Casuarina Resort & Spa

Dating to the late 1970s -- a time before mass tourism was a thing in northern Mauritius -- this is one of the area's most well-known mid-range resorts. The novelty of its cavernous white stucco architecture, a nod to Mediterranean-style hotel design -- hasn't aged well. Coupled with original, decades-old furniture and decor in many areas, the hotel is sorely in need of an update. However, the long list of resort amenities and comparably cheap all-inclusive rates continue to draw many local families and European couples. By mid-morning, the two pools are lively. With only a small bar and limited entertainment options, things quiet down considerably after dark, however.

The adjacent coastal road that winds along Mauritius’ northwest coast is one of the island’s busiest and most tourist-friendly. Dozens of beach resorts and boutique hotels dot either side to foster a bustling, though not quite busy, atmosphere. Guests will find a handful of shops and hotel restaurants within a 10-minute walk in either direction. One of the island’s most spectacular public beaches, Mont Choisy Beach, is 15 minutes north on foot. Sir Seewoosagur Ramgoolam International Airport (MRU) is an hour southeast by car. The hotel can facilitate paid shuttle service, but local taxis offer reasonable, negotiable rates comparable to popular, tourist-friendly Caribbean destinations.

Room decor varies by category -- older rooms are staid and traditional, while updated rooms are brighter and contemporary. But, flat-box furniture, generic artwork, and industrial tile flooring in every category all create an aesthetic that’s squarely mid-range. Bungalow-style Family Cottages are situated in standalone, white stucco buildings that recall traditional Mediterranean-style homes. However, the architecture and even the updated interiors have not aged well. Most rooms are generously sized at 400 square feet (38 square meters). Family Cottages upgrade to 635 square feet (59 square meters). Private balconies/patios add a bit of additional room to spread out, and some offer limited beach views. Mini-fridges, flat-screen TVs, and air-conditioning are all standard. Wi-Fi is free, though we found the service slow, bordering on unusable. Bathrooms are dated and modestly sized. Walk-in shower stalls, hairdryers, and generic soaps come standard.

The sprawling property features an extensive selection of all-inclusive resort amenities, though nearly all are in need of updating. The beach is quiet, pristine, and beautiful -- among the area’s best. Several dozen lounge chairs and palapas provide more than enough shaded seating exclusively for guest use. Although it’s technically semi-private, it’s rare to find non-guests venturing onto the sand. Getting to the beach requires crossing a bustling coastal road.The hotel’s main pool is spacious and well-maintained with a hot tub and limited water views from the surrounding terrace. It’s the most family-friendly of the two pools, and poolside drink and snack service is available from the adjacent bar. The second, smaller Activity Pool tucked into the middle of the property is dedicated to guided activities and water aerobic classes. At other times, it becomes the de facto adult pool as it’s quieter and more secluded. The gym is immediately adjacent this pool. However, the limited cardio equipment selection is extremely dated.The main restaurant, Le Boucanier, is situated in a large, thatched roof pavilion. The stucco walls and dark, wood-heavy decor are dated and typical of hotel design from the ‘80s. Breakfast, lunch, and dinner are served buffet-style with a mix of cuisines (Western-friendly foods, Indian, Mauritian, and Chinese). The food receives mixed reviews, though many guests rate it as mediocre. A special, 30-person area is cordoned off to serve as Tree Top Restaurant -- the hotel’s slightly more upscale a la carte eatery with a focus on seafood and Indian dishes. Note that this restaurant has limited hours.The spa feels more intimate rather than just small, thanks to decor that’s clearly been updated since the hotel first opened its doors. The design is a mix of natural materials like thatched roofs, volcanic rocks, and locally sourced wood that create the most upscale aesthetic of any of the hotel’s common areas. In addition to a full menu of massage treatments, the space houses a sauna, a private outdoor plunge pool, and a steam room.A free kids’ club provides a spacious, outdoor play area and an indoor play space -- both with supervised activities. Self-parking is available in a gated and staffed lot. Wi-Fi is free, but the signal is not dependable.