Mauritius surf has focused on Tamarin Bay, a perfect, almond-eyed left that became a symbol of escapism in the heart of surfers thanks to the 1974 surf film, “Forgotten Island of Santosha”.
The epic 8-10ft swell featured in the film, captured the attention of the surfing world, but it turned out to be inconsistent, leaving many travelling surfers disappointed. Localism flared in the ‘90s, with incidents of violence from the now notorious White Shorts enforcers, but the aggression has thankfully calmed down. When it fires, Tamarin is a true slice of surfing paradise, plus there are a handful of quality reef passes on the exposed Morne Peninsula that are way more reliable and provide a great diversion on what is often referred to as the “Honeymoon Island”.
When to Go
During the Southern Hemisphere winter (May-Oct) there are frequent SW swells varying in size from 2-20ft. Although these SW swells can appear year-round, the summer season is characterised by NE tropical storms, but with only about 10 depressions in six months, it’s hardly consistent. Of these, 1-2 will be strong cyclones that can be dangerous and destructive. Winter SE-S trades blow constantly and with a greater strength and frequency from July-Sept. Summer winds veer more NE-E, which can also bring 2-6ft onshore windswell to the windward coast and side/offshore conditions on the surf-blessed SW corner. Tides are only significant at shallower spots.
Surf Spots
Statistics |
J
|
F
|
M
|
A
|
M
|
J
|
J
|
A
|
S
|
O
|
N
|
D
|
dominant swell |
N -E |
S -SW |
S -SW |
S -SW |
S -SW |
N -E |
swell size (ft) |
4 |
5 |
6 |
6-7 |
5-6 |
4 |
consistency (%) |
50 |
70 |
80 |
80 |
70 |
50 |
dominant wind |
NE -SE |
E -SE |
E -SE |
E -SE |
E -SE |
NE -SE |
average force |
F4 |
F4 |
F4 |
F4 |
F4 |
F3-F4 |
consistency (%) |
82 |
64 |
61 |
76 |
69 |
77 |
water temp (C) |
27 |
26 |
24 |
22 |
23 |
25 |
wetsuit |
boardshorts |
boardshorts |
boardshorts |
springsuit |
springsuit |
boardshorts |
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Travel Information
Weather
Mauritius differs from the classic monsoon pattern, and its year-round moderate rain generally falls at the end of the day. It’s usually hotter and wetter, but with less cyclone risk during the summer (Dec-April). Winter begins in May, but temperatures remain warm enough for most visitors, and this period is considered the most pleasant time. The E coast is drier than the W coast. The water can get a little chilly in winter, requiring a springsuit as opposed to the usual boardies.
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Lodging and Food
Surf Camp Mauritius offer accommodation and car packages fr $300/w, plus lessons and boat transport. At Chez Jacques, doubles start at $50/night. A double in Tamarin Hotel starts at $145/night half board. Le Morne has several luxury resorts facing the surf (Le Paradis, Dinarobin, Indian Resort, Les Pavillons); all expensive. Package deals are your best bet. Street food is good and spicy with Creole, French and Indian flavours on offer from local restaurants ($15/meal) or overpriced fusion food from the resorts.
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Nature and Culture
Unlike Reunion, Mauritius is hilly rather than mountainous, and only the Trou aux Cerfs crater testifies to the ancient volcanic activity. The beaches are some of the most beautiful in the world. Port-Louis spice markets, Pamplemousse Gardens, and Moka Town are all worth a visit. Shellorama Museum next to Tamarin is interesting.
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