Mont Choisy is a long public beach on the north coast of Mauritius, situated between Grand Baie and Trou aux Biches. Its mile-and-a-half stretch of white sand bordered by century-old casuarinas makes it one of the island's most frequented beaches, as popular with Mauritian families on weekends as with travellers seeking an accessible and lively natural setting.

Quick reference information

• Access: public beach, free entry
• Dress code: swimwear on the beach; cover up when visiting nearby shops
• Recommended duration: half-day to full day
• Parking: public car park available facing the beach
• Accessibility: difficult access to the sand; the promenade along the casuarinas is accessible

What to see

The beach curves gently along a shallow lagoon with turquoise hues. The casuarinas form a natural canopy that provides shade — a rare commodity on Mauritian beaches. Pedalo, kayak and windsurfing hire operators set up on the sand. Weekends bring Mauritian families and groups of friends, creating an authentically local atmosphere.

History and context

The name "Mont Choisy" refers both to the beach and to the historic sugar estate that once extended inland. The plantation, founded during the French colonial era, left behind some architectural traces in the surrounding area. The casuarinas lining the beach were planted progressively to stabilise the sand and protect the shoreline from erosion.

Highlights of your visit

The casuarina forest

The towering century-old casuarinas create a shaded space ideal for picnicking. Their slender silhouettes and fine needles filter light in a characteristic way, especially late in the morning.

The lagoon and water activities

The shallow, calm waters are perfect for family swimming and coastal snorkelling. Local operators also offer boat excursions to nearby islets.

Weekend local atmosphere

Saturday and Sunday reveal an authentically Mauritian side of Mont Choisy: barbecues, music, volleyball games on the sand. It's one of the few places to experience local beach culture outside resort complexes.

Photography tips

Morning light (before 9 a.m.) is ideal: the sun sits low, the lagoon colours shift from emerald green to deep blue, and the casuarinas cast long shadows across the white sand. Late afternoon offers beautiful backlighting with tree silhouettes against an orange sky. No known photography restrictions on this public beach.

Location and access

Mont Choisy sits on Mauritius's north coast, a few kilometres south of Grand Baie and north of Trou aux Biches. The coastal road (B13) runs alongside the beach and provides direct access by car or taxi. Buses linking Port-Louis to the north of the island serve the Mont Choisy stop. Sir Seewoosagur Ramgoolam International Airport is in the south of the island; allow approximately one hour's drive.

Nearby attractions

• Grand Baie — lively seaside resort with restaurants, shops and departures for sea excursions.
• Trou aux Biches — beach renowned for its lagoon clarity and quieter atmosphere.
• Pointe aux Canonniers — historic promontory with an old lighthouse and panoramic views of the north coast.
• Île aux Cerfs — islet accessible by boat from Grand Baie, known for its crystalline waters.