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Best Indian Ocean Luxury Resorts for Your Next Getaway

With turquoise waters, sugar-white beaches and world-class hospitality, the Indian Ocean is home to some of the most luxurious island escapes on earth.

2min read

Published 6 August 2025

Sophie Baker

Guest Blogger

With turquoise waters, sugar-white beaches and world-class hospitality, the Indian Ocean is home to some of the most luxurious island escapes on earth.

Whether you're planning a honeymoon, celebrating a milestone, or simply in need of total relaxation, there are few places more indulgent than these islands.

In this blog

Mauritius: Beachcomber Royal Palm

Mauritius is a standout destination for South Africans seeking accessible Indian Ocean luxury, with direct flights, no visa hassles, and dreamy island paradise within only four hours of South African shores. There are resorts galore, and you could find the perfect accommodation to suit every type of traveller in Mauritius. But for the ultimate luxury, Beachcomber Royal Palm is consistently ranked among the island's finest.

Located on the sheltered north-west coast of Mauritius, the guest list has included celebrities, politicians, sports stars, and even royals. Royal Palm is the only hotel in Mauritius to offer a one-to-one staff-to-guest ratio, making service feel truly personal from the moment you arrive.

It has just 69 rooms, all of which are suites, and you’ll feel completely relaxed thanks to their no-rush philosophy. As you’d expect from a five-star resort, it offers unparalleled privacy and service. Think fine French-inspired cuisine, personal butler service, and one of the most tranquil beaches on the island.

Seychelles: Story Seychelles

On Mahé Island, Story Seychelles sits right on the famous Beau Vallon Beach, known for its calm swimming waters and long, palm-lined stretch of sand. STORY’s beachfront villas open directly onto Beau Vallon’s swimmable bay, with garden pathways and hammam-style bathrooms adding to the holiday cocoon atmosphere. With a mix of suites and villas, as well as four curated restaurants and two bars, you’ll never be stuck for something to do.

It's also a great base for exploring local markets, snorkelling offshore, or simply unwinding with sunset cocktails beside the ocean. Not sure why you’d ever leave the paradise of your resort? Well, Seychelles has tons to offer.

Add as a related article tile: 10 top things to do in Seychelles

Maldives: Centara Ras Fushi Resort & Spa

For a luxury adults-only escape, Centara Ras Fushi Resort & Spa in the Maldives delivers barefoot indulgence just a short speedboat ride from Malé.

The resort features stunning overwater and beachfront villas, multiple restaurants, and a tranquil spa, all set in a calm lagoon perfect for snorkelling and diving. It also delivers on the ‘things to do’ front with Thai-inspired spa treatments and open-air dining on a private sandbank just minutes from some of the Maldives’ best dive sites. It's an ideal pick for honeymooners and couples seeking privacy, sunset views, and no under-12s.

Mozambique: Anantara Bazaruto Island Resort

A little closer to home, Anantara Bazaruto brings barefoot luxury to Mozambique's Bazaruto Archipelago, arguably one of Southern Africa’s most scenic spots. Accessible via a short flight from Vilanculos, the resort combines overwater spa treatments, fresh seafood, and diving excursions with classic island charm.

With wild dolphin sightings, horseback rides on the beach, and dhow sunset cruises, this resort brings a sense of quiet adventure to every stay. And for those who want something off the beaten path, this is one of the most beautiful yet underrated Indian Ocean escapes. Mozambique doesn’t have to mean crowded beaches, we promise!

Reunion Island: LUX* Saint Gilles

If you want your island escape with a touch of French flair, Reunion Island delivers. LUX* Saint Gilles is the island's only five-star beach resort, set beside the calm waters of Hermitage Lagoon. Reunion is still seriously under visited and somewhat of a hidden gem, so best get in early before the rest of the world discovers it!

On this volcanic island, you can expect palm-fringed pools, Creole-inspired fine dining, and access to world-class hiking in the nearby mountains.

Why Choose a Luxury Indian Ocean Escape?

The Indian Ocean is made for those big, unforgettable holidays. You know the kind! Where the beaches are quiet and almost unrealistically beautiful, the cocktails come with a view, and every little detail is taken care of. It’s perfect for honeymoons, spa escapes, diving trips, or just eating your way through island flavours with your favourite person.

Though we think everyone deserves a week of island bliss every year, these Indian Ocean escapes are particularly ideal for:

Honeymoons and anniversary trips
Wellness escapes and spa breaks
Scuba diving and marine exploration
Gourmet dining and wine-focused getaways

Flight Centre South Africa offers tailored Indian Ocean holiday packages to suit your travel style, with experienced travel experts ready to help you plan the ultimate luxury island getaway.

Add as buttons at the end: Looking for something a little more budget-friendly? Explore our guide to affordable Indian Ocean holidays or compare options with our Indian Ocean island guide.

Sophie Baker

Guest Blogger

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*Travel restrictions & conditions apply. Prices are in ZAR and are correct as at the date of publication & are subject to availability and change without notice. Prices quoted are on sale until the dates specified unless otherwise stated or sold out prior. Prices are per person. We charge an Online Booking Fee for flight bookings made online. These fees are charged in addition to the advertised price and displayed fares. View Booking Terms and Conditions for more information.

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Best Indian Ocean Luxury Resorts for Your Next Getaway

In this blog

Mauritius: Beachcomber Royal Palm

Seychelles: Story Seychelles

Maldives: Centara Ras Fushi Resort & Spa

Mozambique: Anantara Bazaruto Island Resort

Reunion Island: LUX* Saint Gilles

Why Choose a Luxury Indian Ocean Escape?

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