Trou aux Biches beach: a natural treasure

A world-renowned award-winning beach

Trou aux Biches beach stretches for approximately two to three kilometers of pristine white sand. It was awarded the title of World's Leading Beach Destination at the 2011 World Travel Awards, an international recognition that attests to its exceptional beauty. It is regularly ranked among the most beautiful beaches in Africa and the Indian Ocean.

Unique features

The Trou aux Biches lagoon is distinguished by its crystal-clear turquoise waters, maintaining a pleasant temperature between 20 and 25°C year-round. The beach is lined with casuarina trees, coconut palms, and bougainvillea, creating an authentic tropical atmosphere. Protected by a coral reef, swimming is safe thanks to its very gentle slope, making it ideal for families with children.

Unlike other Mauritian beaches, Trou aux Biches enjoys an ideal northwest exposure, offering spectacular sunsets. The clear waters, free of broken coral or dangerous rocks near the shore, allow for pleasant and safe swimming.

Atmosphere and attendance

During the week, the beach remains relatively quiet and untouched by mass tourism, offering a serene atmosphere conducive to relaxation. On weekends, it transforms into a gathering place for Mauritian families who come to picnic, thus playing an active role in local life. This authenticity is a real asset for discovering Mauritian culture.

Water sports and activities

Scuba diving and snorkeling

Trou aux Biches is renowned as one of the best diving spots in Mauritius. Several professional dive centers offer excursions suitable for both beginners and experienced divers. Dive sites accessible from Trou aux Biches include:

• Exploration of ancient shipwrecks
• Coral Garden with its multicolored corals
• Stella Reef and its diverse tropical fish
• Observation of parrotfish, marlins, and rays
• Encounters with sharks, dolphins and sea turtles

Snorkeling is particularly popular thanks to the clear waters near the shore, allowing easy observation of marine life without sophisticated equipment.

Various water sports

Thrill-seekers and water sports enthusiasts will find what they're looking for with a wide range of options:

• Kayak and paddle (stand-up paddle)
• Water skiing and wakeboarding
• Windsurfing and sailing
• Catamaran
• Pedal boat
• Parasailing
• Jet ski
• Glass-bottom boats

Professional rental companies are present directly on the beach to facilitate access to these activities.

Boat trips

Boat trips are a major activity from Trou aux Biches. Popular excursions include:

• Watching dolphins in their natural habitat
• Navigation to the Northern Islands (Coin de Mire, Flat Island, Gabriel Island)
• Big game fishing trips
• Catamaran cruises with onboard barbecue
• Excursions to swim with sea turtles

The sheltered bay offers excellent conditions for sailing and anchoring.

Underwater walking

A unique activity accessible to all allows you to admire the seabed without diving equipment. Accompanied by a certified guide, visitors walk on the seabed wearing a special helmet, offering a safe and immersive experience.

Submarine excursions

For those who prefer to stay dry, submarine excursions offer descents to depths of up to 35 meters. This unique experience provides the opportunity to observe colorful fish, coral, and crabs through portholes, in complete comfort.

Accommodation in Trou aux Biches

Trou aux Biches offers a variety of accommodation options for all budgets and all types of travellers.

High-end options

The resort boasts several luxury hotels with direct beach access. These 5-star establishments typically offer tropical gardens, multiple swimming pools, spas, a variety of restaurants, and private beaches. Some offer suites and villas with private pools for a more exclusive experience.

Average category

Several 3 and 4-star hotels offer excellent value for money in Trou aux Biches. These smaller, more intimate establishments provide a friendly atmosphere, often with direct beach access and half-board or full-board options.

Seasonal rentals

Numerous private villas and apartments are available for rent. These options offer greater independence and flexibility, with amenities such as a fully equipped kitchen, terrace, and sometimes a private pool, making them ideal for families or extended stays.

Restaurants and gastronomy

Trou aux Biches offers a variety of dining options allowing you to discover Mauritian and international flavors.

Gourmet cuisine

Several elegant seaside restaurants offer refined cuisine focused on seafood and Mauritian produce. These establishments provide a romantic setting with ocean views, ideal for romantic sunset dinners.

Hotel restaurants

Hotel resorts in the area typically have several restaurants offering a variety of cuisines: international buffets, Italian specialties, Thai food, and North Indian cuisine. Most cater to special diets (vegetarian, gluten-free, halal).

Authentic local cuisine

Creole restaurants offer the opportunity to discover traditional Mauritian cuisine in a warm atmosphere and at reasonable prices. There you can enjoy curries, rougailles, fried noodles, and other local specialties.

Several small roadside restaurants also offer authentic local cuisine at affordable prices, ideal for immersing yourself in Mauritian culinary culture.

Attractions and sites to visit nearby

In the immediate vicinity

Mont ChoisyJust north of Trou aux Biches, it offers a vast crescent-shaped beach that is particularly popular with locals on weekends. The Mont Choisy Le Golf course and the Mont Choisy Le Mall shopping centre are also located nearby.

Pointe aux ChilisTo the south, it is home to Turtle Bay, a popular spot for observing these marine animals.

Grand Baie

Just 7 kilometers away, Grand Baie is the main lively seaside resort in the north. It offers:

• Nightlife with nightclubs and bars
• Shopping in the Sunset Boulevard and La Croisette shopping centres
• Numerous international restaurants
• Luxury boutiques and fashion brands
• Water sports and excursions

The Sir Seewoosagur Ramgoolam Botanical Garden

Located in Pamplemousses, a 10-15 minute drive away, this botanical garden, created in 1767, covers 26 hectares. It is home to more than 600 plant species, including the famous giant water lilies capable of supporting the weight of a child, nutmeg and clove trees imported from Indonesia, frangipani trees, and Buddha trees.

The Maheswarnath Mandir Hindu temple in Triolet

The nearby village of Triolet is home to the largest Hindu temple in Mauritius, built in 1857. A visit to this temple offers a fascinating glimpse into Mauritian multiculturalism and the island's Indian heritage. The village also features bazaars, shops, and restaurants offering typical Indian cuisine.

The Orchards of Labourdonnais

In Mapou, about a 30-minute drive away, this private estate, part of a former sugar plantation, features a splendid 19th-century colonnaded mansion furnished with period pieces and tapestries. The tropical gardens boast bougainvillea, hibiscus, anthuriums, and various fruit trees. The shop offers homemade jams, ice cream, and freshly squeezed fruit juices.

The Sugar Adventure

This interactive museum in Beau Plan traces the history of sugarcane and Mauritian sugar production. Period machinery and exhibits help visitors understand the central role of sugar in the island's history. The gourmet restaurant Le Fangourin complements the visit with its refined cuisine.

Climate and best time to visit

Dry season (May to December)

This period is considered ideal for visiting Trou aux Biches and Mauritius. The climate is dry, sunny, and pleasant, with moderate temperatures. The northwest coast enjoys one of the best climates on the island during these months.

Rainy season (January to April)

The months of January to April correspond to the rainy season with a risk of cyclones, although Trou aux Biches remains relatively sheltered. Temperatures are higher and humidity is greater, but accommodation prices can be more affordable.

Swimming conditions

Thanks to its constant water temperature between 20 and 25°C all year round and its protected lagoon, swimming remains possible in all seasons at Trou aux Biches.

History and heritage

Trou aux Biches was originally a fishing village in the 19th century. The name appears on the Lislet-Geoffroy map of 1807, dating from the time of French colonization of the island.

While Mauritian tourism started modestly in 1952 with a small hotel in Curepipe intended for passengers on a stopover, and the island gained its independence in 1968, it was in Trou aux Biches that the first large hotel on the island was built in 1971.

More recently, the town has developed with commercial facilities (supermarket, tourist shops, water sports) along the B38 road, while still retaining its village feel. It remains less commercial than neighboring Grand Baie, preserving an authentic and serene atmosphere.

Local life and atmosphere

A preserved village

Trou aux Biches is characterized by the absence of a true town center, which helps to maintain its original charm and authenticity. It is a long, narrow place, imbued with serenity, where a gentle way of life prevails, appreciated by both visitors and residents.

Daily activities

Typical scenes include fishermen pulling their canoes ashore in the late afternoon, Mauritian families enjoying the beach on weekends, and the peaceful atmosphere that prevails during the week. Vendors offer pineapples, mangoes, coconuts, and fresh piña coladas right on the beach.

Shopping local

Unlike Grand Baie, Trou aux Biches offers more modest shopping with a few shops selling local products and souvenirs, helping to maintain a relaxed atmosphere away from mass tourism.

Practical advice for visitors

Travel

• Public buses: accessible and affordable, with regular routes to Grand Baie and Port Louis
• Taxis: available for more comfortable journeys
• Car rental: recommended for exploring the island at your own pace
• Bike: possible to get around the immediate surroundings

Services and amenities

The public beach has restrooms for rinsing off with fresh water. Vendors offer drinks, ice cream, and snacks. Several small huts along the beach offer fast food options (fried noodles, etc.).

Safety and swimming

The calm, sheltered waters of the lagoon make swimming very safe. However, it is advisable to wear water shoes in certain areas where coral and volcanic rocks may be present in the water.

Budget and indicative prices

• Boat trips to see turtles: approximately 1,300 Mauritian rupees
• 3-star hotels: affordable price range
• 5-star hotels: high-end price range
• Local restaurants: affordable meals in authentic establishments
• Fine dining restaurants: higher prices for a refined experience

Why choose Trou aux Biches?

For couples and honeymoons

The romantic atmosphere, spectacular sunsets, gourmet seaside restaurants and luxury spa hotels make Trou aux Biches an ideal destination for couples and honeymoons.

For families

The safe beach with gentle slope, the hotel kids' clubs, the variety of water sports suitable for all ages and the family atmosphere make it a perfect destination for family holidays.

For diving enthusiasts

With its diverse dive sites, professional clubs and rich marine life, Trou aux Biches stands out as an essential spot for scuba diving and snorkeling enthusiasts.

For those seeking authenticity

Less touristy than Grand Baie but offering excellent infrastructure, Trou aux Biches allows you to discover the authentic Mauritius in a preserved setting, while enjoying modern comforts.

Conclusion

Trou aux Biches represents the perfect balance between exceptional natural beauty and quality tourist infrastructure. Its internationally award-winning beach, crystal-clear waters, range of water sports, diverse hotel offerings, and proximity to the main attractions of the north make it a prime destination for discovering the magic of Mauritius.

Whether you are looking for absolute relaxation under the coconut trees, underwater adventure, gastronomic discovery or simply the wonder of legendary sunsets, Trou aux Biches will meet all your expectations in an idyllic setting where Mauritian authenticity and modern comfort meet harmoniously.