Tamarin Bay is a well-known surf spot located on the island of Mauritius. It gained some fame from a '70s film, The Forgotten Island of Santosha, but it's had its ups and downs over the years. While it’s not as crowded as some other spots, it still attracts a mix of locals and holiday surfers looking for a solid wave. The scenery is nice, but the vibe can be a bit tense at times, so it’s good to keep a low profile when you’re out in the water.
The surf at Tamarin Bay breaks over a live coral reef, primarily favoring left-hand waves. It works best with a moderate to big southwest swell, but it can also handle swells coming from the south. The waves usually size up around 4 ft (1.2 meters) and can be pretty fun for expert surfers looking for long, barrelling rides. However, it’s worth noting that the break gets ultra-shallow at low tide, making mid and high tide the better choice for safety. Beginners might want to stick closer to the beach or the inside reform, as the main break can be challenging with its strong currents and sharp reef.
When planning your surf session, keep in mind that southeast winds work best here. Although Tamarin Bay has been a bit overshadowed by more consistent spots in Indonesia, it still offers some unique and enjoyable surf days. Just be cautious of the urchins and coral, and remember to respect the locals and other surfers in the lineup to keep things friendly.