Known as the hub of social and cultural activities, the west coast of Mauritius is one of the most desirable areas for expats or for retirees who wish to move to the island. With its laid-back charm, stunning beaches, and vibrant expat communities, the region offers plenty of opportunities for socialising, networking, and enjoying the island’s unique lifestyle if you plan to retire or expatriate to the island. In this article, we explore the best social hotspots on the west coast and activities for those looking to enjoy life on the West Coast and meet like-minded individuals.
What is the West Coast Popular for?
The west coast of Mauritius is renowned for its undeniable scenic beauty, pleasant climate, and upscale lifestyle. It is home to some of the island’s best beaches, luxury resorts, and outdoor activities. Known for its multicultural vibe and strong expat presence, the area offers plenty of amenities, including international schools, gourmet restaurants, and modern shopping centres. The region’s outdoor charm and social atmosphere make it the perfect spot for retirees and expatriates to settle in. Being based at Flic en Flac under the Medine Smart City, Bijou Résidence provides sustainable luxury properties like villas, penthouses and apartments to retirees and expatriates alike who wish to have a luxurious lifestyle on the island.
Social Hotspots to Check Out on the West Coast
The West Coast boasts several social hotspots that cater to expats and retirees. Flic en Flac beach is one of the most popular gathering points, offering not just sunbathing and swimming but also a vibrant social scene with beach bars, restaurants, and weekend events for both locals and expatriates. The Tamarin Bay Area is another excellent spot, known for its dolphin-watching tours and surf culture, where expats often meet for morning coffee or evening cocktails at the local beachfront cafés and brunch places like Nomad. Check out our guide to expat life on the West Coast to learn more about the region’s expat lifestyle.
What Are the Best Beaches in Mauritius’ West Coast?
The West Coast is home to some of Mauritius’ most beautiful beaches. Flic en Flac is famed for its long stretches of white sand and calm lagoons, making it a favourite among both tourists and locals. Tamarin Beach, while less touristy, attracts expats for its peaceful atmosphere and is a magnificent spot for watching sunsets. The bay also has great surfing conditions and is therefore the perfect social hotspot on the West Coast for many expatriates. To add on, Le Morne beach, located further south, offers stunning views of the iconic Le Morne Brabant mountain and is a hotspot for water sports enthusiasts, including kite surfers.
Aside from all these magnificent beaches, for expats or retirees living on the West Coast, there is no shortage of activities. From hiking the Black River Gorges to playing golf at Tamarina Golf Club, the region offers a perfect balance of relaxation and outdoor adventure. Regular expat meetups, wellness retreats, and fitness clubs within short distances provide great opportunities for socialising and building a sense of community despite being far away from your native country. Flic en Flac, Tamarin and Black River are known for their vibrant expat population, where international residents and those who expatriated to the island for work can engage in sports, cultural events, and social gatherings.
Dining and Nightlife Hotspots
The dining scene on the West Coast is diverse and sophisticated, with gourmet restaurants and beachside cafés offering everything from local Mauritian cuisine to international dishes. Places like La Bonne Chute in Tamarin and the Beach House in Flic en Flac are perfect for both casual meetups and fine dining. For nightlife, several beach front bars and lounges offer live music and DJ nights, making it easy for retirees and expats to unwind while socializing with locals and other international residents.
The west coast of Mauritius offers a unique combination of social hotspots, scenic beauty, and a welcoming community, making it the ideal location for expats and retirees looking to enjoy an active and social lifestyle. From its stunning beaches to its lively dining and nightlife scene, there are countless opportunities to explore and socialise. If you’re considering moving to Mauritius, the island offers the perfect balance of relaxation and vibrant social life, with many social hotspots on the West Coast.
Explore our blog about expatriation in the West Coast for more insights on the region if you wish to move to the island.