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When it comes to the best of the best honeymoon spots, you might imagine a place like Tahiti in the South Pacific or perhaps a Caribbean island like St. Lucia, but the most recently top-ranked travel destination for a post-nuptial celebration wasn’t in either region. Coming in at No. 1 was the African island country of Mauritius.
Where on Earth?
Mauritius is a 20-mile by 38-mile island nation in the middle of the Indian Ocean, some 1,100 miles off the southeastern coast of East Africa, nearly 700 miles east of Madagascar. It includes the main island and several smaller islands: St. Brandon, Rodrigues, and Agaléga.
Why Honeymoon on the island of Mauritius?
As Tripadvisor notes, Mauritius is a tropical paradise with a long list of things to do, from the revitalized waterfront and lively market in the bustling port to its resort areas with luxury properties offering honeymoon-worthy stays. Think everything from lavish spas offering couples’ massage therapies to fine dining on fresh lobster under one of the world’s most starry skies.
While you can always sunbathe on a beautiful beach or lounge around a pool, if you like to snorkel or dive, Mauritius is outstanding. Its clear turquoise waters are inhabited by everything from sea turtles and rays to octopus, parrotfish, and clownfish. There’s plenty on land for adventurers too, including hikes on lush forested mountains and volcanic hills. Along the way, watch for Aldabra giant tortoises and more than 100 different bird species, including the Mauritius parakeet.
Where to Stay in Mauritius
Three of the top places to stay for honeymooners and romance-seeking couples of all types are Grand Baie, Flic en Flac, and Belle Mare. As the main tourism hub, Grand Baie offers the chance to enjoy privacy and seclusion at multiple resorts while being close to local nightlife for socializing and dancing.
Flic en Flac is one of the best vantage points for viewing the island’s enchanting sunsets while offering calm water for swimming and snorkeling along the west coast. Its palm-lined shore also has a wide range of shops, bars, restaurants, and various accommodation options. The most luxurious stay can be found in Belle Mare on the east coast, home to the island’s highest-end beachfront hotels. You’ll have easy access to the softest white sands and a stunning emerald lagoon.
Of course, if you need more honeymoon destination ideas, we have plenty, whether you’re looking for something closer to home or that quintessential Caribbean island.
