The lagoon at Grand Gaube is calmer than at Grand Baie and far less developed. The reef sits close offshore and breaks the open Indian Ocean swell, leaving a band of pale turquoise water that is good for swimming, snorkelling and the slow pirogue rides that the local fishermen will arrange for a small fee.
The fishing harbour at the village centre is the working heart of the place — small wooden pirogues drawn up on the sand, fishermen mending nets, women selling the morning catch. Wander down in the early morning to see it all in action.