Hibiscus Beach Resort & Spa

From the entrance along Pereybere's bustling B13 coastal road, the yellow motel-like architecture and dated design offer little curb appeal. Stepping through the lobby into its tropical garden-enveloped pathways, however, reveals a property with a certain cozy charm. It’s dated, for sure, but the staff takes care of the landscaping and structures. The list of amenities is solid -- it checks all the boxes for a proper beachfront resort -- although none is especially noteworthy. There's a modest pool, a decent, though rocky beach, and a relaxed, open-air restaurant -- all bolstering a lively atmosphere that’s kid-friendly without feeling kid-centric. 

The surrounding Pereybere village is one of Mauritius’ most tourist-friendly, although it’s hardly busy relative to other popular tourist destinations in the Caribbean. Within an eight-minute walk north or south, guests will find a major supermarket, dozens of shops and restaurants, and Pereybere Beach -- one of the nicest beaches on the island. Several other stunning public beaches are within a 10-minute drive. Sir Seewoosagur Ramgoolam International Airport (MRU) is at least an hour southeast, on the opposite side of the island. Unmetered taxi fares can vary widely, but are usually reasonable. The hotel can alternatively facilitate paid shuttle service to and from the airport.

Room decor is traditional. Island-inspired color palettes, dark wood furniture, and aging wall art all create a feel that’s tropical but in need of an update. Most rooms are generously sized with separate sleeping and living areas, plus shared or private terraces or patios. Few of the outdoor spaces offer anything more than a limited ocean view. Amenities include flat-screen TVs, mini-fridges, and air-conditioning. Free Wi-Fi is available in every room, although we found the service slow and unreliable. Bathrooms are clean and modest with dual sinks and stand-up shower stalls. Wall-mounted hairdryers and generic bath soap are provided. Upgraded room categories add soaking tubs. 

Features are surprisingly diverse for a mid-range hotel. The open-air restaurant is surprisingly large and the beachfront wall ensures great views and constant cool breezes off the ocean. Live music livens up the atmosphere after dark. A free breakfast buffet is served daily; while lunch and dinner are offered a la carte. Every menu is limited, with food that’s widely panned as mediocre. The attached bar offers a full selection of beer, wine, and cocktails. Room service is also available for a fee.

The wide, palm-lined beach area is clean and perfectly suitable for relaxing on one of the many lounge chairs. But the shoreline is rough, rocky, and unswimmable, meaning guests looking to snorkel or take a dip will need to head to the adjacent Pereybere public beach. A full-service boathouse offers diving facilities, catamaran rentals, deep sea fishing charters, and numerous other water sports opportunities.

The small, Mauritius-shaped pool at the center of the property is tired and in need of updating. The awkward shape and size of the surrounding terrace allow for only a handful of guests to relax at any one time. A small attached hot tub provides a bit of overflow space.

The spa is small, but offers a decent list of massage and beauty treatments, plus a sauna and traditional Turkish bath. The tiny fitness room was closed for renovations during our visit in early 2018. Wi-Fi is free in every common area, including at the beach where the signal is much stronger than in the rooms. Self-parking is free in a large, staffed lot.