65kms northeast of Fort Dauphin is the beautiful St Luce Bay. This is where French colonists first landed in 1638 and is also home to beautiful beaches, a protected area of coastal forest and the wonderful Manafiafy Beach Lodge – a real off the beaten track gem.

Here it's possible to relax on the beautiful beach, take snorkelling trips to nearby islands, boat trips on the mangroves, go on guided walks in the forest and also interact with the local community. In season, migrating whales can also be seen at St Luce Bay.