Tamarin Bay

Tamarin Bay is a picturesque coastal area situated on the sunny west coast of Mauritius, within the Rivière Noire District, adjacent to the village of Black River. This stunning bay is characterized by its wide and long stretch of fine sand beach, framed by lush vegetation and surrounding hills, with the majestic Le Morne Brabant mountain often visible in the backdrop. Uniquely, Tamarin Bay is a protected area without a coral reef, allowing for deep-water swimming at any tide, and it is known for its breathtaking sunsets and moonrises, making it a popular gathering spot for locals in the late afternoon.The bay is particularly famous for its excellent surfing conditions, especially during the southern winter, attracting surfers to its two world-renowned spots: 'Dal' on the left (south) and 'Black Stone' on the right (north). Beyond surfing, the bay offers opportunities for other water sports such as bodyboarding, kitesurfing, and stand-up paddleboarding. A highlight for many visitors is the frequent presence of Spinner and Bottlenose dolphins, which can often be seen playing in the bay early in the morning, with various boat companies offering trips for observation and swimming. The bay is also at the mouth of 'La Rivière du Rempart,' which can divide the bay into two parts during the rainy season, creating a 'Passe' that requires caution when crossing due to strong currents.Historically, the village of Tamarin was named in 1768 by French governor Daniel Dumas and Pierre Poivre, owing to the abundance of tamarind trees in the area. The bay itself was once known as Santosha Bay and gained international recognition after being featured in the 1974 surf documentary "Forgotten Island of Santosha." The region also boasts cultural and historical sites, including the Yemen Saltpans, where artisanal salt production has continued for nearly two centuries, and an old lime kiln dating back to 1715. Nearby, the Martello Tower, a national heritage site built by the British in the mid-19th century for coastal defense, now serves as a museum, and the historic Saint Augustin Church, built in 1857, adds to the area's charm.