Skip the crowded public beaches and book the full-day catamaran cruise from Grand Baie. You get about three hours on this tiny sandbank to snorkel the clear shallows and hit the beach bar. Bring your own reef-safe sunscreen because shade is nonexistent once the midday sun peaks. If you want a faster, private day, the speed boat charters are better but pricey. Leave your shoes on the boat and just embrace the salt.
