The Indian Ocean is famous for its huge choice of luxury resorts and tropical island paradises. There are so many, it's difficult to choose one! Desirable destinations in their own right, the Seychelles and Mauritius make the perfect beach break when paired with a thrilling African safari. Whether it's a honeymoon, anniversary, family adventure, or a once-in-a-lifetime trip to discover unique nature, we've picked our favourite Indian Ocean holiday resorts for every type of traveller.

Suited to Every Occasion
Shanti Maurice, on the unspoiled and quieter south coast of Mauritius, ticks all the boxes for every special occasion. With a superb choice of suites and villas, a variety of dining options, an excellent spa, wide selection of water sports and land activities (including unlimited golf) it's ideal for couples and families alike. Being close to the southern mountains, it's perfect for an excursion to see a different side of Mauritius. Perhaps take an electro-bike tour and visit a rum distillery?

On the main island of Mahe in Seychelles, Constance Ephelia is heaven for both honeymooners and families. Almost two resorts in one, and built around two beaches, it includes a stunning selection of villas with a pool and delightful Junior Suites, as well as a fabulous spa and a vast choice of activities, including a zip wire through the tropical tree canopy!
For an elegant experience without sacrificing island vibes look no further than Lux Grand Baie in Mauritius which features a kids club with daily activities and on the other end three outstanding restaurants with distinct ambiance and dining concepts.
Perfect For Honeymoons and Anniversaries
Pristine white sand beaches, swaying palms and sparkling aquamarine waters guarantee a romantic atmosphere. In Mauritius, while almost every hotel will entice you, Maradiva Villas on the west coast is a sublime, boutique resort where individual villas all have a pool. Lux Le Morne has arguably one of the best positions on Mauritius, set against the striking backdrop of the majestic Morne Mountain, a fabulous sandy beach and calm turquoise lagoon. This resort lends itself to being blissfully romantic as it is a smaller boutique resort, but with all the necessary facilities.

Closer to the equator in Seychelles, the brand new Mango House LXR resort on Mahe island is a luxurious, individual hotel and a foodie heaven. For a true barefoot island paradise, Denis Island is simply inspiring. Reached by a 30 minute light aircraft flight, this really does represent escapism! You'll enjoy amazing cuisine as well as immerse yourself in nature and perhaps even snorkel with a turtle! For spacious villas, try Raffles Seychelles on Praslin island, also ideal for excursions to other spectacular islands.
In the Maldives, Constance Moofushi is a beautifully laid-back, chic island retreat packed with activities and romantic moments.
Family Island Vacations
Options abound in Mauritius. Two great choices are the remodelled, Sugar Beach on the west coast which has one of the best kids clubs on the island, and Constance Belle Mare Plage on the east with its range of suites and villas, multiple water sports, and two golf courses. Both offer great value, all-inclusive options. Another great choice is the Westin Turtle Bay Resort, which will be a favourite for kids and adults alike! Enjoy sustainable guest experiences and a local Mauritian buffet restaurant.

In Seychelles, for larger resorts with kid's clubs, Constance Ephelia is certainly a winner. There's so much to do, you may not even leave the resort! Also, an easy car transfer from the airport, STORY Seychelles has good facilities for families and although a smaller hotel, benefits from being set on the longest beach on Mahe, Beau Vallon. For a luxury family holiday with an emphasis on nature, combine this with Denis Island. Another excellent family option is Hilton Seychelles Labriz on Silhouette Island, 45 minutes by boat.
Island-Hopping Experiences
Island-hopping is by far the best way to discover the diversity of Seychelles. Combining Four Seasons Seychelles and Four Seasons Desroches is a luxurious way of discovering both the main island of Mahe and a small coral island paradise. Alternatively, combine Six Senses Zil Pasyon with either Mango House or Denis Island. Whatever your preferred combinations, our team will tailor the entire trip, including transfers, and maximise your time on each island.

Mauritius is not usually known for island hopping, but we thoroughly recommend spending a few days at the adorable Lakaz Chamarel Lodge in the southern mountains, followed by a beach resort like Angsana Balaclava or Sands Suites. You could also split your stay between resorts on the east and west as the coastlines are very different.
The 'Ultimate' Island Escape
If you're seeking something exceptional, perfect for Instagram moments, Seychelles is for you. For an exhilarating ocean safari where conservation and sustainability top the agenda, Alphonse Island is practically unmatched. Participate in a vast array of exhilarating experiences from snorkeling with sailfish to unique ‘flats lunches on the sand flats.

For luxury travellers seeking a remote-island feel with sustainability at heart, we always recommend Denis Private Island. From their solar power, to preserved native and endemic forest and registered Green Island Foundation, guests of Denis are actively contributing to the conservation of the island.

For exquisite pampering, Anantara Maia on Mahe offers truly personalised stays, while Six Senses Zil Pasyon provides an unforgettable island escape with one of the most breathtaking spas in the Indian Ocean. For the ultimate island escape, where royalty and film stars often retreat, it has to be North Island. With only 11 sumptuous villas and where personalised service has no limits. In the Maldives, try the tiny Milaidhoo Island, a remarkable island paradise.
Watersports and Golf
If water sports are your thing, you can't go wrong in Mauritius. One of our favourite resorts for watersports is the beautiful JW Marriott resort, which is set on some of the finest beach at Le Morne. With no motorized sports permitted in the lagoon at the front of the resort, not only is the more environmentally friendly, it means your experience isn't affected by other guests whether you're paddling around or relaxing on the sand. JW Marriott offers a huge choice, including kite surfing.

Lux Grande Gaube also great for water and land sports, and even boasts its own tennis academy. For golfers, Shangri-La le Touessrok sets a high standard with complimentary green fees at two courses. Whether youre staying at Prince Maurice or Belle Mare Plage, Constance gives complimentary access to its two courses too. For exclusivity, Constance Lemuria has Seychelles only 18-hole course.