Poste Lafayette

Poste Lafayette sits on the north eastern coast, a stretch that feels worlds away from the calm resort lagoons of the west. The trade winds blow steadily here, the reef lagoon is rougher and more textured, and the shore is a patchwork of sand and coral rock rather than a smooth swimming beach. The result is a wilder, more elemental coast that has quietly become a favourite with kitesurfers and windsurfers, and with travellers who want scenery and space over polish.

The wind is the defining feature. Through the cooler season the breeze is reliable and strong, which is exactly what wind sports need, and on a good day the lagoon is dotted with kites. That same wind makes the water choppier and the swimming less inviting than the glassy bays elsewhere, so the appeal here is about action and atmosphere. A scattering of boutique hotels has grown up along the coast, drawn by the quiet and the views rather than by easy bathing.

It suits kitesurfers, windsurfers and independent travellers who like a rugged, breezy coast with few crowds. It is less suited to families wanting a calm shallow paddling lagoon, or to anyone whose idea of a beach day is flat turquoise water and a sunbed, because the wind and the reef rock change the character completely. Set your expectations around wind and wildness and it delivers.

Bring sun protection, water and footwear that copes with coral rock, and check conditions if you plan to get in, because the wind and reef deserve respect. There is no public beach club on the open sand, but the boutique hotels along the shore offer food and loungers to guests and sometimes to visitors. For daybeds and table service with confirmed minimum spend, use the Mauritius beach clubs directory.