Mahébourg
Mahébourg Village: Museums, Markets & Mauritian Vibes
Mahébourg, a small village on the South East coast of the island, offers a genuine taste of Mauritian life.
Here, fishermen head out on their wooden boats, lively local markets abound, and you can explore interesting museums, local eateries and street food stalls.
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Brief History of Mahébourg
The southeast saw the arrival of the Dutch (the first inhabitants of the island) in 1598, and later the French in 1715.
The village of Mahébourg was founded in 1805 and named after the French governor, Mahé de Labourdonnais.
In 1810, it was witness to the only French naval victory of the Napoleonic Wars at the Battle of Grand Port.
Popular Beaches near Mahébourg
Blue Bay
Blue Bay remains true to its name by offering an amazing emerald blue water of pure beauty, and a white sand beach surrounded by large casuarina trees.
Did you know? Blue Bay is also home to a marine park, ideal for snorkelling and glass bottom boat trips among vibrant fish and coral in crystal-clear waters.
Pointe d’Esny
The beach at Pointe d’Esny, with its immense lagoon moved by a light breeze, is a paradise for lovers of board sports, windsurfers and kite surfers in particular,
La Cambuse
The beach of La Cambuse is a beautiful beach surrounded by abundant and unspoilt nature. However, swimming is not recommended as the sea is generally rough with strong currents.
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Hotels in Mahébourg
There are many places to stay in and around Mahébourg including hotels, guest houses and private villas that range from deluxe resorts to rooms to let.
- Preskil Island Resort: A superior 4* family hotel with spectacular views of the islands of the South-East of Mauritius, including l’île aux Aigrettes or l’île au Phare and the impressive Lion Mountain.
- Nativ Lodge & Spa: Located on the banks of Riviere la Chaux, this is a beautiful nature lodge offering beautiful accommodations amidst nature.
- Paradise Beach by Horizon Holidays: Located at Pointe d'Esny on the South East Coast of the island, this tropical paradise will give you the feeling of a real postcard holiday, with a spectacular view of the largest lagoon of Mauritius.
- Astroea Beach Hotel: A 3* boutique hotel and a dream destination at the heart of Mauritius’ South-Eastern region, with direct access to a beautiful white sandy beach and view of Pointe d'Esny turquoise lagoon.
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Places of Interest in Mahébourg
Mahébourg Waterfront
Mahébourg Waterfront is one of the iconic attractions in Mauritius and is an ideal place for relaxation or enjoying a casual walk by the azure water.
A memorial stands tall at the waterfront and is known as Bataille de la Passe and pays homage to the fighters who lost their lives in the battle.
National History Museum
Located in a colonial house near Mahébourg, this free-entry museum showcases Mauritius' rich history through watercolours, engravings, and period objects, and overlooks a park with remnants of a railway line.
H. Rault Biscuit Factory
Rault Biscuit Factory, a family business founded in 1870 by the Rault-Seneque family, produces unique, traditionally made cassava biscuits renowned worldwide.
Despite 150 years, their methods remain unchanged. A visit offers a historical journey and showcases their diverse biscuit range.
Things to do Near Mahébourg
- Explore Ile des Deux Cocos
Ile des Deux Cocos, offers a serene retreat within the Blue Bay Marine Park on Mauritius' Southeast coast. Activities include glass-bottom boat tours of Blue Bay, snorkelling and scuba diving. Browse our full list here & book your adventure today! - Visit to Ile Aux Aigrettes
Île aux Aigrettes is a must-visit for nature lovers in Mauritius, preserving rare coastal forest remnants and housing endemic and endangered wildlife. Guided tours depart from Pointe Jérome near Le Preskil Hotel, showcasing giant Aldabra tortoises, ebony trees, wild orchids and rare bird species like the Pink Pigeon.
You can book the following activities on Mauritius Attractions:
- Glass Bottom Boat To Blue Bay Marine Park
- Mauritius South East Historical Tour
- 8 hrs+ Full Day Tour of Ile Aux Aigrettes, Blue Bay Marine Park & Mahebourg
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Market and Shops in Mahébourg
The Mahébourg Market
Originally focused on silk and textiles, the market now features bustling trinkets and food stalls. It's an ideal spot to sample local street food, often sold from motorcycle-mounted boxes.Note: The market operates daily but expands significantly on Mondays.
Bo'Valon Mall
Located at the intersection of Blue Bay and Mahébourg roads, the mall offers excellent accessibility from both directions.
It features a spacious food court and over 40 shops, including fashion outlets, health and beauty stores and sports shops.