Mont Choisy Beach: Complete Guide, Swimming and Practical Tips

Mont Choisy Beach: the Longest Beach in the North of Mauritius

Mont Choisy beach is one of the great surprises of Mauritius for first-time visitors. Less famous than Grand Baie or Trou aux Biches in the tourist brochures, it is nevertheless one of the most beautiful and longest beaches on the entire north coast — with its 3 kilometres of fine white sand and turquoise lagoon waters, it rivals any postcard beach on the island.

What makes Mont Choisy truly special is its authentically local atmosphere. Unlike beaches directly lined with international hotels, Mont Choisy has kept its Mauritian character: on weekends, local families joyfully take over the beach with their barbecues, colourful parasols and board games. On weekdays, the beach is nearly deserted and stretches as far as the eye can see beneath the majestic filao trees.

The beach is entirely public and free, accessible on foot from the roadside. To explore all the beaches in the north of the island, see our guide to the beaches of Mauritius.

At a Glance

Where	Northwest coast, between Trou aux Biches and Grand Baie
Price	Beach and parking free; loungers and parasols roughly 200 to 300 rupees per day
Time needed	Half a day to a full day, ideal for a picnic
Getting there	15 min by car from Grand Baie, direct CNT bus, or 30-45 min on foot from Trou aux Biches
Best time	Year-round; weekdays for peace and quiet, Sundays for the festive local atmosphere

How to Get to Mont Choisy Beach

By Car

Mont Choisy is located on the northwest coast, between Trou aux Biches to the north and Pointe aux Canonniers to the south. From Grand Baie, allow 15 minutes heading south along the B39 coastal road. From Port-Louis, the beach is about 35 to 40 minutes away via the M2 and then the B39.

To get around the entire north coast freely, our guide to renting a car in Mauritius will help you choose the right vehicle at the best price.

By Bus

Regular CNT (Corporation Nationale de Transport) buses serve Mont Choisy from Port-Louis and Grand Baie. The “Mont Choisy” stop is right on the beachfront. Expect to pay 30 to 50 rupees from Grand Baie, and around 60 to 80 rupees from Port-Louis.

On Foot from Trou aux Biches

For walkers, it is possible to walk along the beach from Trou aux Biches to Mont Choisy (and vice versa) by following the shoreline. The walk takes about 30 to 45 minutes depending on pace and offers beautiful views over the lagoon.

Parking at Mont Choisy

A large free car park (often with plenty of spaces) runs along the coastal road at Mont Choisy. This is one of the practical advantages of this beach compared to busier spots like Grand Baie or Pereybere. On weekdays, finding a spot is never a problem. On weekends and during high season, arrive before 9:30am to be sure of parking easily.

Swimming at Mont Choisy: Waters, Depth and Safety

Lagoon Characteristics

The Mont Choisy lagoon is protected by the coral reef running along this part of the northwest coast. The waters are calm, warm (26-28°C in the southern summer, 22-24°C in winter) and remarkably clear in good weather. The depth increases very gradually: you can wade out 30 to 50 metres before the water reaches chest height, which is ideal for children and less confident swimmers.

The seabed is sandy across most of the lagoon, with a few rocky and coral areas towards the northern and southern ends. The main beach offers a wide, safe swimming corridor.

Currents and Safety

Inside the lagoon, currents are very weak or nonexistent in calm weather. The coral reef does an excellent job of protection. During bad weather or swell (mainly between November and April), avoid venturing too far from shore and stay in the shallow zones.

There is no dedicated lifeguard on the beach, but the calm lagoon waters make supervision relatively easy for parents.

Seasonal Water Conditions

During the southern winter (June-September), the trade wind can raise small waves within the lagoon at times, though this poses no real danger. This wind is more a welcome source of coolness than a problem for swimming.

Snorkelling at Mont Choisy

Snorkelling at Mont Choisy is possible but remains modest compared to specialised spots like Blue Bay or certain areas of Trou aux Biches. The central lagoon is mostly sandy and not very conducive to coral or fish life. However, the ends of the beach — particularly heading north towards Trou aux Biches — reveal a few coral areas with interesting marine life.

For a memorable snorkelling experience in the north of the island, the best option remains a catamaran excursion to the northern islands. These trips from Grand Baie will take you to Coin de Mire, Ile Plate and Ile Gabriel, with markedly richer snorkelling spots.

To dig deeper, our guide to snorkelling and diving in Mauritius lists all the best spots on the island.

Shade and Natural Setting

The shade at Mont Choisy is among the best on the entire island of Mauritius. A dense row of century-old filao trees (casuarinas) lines the beach along its entire length, creating generous cover and a welcome coolness during the hottest hours of the day. These distinctive trees are the hallmark of the most beautiful Mauritian beaches.

The whole site has a natural, well-preserved feel: no large-scale buildings right on the beachfront (just a few discreet private villas), plenty of space between bathers, and an open view over the turquoise lagoon and coral reef. It’s one of the most photogenic settings in the north of the island.

Facilities and Services

Dining

A few restaurants and snack bars can be found near the beach, along the coastal road. They serve local food (dholl puri, fried noodles, curry) at very affordable prices, as well as grilled dishes on weekends. Prices remain much lower than those at restaurants in Grand Baie or in hotels.

A small craft market and a few grocery shops in the village allow you to stock up for a picnic.

Amenities

Public toilets and showers are available near the beach. The facilities are simple but functional. Sun loungers and parasols are available for rent from local operators at a modest price (around 200 to 300 rupees per day).

Vendors

On weekends, street vendors sell sugar cane, fresh coconut, grilled corn and souvenirs. Their presence adds to the festive local atmosphere of the beach without being intrusive.

Atmosphere and Crowds

Mont Choisy’s Unique Character

What makes Mont Choisy unique among the great beaches of northern Mauritius is its dual personality. On weekdays, it’s one of the calmest and most serene beaches in the region: you can walk for kilometres without meeting many people, the waters are calm and crystal clear, and the filaos rustle gently in the trade wind. It’s a contemplative beach, perfect for reading and unwinding.

On weekends and public holidays, Mont Choisy transforms into a lively gathering place where Mauritian families come together for animated picnics. You’ll hear music, smell the barbecues, see children playing at the water’s edge and elders playing cards under the filaos. It’s one of the rare beaches on the island where tourists and locals mix naturally and joyfully.

Crowds by Season

The beach is less crowded than Grand Baie or Pereybere at any time of year. Even during peak tourist season (July-August, December-January), the beach’s length guarantees you can always find a quiet spot. Low season (April-June) is especially pleasant for travellers seeking serenity.

Who Mont Choisy Is For

Families with children of all ages: The space, calm waters, natural shade and gently sloping seabed make it a perfect beach for families. Children can play safely. Our guide to family activities offers more ideas to keep the little ones entertained.

Travellers seeking authenticity: If you want to see how Mauritians themselves enjoy their beaches, come on a Sunday to Mont Choisy. It’s as much a cultural experience as a beach one.

Walkers and joggers: The 3 km beach is ideal for a stroll or a morning jog facing the lagoon.

People escaping the crowds: On weekdays, the beach is nearly deserted — a luxury few other northern beaches can offer.

Accommodation Nearby

Mont Choisy has a few accommodation options right on the beach and in the immediate surroundings. The beach is also easily accessible from hotels and guesthouses in Trou aux Biches (3 km to the north) and Grand Baie (10 km to the north).

To find the best accommodation in this region, see our guide where to stay in Mauritius, which covers everything from budget to ultra-luxury.

Nearby Activities

Trou aux Biches Beach

3 kilometres to the north, Trou aux Biches beach offers a similar lagoon with slightly better snorkelling and more tourist services. Both beaches can be visited on the same day.

Grand Baie

A 10-minute drive to the north, Grand Baie is the tourism hub of northern Mauritius: restaurants, shops, boat trips and nightlife. Our guide to accommodation in Grand Baie will help you find where to stay in Grand Baie.

Cap Malheureux

A 15-minute drive to the northeast, Cap Malheureux and its red-roofed church are a photographic must-see in Mauritius, with views over Coin de Mire and the northern islands.

Catamaran Excursions

Northern Mauritius is the departure point for numerous catamaran cruises to the northern islands. A catamaran cruise from the north coast will take you to discover Coin de Mire, Ile Plate and Ile Gabriel, with snorkelling, a buffet and a festive atmosphere.

Practical Tips

Early arrival: To enjoy the beach at its best and get the best snorkelling and visibility conditions, arrive before 9am. The morning light on the lagoon is particularly beautiful.

Weekend vs weekday: If you want peace and quiet, choose a weekday. If you want to experience the festive local atmosphere, come on a Sunday.

Picnicking: Mont Choisy is the ideal beach for a picnic. The filaos provide perfect shade and the well-preserved natural setting lends itself perfectly to it. Buy your supplies at the village grocery shops.

Walking barefoot: The sand at Mont Choisy is remarkably soft and fine — a barefoot walk along the 3 km of beach is an experience many visitors mention as one of their best Mauritian memories.

Mont Choisy Beach FAQ

Can you have a barbecue on the beach? Yes, barbecues are allowed and very popular with local families on weekends. Bring your own equipment or buy charcoal at local grocery shops.

Is the beach accessible by bus from Port-Louis? Yes, regular buses serve Mont Choisy from Port-Louis. The stop is right on the beachfront. Expect around 1 hour of travel time and 60 to 80 rupees.

Are there toilets on the beach? Public toilets are available near the beach, though their cleanliness can vary. Nearby restaurants have restrooms available to their customers.

Mont Choisy or Trou aux Biches: which to choose? Both beaches are excellent. Mont Choisy is larger, more local and more spacious. Trou aux Biches has slightly better snorkelling and more tourist services. If you’re spending several days in the north, visit both.

Are sun loungers available for rent? Yes, a few local operators offer sun loungers and parasols for rent at around 200 to 300 rupees per day. This service is more readily available on weekends than on weekdays.

Is Mont Choisy suitable for older visitors? Yes, access to the beach is easy from the car park, the sand is firm near the shoreline and entry into the water is very gradual. The natural shade is appreciated by those sensitive to heat.

How much time should you allow at Mont Choisy? Half a day is enough to enjoy swimming and the shade, but many visitors spend the whole day there with a picnic, especially on weekends when the local atmosphere is worth the visit.

Can you combine Mont Choisy with other northern beaches in the same day? Absolutely. Trou aux Biches is 3 km to the north and Grand Baie is a 10-minute drive away, making it easy to compare several atmospheres in the same day by renting a car or scooter.

The Filao Trees of Mont Choisy: an Underrated Natural Asset

The filao trees (Casuarina equisetifolia) that line Mont Choisy beach are one of the most important elements of its character. These trees — which aren’t pines despite resembling them with their fine branches and needles — are native to Australia and Southeast Asia, introduced to Mauritius by colonists to protect the coastline from erosion and provide firewood.

Today, the oldest filaos at Mont Choisy are a century old. Their gnarled, silvery trunks rise 15-20 metres high, casting dense shade and creating an almost forest-like atmosphere along the shore. In summer, their light, graceful foliage filters the sunlight, creating patches of gold and green on the sand. In winter, the wind makes them rustle with a sound reminiscent of wind through pines — a meditative, soothing sound.

These filaos have ecological importance: their fallen leaves (actually thin, jointed twigs) form a mat on the ground that retains moisture and protects the soil from erosion. The tiny, woody filao cones provide food for certain birds. The presence of these trees sustains a terrestrial microfauna that wouldn’t exist on a beach without vegetation.

Mont Choisy and Local Nature: an Authentic Connection

Mont Choisy beach is one of the few beaches in northern Mauritius where the connection with local nature is still visible and tangible. Several bird species can regularly be found in the filaos and at the edge of the beach:

The red-whiskered bulbul (Pycnonotus jocosus) with its bright red crest is the most common bird. The common myna (Acridotheres tristis), introduced to Mauritius, is very present on beaches and around inhabited areas. Grey herons (Ardea cinerea) are sometimes found at the water’s edge at dawn, patiently waiting for small fish in the shallow waters.

Underwater, Mont Choisy beach shelters marine life more interesting than it first appears. Stingrays (Dasyatis sp.) often rest in the sand of the shallow areas — take care not to step on them (adopt the “stingray shuffle,” dragging your feet through the sand to make them move away before you step down). Tiny octopuses hide in the crevices of the rocky areas at the ends of the beach.

Taking the Bus to Mont Choisy from Port-Louis

For travellers who want to explore the north coast without renting a car, taking the bus from Port-Louis to Mont Choisy is an economical and culturally interesting option.

CNT (Corporation Nationale de Transport) buses serve Mont Choisy from the main bus station in Port-Louis. Look for buses heading to “Pamplemousses” or “Grand Baie” that pass along the coastal road. The “Mont Choisy” stop is clearly announced. The fare is very modest (around 60-80 rupees from Port-Louis).

The bus journey from Port-Louis takes about 1 hour to 1h15 depending on traffic. It’s a chance to see Mauritius from the bus window — the working-class neighbourhoods of Port-Louis, coastal villages, fishermen, local markets. An immersion into everyday Mauritian life that a car doesn’t offer in quite the same way.

Our guide to buses in Mauritius will give you all the information on the bus network and main routes.

Mont Choisy as a Base for Exploring the North

Staying near Mont Choisy (a few guesthouses and rental apartments exist in the village) gives you an ideal base for exploring the entire north coast on foot or by bike.

On foot heading north, you reach Trou aux Biches in a 30-minute walk along the beach — a beautiful stroll along the lagoon.

By bike (rentals available in Grand Baie or through some accommodation providers), the whole north coast is within reach: Grand Baie in 20 minutes, Pereybere and Cap Malheureux in 30-40 minutes.

By car, all the beaches and attractions in the north of the island are less than 30 minutes away. Our guide to renting a car in Mauritius will help you plan your mobility.

For families looking to combine a calm, accessible beach (Mont Choisy) with more varied activities (Grand Baie, excursions), staying near Mont Choisy is an excellent strategy. Our guide to the best beaches for families compares the options based on this criterion. For accommodation across the island, our guide where to stay in Mauritius is the definitive reference.

Excursions from Mont Choisy: Making the Most of the North Coast

Mont Choisy is an excellent starting point for sea excursions along the north coast. Its proximity to Grand Baie (10 min by car) gives access to all the trips organised from the large seaside resort town.

A catamaran excursion to the northern islands from Grand Baie is the flagship marine activity in northern Mauritius. These trips pass in front of Mont Choisy beach during the coastal sailing — a lovely way to see your beach from the sea. The itinerary typically includes Coin de Mire, Ile Plate, Ile Gabriel, snorkelling at top-quality spots, and a buffet lunch on board.

For dolphin lovers, trips from the west coast (Tamarin, 45 min away) allow you to swim with wild dolphins. Our complete guide to swimming with dolphins in Mauritius covers every aspect of this unique experience.

Mont Choisy Compared to Other Northern Beaches

Beach	Atmosphere	Shade	Snorkelling	Ideal for
Mont Choisy	Local, festive on weekends	Excellent (filaos)	Modest	Families, picnics, weekday tranquillity
Trou aux Biches	Touristy, more services	Good	Good	Families, easy snorkelling
Pereybere	Lively, beachfront restaurants	Moderate	Good	Independent travellers, beachside dining
Grand Baie	Very lively, nightlife	Variable	Average	Outings, restaurants, festive atmosphere