What elevates Virage House from a beautiful residence to an unforgettable experience is your host: Babacar 'Babs' Thiaw, the unofficial Mayor of Dakar.

Babacar grew up right here on Plage de Virage, where he learned to surf at just six years old while watching his father dive, surf, and grill fish for the community.

What began as giving surf lessons to travelers to support his studies grew into something much bigger.

Today Babacar is the owner of Copacabana Surf Village, the beloved surf and restaurant hub his father first opened in 1978.

Known affectionately as “Babs”, he brings contagious energy whether he’s behind the bar, organizing surf lessons, or leading beach clean-ups.

As President of the Senegal Surf Rider Foundation, Babacar works to protect the ocean, support local youth, and spotlight Africa’s growing surf culture.

When you stay here, you’re not just close to the waves —you’re part of Babacar’s surf community.