Turtle Point

Turtle Point is a beginner-friendly dive site off Grand Bay in Mauritius that delivers on its evocative name, offering new divers an exceptional opportunity to encounter green sea turtles and hawksbill turtles in their natural habitat while enjoying gentle conditions and warm, clear Indian Ocean water. The site has become one of the most popular dives in northern Mauritius, and for good reason — few experiences in diving are as profoundly moving as watching these ancient creatures glide through the water with effortless grace. The boat ride from Grand Bay brings you to a reef known for its resident turtle population, and the anticipation during descent is palpable. The reef at Turtle Point is a mosaic of coral formations, seagrass patches, and rocky outcrops that provides the food sources and shelter that turtles require. Green sea turtles are most commonly encountered grazing on the seagrass beds, their large shells and gentle movements creating a prehistoric presence that seems to slow time itself. Hawksbill turtles, with their distinctive pointed beaks, are found near coral formations where they feed on sponges with delicate precision. Beyond the turtle encounters, the reef itself is a beautiful and engaging dive. Healthy coral formations support a vibrant fish community — the colors of tropical wrasse, butterflyfish, and angelfish add movement and brilliance to every frame of the dive. Parrotfish of impressive size work the coral with their powerful beaks, creating the fine coral sand that forms the pristine beaches above. The seagrass meadows are ecologically fascinating, harboring juvenile fish, pipefish, and the occasional seahorse that rewards the most patient observers. The depth at Turtle Point remains comfortable throughout, and the typically calm conditions mean divers can devote their full attention to observation rather than managing their positioning. The turtles at this site have grown accustomed to the respectful presence of divers, and while they should never be chased or touched, they often continue their activities unconcerned, allowing prolonged and intimate observation at close range. Turtle Point transforms a beginner dive into something truly magical. The combination of guaranteed turtle encounters with a beautiful tropical reef creates an experience that resonates deeply with every diver who visits. For many, the memory of their first underwater encounter with a sea turtle at this site becomes one of diving's most treasured moments, a connection with the natural world that no aquarium or documentary can replicate.