While its white sandy beaches are the draw for many visitors, it’s the number of water-related activities that makes Mauritius a more exciting destination for those seeking an adrenalin rush. Whether you prefer exploring an underwater world on a diving excursion, or heading out into the open ocean for some big game fishing, there is no shortage of operators. Mauritius has also made a name for itself as one of the top kitesurfing locations in the world, thanks to its shallow reef and steady wind conditions. The island is also home to some of the world’s quirkiest water attractions; you can dine underwater in a submarine, or explore the reef on an underwater scooter.
OCEAN ACTIVITIES KITESURFING
As an island surrounded by a reef, Mauritius has plenty of lagoons protected from large crashing waves, creating large areas of flat water that are ideal for kitesurfing. In addition, some resorts identify themselves as ‘kitesurf-friendly’, and kitesurf operators usually offer a short, 2-hour session for a taster, or full 6-hour lessons for those more serious about the sport. The most exciting time for kitesurfing is during winter (May to November), when the consistent trade winds from the east reach 15-30 knots, making it an ideal destination for kite freestyle and wave enthusiasts. Coincidentally, the winter season is also when most resorts have their ‘low season’. Due to the favourable southeast winds, most of the kitesurf areas are located on Mauritius’s south and east coast.
Locations When it comes to the best kitesurfing spot, most Mauritians will point to Le Morne, located on the island’s southwestern tip. Club Mistral, right on the beach, offers kitesurfing lessons, rentals and also rescues. The large, shallow lagoon has a white sandy bottom with some seagrass patches, with a water level that varies from ankle-deep to chest-deep depending on weather (tides are usually higher in summer). There is plenty of space for beginners to practise in the Le Morne Lagoon, although the reef and rocks to the right of the lagoon should be avoided. For more experienced kiters, Le Morne offers world-class waves just beyond the reef that are great for practising and learning new tricks. From the water, one can enjoy a scenery of the turquoise water, white sand, and the backdrop of
Morne Mountain. Also in the south is Bel Ombre, where there’s a shallow lagoon for about 500m to the reef, making it ideal for beginners. The reef breaks are only for experts, with waves getting up to 4m in height. Kitesurfing can also be done in the east thanks to the large lagoons here, but only during winter. Locations include Trou d’Eau Douce with its kiteable beachfront, and Poste Lafayette which is ideal for beginners thanks to its easy launch and safe currents. For those visiting in July/August, there’s the annual Kiteival – a week-long kitesurfing event that allows every level of rider to kite on the best spots on the island alongside some professional kiters. The €200 entry fee includes riding tips, transport, meals and more. Visit www.kiteivalmauritius.com for more.