well-situated base camp.

    4.5 Star Rating | Read Reviews

    Pro tip: Consider booking a romantic Airbnb or VRBO if affordability and privacy are your top priorities when it comes to Mauritius honeymoon accommodations.

    Mauritius Honeymoon Itinerary Ideas

    Mauritius is perfect for couples who enjoy relaxation and worlds of adventure. Beyond lounging on the beaches, you can find plenty of romantic things to do together: Explore coral reefs through snorkeling or diving, hike in the Black River Gorges National Park, visit the colored earths of Chamarel or take a romantic catamaran cruise at sunset. Here are a few ideas to get the planning ball rolling.

    Parasailing in front of Lion Mountain in Mauritius, Africa
    Photo: Stuart Westmorland | Getty

    Take in the Nature

    One of the island's top activities is the Colored Earth of Chamarel, a small geological attraction that features ridges of sand colored over millions of years to create a symphony of rainbow hues.

    Another top spot is Le Morne Brabant, a UNESCO World Heritage Site that boasts not only great views of the island (if you're willing to sweat a little), but also an interesting history as a colonial hideaway for escaped slaves.

    To cool off, visit Blue Bay Marine Park, where you can strap on your snorkeling gear and check out the colorful tropical fish and coral reefs. Nature-loving newlyweds will also want to visit Black River Gorges National Park, where flora and fauna range from giant fruit bats to exotic flowers.

    Stroll Port Louis

    Port Louis is Mauritius' capital city, and it's definitely worth at least an afternoon (or even an entire day) of exploration. Stroll hand in hand with your loved one as you take in the gorgeous French architecture, marketplace, charming boutiques and restaurants. You'll find plenty of photo ops wherever you look. Be sure to take your time and really soak in all the culture and history; go on a Port Louis street food tour and visit some of the Port Louis museums.

    Visit a Private Island

    While Mauritius' main island offers plenty of picturesque beaches and natural beauty, who wouldn't want to visit a private island? Ile aux Cerfs, or Deer Island, is a private island situated in a lagoon. Accessible via private tour, you can dock along one of the remote white sand beaches to enjoy the sand and surf in near-solitude. Booking a tour also allows you to customize the experience to fit your preferences, so it can be as luxurious, romantic or low-key as you'd like.

    Pro tip: Add Mauritius honeymoon experiences to your gift registry so that loved ones can pitch in on your post-wedding vacation. Make sure to post a few photos to your wedding website—this way all of your guests can stay in the loop.

    What to Pack for a Mauritius Honeymoon

    Central Market interior shot in Mauritius, Port Louis
    Photo: Walter Bibikow | Getty

    Make sure your packing checklist includes your usual resort wear—swimsuits, cover-ups and resort casual clothing for wearing around the property—as well as a few nice outfits for dinners both on and off the property. If you plan on hiking or seeing any of the nature attractions during your Mauritian getaway, be sure to bring sunscreen, bug spray and hiking-appropriate shoes in your honeymoon luggage, too.

    Brittany Barber contributed to this article.

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