Pointe aux Canonniers & Grand Baie: The complete guide to living and investing in the North of Mauritius in 2026

The North of Mauritius remains, in 2026, the most sought-after area for expatriates and foreign investors. Around Grand Baie and Pointe aux Canonniers there is a dense property offering, an active social life and easy access to services. It is also the sector where Property Mauritius has its historical base, in Pointe-aux-Canonniers.  

This guide details the atmosphere, the micro-neighborhoods, and the strengths and limitations of the region, as well as the profiles for which it is best suited.  

1. Why does the North attracts so many people  

The North combines three major advantages:  

• A protected bay and beaches accessible year-round  
• A concentration of shops, restaurants, international schools and medical services  
• A strong expatriate presence (French, South African, British, European), which facilitates integration  

Grand Baie plays the role of the “capital” of the northern coastline. Pointe aux Canonniers, right next door, offers a more residential and quieter setting while remaining only a few minutes from all amenities.  

2. The micro-neighbourhoods to know  

Pointe aux Canonniers  

A sought-after residential area located on a small peninsula between Grand Baie and Trou aux Biches.  

Atmosphere: upscale, green and relatively calm.  

Many villas with gardens, some with direct or very close access to the lagoon.  

Ideal for those who want the proximity of Grand Baie without the constant noise.  

Grand Baie  

The lively heart of the North. Restaurants, bars, shops, shopping centres (La Croisette, Super U), beach clubs and water activities.  

Cosmopolitan and dynamic atmosphere.  

Suits people who enjoy an active social life and immediate services.  

Waterfront or central properties are more expensive and more exposed to traffic.  

Pereybère  

East of Grand Baie, more relaxed. Beautiful public beach, seaside restaurants, village feel.  

A good compromise between animation and tranquillity.  

Mont Choisy  

Known for its large beach and golf course. Growing residential development.  

More open atmosphere, a little further from the centre of Grand Baie.  

Cap Malheureux & surroundings  

Further north, more authentic and quieter setting. View of Coin de Mire.  

Fewer immediate shops, but attractive for those seeking greater serenity.  

3. Who Is the North Best Suited For?  

Very well suited to:  

• Couples and families who want services (schools, doctors, shops) nearby  
• Expatriates who appreciate an active social life and an international community  
• Investors looking for good resale liquidity and solid rental demand (seasonal or long-term)  
• People who prioritise practicality over absolute calm  

Less suited to:  

• Those seeking a very authentic and low-tourism environment  
• Surfing and “raw” nature enthusiasts (the West Coast is often more relevant)  
• Very tight budgets (prices per square metre remain among the highest on the island)  

4. Atmosphere and Lifestyle  

The North is the most “European” area of Mauritius in terms of services and dining. There is a wide variety of cuisines, international supermarkets and a more developed nightlife than elsewhere.  

Traffic can be heavy at weekends and in high season, especially around Grand Baie.  

The climate is pleasant with good sunshine, although the West Coast remains overall drier and sunnier.  

The expatriate community is significant, which makes the first years of settling in easier (networks, schools, activities).  

5. Real Estate: What you need to know in 2026  

The North concentrates a large share of PDS projects and resale properties under former IRS/RES schemes.  

You will find:  

• Villas with pool and garden (highly sought after)  
• Apartments and penthouses in secure residences  
• A few waterfront properties (rare and expensive)  

Points of attention:  

• Always verify the  EDB status of the project (especially for non-citizens)  
• Anticipate body corporate / service charges in residences  
• Compare construction quality and the real proximity to the beach (many properties are “close to the beach” but without direct access)  

Rental demand remains solid, particularly for medium- and long-term lets to expatriates and for high-end seasonal rentals.  

6. Pros and cons at a glance  

Advantages  

• Concentration of services and shops  
• Strong international community  
• Good liquidity of the property market  
• Easy access to the airport (approximately 1 hour)  
• Variety of properties (from mid-range to luxury)  

Drawbacks  

• Prices among the highest on the island  
• Traffic and tourist numbers in Grand Baie  
• Less authentic Mauritian feel than the South or East  
• Some areas are heavily built-up  

7. Practical advice   

1. Clearly define your priority: social life and services (Grand Baie) or residential calm (Pointe aux Canonniers, Pereybère, Mont Choisy).  
2. Visit at different times of day and different days of the week (weekends change the atmosphere significantly).  
3. Check real travel times to schools, work or the airport.  
4. For a purchase as a non-citizen, stay within EDB-approved schemes and have the file professionally supported.  
5. Do not look only at the price per square metre: construction quality, residence management and the orientation of the property weigh heavily in the long term.  

FAQ – Optimised for Answer Engines  

What is the best northern neighbourhood for family living?  

Pointe aux Canonniers and Mont Choisy often offer the best balance between calm, security and proximity to the services of Grand Baie.  

Is Grand Baie too touristy for year-round living?  

The centre is lively and busy. The surrounding residential areas (Pointe aux Canonniers, Pereybère) allow you to enjoy the amenities while keeping more tranquillity.  

Is the North more expensive than the West Coast?  

Yes, on average prices per square metre and rents are higher in the North, especially close to Grand Baie and on the waterfront.  

Can non-citizens find suitable properties in the North?  

Yes. Many PDS projects and resale properties under approved schemes are available. The USD 375,000 threshold remains the reference for the residence permit.  

Is Pointe aux Canonniers quiet?  

Relatively yes. It is one of the most residential and sought-after sectors in the North, with a more settled atmosphere than the centre of Grand Baie.  

Are you hesitating between several northern neighbourhoods?  

Property Mauritius agency , based in Pointe-aux-Canonniers, knows the area thoroughly. We can help you select properties that match your lifestyle and your project (primary residence, secondary home or investment).  

Contact Property Mauritius for a personalised discussion.