Big Rock, Mauritius - Flic en Flac & West Coast

Devils Point is a surprisingly varied spot, even if the visibility isn’t always what we’d call stellar. We’ve had days here where it’s a murky 5 metres, and others where it opens right up to a comfortable 10 or 12. You’re definitely coming here for the topography. The outer pin drops away, which can create some lively currents, but we love sticking closer to the middle. That’s where you find the belly of the reef rising to 5-8 metres, an ideal spot for a leisurely safety stop while you watch the school of Pacific sardines glimmer past. Our favourite part, though, is heading towards Humbug Bay. The boulders there are fantastic, riddled with deep cracks and holes begging to be explored. You’ll find a couple of legitimate caves too, nothing too deep, just enough to feel like you’re entering another world. Inside, we’ve spotted red rock lobsters tucked away, and often catch a glimpse of a New Zealand draughtboard shark resting on the sandy bottom. Keep an eye out for longtail garfish near the surface and those cheeky striped triplefins darting amongst the kelp. It’s a great site for divers who appreciate the structure of a reef and don’t mind a bit of a hunt for smaller creatures.

Location
Flic en Flac & West Coast, Mauritius, Indian Ocean & East Africa
Coordinates
-20.270000, 57.365200
Type
cave

Marine Protected Area: Black River Fishing Reserve

Best Time to Dive in Flic en Flac & West Coast

The warmest water temperatures in Flic en Flac & West Coast occur in January, averaging 28.0°C. The coolest conditions are in December at 28.0°C.

Monthly Water Temperatures

  • January: 28.0°C (air: 27.0°C)
  • February: 28.0°C (air: 27.2°C)
  • March: 28.0°C (air: 27.0°C)
  • April: 28.0°C (air: 26.3°C)
  • May: 28.0°C (air: 25.0°C)
  • June: 28.0°C (air: 23.2°C)
  • July: 28.0°C (air: 22.5°C)
  • August: 28.0°C (air: 22.5°C)
  • September: 28.0°C (air: 23.2°C)
  • October: 28.0°C (air: 24.3°C)
  • November: 28.0°C (air: 25.4°C)
  • December: 28.0°C (air: 26.7°C)

Nearby Dive Sites in Flic en Flac & West Coast

Nearest Dive Centres to Big Rock, Mauritius

Marine Life in Flic en Flac & West Coast

Home to 453 recorded species including 314 reef fish, 71 hard corals, 14 sea snails & nudibranchs, 12 sharks & rays, 11 seagrass & algae, 8 whales & dolphins.

Notable Species

Recommended Packing List for Big Rock, Mauritius

Based on average water temperature of 28.0°C.

  • Shorty or Rashguard - warm 28°C water needs minimal exposure protection
  • Mask - essential for every dive
  • Fins
  • BCD - buoyancy compensator
  • Regulator - your most safety-critical piece of gear
  • Dive Computer - tracks depth, time, and NDL
  • Surface Marker Buoy (SMB) - essential for boat pickups
  • Dive Torch - useful for crevices and colour at depth
  • Underwater Camera - capture your diving memories

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the typical depth range for diving at Big Rock, Mauritius?
At Big Rock, Mauritius, divers can explore an architecture suitable for a deeper dive up to 26m or a shallower dive up to 20m. However, the overall maximum depth for the site is 22m. This makes it a versatile spot for various dive plans.
What kind of marine life and underwater topography can divers expect to see at Big Rock, Mauritius?
Big Rock, Mauritius is characterized by its beautiful drift dive conditions and offers a unique cave topography. If conditions are good and a smooth current is present, divers might have the exciting opportunity to spot eagle rays. The site's architecture allows for exploration at various depths.
How difficult is the Big Rock dive site in Mauritius, and what level of experience is recommended?
The Big Rock dive site in Mauritius is rated as intermediate difficulty. While it is easily accessible for any qualified diver, its drift dive nature and potential for currents suggest that some experience beyond entry-level certification would be beneficial for optimal enjoyment and safety.
When is the best time of year to dive at Big Rock, Mauritius, for optimal conditions and marine life encounters?
The provided data for Big Rock, Mauritius does not specify the best time of year for optimal conditions or marine life encounters. For general information on diving seasons in the region, you may consult our When to Dive guide.
What scuba diving certifications are required or recommended to dive at Big Rock, Mauritius?
To dive at Big Rock, Mauritius, you need to be a qualified diver, meaning at least an Open Water certification is required. Given its intermediate difficulty and status as a drift dive, additional experience or certifications like Advanced Open Water might enhance your dive experience.
What are the usual current and visibility conditions like at Big Rock, Mauritius?
Big Rock, Mauritius is known as a beautiful drift dive, indicating that currents are typically present and can be smooth. Divers can generally expect excellent visibility, with an average of 19m. These conditions contribute to a dynamic and clear underwater experience.