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Ile aux Cerfs

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Ile aux Cerfs (Mauritius)

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Ile aux Cerfs is a quintessential island destination located off the east coast of Mauritius, set within the island's most expansive turquoise lagoon. Its name refers to the Java deer that were introduced centuries ago by Dutch settlers, though today the island is better known as a premier leisure spot. The island is world-renowned for its pristine white sand beaches and crystal-clear waters, which remain shallow enough for wading far from the shore. Beyond its natural beauty, Ile aux Cerfs features a professional 18-hole golf course designed by Bernhard Langer, offering memorable oceanic views from every fairway. Most visitors arrive via a short boat ride from the village of Trou d'Eau Douce. While the main beach areas are bustling with water sports like parasailing and undersea walks, the northern parts of the island offer quieter coves and dense mangrove forests, providing a serene escape for those looking to explore the local flora and fauna in a more tranquil setting.

Best time to visit & climate

The most pleasant time to visit is Jul–Sep.

JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec
Avg °C272727272524232323232526
Rain mm130119135904830252529313251

📋 Practical info

📅
Best season
The best time to visit Ile aux Cerfs is the dry season from May to November with sunny weather and calm lagoon. Summer months can be muggy, but water temperature remains pleasant.
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Best time of day
Early morning is well-suited to avoid crowds and enjoy the calm lagoon. Late afternoon also provides a peaceful atmosphere and nice light for photos.
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Etiquette
Respect the marine environment by not touching corals and leaving no litter. Feeding fish is not recommended as it disrupts the ecological balance.
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What to bring
Pack swimwear, towel, sunscreen, and a hat for the beach day. Snorkelling gear is useful to explore the shallow lagoon, and water is essential.
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Getting there
Ile aux Cerfs is reached by boat from eastern Mauritius, with regular ferries from Trou d'Eau Douce. You can also charter a private boat or book a guided tour.
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What to expect
The island can be very busy, especially in the morning; come early to find a quieter spot. The lagoon is shallow so you don't need to swim far to see fish.

Geography

Coordinates
-20.27030, 57.80390

Facts

  • Area of approximately 87 hectares
  • Belongs to the Flacq district
  • Hosts an 18-hole golf course
  • Name means Island of Deer
  • Accessible from Trou d'Eau Douce
  • Located on the east coast of Mauritius

Explore nearby

Notable places around

Route planner — Car & Motorhome

Where do you start? We build the route here, with stops and country notes along the way.

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© OpenStreetMap contributors · OpenRouteService

Sights in the town Ile aux Cerfs (1)

Quiet Beach

A calm sandy beach on Ile aux Cerfs island, lined with tropical greenery and offering shallow, clear water.

Sights nearby

Frequently asked questions

How do you get to Ile aux Cerfs?
Regular boat shuttles or catamaran tours depart from the mainland.
Is the island crowded?
Yes, especially during the day, the main beaches can get crowded.
Is there food on the island?
Yes, there are several restaurants and beach bars right by the water.
Are water sports available?
Yes, parasailing, banana boat, and snorkeling are often offered.
Is a day trip sufficient?
Yes, a day is more than enough to explore the island.
Ile aux Cerfs: where is it located?
Ile aux Cerfs is located in Mauritius.
Ile aux Cerfs: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Jul, Sep.
Ile aux Cerfs: why is it worth visiting?
Ile aux Cerfs is a quintessential island destination located off the east coast of Mauritius, set within the island's most expansive turquoise lagoon.
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