Ile aux Cerfs: Complete Guide to Mauritius’ Most Popular Island
Ile aux Cerfs is the island postcard of Mauritius: powder-white sand, turquoise shallows and a sheltered lagoon off the east coast. It is also one of the busiest places on the island, so a little planning makes the difference between a magical day and a crowded one.
What makes Ile aux Cerfs special
This small island sits in a wide, shallow lagoon protected by a reef. The water is calm and clear, the sand is soft and the views stretch across to the green hills of the mainland. It is a favourite for families, couples and groups of friends.
- Beaches: long stretches of sand with palms, casuarina trees and shallow, swimmable water.
- Water sports: parasailing, kayaks, stand-up paddle boards, banana boats and other activities are offered on the beach.
- Golf: the island has a championship 18-hole course designed by Bernhard Langer.
- Food: beach restaurants and snack stalls serve seafood, grills and fresh fruit.
How to get there
The island is reached by boat, and most departures are from Trou d’Eau Douce. You can choose how to go depending on how much you want to do.
| Option | What you get | Best for |
|---|---|---|
| Shuttle boat | Short return crossing, then free time on the island | Independent travellers on a budget |
| Speedboat tour | Crossing plus a visit to the GRSE waterfall, snorkelling and beach time, often with a barbecue lunch | Active couples and groups |
| Catamaran cruise | A full day on the water with snorkelling stops, lunch on board and time on the island | Relaxed days and families |
Not sure which suits you? Browse our excursions and things to do or ask our team, and we will match you with a trusted operator.
The GRSE waterfall
Many tours combine the island with the Grand River South East waterfall. Your boat travels up the river mouth through calm water to reach the falls, which makes a refreshing stop before the beach.
The best time to go
Go early. Most visitors arrive between 11am and 3pm, so the beaches are quietest in the early morning and late afternoon. Weekdays are calmer than weekends and public holidays, when locals head to the island too.
The east coast is windier in the cooler months, roughly May to October, which can bring a livelier sea and a chilly breeze. From September to December the lagoon is often at its calmest and brightest. Our month-by-month guide has more detail.
Arrive on one of the first boats and walk to a quieter stretch of beach away from the main landing area. A few minutes of walking often gives you far more space.
What to bring
- Cash, for sun beds, snacks and tips, although some places accept cards
- A hat, sunscreen and a beach umbrella, as shade is limited
- Water shoes for sea urchins and rough patches
- A waterproof phone pouch and a towel
- A refillable water bottle
Make a full day of the east coast
Combine the island with the fishing village of Trou d’Eau Douce, the beaches of Belle Mare and Poste Lafayette, and the busy market at Flacq. If you are staying in the east, you can easily do the crossing in the morning and be back at your resort for a late lunch.
Which way to visit is best for you?
| Option | Best for | What you get |
|---|---|---|
| Shared taxi-boat from Trou d’Eau Douce | Independent travellers on a budget | A short boat ride over and back; everything else is paid on the island |
| Catamaran day cruise | Couples, families and groups who want an easy, all-in day | Sailing, snorkelling, BBQ lunch and drinks, time on the island |
| Speedboat tours | Travellers who want to see more in one day | The island plus the GRSE waterfall and snorkelling stops |
| Private speedboat | Honeymooners and small groups | Your own boat and skipper, your own timing |
Most tours include hotel pick-up if you ask, which saves the hassle of driving to the east coast.
What to do on the island
- Beaches: the main beach near the jetty is the busiest; walk 10 to 15 minutes along the shore for quieter sand.
- Water sports: parasailing, tube rides, undersea walks and glass-bottom boats, or the full water activities package.
- Golf: the 18-hole championship course covers much of the island.
- Food: beach restaurants and snack bars serve seafood, grills and drinks.
A perfect day on Ile aux Cerfs
- 08:30: pick-up from your hotel.
- 09:30: boat across the lagoon, with a stop at the Grand River South East waterfall.
- 10:30: snorkelling, then beach time away from the jetty.
- 13:00: BBQ lunch on the boat or on the island.
- 14:30: a water sport, or a nap under the trees.
- 16:00: boat back and transfer to your hotel.
Is Ile aux Cerfs worth it?
Yes, if you go at the right time. It is busy on weekends and holidays, but early starts, a weekday visit and a walk away from the jetty make it feel like a different place. For a quieter island day, consider the south-east islands cruise or the northern islands instead.
Book it with Plan Mauritius
These experiences can be booked through us, with transfers added if you need them:
- Catamaran Cruise to Ile aux Cerfs
- Private Speedboat – Ile aux Cerfs & Waterfall
- Ile aux Cerfs Full Water Activities Package
- Undersea Walk – Ile aux Cerfs
- Tube Ride – Ile aux Cerfs
- Ile aux Cerfs
Frequently asked questions
Do I need to book in advance?
For catamarans and private boats in high season, yes. Shared taxi-boats can usually be taken on the day.
Which is better: catamaran or speedboat?
A catamaran is slower and more relaxed, with lunch on board. A speedboat covers more ground, including the waterfall, in less time.
How far is Ile aux Cerfs from Grand Baie?
Around an hour by car to Trou d'Eau Douce, then a short boat ride. Tours with hotel pick-up make it easy.
Can I stay overnight on Ile aux Cerfs?
There are no resorts on the island itself. Most visitors stay on the east coast, near Belle Mare or Trou d’Eau Douce, and cross by boat for the day.
Is Ile aux Cerfs good for children?
Yes. The lagoon is shallow and calm, with soft sand. Keep a close eye on young swimmers and bring shade and sun protection.
Is it worth going if it is crowded?
Yes, if you go early or late and walk away from the landing area. Booking a full-day cruise also gives you quieter spots to snorkel.
How much does it cost?
Prices depend on the type of trip and the season. A simple shuttle is much cheaper than a full-day cruise with lunch, so ask us for current rates.
Want this planned around your dates?
Tell us when you are travelling and who is coming. We will build a day-by-day plan with hotels, transfers and activities, and send you a clear price.
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