Where to Live in Mauritius? North, East, South or West Coast

With its superb climate, unspoilt nature and wide offering of leisure activities, Mauritius is among the most popular expatriate destinations of the moment. Have you been won over by this destination and you’re now ready to move there permanently? Before you take the leap it’s important to consider where exactly in Mauritius you want to live or retire. This is not an easy decision to make as each region and coastline has its own unique identity. What’s more, the climate in this paradise island can vary greatly from one region to the next. To help you make your decision, read on to learn more about Mauritius’s different coastal areas including their main characteristics and advantages. You will then be able to choose the one that suits you best depending on your priorities, your favourite activities and your lifestyle.

The Northern Coast: Mauritian city life

The northern coast is undoubtedly the most developed and lively part of Mauritius. More urbanised than other regions, it is equipped with all the essential services and infrastructures including restaurants, shopping centres, schools, hospitals, bars and nightclubs.

In the north-west, the capital, Port-Louis, is home to the island’s administrative services. Expatriates love the city for its large and famous central market and its many historic buildings dating back to the colonial era. Located at the northernmost tip of the island is the quintessential seaside town of Grand Baie which attracts pleasure boaters and tourists alike with its impressive offering of water sports. Between these two cities the coastline is dotted with stunning beaches, including the iconic Trou aux Biches and Mont Choisy.

The northern coast is particularly well-suited to young professionals or families with children who want to live close to schools. When considering where to live in Mauritius, many expatriates choose to settle on the north coast first. However, although initially attracted there by the prospect of being closer to their workplace and the opportunity to make friends, few stay there indefinitely. After getting a taste of Mauritius’s city atmosphere, most prefer to move to quieter areas to experience a different quality of life.

The Eastern Coast: intimate and picturesque

More peaceful than its neighbouring region, the east coast has many faces which gradually become apparent as you move away from the bustle of the north. The northern area is characterised by beautiful wide beaches and magnificent bays surrounded by lagoons with clear waters, particularly between Poste Lafayette and Trou d’Eau Douce. It’s hardly surprising that many large luxury hotel groups were drawn to this exceptional natural setting, making the east coast the leading tourist destination in Mauritius. But as you head south, the road starts to wind along a jagged coastline and the hotels are soon replaced by picturesque fishing villages. This part of the island is also a very popular holiday destination for Mauritians, many of whom have a second home there.

If you want to relax, enjoy the scenery or are keen to try your hand at some water sports (kitesurfing, windsurfing, windsurfing, etc.), the east coast of Mauritius would be a good choice for you. However, it’s worth mentioning that shops and infrastructure tend to be few and far between in this part of the island. Also, as this is Mauritius’s ‘windward’ coast characterised by less stable weather conditions, it is significantly cooler with higher levels of rainfall.

The Southern Coast: wild and authentic

At the opposite end of the spectrum from the northern region, both geographically speaking and in terms of population size, is the wild and hilly southern coast of Mauritius. Of all the island’s regions, this is the one that remains the least visited by tourists as it has fewer and less well-sheltered beaches. However, what this wind-swept coastline lacks in beaches it makes up for in cliffs and ocean views. Scattered with small, mainly residential villages, the southern coast opens onto a mountainous inland area covered with lush vegetation, reflecting rainfall levels that are slightly higher than the Mauritian average.

Lovers of nature, jungle hikes and pristine landscapes will be spoilt for choice on Mauritius’s southern coast. But, if you want to make the most of the beaches, take part in activities or dine in the best restaurants, you will need to travel to a different part of the island.

The Western Coast: a firm favourite among expats

If you are finding it difficult to choose between these different regions, the west coast of Mauritius is probably the ideal compromise. Being close to all the amenities of the north, the capital, and the picturesque landscapes of the south, the west coast offers a winning combination of all the regions’ best assets.

It has so much to offer: whether you want to relax on the beaches of Flic en Flac or Le Morne whilst watching the sunset or enjoy activities such as golf, snorkelling or sailing, you won’t be disappointed.  The Black River Gorges National Park, a wild landscape complete with tropical forests, waterfalls and spectacular scenery, is just a few minutes further south. As for the local climate, that must be named as a Mauritian anomaly: the west coast is the sunniest and least windy part of the island. The temperatures are pleasant in every season and you can easily swim there during the winter months.

If you are still unsure about where to live in Mauritius, you may be interested to know that the town of Tamarin, renowned for its vibrant waterfront and marina, is particularly popular among expats. Residents are sometimes even lucky enough to catch a glimpse of dolphins swimming in the bay. While most of the restaurants and shops can be found in the centre of Tamarin, its territory stretches towards the majestic mountains, allowing you to gain some height and enjoy other breath-taking views.

It is at the foot of the Tourelle mountain that you will find the Ekô Savannah resort, an exceptional estate made up of 47 luxury villas with private swimming pools. Located in an exclusive, natural environment yet just a stone’s throw from all the essential amenities, Ekô Savannah offers a wide range of high quality services, whilst respecting the environment and the local population.

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