Île aux Cerfs

A car-free white-sand islet in the eastern lagoon, with parasailing, speedboats, banana boats and a golf course. It is Mauritius' most popular day-trip island.

Île aux Cerfs lies in the lagoon off the village of Trou d'Eau Douce on the east coast. The island covers about 87 hectares and takes its name from the deer released by the Dutch in the early days. Today it is Mauritius' best-known island day trip. A ring of white sand surrounds the island, and the shallow turquoise lagoon is at its most beautiful off the northern beach. The water is only waist-deep there, making it ideal for swimming and families with children. Water activities include parasailing (about MUR 1,500–2,000), banana boats, jet skis, underwater walks and clear kayaks. Prices are negotiated at the beach stalls. In the centre of the island is an 18-hole golf course designed by Bernhard Langer, which belongs to the Shangri-La Le Touessrok hotel and can be booked for a round.

There are three ways to get there. The first is the public ferry or speedboat from the Trou d'Eau Douce jetty, which takes about 10 minutes each way and costs about MUR 500–800 return. The second, and the best value, is a full-day catamaran cruise (about MUR 2,000–3,000 per person), which includes a visit to the GRSE Waterfall, a barbecue lunch and drinks. Many east-coast resorts also run their own shuttle boats.

The island has two restaurants, which are on the pricey side, and a small shop. You can bring your own light snacks and water. Beach chairs cost extra. The island is busiest between 10 a.m. and 3 p.m. If you want photos of the beach without crowds, take the first boat over. At low tide, the lagoon has sea urchins and coral, so wear reef shoes. The east coast is windy, so secure your hat. Catamaran trips usually leave at 9 a.m. and return at 4 p.m.

Île aux Cerfs

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