Flic en Flac Beach

With a name that probably comes from the Old Dutch for ‘free flat land’, Flic en Flac Beach is one of the longest public beaches on Mauritius. Lying approximately 15 kilometres south of the capital, Port Louis, it sits on the island’s west coast. It is roughly 13 kilometres long.

Comprising gorgeous white coral sand, its shallows form a lagoon created by coral reefs, providing a warm and safe place to swim for those of all ages. Its opposite side of Flic en Flac beach is lined with native casuarina trees, alongside a selection of higher-end hotels.

Offering views towards the Morne Brabant Peninsula, Flic en Flac Beach has a number of recognised scuba diving sites, including an underwater cave known as The Cathedral. The beach is busiest on the weekend, when locals join tourists in enjoying the sands. Though Flic en Flac beach has a good number of restaurants and nightclubs, it’s yet to reach the extent of Grand Baie further north.

Attractions nearby include the Casela Bird Park, featuring 140 different species of bird including the endemic endangered pink pigeon, Médine Sugar Estate and distillery, and an 18-hole golf course.

In some places, gabions of rock have been installed to slow the erosion of the beach caused by rising sea levels.