Few things capture the imagination like a tropical sunset – it's something to with those mesmerising shades of orange, purple, red and yellow that has us transfixed until the last slither of sun sinks below the horizon.

We’ve rounded up a few of our favourite spots to soak it all in.

Flic en Flac beach

Despite having developed from a small fishing village to a major tourist area, Flic en Flac beach is still one of the best sunset viewing spots in Mauritius. The broad casuarina-fringed stretch of sand looks out over a perfect turquoise lagoon, with plenty of shady spots for enjoying a late afternoon picnic as the sun goes down.

La Preneuse

Slightly further south in Black River, the Bay Beachside Restaurant at the Bay Hotel is just the place for a sundowner cocktail or two, with its tables situated on an oceanfront terrace looking out across the shimmering blue waters of  La Preneuse beach. Time your sunset watching for a Friday night, and you’ll get to enjoy some live jazz too.

Le Morne

Some of the most movie-quality sunsets can be experienced down on the Le Morne peninsula in the southwestern extremity of the island. There’s no shortage of places to enjoy them from either, like the Boathouse Bar and Grill at St Regis, the casual Le Kabanon beach kiosk at Dinarobin Hotel Golf & Spa, or any of the beachfront restaurants and cafes at LUX* Le Morne.

Trou aux Biches

Up on the northwest coast, the beach at Trou aux Biches is world renowned, and offers some of the most romantic sunset viewing on the island. And if you’re lucky enough to be staying at the famous Trou aux Biches Resort Spa, then you’ll get to experience it from the comfort of your own terrace or from the hotel’s laid back bar, L’Oasis.

A sunset catamaran cruise

Even if you’re based on the eastern side of the island, there’s no reason to miss out on a dramatic Mauritian sunset. One of the best ways to experience this is by taking a sunset catamaran cruise where you’ll get to see the sun set over the mountains. Cruises depart from Pointe Jerome at Mahebourg, and sail around the lagoon towards Ile de la Passe. Extend the trip with a dinner cruise, for an extra two hours on board.

Photos: Sunset at Le Morne, sunset at La preneuse.