Spend less, experience more: Affordable family experiences in Mauritius

As families look for ways to make their holiday budgets stretch further without compromising on experiences, Veranda Resorts is putting affordable island adventures at the heart of the family holiday in Mauritius. The boutique Mauritian hotel group offers a collection of complimentary and low-cost experiences designed to take families beyond the beach and discover the island together – from exploring its spectacular natural landscapes and marine life to experiencing Mauritian culture. With many activities included within the stay, families can spend less on holiday extras while enjoying more of what makes Mauritius special.

On the west coast of the island, Veranda Tamarin offers guests a free Explorer Programme, ideal for families with older children. Its location is perfect for exploring the west coast by day, before enjoying signature evening moments such as the Tir Traka ritual every Tuesday, with sunset, live Sega and dance on the beach — an experience that is unmistakably Mauritian: spontaneous, social and rooted in human connection against one of the West Coast’s most emblematic settings. On Thursdays, Sunset Vibes at Kas Poz brings a more relaxed atmosphere with a campfire, music, cocktails and tapas. Complimentary excursions include…

• Kayaking the Rempart River. Guests can explore the surrounding nature, mangroves and peaceful riverside scenery. With Rempart Mountain and La Tourelle as a backdrop, the experience reveals a quieter side of Tamarin. Moorhens, herons, ducks, green parakeets, red crabs and monkeys may sometimes be spotted along the way, while old colonial houses and the historic bridge dating back to 1956 offer a glimpse into the region’s past.
• Beach Escape. Board the hotel’s free shuttle to Flic-en-Flac beach for time to relax, swim and explore. There is also an opportunity to experience local life: from craft shops and Mauritian street food stalls to seaside restaurants.
• Visit Tamarin Salt Pans. Spend some time learning about the soul of Mauritius by experiencing the ancestral craftmanship of sea salt production, central to the rich culture of the island. It’s one of the region’s long-standing artisanal traditions that is still practiced today.
• Coastal Walk with Views of Tamarin - Following the shoreline, the route offers open views of the Indian Ocean while passing quiet beaches, coastal vegetation and natural viewpoints. It also gives guests time to experience the bay’s everyday rhythm, shaped by the sea breeze, local fishermen, surf culture and the changing coastal landscape.

Set along one of Mauritius’ most beautiful lagoons, Veranda Belle Mare is a relaxed all-inclusive hotel well suited to family holidays, with the beach and sea forming a central part of the stay. Guests can enjoy complimentary activities such as paddleboarding, kayaking and water skiing, or borrow bikes free of charge from reception to explore the coast at their own pace.

The easy ride towards Belle Mare takes in ocean views, quieter stretches of coastline and natural scenery, with plenty of opportunities to stop for a swim or a family photo along the way.

Meanwhile, at Veranda Pointe Aux Biches on the northwest coast of the island, families can have a more traditional experience and immerse into island life with a fishing trip. They can take a seat in a wooden pirogue and participate in a traditional fishing trip with a local fisherman. Guests can enjoy a unique and personal experience with a Mauritian local, who shares stories and anecdotes from their childhood and life as a fisherman.

Veranda Grand Baie is a haven of serenity with a chic Creole feel, while offering a great base to explore the vibrant town of Grand Baie and the north of the island. Anchored in art and culture, the hotel offers creative experiences such as painting sessions for adults and clay workshops for children, allowing guests to create a personalised souvenir of their holiday.

For further discoveries, families can wander through the heart of Grand Baie, meet local artisans and explore the vibrant bazaar and charming local shops. Its location also makes it an ideal starting point for discovering the north of Mauritius, home to some of the island’s must-see sights and experiences.

Across each of Veranda’s hotels the sunset each day is an opportunity to celebrate. As the sun drops the atmosphere takes on a special energy with traditional Sega dancers, telling their story via movement, or local artists and live bands setting the mood with the perfect soundtrack. These sunset experiences bring families together, turning each evening into a celebration of island life and shared holiday moments.

Rates start from £157/night based on two adults and two children (under 12 years) sharing a room on a bed and breakfast basis in December 2026.

For further information on Veranda Resorts, please visit www.veranda-resorts.com/en