The decision to move to Mauritius is the beginning of an incredible adventure. This Indian Ocean jewel, renowned for its “paradise” status, offers more than just pristine beaches and year-round sunshine; it presents a safe, stable, and multicultural lifestyle that is increasingly irresistible to expatriates from around the globe. But once you’ve made the leap, a crucial question remains: where on this diverse island should you call home?
Choosing the right area is about aligning your personal and professional life with the unique rhythm of a community. Mauritius may be small, but its coasts and central regions have distinctly different personalities. From the vibrant energy of the north to the serene luxury of the east and the authentic charm of the south, there is a perfect corner waiting for you.
Here is your guide to the best areas for expats to live in Mauritius.
1. The Vibrant North: The Social Hub
Key Towns: Grand Baie, Péreybère, Triolet
Ideal for: Families, young professionals, social butterflies, and those who want everything on their doorstep.
The North is the undisputed epicentre of expat life and tourism. If you thrive on energy, convenience, and a bustling social calendar, this is likely your best fit.
- The Vibe: Dynamic, cosmopolitan, and fast-paced. The area is always buzzing with activity. The coastline is dotted with marinas, public beaches, and a concentration of restaurants, from casual beachside pizzerias to fine-dining establishments. The nightlife is the most active on the island, with bars and clubs centred mainly in Grand Baie.
- Amenities: The North excels in convenience. You’ll find the largest supermarkets (Jumbo, Super U), international schools (Northfields International School), modern medical clinics, shopping centres, and a wide array of boutiques. Everything you need, from a specific ingredient for a recipe to a new piece of furniture, is readily available.
- Community: This is where you’ll find the largest and most established expat community. Integrating is easy, with countless clubs, groups, and social events making it simple to meet people from all over the world.
- Considerations: The very energy that attracts some can be a drawback for others. Traffic can be heavy, especially on weekends and during peak season. Beaches, while beautiful, are often busier than in other regions. Properties here, particularly those with sea views, command a premium.
2. The Luxurious East: Golf, Spas, and Secluded Beaches
Key Towns: Belle Mare, Trou d’Eau Douce
Ideal for: Retirees, luxury seekers, golf enthusiasts, and those who prioritise peace, tranquillity, and pristine nature.
The East Coast is the postcard image of Mauritius. It’s home to some of the island’s most famous and breathtaking beaches, with long stretches of powdery white sand protected by the offshore lagoon.
- The Vibe: Serene, exclusive, and sophisticated. The pace of life is noticeably slower and more relaxed. The area is dominated by world-class luxury resorts (The Four Seasons, One&Only Le Saint Géran, Lux* Belle Mare) which sets a tone of understated elegance. Life here revolves around the beach, golf courses, and spa days.
- Amenities: Amenities are high-end but less concentrated than in the North. You’ll find exclusive beach clubs, several of the island’s best golf courses, and gourmet restaurants. For major shopping or specialised healthcare, a trip to the capital, Port Louis, or the North might be necessary.
- Community: The expat community is present but tends to be more private and low-key. It’s a community bonded by a love for tranquillity and an active outdoor lifestyle centred on golf, water sports, and cycling.
- Considerations: The secluded nature means you are more reliant on a car. It can feel quiet outside of the resort areas. It is generally the most expensive region to live in, both in terms of property prices and cost of living.
3. The Authentic West: Sunsets and Lifestyle
Key Towns: Flic en Flac, Tamarin, Black River
Ideal for: Surfers, nature lovers, families, and professionals working in the Ebene cybercity.
The West Coast offers a compelling blend of stunning natural beauty, a strong expat community, and a more authentic Mauritian feel. It’s famous for its dramatic sunsets over the sea, a view the East Coast cannot offer.
- The Vibe: Balanced, active, and bohemian. The West has a laid-back surf culture, particularly in Tamarin, which is the hub for surfing and dolphin watching. Flic en Flac boasts one of the island’s longest and most popular public beaches with a lively promenade. Inland, the Black River Gorges National Park provides incredible hiking and wilderness.
- Amenities: The area is very well-serviced with supermarkets, schools (including the prestigious West International School), and clinics. The presence of the Cascavelle Shopping Mall provides a major retail anchor. The proximity to the emerging business hub of Ebene and Trianon makes it a practical choice for professionals.
- Community: The expat community is large and diverse, with a mix of young families, retirees, and digital nomads drawn by the active lifestyle and slightly more affordable living costs compared to the North.
- Considerations: The lagoon can be shallower and the seas rougher than in the East, particularly in winter, which is better for surfers than for calm swimmers. Seaweed can occasionally be an issue on the beaches, though it is managed by local authorities.
4. The Cultural South: Untamed Beauty and Authenticity
Key Towns: Bel Ombre, Souillac
Ideal for: Adventurers, retirees on a budget, artists, and those seeking a truly authentic and quiet Mauritian experience far from the tourist trail.
The South is Mauritius in its rawest form. Here, the coastline is more dramatic, with cliffs, powerful waves crashing against the rocks, and a wild, untamed beauty. It’s the least developed coast, offering a deep sense of peace and connection to nature.
- The Vibe: Authentic, rugged, and tranquil. Life moves at its own slow pace. The South is rich in cultural heritage, with historical sites like the Frederik Hendrik Museum and the Gris Gris cliffs. The recent development of the Heritage Resorts domain in Bel Ombre has added a pocket of luxury with golf and world-class amenities.
- Amenities: Amenities are local and simple. You’ll find local markets and small shops rather than large international supermarkets. For major shopping or specialised needs, a trip to Curepipe or Quatre Bornes is required. This is part of the charm for those seeking to disconnect.
- Community: The expat community is small and tight-knit, comprised of those who consciously chose to be away from the busier hubs. It offers a truly immersive cultural experience.
- Considerations: This area is not for everyone. It requires a significant adjustment and a spirit of independence. Job opportunities are scarce unless you work remotely. The weather can also be slightly cooler and rainier than in other parts of the island.
The Inland Option: The Central Plateau
Key Towns: Moka, Curepipe, Ebene
Ideal for: Professionals working in Port Louis or Ebene, families seeking proximity to top schools, and those who prefer a cooler climate.
The Central Plateau is the administrative and educational heart of Mauritius, home to the capital, Port Louis, and the cybercity of Ebene. Living here is about practicality and convenience for work.
- The Vibe: Urban, practical, and bustling. The climate is noticeably cooler and less humid than the coast, which is a major draw for some.
- Amenities: Unbeatable access to the island’s best schools (including Loreto College Q.B. and Le Bocage International School), major hospitals, and government services. Traffic during rush hour can be very heavy.
- Community: The expat community is largely made up of professionals on fixed-term contracts and their families.
- Considerations: You are living in a town, not a beach paradise. The coastal lifestyle is a drive away.
Ultimately, the “best” area is a deeply personal choice. The ideal strategy is to rent a property in your preferred region for a few months upon arrival. This allows you to experience the daily rhythm, the commute, and the community firsthand before making the permanent commitment to buy. Embrace the exploration—it’s all part of the Mauritian adventure.