While for many Mauritius is an island paradise where couples go to sunbathe on their honeymoon, there’s actually a surprising amount to do on the island, especially for those who prefer to spend their days being more adventurous.

After spending two weeks soaking up the sun, we scouted out the coolest things I couldn’t do thanks to being pregnant:

1. Visit the underwater waterfall by seaplane

Okay, so technically I could have done this but it’s a bit pricey. Starting at about £100 for a 15-minute flight, you can catch the seaplane from La Prairie Beach, Le Morne which will take you over the incredible underwater waterfall.

2. Hike up Le Morne

Le Morne has a rich history and takes about 3-4 hours to hike if hiking is your thing. From the top, on a clear day, you may even be able to catch glimpses of the underwater waterfall.

3. Ride horses on the beach

Instead of just taking a romantic stroll across the sands, why not hitch a ride on horseback?

4. Go kayaking, windsurfing or kitesurfing

Whatever your water sport, there’s something for everyone. With really strong winds, the Le Morne lagoon is perfect for kitesurfing and windsurfing. We even met Gary, owner and instructor of Paradise Kitesurfing Mauritius.

5. Snorkel off the beach (or go scuba diving)

All you need is a snorkel and all of a sudden, a whole watery world of colour is yours to marvel at. Some hotels even offer introductory scuba diving lessons if you fancy going deeper.

6. Swim with dolphins

Off the coast of Le Morne or the bay of Tamarin, it’s easy to find pods of wild dolphins who will happily say hello and swim with you.

7. Go whale watching

Going out a bit further in the bay of Tamarin, you may even be lucky enough to glimpse whales.

8. Quadbike safari at Casela Nature Parks

Safari is one thing, but a safari on a quad bike is a whole other experience, allowing you to get up close and personal to antelope, zebras and ostriches.

9. Ride the all 7 ziplines at Vallée Des Couleurs Nature Park

Home to the 23-coloured earth, Vallée Des Couleurs Nature Park also plays host to 7 different ziplines, a Nepalese bridge and the ability to see the stunning 450 acres on quad bike or buggy.

10. Visit the Bois Chéri tea plantation

Visit the oldest tea plantation in Mauritius – established in 1892 – see how they make their tea, and try a few samples too.

11. Visit historic sites in Port Louis

Home to an eclectic collection of shops, Port Louis is also steeped in history. Visit the Mauritius Postal Museum, the Natural History Museum, or wander along Caudan Waterfront.

12. Take a catamaran cruise round the coast

See Mauritius from a different point of view and take a catamaran cruise.

13. Explore the cultural side of the island

Known for it’s mismatch of cultural communities, Mauritius is home to active Hindu, Muslim and Christian communities, which means island life is full of colour.