Moving from South Africa to Mauritius with my husband, toddler, and our two Yorkies was a big adventure, but one of the first things we had to figure out, was the best places to live in Mauritius.
As expats in Mauritius, we quickly realized that this beautiful island offers a variety of places to call home, each with its own unique vibe.
If you are looking for a lively social scene like Grand Baie, or a peaceful retreat like Tamarin then expat life in Mauritius has something for everyone.
Here’s what I discovered while searching for the perfect spot for our family.
Where are the Best Places to Live in Mauritius?
I have found that Mauritius offers a variety of fantastic areas to live in, each with its own unique charm and attractions. Here are some of the best places to live in Mauritius for you to consider:
1. Grand Baie Mauritius: A Vibrant Hub for Expats
One of the first places we explored was Grand Baie, which is a favorite among expats in Mauritius.
It’s a lively town full of restaurants, shops, and beautiful beaches—perfect for enjoying the best of Mauritius expat life.
It’s also super convenient because it has a range of expatriate housing, from modern apartments to luxury villas.
We love the social scene here; it’s easy to meet other expats, and there’s always something to do on weekends. Plus, our Yorkies love the nearby dog-friendly beaches!
Why Grand Baie? It’s perfect if you’re looking for a vibrant atmosphere, great dining options, and easy access to Mauritius international schools for expat families.
2. Tamarin: A Blend of Nature and Modern Living
When we wanted a change of pace, we checked out Tamarin on the west coast.
It’s great for those who love a mix of nature and modern comforts.
With its stunning beaches and mountainous backdrop, Tamarin offers a more relaxed side of life in Mauritius.
It’s a bit quieter than Grand Baie, but it still has plenty of amenities, which makes it ideal for families like ours.
The expatriate housing in Mauritius here ranges from beachfront homes to hillside villas with spectacular views.
Why Tamarin? If you’re after a more laid-back lifestyle but still want to be close to nature, Tamarin is a fantastic option for enjoying Mauritius expat life.
3. Moka: Perfect for Families and Professionals
Nestled in the central plateau, Moka offers a tranquil retreat amidst lush greenery and scenic landscapes.
Moka quickly became one of our top choices because it’s centrally located and has a cooler climate compared to the coastal areas.
Moka is quickly emerging as the new hotspot for expats looking to live in Mauritius.
With its modern amenities, scenic surroundings, and vibrant community, Moka offers a desirable lifestyle that’s attracting expatriates from around the world.
As an expat, you’ll be at the forefront of this exciting new chapter in Moka’s development.
It’s known for being home to some of the best residential areas in Mauritius. It is also close to international schools, making it ideal for families with kids.
Our toddler’s future schooling was a big factor in our decision-making, and Moka’s proximity to places like Le Bocage International School gave us peace of mind.
Why Moka? It’s great for families who want a balance between work, school, and enjoying Mauritius’ lifestyle and culture for expats. Plus, it’s just a short drive from Port Louis and other key areas.
4. Ebene: The Business Hub of Mauritius
When we were first exploring our options for where to live in Mauritius, Ebene quickly caught our attention, especially because of its reputation as the business hub of the island.
Known as the “Cybercity” of Mauritius, Ebene is home to many office buildings, multinational companies, and modern infrastructure, making it an ideal choice for professionals who want to live close to work.
Although it’s more known for its commercial side, Ebene also offers a range of expatriate housing options, including modern apartments and townhouses, which are perfect for those looking to stay near the heart of the island’s business activities.
Why Ebene? It’s a great choice if you’re looking to combine work with convenient living. The proximity to Port Louis and Moka means you’re never far from schools, shopping centers, and cultural spots. Plus, living in Ebene means you’ll have easy access to some of the best facilities and services that Mauritius has to offer.
5. Flic en Flac Mauritius: A Beach Lover’s Dream
The stunning Flic en Flac is another area that’s popular among expats living in Mauritius—especially those who love the beach.
This coastal town has a beautiful stretch of sandy beach, a variety of restaurants, and a vibrant nightlife.
For us, it’s a great spot for family beach days, and the nearby resorts like Hilton Mauritius add a touch of luxury.
Plus, our little one loves playing in the calm waters while we enjoy the sunset.
Why Flic en Flac? If you want to be close to the sea and enjoy a mix of local and expat communities, it’s a wonderful place to settle down.
6. Black River Mauritius: A Paradise for Nature Lovers
We fell in love with Black River during one of our weekend road trips.
It’s perfect if you love nature, with easy access to some of the island’s best hiking trails and stunning beaches.
It’s also one of the best places to retire in Mauritius if you’re thinking long-term.
For us, the lush greenery and peaceful surroundings make it a great escape from the busier parts of the island.
Plus, our Yorkies have plenty of space to explore!
Why Black River? If you’re into outdoor activities like hiking or biking, Black River could be the best area to live in Mauritius for you.
7. Port Louis Mauritius: Living in the Heart of the Island Capital
Port Louis Mauritius, offers a unique living experience for expats looking to be in the center of it all.
When we first explored Port Louis, we were drawn to its vibrant atmosphere, rich history, and the diverse mix of cultures.
It’s a bustling city where tradition meets modernity, with everything from colonial architecture to modern office buildings.
Living here means having easy access to local markets, like the famous Central Market, as well as museums, shops, and a variety of restaurants.
While it’s busier than some of the coastal areas, Port Louis has its own charm, and it’s ideal for those who love being close to the action.
Why Port Louis? It’s perfect if you want to be right in the middle of the island’s cultural and economic heart. Expats living in Mauritius who work in the city find it convenient for daily commuting, and the vibrant atmosphere makes it a lively place to live. Plus, Port Louis is just a short drive from the serene mountain views of Moka or the quieter beaches on the west coast, offering the best of both worlds.
8. Pereybere: A Charming Coastal Retreat
Pereybere is a smaller, quieter alternative to Grand Baie, offering a peaceful retreat with the same access to beautiful beaches and essential amenities.
It’s one of the best places to live in Mauritius for those who want to be close to the action without the hustle and bustle.
Expatriate housing here includes charming homes and beachfront apartments, making it ideal for those looking for a cozy community vibe.
Why Pereybere? It’s a great spot for families or retirees who want a quieter pace while still being within reach of Grand Baie’s attractions.
Conclusion – Living in Mauritius: A Blend of Comfort and Adventure
Our time living in Mauritius has been such a rewarding experience, from discovering the best spots for family beach days to finding a neighborhood that feels like home.
Whether you’re seeking the bustling energy of Grand Baie or the tranquil vibes of Black River, the island’s lifestyle offers something special for everyone.
Final Thoughts: If you’re thinking about making the move to Mauritius, take the time to explore the different regions and find the best places to live in Mauritius that feels right for you. Each area has its own charm, and whether you end up in Tamarin, Moka, or Flic en Flac, I’m sure you’ll love calling Mauritius your new home as much as we do.
