
Mauritius is far more than a honeymoon destination — for families, it offers a remarkable range of adventures, from swimming with dolphins at Tamarin Bay to exploring centuries-old botanical gardens. Discover the best family experiences the island has to offer, and find out why so many …
# Fun Things to Do with Kids in Mauritius
Mauritius has long been celebrated as a honeymoon destination, but families who make the island their home — or visit with children in tow — quickly discover that this Indian Ocean gem is nothing short of a playground for young adventurers. From turquoise lagoons and volcanic craters to sugar cane fields and tropical wildlife, Mauritius offers a remarkable variety of experiences that will capture the imagination of children of all ages. For British and European families considering a move or extended stay here, the island's family-friendly lifestyle is one of its most compelling selling points.
Explore Casela World of Adventures
Nestled in the western hills of Mauritius, **Casela World of Adventures** is one of the island's most popular family destinations — and for very good reason. Children can interact with cheetahs, feed giraffes, and watch zebras roam in semi-open enclosures. For older kids, there are zip-lines, quad biking trails, and even the chance to walk alongside lions under expert supervision. It's the kind of full-day experience that leaves children talking for weeks, and it's conveniently located near some of Mauritius's most sought-after residential communities in the west.
Discover the Underwater World at Blue Bay Marine Park
**Blue Bay Marine Park**, located near Mahébourg in the south-east, is one of the most biodiverse marine protected areas in the Indian Ocean. Snorkelling here with children is genuinely magical — crystal-clear waters reveal vibrant coral gardens, sea turtles, and hundreds of species of tropical fish. Younger children can join glass-bottom boat tours for a no-splash peek beneath the surface. Families who have settled near the south-east coast often cite proximity to this kind of natural beauty as a key reason for choosing their property location.
Visit the Pamplemousses Botanical Garden
One of the oldest botanical gardens in the southern hemisphere, the **Sir Seewoosagur Ramgoolam Botanical Garden** in Pamplemousses is a living lesson in natural history. Children are invariably fascinated by the giant Victoria Amazonica water lilies — some large enough to support a small child's weight — and the towering talipot palms that bloom only once before dying. It's educational, peaceful, and entirely free to enter, making it a favourite weekend outing for resident families living across the north and central plateau.
Try Water Sports at Flic en Flac or Tamarin
Mauritius's lagoons are exceptionally safe for families, thanks to the protective reef that encircles much of the island. **Flic en Flac** on the west coast is ideal for beginner swimmers and paddleboarding, while **Tamarin Bay** is famous for its resident pod of spinner dolphins. Several operators offer ethical dolphin-watching boat trips that are genuinely thrilling for children — spotting dozens of dolphins leaping alongside the boat in their natural habitat is an unforgettable experience. The west coast, with its calm waters and reliable sunshine, is also one of the most popular corridors for **luxury family villas and residential estates**, making it a prime area for property investment.
Step Back in Time at Aapravasi Ghat and Eureka House
For families who want to give their children a sense of Mauritius's rich and complex history, two sites stand out. **Aapravasi Ghat** in Port Louis is a UNESCO World Heritage Site where indentured labourers arrived in the 19th century — a sobering but important story told through well-presented exhibits. For something more hands-on, **Eureka House** in Moka is a beautifully restored colonial mansion set in lush gardens with waterfalls and forest trails behind it. Children can explore the grounds freely while parents appreciate the architecture and the story of Mauritian colonial life.
Spend a Day at Ile aux Cerfs
No family visit to Mauritius is complete without a boat trip to **Ile aux Cerfs**, a privately managed island off the east coast. The shallow, sheltered waters around the island are perfect for children learning to kayak or snorkel, and the powdery white beaches provide hours of simple, joyful entertainment. Lunch at one of the island's restaurants — fresh grilled fish, tropical fruits, and cold coconut water — rounds out what is reliably one of the best family days the island has to offer.
A Lifestyle Worth Investing In
What makes Mauritius exceptional for families isn't just the list of activities — it's the quality of everyday life. International schools, low crime rates, a warm and welcoming community, and year-round sunshine create an environment where children genuinely thrive. Many British and European families who initially visited on holiday have returned to **invest in Mauritius property** through schemes such as the **PDS (Property Development Scheme)**, securing a home and residency in one of the world's most desirable island nations.
Ready to explore what family life in Mauritius could look like for you? Browse our curated selection of family homes, villas, and residential estates at **PropertyFinder Mauritius** — and take the first step towards making this island paradise your permanent playground.
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