The east trades convenience for space. Belle Mare has the longest stretch of public beach on the island and a fraction of the north’s foot traffic.
What it costs
Villas start around 5200 rupees a night and make sense split between four or six people, which is usually cheaper per head than two resort rooms.
The trade-off
It is windy year round, which is excellent if you kitesurf and tiring if you wanted a still afternoon on a lounger. You will also need a car: there is very little within walking distance.