Information
Landmark: Pointe d’Esny BeachCity: Blue Bay
Country: Mauritius
Continent: Africa
Pointe d’Esny Beach, Blue Bay, Mauritius, Africa
Pointe d’Esny Beach is a residential coastal strip located on the southeast coast of Mauritius, situated between Blue Bay and Mahebourg. It is characterized by one of the largest and best-preserved lagoons on the island.
Visual Characteristics
The beach features an expansive stretch of fine white coralline sand. The lagoon is exceptionally shallow and calm, displaying a wide spectrum of turquoise and azure hues. Unlike many other Mauritian beaches, the shoreline is largely dominated by private villas and luxury bungalows, meaning there is very little public infrastructure or commercial development visible from the sand. The backdrop consists of clear views toward the Lion Mountain and the islets of the Grand Port bay.
Location & Access Logistics
The beach is located on the B28 coastal road, approximately 15 minutes from Sir Seewoosagur Ramgoolam International Airport. Public access is highly restricted as the beachfront is almost entirely private property. There is a single, narrow public pedestrian path (approx. 2 meters wide) located between two private properties; it is identified by a small concrete sign and is easy to miss. Parking is limited to the side of the main road, as there is no dedicated public parking lot.
Historical & Ecological Origin
The area is geologically part of an ancient coral limestone formation. Historically, it was a quiet fishing and lime-producing region before becoming a premium residential area. Ecologically, the lagoon is vital for its extensive seagrass beds and coral patches, which serve as a buffer for the nearby Blue Bay Marine Park. In 2020, the area gained international attention due to the MV Wakashio oil spill, though extensive cleaning efforts have since restored the beach and water quality.
Key Highlights & Activities
Kitesurfing and Windsurfing: The consistent southeast trade winds make this a premier spot for high-speed flat-water sailing.
Swimming: The lack of coral in the immediate shore area provides a safe, sandy-bottomed swimming environment.
Snorkeling: While the shore is sandy, swimming further out toward the reef reveals healthy coral patches and diverse fish populations.
Long Walks: The shoreline extends for nearly 2 kilometers, offering a continuous path for walking at low tide.
Infrastructure & Amenities
There is no public infrastructure at Pointe d’Esny. There are no public restrooms, showers, changing rooms, or lifeguards. Commercial activity on the beach is non-existent; there are no food vendors or umbrella rentals. Visitors must bring all necessary supplies (water, food, sun protection) from Mahebourg or Blue Bay. 5G cellular coverage is excellent due to the proximity of residential telecommunications towers.
Best Time to Visit
Morning hours (08:00–10:30) are ideal for calm waters and optimal light for photography. For wind-based sports, the afternoon during the winter months (June to September) provides the most consistent wind conditions. Weekdays are significantly quieter than weekends, though the beach never feels crowded due to the limited public access points.
Facts & Legends
Local residents often refer to Pointe d’Esny as the "billionaire’s row" of the south due to the high concentration of high-end real estate. A historical fact of the region is its proximity to the site of the Battle of Grand Port (1810), the only naval victory of Napoleon's fleet over the British; artifacts and ship remains are still occasionally found in the deeper parts of the bay.
Nearby Landmarks
Blue Bay Marine Park: 1.5km South
Mahebourg Waterfront: 3.5km Northwest
Ile de la Passe: 4.0km East (via boat)
Lion Mountain: 6.0km North
National History Museum: 4.2km Northwest