As Britain hunkers down for another season of drizzle, scarves and early sunsets, there’s a sunnier option calling your name — and it’s just 12 hours away. This Christmas, Mauritius promises 25°C sunshine, turquoise lagoons and family adventures that go far beyond the usual sunlounger routine.
On the island’s postcard-perfect shores, Sunlife’s collection of luxury resorts are redefining the family getaway with their Come Alive Collection — a programme of immersive experiences designed for every generation. From reef conservation with marine biologists and honey tasting with “Izzy the Bee”, to cinematic nights under the stars and treasure hunts across tropical landscapes, this is a Christmas holiday made for making memories.
Here’s why Sunlife’s Long Beach and Sugar Beach resorts are two of the most dazzling destinations to visit this festive season.
Long Beach
Fringing Mauritius’ longest and widest stretch of white sand, Long Beach delivers the kind of tropical grandeur that dreams are made of. Sleek, modern design meets laid-back luxury — with five restaurants, three pools (including an adults-only infinity pool) and 1.3km of pristine coastline.
Perfect for active families, Long Beach is where the Come Alive Collection truly shines. Guests can join Vibe & Ride, an electric bike adventure through fishing villages and rainforest trails, or enjoy La Cabana, a beach picnic by the lagoon with crystal-clear waters and plenty of space for games.
Younger guests are in for a treat too, with eco-workshops led by Izzy the Bee, garden-to-table cooking with resort chefs, and a climbing wall for mini adventurers.
Christmas Package at Long Beach
🎁 7 nights Half Board in a Junior Suite for two adults from £8,319
Includes return flights from London Gatwick with SWISS International Airlines and transfers.
📅 Based on a 20 December 2025 departure.
Sugar Beach
On Mauritius’ sun-soaked west coast, Sugar Beach blends colonial charm with five-star modernity. With 238 elegant rooms, suites and villas overlooking coconut groves and one of the island’s most beautiful beaches, it’s the ideal choice for families who like their luxury with a dash of nostalgia.
The resort’s Come Alive experiences lean into creativity and connection. Gather the family for a Cinema Under the Stars — a magical open-air movie night complete with popcorn, candyfloss and Bluetooth headphones — or channel your inner artist at The Glass Studio, where recycled hotel bottles are turned into colourful keepsakes.
Other highlights include perfume-making workshops inspired by island botanicals and Crazy Croquet on the grand lawn (rosé and Aperol optional, but encouraged).
Christmas Package at Sugar Beach
🎁 7 nights Half Board in a Deluxe Sea View Room for two adults from £10,799
Includes return flights from London Gatwick with SWISS International Airlines and transfers.
📅 Based on a 20 December 2025 departure.
Guests staying at either Long Beach or Sugar Beach can join Sunlife’s island-wide activities, including:
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Island Trails Treasure Hunt – Follow Captain Soleil’s quest via an interactive mobile app, uncovering stories, quizzes and photo challenges across the resort.
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Marine Discovery Programme – Snorkel, explore coral reefs and learn conservation techniques from marine biologists.
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Bocce – Play the Italian lawn game by the sea at Sugar Beach, or under the stars at Long Beach with their glowing “Brilliant Bocce” nights.
Île aux Cerfs
As if that weren’t enough, every guest of Sunlife can hop over to Île aux Cerfs, the group’s private island off Mauritius’ east coast. With white sands, coral lagoons and palm-fringed picnic spots, it’s the ultimate family day out.
Spend the day paddleboarding, kayaking or playing beach games, then unwind with a picnic beneath the palms. Golfers can test their swing at the Bernhard Langer-designed 18-hole course, framed by panoramic ocean views.
