At Veranda Tamarin, life moves to the rhythm of the West Coast — slower, warmer, and more connected to nature. This is where locals gather at sundown, surfers ride the early waves, and adventures begin between the mountains and the sea.
Staying on the West Coast of Mauritius offers more than just beautiful beaches. It’s about waking up with the ocean breeze, exploring waterfalls in the Black River Gorges, tasting street food in Tamarin village, and feeling at home with every smile you meet.
Rooted in local culture and surrounded by wild landscapes, Veranda Tamarin invites you to feel Mauritius like a Mauritian. Whether you’re chasing thrills or seeking calm, this region offers an unforgettable mix of natural beauty, cultural richness, and island soul.
Looking for the best things to do on the West Coast of Mauritius?
Here’s our curated list of top experiences to enjoy during your stay at Veranda Tamarin.
1. WHALES AND DOLPHINS BEYOND THE HORIZON
Wake up with the island and set out for one of the most magical experiences the West Coast of Mauritius has to offer, a sunrise sea adventure in search of dolphins and, during the season, migrating whales.
Organised by Veranda Tamarin, this early morning boat trip begins as the first light touches the ocean, turning calm waters golden. With each passing wave, you’re drawn into the rhythm of the sea, scanning the horizon for playful pods of wild dolphins. Watch as they glide effortlessly through the water, sometimes leaping beside the boat, a moment that feels both exhilarating and deeply humbling.
Between June and October, the ocean may reveal an even rarer encounter: humpback or sperm whales. Seeing these majestic giants rise from the depths is a quiet, unforgettable reminder of nature’s scale and grace.
Depending on the experience you choose, the morning continues with a stop near Île aux Bénitiers, a small island off the coast, known for its crystal-clear lagoon. Here, the boat anchors for a relaxed lunch on board, featuring fresh Mauritian dishes. Afterwards, dive into the lagoon for a swim, snorkel with colourful reef fish, or simply unwind on deck, soaking in the stillness of the sea.
More Than a Boat Trip – It’s a Memory in the Making
This isn’t just a cruise. It’s an invitation to experience the wild, open beauty of Mauritius from the water — to feel close to nature, fully present in the moment, and far from the everyday.
If you’re staying at Veranda Tamarin, this dolphin and whale encounter is one of the must-do activities on the West Coast — and a highlight that will stay with you long after your tan fades.
2. RIDE THE WAVES AT TAMARIN BAY
Wake up to the sound of the ocean and walk straight into the surf lifestyle, just steps from your room at Veranda Tamarin.
Tamarin Bay, home to the legendary Cap Dal, is one of Mauritius’ most iconic surf spots. Known for its consistent waves and relaxed vibe, the bay attracts locals and travellers. It’s not just a place to surf, it’s where community and nature meet, with salty hair, sun-warmed skin, and shared stories by the sea.
Whether you’re curious to try surfing for the first time or eager to refine your technique the certified French surf school located next to Veranda Tamarin is there to guide you. Lessons are led by passionate, experienced instructors who tailor each session to your level. Beginners will learn the basics from paddling and popping up, to reading the waves and staying safe. More advanced riders can work on improving their timing, positioning, and style.
It’s more than standing on a board. It’s about feeling the ocean, understanding its rhythm, and learning to move with it.
Surfing in Mauritius Starts Here
With the waves right at your doorstep and expert guidance at hand, there’s no better place to ride your first wave or your next. Tamarin Bay is more than a surf spot; it’s a way of life, and it’s waiting to welcome you in.
3. TAMARINA GOLF CLUB: PLAY WITH A VIEW
If you’re dreaming of playing golf in Mauritius, few places match the setting and spirit of Tamarina Golf Club — an 18-hole championship course where nature and precision come together.
Just a short drive from Veranda Tamarin, this par-72 course was designed by renowned architect Rodney Wright to both challenge and inspire. Set across a wide, savannah-like landscape, it unfolds between volcanic mountains and sweeping ocean views. On one side, the rugged outline of Rempart Mountain stands tall; on the other, Tamarin Bay stretches calmly toward the horizon. Each fairway tells a story. Each swing feels like part of the land.
Tamarina is more than a golf course — it’s a way to experience the natural beauty of Mauritius.
As you make your way through, native trees line the path, quiet streams cross the fairways, and birdsong fills the air. Every hole brings a new view, whether it’s the ocean in the distance or mountains rising around you.
Here, golf is more than a game. It’s a chance to slow down, take in the surroundings, and connect with the island one step at a time.
4. ADVENTURE AND WILDLIFE FOR ALL AT CASELA
Nestled in the rugged west of Mauritius, Casela World of Adventures is more than a theme park, it’s a living, breathing sanctuary where nature, excitement, and family-friendly discovery meet. Whether you’re travelling with children, seeking adrenaline-packed activities, or simply looking to reconnect with the island’s wilder side, Casela offers an unforgettable mix of wildlife, thrill and adventure.
Begin your journey in the vibrant aviary, a lush, green heaven alive with colour and birdsong. Under a canopy of tropical trees, toucans, parrots, and other exotic species glide freely above as you follow shaded paths through their natural sanctuary. It’s a gentle yet captivating start to a day of exploration.
Next, venture into the African safari zone, where giraffes, zebras, rhinos, and ostriches roam freely against the sweeping backdrop of Mauritius’ open savannah. The highlight? The famed Walk with Lions, a rare and respectful encounter led by expert handlers. Up close with these majestic predators, you’ll experience a powerful moment that’s equal parts thrill and reverence.
For those craving speed and scenery, the Tulawaka Gold Coaster delivers. This alpine-style luge ride twists for 760 metres through Casela’s hilly terrain, offering tight turns, thrilling drops, and panoramic west coast views all at once.
The adventure doesn’t stop there. Zipline through the canopy of the forest, hop on a quad bike for an off-road ride, or glide through the park on a Segway safari. Each experience is designed to awaken your senses and uncover Mauritius from a new perspective.
A Full Day of Adventure in Mauritius
Casela is not just a place to visit — it’s a destination to feel. With its blend of wildlife encounters, outdoor activities, and stunning natural settings, Casela World of Adventures invites you to see the island differently. Every step, turn, and heartbeat here becomes a memory that lingers long after you’ve left.
5. SEVEN COLOURED EARTH GEOPARK
Nestled in the lush heights of Chamarel, the Seven Coloured Earth Geopark is a must-see natural wonder in Mauritius, famous for its surreal landscape of rainbow-hued sand dunes formed by ancient volcanic activity. With colours that shift subtly in the light, ranging from red and violet to blue, green, and gold, the site offers an unforgettable visual experience, enhanced by elevated walkways and interpretive displays that reveal the geology behind the beauty.
The park also features a tranquil tortoise sanctuary, home to Aldabra giants, and a scenic coffee corner where guests can learn about Chamarel’s locally grown coffee—from bean to cup. Blending science, nature, and culture, this geopark is more than a photo stop; it’s a place to pause, learn, and savour the island’s richness.
Coffee tour plantation in Chamarel
Just a short stroll from the coloured dunes, the Coffee Tour Plantation invites visitors to discover one of Mauritius’ most cherished local treasures. Grown in the cool, elevated climate of the region, Chamarel coffee is known for its rich aroma, smooth flavour, and artisanal production methods.
Part of the Chamarel 7 Coloured Earth Geopark, this experience offers an intimate look at the journey from bean to brewing — including a walk through the plantation, a peek inside the roasting process, and a freshly brewed tasting session. Surrounded by mountains and the scent of roasted beans, the tour adds a warm, flavourful dimension to your visit and deepens your connection to the land, its people, and their quiet craft.
6. DISCOVER SEPT CASCADES: HIKING THROUGH NATURE AND FALLS
Hidden in the heart of Mauritius’ lush highlands, Sept Cascades or the Seven Waterfalls, promises one of the island’s most exhilarating nature experiences. This hike is a favourite among locals and seasoned adventurers, offering a wild escape into untouched landscapes, dramatic ravines, and the sound of cascading water at every turn.
The trail winds through dense forest, past volcanic rock formations, and over steep slopes, with spectacular views unfolding throughout the journey. Whether you’re drawn to the challenge or the scenery, this is where nature reveals itself at its rawest and most rewarding.
Two Ways to Explore Sept Cascades
Half-Day Hike
Ideal for those short on time but eager for beauty, this route takes you to the first four waterfalls. You’ll have time to pause, breathe, and enjoy the surroundings – perfect for travellers seeking a scenic hike with space to swim and unwind.
Full-Day Hike
For the more adventurous, the full-day experience covers all seven waterfalls. With natural pools for swimming, picnic breaks by the water, and off-the-beaten-path paths, this route delivers a deeper connection to the terrain—and more time to take it all in.
For an even richer experience, go with a local guide. They’ll share insight into geology, endemic plants, and hidden spots you might otherwise miss making the journey as informative as it is inspiring.
And if you’re truly bold? Try abseiling down the waterfalls, an adrenaline-pumping way to see Sept Cascades from a whole new angle.
Hiking Mauritius’ Wild Side
- Difficulty: Moderate to Difficult
- Best for: Active hikers, nature lovers, and anyone craving a mix of beauty and challenge
Whether you’re here for the views, the climb, or the plunge into cool mountain water, Sept Cascades is a reminder of how wild and wonderful Mauritius can be far beyond the beach.
7. WANDER THROUGH BLACK RIVER GORGES NATIONAL PARK
Step off the beaten path and into the heart of Mauritius’ largest and most biodiverse reserve: Black River Gorges National Park. As you enter, the atmosphere shifts — the air cools, the trees rise tall, and the forest embraces you with its quiet intensity.
Covering over 6,500 hectares, the park is a sanctuary for some of the island’s rarest species and most spectacular scenery. With a network of well-marked trails for all levels, it’s a must for travellers who want to experience Mauritius beyond the beach — where every step invites a deeper connection to the land. As you walk along Black River Gorges, keep your eyes open and your senses tune in. Spot flying foxes gliding overhead, monkeys swinging through the canopy, and the rustle of native birds weaving between trees. The park isn’t just a place to hike; it’s a living, breathing world that brings you closer to the island’s soul.
Whether you’re here for the views, the silence, or the wild encounters, Black River Gorges National Park offers a deeply grounding and truly Mauritian experience.
Best hiking trails in Black River Gorges
Mare aux Joncs Trail
- Experience: A scenic trail through lush forest leading to a tranquil waterfall and natural pool-perfect for a refreshing swim and sun-soaked break.
- Level: Moderate
- Highlights: Swimming spot, peaceful surroundings, rich vegetation
Macchabée Trail
- Experience: A peacefull walk through dense native forest, ideal for those looking to slow down and observe
- Level: Easy to Moderate
- Highlights: Endemic plants, birdwatching, tranquil forest vibes
Parakeet Trail
- Experience: A favourite among bird lovers, this trail is named after the Mauritius parakeet and offers the best chance to spot this rare green beauty.
- Level: Moderate
- Highlights: Wildlife sightings, cateaux vertes, macaques, and more
Piton de la Petite Rivière Noire Trail
- Experience: Hike to the highest peak in Mauritius, offering breathtaking views from the top.
- Level: Difficult
- Highlights: Sweeping island views, challenging terrain, a summit worth every step
Cascade des Galets Trail
- Experience: A quiet escape to a hidden waterfall, this lesser-known route is ideal for solitude seekers.
- Level: Moderate
- Highlights: Seclusion, waterfall swim, intimate forest setting
To keep your adventure safe and enjoyable, please stay on designated tracks.
8. LE MORNE BRABANT: MORE THAN A HIKE
Rising proudly above the island’s southwest coast, Le Morne Brabant is far more than a mountain, it’s a place of memory, resilience, and quiet power. Listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, it invites you on a hike that is as emotionally moving as it is physically rewarding.
The journey begins on a gentle path through dry forest, offering shade and birdsong as you make your way toward the base of the cliffs. From there, the trail steepens. The final stretch demands effort, agility, and occasionally, a good sense of humour, especially during the descent, where sliding down on your seat might be the most graceful option.
But the summit, at 550 metres, is worth every step. A white cross stands tall against the sky, and the views stretch endlessly across the island’s wild southwest: turquoise lagoons, mountain silhouettes, and on clear days, the illusion of an underwater waterfall playing across the reef.
Le Morne Brabant isn’t just a hike, it’s a powerful encounter with the island’s past and spirit. From its cultural depth to its breathtaking views, this mountain is one of Mauritius’ most iconic and moving places to explore.
9. TAMARIN NIGHTS: CHILL VIBES, COASTAL SOUND
As the sun sets over the bay, Tamarin’s laid-back charm gives way to a lively, local nightlife scene, with two iconic spots leading the way: Big Willy’s and La Bonne Chute. At Big Willy’s, the energy picks up with live music, DJ sets, and a spacious garden bar that draws a vibrant mix of locals and travellers. Whether you’re dancing under the stars or enjoying a chilled beer with friends, the atmosphere is always upbeat and unpretentious. Just a short drive away, La Bonne Chute offers a more relaxed setting with a rustic, welcoming vibe with occasional live band. Together, these two venues capture the spirit of Tamarin after dark: friendly, spontaneous, and full of Mauritian rhythm.
10. LA TOUR MARTELLO: COASTAL FORT WITH A VIEW
Located in the tranquil village of La Preneuse near Tamarin, La Tour Martello is more than just a relic of the past—it’s a window into Mauritius’ colonial legacy. Built in the early 19th century by the British, the tower was part of a strategic defence system meant to ward off naval threats, including pirate attacks. Today, it stands as a thoughtfully preserved monument that quietly tells the story of the island’s military past.
The structure itself is a fine example of practical military design, yet its symmetry and solid stonework hold undeniable aesthetic charm. History buffs will appreciate the exhibits inside, while photography lovers will find plenty to capture—from architectural details to sweeping views of the surrounding coast.
A visit to La Tour Martello also offers a scenic experience. The tower is nestled amid lush greenery, just steps away from the shoreline, where the warm sea breeze and gentle sounds of the waves create a peaceful atmosphere. It’s a place where you can take your time—wander the grounds, admire the native flora, and enjoy a quiet moment overlooking the ocean.
11. Scuba-Diving
Experience the magic of scuba diving in the warm, crystal-clear waters of Tamarin Bay by arranging your dive directly through the hotel. Guided by certified instructors, you’ll explore vivid underwater landscapes where tropical fish dart between coral gardens and, with a bit of luck, a curious sea turtle might glide past. For those eager to deepen their knowledge of marine life, a waterproof identification card featuring Indian Ocean species can add an educational layer to your dive. Whether it’s your first descent or your fiftieth, Tamarin Bay offers a captivating glimpse into Mauritius’ vibrant marine world, an experience that lingers long after you surface.
12. Golden Hour Magic on the West Coast
Thanks to its location on the west coast of Mauritius, Veranda Tamarin offers front-row seats to one of nature’s finest daily rituals: the sunset. As daylight fades, the sky comes alive in vivid streaks of orange, pink, and violet, a quiet spectacle that never loses its charm. Don’t forget your camera; these moments are meant to be captured.
For the best view in the house, make your way to the rooftop bar. Overlooking the bay, this elevated spot provides sweeping views of the horizon, making it the perfect place to soak in the colours of the evening. Order a chilled drink and settle in as “apéro” hour sets the tone. The rooftop’s laid-back vibe, paired with the ever-changing sky, creates an atmosphere that’s both serene and unforgettable. Whether you’re sharing the moment with loved ones or enjoying a quiet pause on your own, the sunset at Veranda Tamarin is more than just a view, it’s a feeling. One that stays with you long after the sun has slipped away.
13. Hiking Mauritius with Yanature: Trails with a view
Mauritius isn’t just about beaches, it’s also a hiker’s paradis. With Yanature’s expertly guided hiking tours, you can immerse yourself in the island’s raw beauty while feeling safe, supported, and in tune with nature. These thoughtfully led hikes are more than just exercise; they offer a deeper connection to the island’s diverse terrain, from lush forest trails to dramatic mountain peaks.
Among the most rewarding routes is the ascent of Le Morne Brabant. This UNESCO World Heritage Site combines cultural significance with natural splendour. The climb is challenging yet achievable, and the views from the summit, stretching across reef-lined lagoons and the sweeping west coast, make every step worthwhile.
For those seeking a different perspective, La Tourelle offers another spectacular trail. Framed by rugged slopes and panoramic vistas, this hike is accessible to most fitness levels and offers an excellent opportunity to appreciate the island’s western landscape from above.
Whether you’re an avid hiker or simply craving a meaningful encounter with Mauritius’ wilder side, Yanature’s guided hikes promise memorable experiences shaped by expert knowledge, respectful pacing, and unforgettable views.
14. Paddle Your Way Through Tamarin Bay
At the Surf School, adventure doesn’t stop surfing. Stand-Up Paddleboards (SUPs) and kayaks are available for rent, offering a tranquil and immersive way to experience the calm, clear waters of Tamarin Bay. After a brief introductory course, you can confidently glide across the bay on a paddleboard, soaking in the stunning coastal views from a fresh, elevated perspective. Beyond being a relaxing activity, stand-up paddleboarding also provides a full-body workout, strengthening your core and improving your balance while surrounded by the beauty of the ocean.
For those craving a deeper encounter with nature, paddle your way toward the Rempart River. This peaceful stretch winds through a lush mangrove ecosystem, rich in biodiversity. Keep your eyes open, you might catch sight of colourful fish beneath you or exotic birds darting between the branches. It’s a moment of stillness and discovery that feels worlds away from the everyday.
If you prefer sitting to standing, kayaking is another excellent option. Whether solo or with a partner, a kayak lets you explore the bay at your own pace. Venture along the shoreline, slip into quiet inlets, and uncover hidden coves that remain untouched by larger vessels. It’s an intimate, self-guided journey into the quieter corners of Mauritius.
Fully Embrace the West Coast of Mauritius with Veranda Tamarin
From sunrise at sea with dolphins to sunset hikes through rainforest trails, Mauritius’ west coast offers a rhythm and richness all its own. Staying at Veranda Tamarin places you at the heart of it, where surfboards rest by the door, waterfalls call from the hills, and every adventure feels local and lived.
And the best part? You don’t need to overspend to experience it all.
Whether you’re chasing waves, wildlife, or quiet moments in nature, these experiences invite you to Feel Mauritius, Feel Mauritian — through land, sea, and every story you’ll bring back home.
