Tamarin
The west coast surf town turned expat favourite
At a glance
- ✓Best surf break in Mauritius — Tamarin Bay is a consistent left-hander
- ✓Fastest-growing expat community on the island, driven by PDS villa developments
- ✓West-facing coast is drier and calmer than the north or east in rainy season
- ✓More authentic Mauritius feel than Grand Baie — quieter streets, local markets
- ✓Property prices 15–25% lower than Grand Baie for equivalent specifications
- ✓Close to Black River Gorges National Park for hiking and nature
Overview
Tamarin has transformed over the past decade from a sleepy surf town to one of the most sought-after areas for international buyers and long-term expats. The appeal is a combination of excellent waves, a more relaxed pace than Grand Baie, and a series of quality PDS villa developments that have brought infrastructure, amenity, and a diverse resident community.
The west coast location means Tamarin gets some of the best weather in Mauritius — sheltered from the south-east trade winds, drier than the north, and calm seas at the bay itself even during cyclone season. The sunsets over Tamarin Bay are among the most photographed in the Indian Ocean.
The resident community skews active and outdoors-focused: surfers, kitesurfers (the nearby Anse la Raie area), cyclists, and hikers drawn by Black River Gorges. Families with children are also a major component, attracted by the space, security, and villa developments with pools and gardens.
Key statistics
Lifestyle
Tamarin life is defined by morning surf checks, farmers' markets, and sunsets at the bay. The social scene is smaller and more relaxed than Grand Baie — dinner parties at home, barbecues by the pool, and catch-ups at the local beach bar rather than restaurant strips. The Saturday market in Black River is a community institution. Active residents take advantage of the Black River Gorges trail network for weekend hikes, and the nearby La Preneuse beach for swimming.
History
Tamarin has been known to surfers since the 1960s when visiting pioneers discovered the consistent left-hander at Tamarin Bay. A small community of surf-focused expats settled here in the 1970s and the area developed a mild counterculture reputation. Sugar cane farming shaped the hinterland. Development accelerated significantly after 2010 with the approval of major PDS developments including La Balise Marina, Tamarin Hotel residences, and several private villa estates. The construction of the new highway connecting Tamarin to the motorway network improved access to Port Louis and the airport significantly.
Beaches
Tamarin Bay
Surfing, dolphin watchingThe iconic left-hand surf break. Also a lovely swimming beach when the waves are small. Famous for spinner dolphins in the bay.
La Preneuse
Swimming, familiesA wide, quiet beach just north of Tamarin with calm, clear water ideal for families and swimmers.
Rivière Noire (Black River) Beach
Kitesurfing, fishingA long beach to the south with good fishing and kitesurfing conditions.
Schools
- →Northfields International School (25 min, Grand Baie)
- →École du Tamarin (French primary)
- →Black River State Secondary School
Healthcare
Wellkin Hospital (Moka, 20 min) and Apollo Bramwell (20 min) are the nearest full-service private hospitals. C-Care clinic in Flic en Flac (10 min) for outpatient care. Several private GPs in Tamarin and Black River.
Healthcare guide for Mauritius →Restaurants & Food
A growing restaurant scene centred on the Tamarin village and La Balise Marina. Highlights include Canne à Sucre at La Balise Marina, Pavillon de Jade (Chinese), and several beachside Creole restaurants at La Preneuse. The Saturday Black River market has excellent street food.
Browse all restaurants →Weather
The west coast is the driest and sunniest part of Mauritius. Summer (Dec–Apr) temperatures reach 30–33°C with less rain than the north or east. Winter (May–Oct) is mild at 22–27°C with minimal rainfall. The Tamarin Bay itself is generally calm as it faces north-west.
Cost of Living
| Studio / 1-bed rent | MUR 18,000 – MUR 28,000/mo |
| 2-bedroom rent | MUR 32,000 – MUR 52,000/mo |
| 3-bed villa rent | MUR 52,000 – MUR 90,000/mo |
| Weekly groceries (2 people) | ~MUR 5,000 |
| Mid-range restaurant (per person) | ~MUR 1,000 |
Property Market
| Entry price (foreign buyer) | USD 375,000+ |
| Mid-range | USD 550,000 |
| Luxury | USD 1,800,000+ |
| Gross rental yield | 4–7% |
| Typical annual growth | 7–10% |
| Main scheme | PDS |
| Foreign buyer demand | High |
Frequently asked questions
Is Tamarin good for families?
Yes — Tamarin is one of the best areas for families in Mauritius. PDS villa developments offer secure, spacious properties with pools and communal facilities. The outdoor lifestyle, safety, and proximity to good schools make it particularly attractive for families with school-age children.
What is the surf like in Tamarin?
The Tamarin Bay left-hander is Mauritius's most consistent surf break, best from April to October when south swells arrive. It is an intermediate to advanced wave — not ideal for beginners. The bay is calm enough for swimming when there are no swells.
How does Tamarin compare to Grand Baie for property?
Tamarin offers equivalent or better villa quality at 15–25% lower prices than Grand Baie. The trade-off is fewer walking-distance amenities and restaurants. Capital growth has been strong, driven by demand from PDS buyers.
Are there dolphins at Tamarin?
Yes. Spinner dolphins inhabit Tamarin Bay year-round. Early morning boat trips to swim with them are a popular activity. Note that regulations limit the distance boats can approach, and the experience is best in calm, clear conditions from June to November.