The island of Praslin in the Seychelles is an amazing tropical paradise complete with abundant wildlife, beautiful beaches, majestic takamaka trees, and and wild nature trails.

Whether you’re visiting for a relaxing vacation or to explore the wonders like the coco de mer palm tree forests, you’ll quickly discover that there is so many things to do in Praslin Island that suits every travel-style.

In this Praslin Island travel guide, I’m offering you a run-down of the absolute best things to do including the best natural attractions and must-see highlights. Furthermore, below you’ll also find a detailed section with loads of useful information and tips for your visit including how to get there and where to stay.

More: 10 Best Accommodations, Resorts & Hotels on Praslin.

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About Praslin Island in the Seychelles

Praslin Island is one of the inner islands and is the second-largest island in the Seychelles archipelago. Praslin (pronounced prah-luhn), is also known as Île de Palme, or Island of Palms due to its abundant endemic palm species found nowhere else on earth.

White Praslin is a much quieter and more relaxed island to visit compared to Mahé Island, there is still very solid tourism infrastructure including restaurants, resorts, hotels and transport services.

It’s considered as one of the top three islands to visit in the Seychelles, along with Mahe and La Digue. If you’re traveling to the Seychelles for vacation, you’ll find that there are many things to do on Praslin from beach-hopping to nature trail hiking, making it one of the best inner-islands to visit in the archipelago.

The Ultimate Seychelles Travel Resource

Looking for more Seychelles travel guides and inspiration? Below are my most comprehensive guides that will serve as a great resource for your trip.

• 50 Things to do in the Seychelles
• Where to Stay in the Seychelles (Best Deals)
• 18 Best Beaches in the Seychelles
• 10 Best Islands in the Seychelles
• 15 Best Hikes in the Seychelles

How to Get to Praslin Island?

There are three main options for getting to Praslin Island from Mahe. I’ve written this detailed guide which goes into the details but here’s a quick summary.

Mahe to Praslin Ferry
Taking the Cat Cocos ferry is the most cost-effective and popular way to get to Praslin. It departs from Mahe and takes roughly 1 hour to arrive at Baie Sainte Anne and it costs €50. You can book this online in advance to secure a spot.

Mahe to Praslin Flight
Yes, there’s also a flight and this is what I did. Regular flights are run by Air Seychelles and depart from the Mahe Domestic Terminal (same as the international airport). The plane is tiny, accommodating about 12 people. What’s great about this option is you’ll get to see the islands from the air on a scenic flight that lasts about 10-15 minutes.

Tip: Compare flight fares on Skyscanner and CheapOAir to get the best deals.

Praslin Island Day Trip
If you’re short on time and want to see the attractions and experience the best things to do on Praslin AND La Digue in a single day, then you can book a private 1-day tour online with Creole Travel Services.

15 Best Things to do on Praslin Island

Without further ado, let’s dive into this rich list of the best things to do on Praslin Island in the Seychelles! I haven’t ranked these attractions in order so it’ll be up to you to choose your favorites!

1. Explore the Fine White Sands and Turquoise Water of the Praslin Beaches

The palm tree lined, amazing beaches of the Seychelles are world-famous for their impressive granite boulders, fine white sands, and dream-like clear blue waters.

The beaches of Praslin are by no means an exception to this, and in fact has some of the most beautiful in the archipelago! There’s also a great variety, from sandy beaches with shallow waters to high tide snorkeling spots housing healthy coral reefs.

I’ve written a complete guide below which will be useful when trying to find the best beaches and planning your itinerary for things to do on Praslin. However, here’s a summary:

• Anse Lazio
• Anse St Jose
• Petite Anse Lazio
• Anse Georgette
• Anse Kerlan
• Cote D’Or Beach (Anse Volbert)
• Cocos Island Beach
• Anse Boudin
• Anse Kerlan Beach
• Grand Anse

Read more: Best Beaches on the Island

Curieuse Island is a former leper colony but now serves as the best place toto meet the giant tortoises. That’s because the island has been turned into a Aldebra Giant Tortoise refuge, with an effective breeding program that allows the tortoises to roam free.

Book in advance: Curieuse & St Pierre Day-Trip

3. Visit The Vallée de Mai – Unesco World Heritage Site

The best thing to do on Praslin for nature and wildlife lovers is to visit the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Vallée de Mai Nature Reserve. This incredibly diverse site within the Praslin National Park is the best place to experience a forest of endemic coco de mer palm trees in a natural state.

The rare coco de mer palm is endemic to the Seychelles and is best known for producing the largest seeds of any plant. While you can spot the occasional coco de mer palm on the surrounding islands including Curieuse, the Vallee de Mai Nature Reserve offers one of the best experiences.

That’s because you’ll get to walk among the densest coco de mer forest in the world and learn all about the unique Praslin endemic species.

Book in advance: Vallée de Mai and Anse Lazio Guided Day-Trip

4. Spot a Black Parrot

Among the several rare species only found on Praslin Island is the elusive Black Parrot. This parrot uses the unique forests and nests almost exclusively in decaying coco de mer palm trees.

It’s a very beautiful bird and quite cool to be able to spot something that’s found nowhere else on earth.

Unfortunately, I didn’t get to photograph the black parrot on my visit to Praslin. However, I did spot some flying around the Vallée de Mai Nature Reserve early in the morning.

5. Visit Anse Lazio

Are you looking to add the best beach on Praslin Island to your list of things to do? Look no further than Anse Lazio on the northwest coast.

The stunning Anse Lazio Beach is one of the most pristine beaches you’ll find anywhere. It’s often rated as one of the most beautiful in the Seychelles and sometimes even in the whole world!

You’ll find plenty of shade amongst tropical takamaka trees and hanging palms. The water is a sometimes unbelievable shade of clear, turquoise blue and the fine white sands make a perfect bed for chilling. There’s even a private beach right next to it called Petite Anse Lazio.

Book in advance: Vallée de Mai and Anse Lazio Guided Day-Trip

6. Go on A Snorkeling Trip to Cocos Island

For those looking to add snorkeling to their list of what to do on Praslin, I’d recommend booking a small-group tour to Cocos & Felicity Island.

While you can certainly spot some healthy coral reefs and the occasional turtle in the Praslin Marine Park, you’ll find the most abundant sea life around these islands.

Book: Cocos, Felicity, La Digue Snorkeling Trip

7. Treat Yourself to A Beach-side Resort

The Seychelles are very much a luxury tropical travel destination. While Praslin isn’t a private island, you’ll find some of the best luxury hotels and resorts right here!

Of course, travelers will be confronted with an abundance of choice when picking a place to stay. To narrow it down, I’ve compiled a quick list of some of the best luxurious hotels and resorts below.

• Acajou Beach Resort – Where I stayed
• Berjaya Praslin Resort
• Le Château de Feuilles
• Constance Lemuria

8. Unwind at Côte d’Or Beach

Cote D’Or Beach, also sometimes referred to as Anse Volbert is the most popular beach on Praslin. This is due to its close proximity to a number of luxurious resorts, guesthouses and hotels.

This is a long stretch of pristine, soft white sand and shallow, clear blue waters. Even if you’re not staying at one of the beachside resorts, this beach is one of the best places to enjoy a long, relaxing walk.

If you’re not in the mood to wind down, you’ll find water sports and other activities like jet-ski and speedboat trips departing from this beach.

9. Visit the Fond Ferdinand Nature Reserve – Best Thing to do on Praslin For Nature Lovers

The Fond Ferdinand Nature Reserve is a 122 hectare area of dense jungle and enchanting tropical forests. This nature preserve is a was once a palm plantation but its biodiversity is recovering rapidly.

There are several nature trails through the Fond Ferdinand Nature Reserve, making it one of the best places on the island for hiking and wildlife-spotting.

10. Dine at Pirogue Restaurant & Bar

While you’re in the main tourist strip at Anse Volbert Village (Cote D’Or), make sure to stop by the Pirogue Restaurant & Bar for good food and rich history.

I’m by no means a food blogger, but I had to include this restaurant in this list of things to do on Praslin Island after my visit.

Pirogue offers a wide-range of authentic and traditional Seychellois Creole foods including delicious curries and seafood. This is a great restaurant if you are looking to surprise your significant other with a memorable meal.

11. Hike to Anse Georgette

If you’re up for a rewarding hike to one of Praslin’s best private beaches, add Anse Georgette to your list of what to do on the island.

Anse Georgette is located just to the west of Anse Lazio and rivals its beauty and esteem. You’ll find the 1-hour nature trail on the west side of Anse Lazio.

If you’d prefer not to hike, you can always stay at the Constance Lemuria Resort. This is the closest resort to Anse Georgette and provides a shorter access trail directly from the resort.

12. Take Photos at the Famous Bent Palm Tree

While many tourists choose to pick up a coco de mer as a souvenir from their visit to Praslin Island, I’m a firm believer that photos serve as better keepsakes.

While you’re strolling Cote D’Or Beach, there’s a spot with two hanging palm trees that make for the perfect photo location. You’ll find the palms directly in front of “Galerie Passerose”.

13. Visit La Digue Island

While many tourists tend to pick a spot and stay there for their entire Seychelles vacation, a much better option would be to island hop! This way, you’ll get to see so much more of what the Seychelles Islands have to offer.

If you’re planning your trip, then I highly recommend dedicated at least a day or two to visiting La Digue Island.

Getting to La Digue is very easy, quick, and affordable from Praslin Island. Simply book the Cat Rose Ferry from the Baie Sainte Anne ferry port on the east side of Praslin.

La Digue has several must-see highlights including amazing beaches like Anse Source d’Argent, several great hiking trails, and of course, the historic L’Union Estate.

Book a Day Trip From Praslin: La Digue, Coco, Felicity Islands

14. Sip a Cold Seybrew

While you’re in the Seychelles, you have to try a locally-brewed Seybrew Lager. You’ll find Seybrew in almost every resort and restaurant on Praslin Island.

Seychellois are very proud of their local lager and almost everyone will tell you that you have to try at least one during your time on the islands!

15. Enjoy the Famous Indian Ocean Sunsets

This final item on this list of things to do on Praslin Island in the Seychelles is to take a breath and really soak in those dramatic Indian Ocean Sunsets.

Praslin is a great destination for sunset chasers and the island where I witnessed some of the best in the Seychelles!

Great sunset spots include Anse Lazio, Anse Georgette, Grand Anse Beach and Petite Anse Kerlan.

Praslin Island Travel Guide

That wraps up the list of things to do on Praslin Island.

Before you shoot off ticking off those bucket-list goals, check out this detailed Praslin travel guide below for more tips and information you’ll want to know!

Where to Stay on Praslin Island

Praslin is the second largest of the inner islands and flaunts some incredible hotels and resorts. Being a little sleepier than Mahe, Praslin caters to the more relaxed crowd.

The main area to stay in Praslin is along Cote D’Or Beach. This is the main tourist strip with plenty of hotels and beachside resorts. However, there are also great resorts and accommodation options all over Praslin, including Anse Lazio.

• Amazing Beachside Resort on Cote D’Or: Acajou Beach Resort – Acajou is a beautiful resort offering 4-star accommodation right on the doorstep of the white sands of Cote D’Or. I had the pleasure of staying here and honestly, it was one of the best resorts I’ve ever stayed at. Acajou offers ocean views rooms, a swimming pool, and some of the best fine dining on the island.
• Luxury Honeymoon Suites: Constance Lemuria – Tucked away between 3 of the best beaches on Praslin, this luxury, 5-star resort is ranked as one of the best honeymoon resorts in the Seychelles. Attached is a luxury spa center complete with a hot tub and sauna set in a palm and bamboo forest.
• Budget Self Catering: Treasure Island Retreat – Those looking to enjoy nature and save a few pennies on accommodation and food, opting for a self-catering stay on Praslin is a good bet. The best one you’ll find on the island is Treasure Island Retreat. This hotel offers seafront apartments on Anse Kerlan, each complete with king-sized beds and a fully-equipped kitchen, and a furnished terrace or balcony.
• …7+ More Top Picks in this Praslin Accommodation Guide

More Top-Rated Praslin Hotels

Best Time to Visit Praslin Island

Since the Seychelles archipelago is within the subequatorial climatic zone, you’ll find stable, sunny weather year-round. This means you won’t find cyclones but seasonal rainfall periods with a constant temperature range between 25-35°C. 

The best time to visit Praslin to see is between April and May and October and November.

In saying that, I visited in December and the weather was absolutely perfect as you can see from the photos.

How to Get Around on Praslin

Praslin Island is much bigger than neighboring La Digue but it’s still much sleepier than the main island of Mahe.

Two parallel roads running the length of the island serve as the main transportation routes. Additionally, there is one access road crossing the south-central mountains, passing Vallée de Mai.

Your best bet to get around on the island is to take a taxi or book organized tours.

A Brief History of Praslin Island

Originally named Isle de Palmes by Lazare Picault in 1744, Praslin was for a long time, a secure hideaway for pirates and Arab merchants using the trade winds to cross the Indian Ocean.

Praslin has a long history of cultivation, with palm products and vanilla pods dominating their historical exports.

Praslin, just like the rest of the Seychelles Islands, experienced varying colonial rule including French and British until they gained independence in 1976.

Travel Guide: Praslin Island FAQ’s for Visitors

Below are some of the most frequently asked questions about travel on Praslin Island.

Q. What is the Population of Praslin?

The small white island of Praslin has an equally tiny population of just 7 500 people. You’ll find the Seychellois of Praslin often say that they know almost everyone, which is apparently both a blessing and a curse!

Q. Where To Go in the Seychelles, Mahe or Praslin?

So, which is better, Mahe or Praslin?

As a general comparison, there are more things to do on Mahe but being a main island, it is much busier. Conversely, Praslin still has lots of activities and beautiful beaches to explore, just with a quieter ambience and lack of traffic.

Q. How Big is Praslin Island?

Praslin Island is the second largest island of Seychelles but is still a small island with an overall size of just 14.87 square miles (3850 hectares).

Q. How Far is Praslin from Mahe?

Praslin is just under 31 miles (50 kilometers) from Mahe as the crow flies. It’s a 10 minute flight or a 1 hour ferry ride to Praslin from Mahe.

Q. WHat is Unique About Praslin?

As you’ve found in this Praslin travel guide with plenty of things to do, the island is quite unique! However, perhaps one of the most unique aspects of Praslin is that it is granitic. This means that Praslin Island is made up of granite stone.

This is a geological feature that has only ever been discovered in the Seychelles islands.

Q. WHERE IS PRASLIN LOCATED?

Praslin Island is one of the inner islands in the independent republic of the Seychelles. The island is close to neighboring Cousin Island, La Digue, and Curieuse.

More Things to do in the Seychelles

I sincerely hope that this in-depth travel guide to the best things to do on Praslin Island has helped you plan your vacation in the Seychelles.

Before you leave, make sure to check out some of my other articles. I’ve written extensively about awesome adventure and travel ideas for the region. And, I guarantee that you’ll find something new!

• 10 Best Praslin Hotels and Beach Resorts In 2023 (Seychelles)
• 10 Best Seychelles Islands You Need to Visit in 2023
• 11 Best Resorts & Beach Hotels On Mahe Island, the Seychelles (2023)
• 18 Best Beaches in the Seychelles to Visit in 2023
• 20 Amazing Things to do on La Digue Island – Seychelles Guide (2023)
• 26 Best Things to do on Mahé Island, the Seychelles – 2023 Guide
• 50 Best Things to do in the Seychelles – 2023 Travel Guide
• 8 Best Beaches on La Digue Island, the Seychelles
• 8 Best Praslin Beaches You Need to Visit in 2022 (Seychelles)
• Curieuse Island & St Pierre From Praslin – Snorkeling & Tortoise Sanctuary (Seychelles)
• How to Get to Anse Lazio Beach on Praslin, Seychelles (& Why You Should Visit)
• La Digue Hikes – 6 Best Hiking & Nature Trails on La Digue Island (Seychelles)
• Mahé Beaches: 12 Best Beaches on Mahé Island, the Seychelles
• Where to Stay in the Seychelles – Best Areas, Hotels & Resorts in 2023

The post 15 Best Things to do on Praslin Island – Complete PRASLIN TRAVEL GUIDE appeared first on We Seek Travel.

While many people visit the Seychelles for the white-sand beaches and luxury resorts, the truth is that this archipelago has so much more to offer.

That’s why I hope to fill the gap and let you in on all the epic adventure opportunities available in the Seychelles.

After spending a lot of time hiking some of the best trails on La Digue, Praslin, and Mahé, I’ve formulated this run-down of 15 awesome hikes in the Seychelles. I hope it inspires you to get out and explore more of this incredible destination.

15 Awesome Hikes in the Seychelles

1. Anse Marron Hike, La Digue

La Digue comes to the top of my list of favorite islands to go hiking on in the Seychelles.

And, one of the best hikes on the island is the nature trail to Anse Marron. This secluded hidden-gem has long been an island secret but has recently blown up on an international scale. This is largely due to a few guides opening up guided walks to Anse Marron.

Once you lay eyes on this beach, you'll soon discover why. This sheltered, private beach is one of the most breathtaking beaches in the Seychelles. It features incredibly blue water and a sheltered cove with amazing granite rock formations.

However, before you head out, it’s best to know that tourists are highly discouraged from commencing this Seychelles hike independently. Apparently, I was told that a lot of tourists get lost on this trail and require rescue and I was told I shouldn’t post directions for this reason. 

Luckily, there are small-group, guided trips that are going to be your best bet. In fact, this particular trip to Anse Marron is one of the most-booked and highest-rated tours on La Digue Island. It has 5-stars on Viator– one of the world’s best booking websites, with a Badge of Excellence on Tripadvisor. Best of all, it only costs around €40 for a whole day!

2. Morne Blanc Nature Trail, Mahe

Mahé is another incredible Seychelles island for hiking. One of my favorite hikes here is the Morne Blanc Nature Trail. This track is located within the beautiful Morne Seychellois National Park (Morne Seychelles National Park).

This is one of the best hikes for amazing views over the west coast of the island. The trail begins on Sans Soucis Road, the scenic, cross-island road connecting Victoria to Port Glaud.

The Morne Blanc trail is a steep but short climb through amazing jungle to reach the viewpoint. It's only 1.8 kilometers return, but you'll need to hike up around 230 meters of elevation to the summit (667 m above sea-level).

From the top, you’ll get a vantage point of Therese and Conception Island, running all the way down the coast to Petite Anse on the south cape.

3. Anse Cocos Hikes, La Digue

It's no secret that La Digue has some of the best beaches in the world. Besides Anse Source D'Argent, one of the absolute best is Anse Cocos.

There are two options to get to Anse Cocos on La Digue and both of them require nature trail hikes.

The easy option is to take the short coastal trail from Grand Anse. This is a very scenic, easy, and beautiful trail. It offers plenty of opportunity for wildlife spotting, including the Seychelles Paradise Flycatcher, the Bulbul, Giant Day Gecko, and the Seychelles Bronze Gecko.

If you're up for more of a challenge, you could hike to Anse Cocos from Belle Vue Road, passing the Romeo & Juliette viewpoint (below).

4. Anse Georgette Hike, Praslin

Everybody knows about the amazing Anse Lazio on Praslin.

However, what many visitors don't know is that its neighbor, Anse Georgette, is equally as beautiful. Best of all, it's much quieter too!

To get to Anse Georgette, you'll need to either stay at the Constance Lemuria Resort, or take the jungle trail over the hill from Anse Lazio.

This trail takes about an hour but is easy to follow for the duration. Start the hike from the west end of Anse Lazio beach.

5. Le Glacis Noir Trail, PRaslin

The Le Glacis Noir Trail is one of the best hiking trails on Praslin Island. You can begin this hike from the nearby Vallée de Mai.

The trail leads through the dense, tropical forests and climbs to a viewpoint tower offering an amazing vantage point of the coast. The roughly 2.8-kilometre trail is mostly shaded throughout and should take about an hour for most people to complete.

This is one of the best hiking trails in the Seychelles for wildlife spotting. Most people see multiple black parrots here!

The Ultimate Seychelles Travel Resource

Looking for more Seychelles travel guides and inspiration? Below are my most comprehensive guides that will serve as a great resource for your trip.

• 50 Things to do in the Seychelles
• Where to Stay in the Seychelles (Best Deals)
• 18 Best Beaches in the Seychelles
• 10 Best Islands in the Seychelles

6. Anse Major Nature Trail, Mahe

My favorite beach on Mahé is the remote and mind-blowingly epic Anse Major.

To get here, hikers will need to take a relatively short and easy hike starting near the western end of Beau Vallon.

The hike to this remote beach on the isolated northwest end of Mahe offers both jungle and coastal views. However, it's the view at the end that really takes the cake for the most stunning scenery.

Anse Major beach has crystal clear water, perfect white sand and an unbelievable mountain backdrop. Check out some of the images I captured of this beach from my drone.

7. Nid D'Aigle (Eagle's Nest), La Digue

Fancy hiking to the highest point of La Digue Island?

This point is known as Nid D'Airlge or the Eagle's Nest. The summit is roughly 333 meters. However, chances are you won't be beginning this trail from sea level.

The best way to hike Nid D'Aigle in the Seychelles is to begin at Belle Vue Restaurant. There's a steep but short trail leading from this restaurant all the way to the summit in less than 20 minutes.

8. Copolia Trail, Mahe

If Morne Blanc offers the best views of Mahé's west coast, then the Copolia has the best views of the east.

This trail begins on the same cross-island road, but this time closer to Victoria. The trail is also similar, being short, but steep. In total, expect just 1.9 kilometers return.

Book: Copolia Trail Guided hike

At the end, you'll be greeted with incredible views of the east coast beaches, the village of Takamaka, Victoria, and Eden Island.

Rental Cars on Mahé

If you're looking to explore the main island of Mahé, it's a good idea to rent your own vehicle. However, I recommend booking this well in advance if you want to secure a good rate as rentals are every limited during the peak season.

That's why I recommend using DiscoverCars to compare prices across different companies on Mahé.

Compare Rental Deals

9. Salazie & Pasquière Track, Praslin

This next trail is one of the longest hikes on the Seychelles island of Praslin. This is a loop trail combining the Salazie Track with the Pasquière Trail.

The path is quite level, with little incline throughout. It features several great coastal viewpoints and an opportunity to walk through some of the island's less visited areas. On this loop, you'll see:

• Anse Volbert
• Anse Petite Cour
• Grand Anse
• Anse Possession

It's best to start this one at Grand Anse and continue into the interior from there.

10. Romeo & Juliet Viewpoint Hike (Unique Viewpoints), La Digue

This next trail is a remote hike through La Digue's dense interior. This one follows several random logging trails from Belle Vue Road and therefore, I recommend contacting Henry (above) to show you the way.

The Romeo & Juliet viewpoint is an epic rock vantage point over La Digue's mostly untouched east coast.

The view stretches over the green, tropical jungle and all the way down to the Anse Cocos, Petite Anse, and Grand Anse. It’s by far my favorite view on the island.

After soaking up the views you can continue down to Anse Cocos. From here, it's best to walk back via Grand Anse to avoid the steep climb back to the road.

Related:

Where to Stay in the Seychelles (Accommodation Guide)

11. Mare Aux cochons Trail, Mahe

One of the lesser-known hikes in the Seychelles is the cross-island Mare aux Cochons trail.

While this one doesn’t offer as many spectacular views as some of the other hikes on this list, it instead allows you to experience the island's interior. That's because the Mare aux Cochons trail has some of the best plant and wildlife viewing in the archipelago.

Again, this trail is a little remote and difficult to follow. Therefore, I recommend booking a guide. My great friend Roddey (above) took me on this trail. He knows absolutely everything about the history and nature of the Seychelles and will point out all the highlights. 

12. Anse Songe Nature Trail, La Digue

Starting from Grand Anse, Anse Songe is another great short coastal nature trail on La Digue Island.

This trail begins just a few hundred meters before the access to Grand Anse beach on the southeastern end of La Digue. The track begins by winding through flat, sandy jungle before climbing over a short hill. In total, this Seychelles hiking trail should only take about 20 minutes and you could even ride your bicycle to the short hill, cutting down some time.

Anse Songe is a rocky beach that you’ll often have all to yourself. This beach is a little shallow and there is a small stretch of sand below a large granite boulder that is great for swimming (confident swimmers only) and cooling off after the walk.

13. Sauzier Waterfall Trail, Mahe

The Seychelles doesn't just have great hikes– it's even got waterfalls!

One of my favorites is Sauzier Waterfall, located just a short walk from Port Glaud, on the western side of Mahé.

The trail starts just a few hundred meters into the village from the church. There's an entry fee for this one, which is just 50 SCR per person. The hike follows a scenic track for just five minutes before finishing up at a majestic jungle waterfall complete with a deep swimming hole.

Travel tip: This waterfall is included on the 6-hour adventure tour on Mahé.

14. Ros Sodyer Rock Pool Hike, Mahe

Another unique hiking opportunity on Mahe is the Ros Sodyer Rock Pool near Anse Takamaka beach. This is quite a distance from popular tourist hubs like Beau Vallon Beach and Eden Island. So, if you're not too keen on organizing transport, then I'd recommend just booking an organized day trip to the pools instead.

The hike is roughly 45-60 minutes return at about 2.2 kilometers in total. It's a relatively easy track following jungle trails before popping out onto the granite rock features on the coast.

Book: Guided tour to Ros Sodyer on Mahe

The rock pool is very deep and is perfect for swimming in good weather. I suggest trying to line up your hike to arrive at low hide for the best experience.

15. Vallée de Mai, Praslin

The last trail on this list of the best hikes in the Seychelles is the one-and-only Vallée de Mai Nature Reserve.

Vallée de Mai is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and the best place in the Seychelles to see the endemic coco de mer palms. There is a variety of loop trail options you can take, each with amazing opportunities to see the Seychelles endemic palms.

At the entrance, there are dried examples of the coco de mer (male and female), as well as a few other Seychelles endemic palm seeds. 

There is an entrance fee of 350 SCR to enter Vallée de Mai. However, this money goes to maintaining the reserve, as well as the Aldabra Atoll.

Praslin highlights tour: Vallée de Mai & Anse Lazio

Where to Stay in the Seychelles

No doubt, picking the right accommodation for your trip is important. There's nothing like relaxing in iconic Seychelles beachside hotels after a long day of hiking.

Below you'll find great recommendations and resources when planning your visit to the Seychelles.

If you want island-specific breakdowns with more options, then also check out the guides below:

• La Digue Accommodation Guide
• Praslin Accommodation Guide
• Mahe Accommodation Guide

Best Accommodation Picks For La Digue

La Digue is quite a small island and you can get anywhere on a bicycle within 20-30 minutes. You'll find a lot of hotels on the west side of the island near the jetty but only a few along the narrow stretch of coastal road on the mostly inhabited eastern side.

On La Digue, there are a wide variety of hotel and resort offerings ranging from relatively "budget friendly" self-catering lodges to incredible luxury resorts.

Below is a quick summary of the best picks.

• Amazing Chateau: Hotel Chateau St Cloud (Mid-Range) - This is where I stayed on La Digue and I can personally recommend it as one of the best accommodation options on the island. This three-star hotel is perfect as a mid-range option as the location is excellent– just a little out from the main area on a quiet street that is close enough to both the incredible southwest beaches and the port.
• Waterfront Hotel: Le Nautique (High-end) - Rated as one of the best waterfront accommodations on La Digue, Le Nautique is a luxurious offering combining traditional Creole architecture with modern comforts including king-sized beds and rain-showers. Here, you'll also discover an amazing outdoor restaurant and beautiful garden surrounds.
• Self Catering: Dream Holiday (Budget) -located on the northern end of the island very close to the ferry terminal. Offers queen rooms with air-conditioning, TV, private bathrooms, and even a balcony. This is a great option if you're visiting La Digue on a budget while comfort and location are still a priority for you.
• ...9+ more top hotel picks on La Digue

View Top-Rated La Digue Hotels

Best Accommodation Picks for Praslin

Praslin is the second largest of the inner islands and flaunts some incredible hotels and resorts. Being a little sleepier than Mahe, Praslin caters to the more relaxed crowd.

The main area to stay in Praslin is along Cote D'Or Beach. This is the main tourist strip with plenty of hotels and beachside resorts. However, there are also great resorts and accommodation options all over Praslin, including Anse Lazio.

• Amazing Beachside Resort on Cote D'Or: Acajou Beach Resort - Acajou is a beautiful resort offering 4-star accommodation right on the doorstep of the white sands of Cote D'Or. I had the pleasure of staying here and honestly, it was one of the best resorts I've ever stayed at. Acajou offers ocean views rooms, a swimming pool, and some of the best fine dining on the island.
• Luxury Honeymoon Suites: Constance Lemuria - Tucked away between 3 of the best beaches on Praslin, this luxury, 5-star resort is ranked as one of the best honeymoon resorts in the Seychelles. Attached is a luxury spa center complete with a hot tub and sauna set in a palm and bamboo forest.
• Budget Self Catering: Treasure Island Retreat - Those looking to enjoy nature and save a few pennies on accommodation and food, opting for a self-catering stay on Praslin is a good bet. The best one you'll find on the island is Treasure Island Retreat. This hotel offers seafront apartments on Anse Kerlan, each complete with king-sized beds and a fully-equipped kitchen, and a furnished terrace or balcony.
• ...7+ More Top Picks in this Praslin Accommodation Guide

More Top-Rated Praslin Hotels

Best Accommodation Picks for Mahe

Mahé is the main island and home to Victoria, the capital city of the Seychelles. It's the largest of the inner islands and has several great places to stay. Here is a quick area guide with the top 4 accommodation recommendations below.

• Victoria and Eden Island for nightlife
• Beau Vallon for beaches and restaurants
• Private islands for the ultimate island experience

Top Accommodation Picks

• Top pick on Mahé: Eden Bleu Hotel (Eden Island) - The Eden Bleu Hotel is one of the best places to stay if you're looking to be close to the Victoria and on Eden Island. It's an amazing contemporary hotel on the foreshore of Eden Island's prestigious marina.
• Mid-range resort: Berjaya Beau Vallon Bay Resort - This beautiful, beachfront resort and casino combo offers elegantly furnished rooms with all the facilities you could ever want. Here, you'll find a large pool, three restaurants, a pizzeria, a fitness center, PADI diving center, and a tennis court.
• Budget self-catering Studio: Precious Residence - If you want to explore Mahé on a budget, then self-catering accommodation is your best bet. Precious Residence is an apartment with excellent reviews (9.5/10), offering budget apartments equipped with free WiFi, air conditioning, and a kitchenette on Grand Anse (west coast).
• Ultimate getaway: JA Enchanted Island Resort - Looking for the ultimate Indian Ocean getaway? JA Enchanted Island Resort is an impeccably beautiful resort located on a tiny private island on the footsteps of the St Anne Marine Park.
• ...10+ More Top Recommendations in this guide to where to stay on Mahé

See the Top-Rated Mahé Hotels

Things to Know About Hiking in the Seychelles

Here are some quick things to know about hiking in the Seychelles.

• Hiring a local guide is the best way to experience the awesome hiking trails in the Seychelles. This way, you’ll not only get to enjoy the nature, but you’ll learn so much about the endemic plants and animals of the Seychelles. The guys and girls below are my great friends and awesome guides:
  - Praslin: Medina
  - La Digue: Henry
  - Mahé: Roddey
• Internet & LTE connectivity is not great once you get out on the trails. If you plan to walk some of the more remote nature trails in the Seychelles, it’s best to know this in advance. You can pick up a sim card with Airtel at the Mahe airport or at Cable & Wireless Kiosks on the main islands.
• Hiking in the Seychelles is one of the best activities to do on your vacation. Most islands are mountainous with lots of untouched, jungle interior that is rich in biodiversity and has several maintained nature trails.
• The Granitic Islands of the Seychelles are very unique. This is the only place on earth where granite islands exist mid-ocean.
• Getting between islands is very easy. Read how to get to La Digue and how to get to Praslin. The most popular is to take the Cat Cocos ferry from Mahe Island to Praslin first.
• Endemic species are abundant in the Seychelles. La Digue in particular is one of the only islands where you can spot the illusive Seychelles Paradise Flycatcher.
• Individual hiking guides can be found throughout this post. These links go to detailed guides with a rundown of the specific nature trail with more photos.

Best time to Visit the Seychelles for Hiking

The Seychelles sits near the equator within the subequatorial climatic zone. What this means is that the islands enjoy a tropical and mostly-stable climate with a constant temperature between 25-35°C.

As a result, the Seychelles has great weather for hiking. However, just remember to pack plenty of water on hot days.

Furthermore, there are periods of seasonal rainfall which tend to begin in December and finish in March.

Many sources say that the best time to visit the Seychelles is during the months of April and May and October and November. However, don't be too worried about visiting in the wetter months. My recent trip was in December and I had great hiking weather almost every day!

Beyond the Trails: More Seychelles Travel Guides & Inspiration

That's a wrap for this rundown of the best Seychelles hikes and nature trail walks. Before you go, stick around for more detailed guides and inspiration for planning your trip.

Below are three island-specific guides that cover everything you need to know on Mahé, Praslin, and La Digue.

• Mahé Island Travel Guide
• Praslin Island Travel Guide
• La Digue Island Travel Guide

Alternatively, check out some of the below guides for more inspiration!

• 10 Best Praslin Hotels and Beach Resorts In 2023 (Seychelles)
• 10 Best Seychelles Islands You Need to Visit in 2023
• 11 Best Resorts & Beach Hotels On Mahe Island, the Seychelles (2023)
• 18 Best Beaches in the Seychelles to Visit in 2023
• 26 Best Things to do on Mahé Island, the Seychelles - 2023 Guide
• 50 Best Things to do in the Seychelles - 2023 Travel Guide
• 9 Best La Digue Hotels & Accommodation Options: Where to Stay in 2023 (Seychelles)
• How to Get to the Rock Pool on Mahe (Ros Sodyer) - The Seychelles
• Mahé Beaches: 12 Best Beaches on Mahé Island, the Seychelles
• Where to Stay in the Seychelles - Best Areas, Hotels & Resorts in 2023

The post 15 Awesome Seychelles Hikes and Nature Trails appeared first on We Seek Travel.

The Seychelles Islands has long been a premiere vacation destination, attracting beach lovers and tropical adventurers from all over the world. And for good reason.

From exploring white sand beaches lined with amazing granite boulders, to coming face to face with unique wildlife like giant tortoises and hawksbill turtles, there are just so many reasons why the Seychelles is one of the best places to visit.

After spending a long time photographing and documenting my own adventures on the islands I’ve formulated this ultimate travel guide, featuring 50 of the best things to do in the Seychelles! My goal is to inspire you to visit this amazing country and to find unique attractions and activities that will make it a trip to remember.

50 Best Things to do in the Seychelles

In this list, you'll find loads of activities and fun things to do for families, couples, and solo adventurers. This list isn't in any particular order and features attractions throughout the many inner islands.

If you're looking for detailed guides to the three main islands with more things to do, check out the blog posts below.

• Mahe Island Guide
• Praslin Island Guide
• La Digue Island Guide

Also, to get you orientated, I've formulated this guide to the 10 Best Seychelles Islands and this detailed Hotel, Resort & Accommodation Guide so you can better plan your trip.

Okay, without further ado, let's begin,

1. Visit Anse Source D'Argent - Best Things to do in the Seychelles for Beach Lovers

Anse Source D'Argent is featured on almost every list of things to do in the Seychelles, as well as in international travel magazines and movies!

That's because it truly is one of the most beautiful beaches in the world.

Located within the L'Union Estate on La Digue Island, Anse Source D'Argent is famous for its amazing granite boulder formations, powdery white sand, and crystal clear water lagoon.

2. Meet an Aldabra Giant Tortoise

Among one of the most unique experiences you can have in the Seychelles is to come face to face with an Aldabra giant tortoise.

Giant tortoises in the Seychelles can live up to 200 years and can weigh over 300 kilograms (660 lb)!

These tortoises are endemic to the Aldabra atoll in the Seychelles but are now found throughout the Seychelles archipelago and inner islands including Mahe, Praslin, and La Digue.

If you're planning your travels and definitely want to see one of these amazing creatures, then the best places to see them are

• Curieuse Island (the best)
• Seychelles Botanical Gardens
• The Jardin Du Roi Spice Garden on Mahe
• L'Union Estate on La Digue

3. Stay on a Private Island

If you're planning the Seychelles vacation of a lifetime, then one of the best ways to do it is to stay on a secluded private island.

This is one of the most romantic ways to enjoy your getaway. Whether it's your honeymoon or that one family vacation you always want to remember, this is a great way to experience the Seychelles.

And, luckily, there are more than a few amazing private island resorts and villas to choose from.

Below are the best, with links to check the price and availability for your dates.

• Cousine Island: Cousine Island Resort
• Félicité (Felicity): Six Senses Zil Pasyon
• Silhouette Island: Hilton Labriz
• North Island: North Island Villas
• Round Island: JA Enchanted Resort

Tip: You can also stay on Cousin Island (next to Cousine)

4. Witness the Beauty of St Pierre Islet

This next island is truly one of the most beautiful in the world.

Imagine a tiny granite rock island surrounded by crystal clear water and coral reefs. From its center, dozens of long, stringy coconut palms reach out to the horizon.

That's exactly what you'll discover at St Pierre Islet.

Of course, you can't stay on this particular island. But, luckily, there are amazing day trips you can book from Praslin. The one I recommend is a glass-bottom snorkeling tour that also includes a visit to Curieuse Island to see the giant tortoise sanctuary.

St Pierre Islet Tour From Praslin

5. See Endemic Coco De Mer Palms at Vallée de Mai, Praslin (Unesco World Heritage Site)

Seeing a coco de mer palm tree is one of the best things to do in the Seychelles for a unique natural experience. This tree is a big deal to the people of the Seychelles, and locals are very proud of it.

Grown exclusively in the Seychelles, the coco de mer palm produces the largest seed in the world. It's quite an impressive sight, and there are plenty of places to see them.

But, the absolute best place to see native coco de mer palms is at Vallée de Mai on Praslin Island. Here, you’ll find the best example of a protected coco de mer forest, as well as many other endemic palms, plants and wildlife species (including the black parrot).

Book: Praslin Island Highlights Tour (Vallée de Mai & Anse Lazio)

6. Hike to the Highest Point on La Digue: Eagles Nest

La Digue doesn't just have some of the best beaches in the Seychelles, it's also got loads of tropical nature trails and jungle hikes in its nature reserves.

One of the best hikes on La Digue is to the summit of its highest peak– Nid D'Aigle (Eagle's Nest).

This mountain towers 333 meters out of the Indian ocean and its summit offers one of the best vantage points of L'Union and all the way out to Praslin Island.

You can pick this trail up from the nearby Belle Vue Restaurant, which also serves as the best way to cool down after the hike!

7. Go Beach Hopping on Mahe

Mahe is the largest island in the inner island group and where you'll find the Seychelles capital; Victoria. What you might not expect is that the Mahe beaches are actually some of the most beautiful in the country!

From secluded, private bays with untouched, white sand and crystal clear water, to popular beaches with vibrant restaurants and epic water sports activities, you'll find it all here!

Some of the best beaches on Mahe include:

• Beau Vallon Bay
• Anse Major
• Anse Intendance
• Petite Anse
• Grand Anse

One of the best ways to explore the island and see the best beaches is to book this full-day customizable tour. This is one of the most booked tours in the Seychelles and gives you full flexibility to do and see the things you want.

Rental Cars on Mahé

If you're looking to explore the main island of Mahé, it's a good idea to rent your own vehicle. However, I recommend booking this well in advance if you want to secure a good rate as rentals are every limited during the peak season.

That's why I recommend using DiscoverCars to compare prices across different companies on Mahé.

Compare Rental Deals

8. Sun Printing - Best Things to do in the Seychelles for Families

Looking for a unique and cultural activity for the family to experience in the Seychelles?

Why not take an interactive class to learn the traditional art of Sun Printing? This unique and interesting art form involves using the sun to print patterns onto textiles. It has been used for centuries by local communities in the Seychelles, who use native plants to paint colorful fabrics. 

If you're visiting Mahe, take the family to this workshop and bring home a meaningful keepsake from your travels in the Seychelles.

Book in advance: Sun Printing Class on Mahe

9. Snorkel & Explore Curieuse Island - Best Things to do in the Seychelles For Wildlife Lovers

I briefly mentioned Curieuse Island above but visiting this gem definitely deserves its own spot on this list of things to do in the Seychelles.

Curieuse Island is a small granitic island with a curious history. For several decades this island was used to house a leper colony. However, these days it's a wildlife sanctuary and nature reserve for the Seychelles giant tortoise.

In fact, this is the best place in the Seychelles to see wild roaming tortoises. There's an effective breeding program on the island, and the giant tortoises usually hang out on the beach or munch leaves in the jungle.

Additionally, this island offers some of the best snorkeling opportunities. There's a chance to spot friendly reef sharks as well as green and hawksbill turtles here!

You'll find Curieuse Island just off the coast of Praslin, and you can get here easily by booking a day trip.

10. Take Vacation Photos at the Famous Bent Palm Tree on Praslin Island

While you can buy pareos (sarong) or a coco de mer souvenir, often the best keepsakes from a trip is a good old vacation photo.

Whether you're a couple or a family with kids, head down to the bent palm on the beautiful Cote D'Or Beach in Praslin. This is a place to take some awesome tropical photos.

You'll find this particular palm directly in front of “Galerie Passerose”.

11. Hike the Morne Blanc Trail in Morne Seychellois National Park, Mahe

Up for the best viewpoint hike on Mahe? Head over to the Morne Blanc nature trail, located on Sans Soucis Road.

Morne Blanc is one of the highest peaks on Mahe Island and offers arguably the best views of the west coast. The summit is reachable via a short but steep trail hike.

When you make it to the top, you'll be rewarded with panoramic coastal views over the west coast of Mahe. This is an excellent vantage point of Therese and Conception Island, running all the way down the coast to Petite Anse on the south cape.

12. Swim in a Natural Pool at Anse Cocos, La Digue

Anse Cocos is a breathtakingly beautiful beach found on the untamed, eastern side of La Digue Island. You can get here by walking the short trail from Grand Anse Beach.

The best spot on the beach is on the southern end, where visitors will find an amazing natural swimming pool.

Here, large, granite boulders converge on the headland to form a naturally sheltered pool. The water color here has to be seen to be believed. If the tide or waves are too rough on the beach, then the natural swimming pool is where you’ll want to swim!

Plan Where to Stay in the Seychelles in 2023

Wondering where to stay in the Seychelles? Don't miss these up-to-date accommodation guides.

• Praslin Hotel Guide
• Where to Stay on Mahé
• Best Places to Stay on La Digue

Top Seychelles Accommodation Picks

13. Stroll Through the Seychelles National Botanical Gardens

Due to the remote location in the Indian Ocean, the Seychelles is abundant with unique and endemic species. One of the best places to see all of these amazing plants is the Seychelles National Botanical Gardens near Victoria (Mahe).

I'd say this garden is definitely worth visiting as you'll see excellent examples of tropical flora from the Seychelles and around the world. Additionally, there's even a giant tortoise enclosure, in case you didn't spot one yet.

14. Relax at The one-and-only Anse Lazio, Praslin

Narrowing down the best beaches in this incredible Indian Ocean archipelago is a difficult ask. But, if I had to choose a top three, then Anse Lazio would be on it every single time.

Nestled on a cove on Praslin’s northwest coast, the island's most famous beach is an immeasurably beautiful tropical paradise. Here, you'll likely find the bluest water you’ll ever have seen. The shore is lined with sparkling white sand and scattered granite boulders dot the edge of the sand.

This is a great place for swimming or simply relaxing in this true postcard scene.

15. Go Island Hopping to Cocos & Felicity Islands

If you're planning a trip to Praslin and wondering what to do in the Seychelles, I'd highly recommend booking a snorkeling boat trip to Cocos and Felicity islands.

These two beautiful islands are located just off the coast of La Digue and Praslin. They offer some of the best snorkeling opportunities in the Seychelles where you can spot some healthy coral reefs, plenty of schooling fish and the occasional turtle.

These trips run daily from Praslin and include fresh fruit lunch and Creole BBQ. In terms of bookable activities in the Seychelles, this is one of the best.

Book in advance: Cocos & Felicity Snorkeling Tour

16. Adventure to Anse Marron on La Digue

This next adventure is to the epic Anse Marron Beach which is quickly becoming one of the funnest experiences in the Seychelles.

Anse Marron is located at the very southern tip of La Digue Island. This is an isolated beach that has long been a hidden gem!

However, it has recently gained massive popularity and acclaim for being one of the most beautiful beaches on the island. Everyone that makes the trip out here is blown away!

Unfortunately, the National Parks authorities and the local guides working on La Digue Island do not recommend tourists to make the trip out here by themselves. That’s because I was told that tourists are constantly getting rescued after getting lost on the trails. 

Luckily, there is a guided hiking tour that leads through secret trails to Anse Marron. At the end, visitors will discover a truly perfect paradise. There's a sheltered, granite rock pool section and some of the bluest water in the country!

17. Stay on Silhouette Island - The Ideal Place for a Honeymoon

Silhouette Island is an absolutely breathtaking island paradise that is home to only 200 people. Life here is laid back and traditional, and you won't find busy hotel strips here.

Instead, Silhouette Island is a quiet, but undoubtedly beautiful island. Its jagged mountain peaks, lush jungle interior and unspoiled beaches make it one of the Seychelles' last untouched paradises.

If you're considering a wild and remote island in the Seychelles far from the crowds, book a night or two on Silhouette.

The main resort is the Hilton Labriz Resort & Spa. This amazing 5-star resort features private plunge pools, private tropical gardens and is located right on the amazing Anse La Passe Beach.

View on Booking.com

18. Hike to Anse Major on Mahe

I've already let you in on the fact that Mahe has some of the most amazing beaches in the Seychelles.

But, if I had to pick a number one favorite, it'd be Anse Major. The relatively short and easy hike to this remote beach on the isolated north west end of Mahe offers both jungle and coastal views.

Once you arrive, you'll discover deep, crystal clear water, perfect white sand and an unbelievable mountain backdrop. This is not one of the very popular beaches on Mahe, but I'd say it's easily the most beautiful.

Book: Guided Trail Hike to Anse Major

19. Island Hopping & Snorkeling At Sainte Anne Marine Park

The Sainte Anne Marine Park is a marine protected area just off the coast of Mahe's capital; Victoria.

This area has the richest marine life near the island, being home to over 150 species of fish and other magnificent underwater life. As a result, if you're looking to add snorkeling to your list of things to do in the Seychelles, make sure to book a day trip to Sainte Anne Marine Park.

Most of the boat excursion day trips will take a similar route, stopping by several snorkeling spots and islands including:

• Cerf Island Reef (various spots)
• Moyenne Island
• Round Island

My favorite spot was at Cerf Island Reef. Here, I spotted hawksbill turtles, thousands of schooling fish and healthy coral reefs.

Book: Sainte Anne Marine Park Excursion from Mahe

20. Join in on the Iconic Crystal Kayak Tour

We all know that Anse Source D'Argent is a truly amazing beach on La Digue. But, did you know that the best views of this beach are from the water?

One of the most popular tours on La Digue is the Crystal Kayak Tour. This is a clear-bottom kayaking experience in the Anse Source D'Argent Lagoon. If you join in, you'll get to experience much more of this beautiful coastline, as well as a visit to Anse Pierrot.

This is the beach where the famous movie Robinson Crusoe was filmed. In my experience, this tour is one of the best in the Seychelles and easily the best way to see these world-class granite rock formations.

21. Spot Endemic Wildlife Species

One of the most exciting things to do for nature enthusiasts is to spot rare, endemic wildlife species. There are several animals and plants that call the nature reserves of the Seychelles home– and, are found nowhere else on earth!

Some of these include:

• Aldabra giant tortoise
• Black parrot
• Seychelles paradise flycatcher
• Seychelles blue pigeon
• The Seychelles Green & Bronze Geckos
• Seychelles bulbul
• Jellyfish tree
• Coco de mer palm

There are many great places to spot these iconic plants and animals. Some of the best places include Fort Ferdinand Nature Reserve (Praslin), Vallee de Mai (Praslin), Morne Seychelles National Park (Mahe) and the untouched La Digue east coast.

22. Ride a Bicycle Around La Digue Island

La Digue truly represents quaint island life. While there are a few more cars popping up every year, most people still get around by bicycle.

You can rent a bicycle for 100 SCR per day from almost every hotel or resort on the island. Once you've got your set of two wheels, one of the best things to do is to ride around the island!

While you can't do a full circumference, I highly recommend getting off the beaten path and visiting the east coast. The roads are all quite well-maintained, and there aren't too many hills!

23. Go Beach Hopping on Praslin

Just like La Digue and Mahe, Praslin also has some truly world-class beaches. If you're going to visit this epic trio of islands, you'll want to dedicate at least a day on each to beach-hopping!

From adrenaline-pumping water sports like jet ski riding and parasailing, to quite, untouched tropical paradises, these Praslin beaches are a must-visit:

• Anse Lazio (Above)
• Petite Anse Lazio
• Anse Georgette
• Cote D'Or (Anse Volbert)
• Anse Boudine
• Anse Kerlan

24. Chill Out at Grand Anse, La Digue

It seems that every Seychelles island has a Grand Anse. While all of them are impressive, the Grand Anse on La Digue is my personal favorite. In fact, I'd say it's my favorite beach on the entire island.

This beautiful stretch of white sand drops into the deep, aquatic-blue water. Along the shore, you’ll see tall coconut palms above some small local huts selling fresh fruits and cold drinks. 

Additionally, behind the beach is a short nature trail that passes a small lagoon. This area is rich in birdlife and is very beautiful.

The rock formations at the ends of Grand Anse are truly spectacular. I climbed to the top of the highest point, which is my favorite sunrise spot on the island!

25. Grab a Bite at Belle Vue Restaurant on La Digue (Amazing View)

The Belle Vue Restaurant is the tallest establishment on La Digue Island and is actually the starting point for the Nid D’Aigle hike (above).

Getting to the Belle Vue Restaurant is a bit of an adventure in itself, following a very steep and winding concrete road nearly all the way up the mountain. When I say steep, I mean it. There’s no way you’re riding a bicycle up here! 

However, once you make it to the top, you've discovered the best bar with a view in the Seychelles. They serve healthy juices, fresh meals, and of course, cold Seybrew.

26. Visit the Mission Lodge on Mahe

The Mission Lodge at the historic Venns Town is a UNESCO World Heritage listed cultural site. There are ruins here of a 19th century school dedicated to children dumped on the island following the abolition of slavery. 

The school itself was built by the London Missionary Society but is now in rubbles. There are information plaques throughout the site which details the history. Furthermore, if you continue on you’ll find an amazing viewpoint overlooking Morne Seychellios National Park.

Entry to the Mission Lodge Venns Town costs 100 SCR for tourists.

27. Go Scuba Diving

Whether you’re a seasoned pro or a beginner looking to immerse yourself in the underwater world of scuba, the granitic Seychelles islands are a great place to go diving.

What makes the Seychelles dive sites unique is that you can dive a granitic rock site. As you already know, this geology is unique to the archipelago. And, let me tell you, the rocks are equally as spectacular underwater!

There are dozens of great dive sites on Mahe, ranging from 8 meters to 30 meters in depth.

I went diving with Big Blue Divers and was taken to three amazing sites. Each was unique, including a wreck dive, a coral reef dive and a granitic rock slope dive. Highlights for me were the dozens of turtles outside Beau Vallon beach, as well as spotting a huge Manta Ray on the northwest tip of the island near Anse Major.

If you’re visiting Mahe Island during the months of October and November, you can even experience a whale shark dive! Whale sharks are not stationary in the Seychelles but migrate here every year.

28. Check Out Eden Island

Eden Island is a man-made island just off the coast of Victoria. Seychellois call this island reclaimed land. Eden Island is a luxurious area of Mahe and is complete with boutique hotels, vibrant shopping complexes, and even a high-baller super yacht marina.

If you’re looking for things to do in the Seychelles before your departing flight at the international airport, go for a stroll at Eden Island and sit down at one of the restaurants. Alternatively, stay here a night or two at one of the amazing hotels.

I chose to stay at Eden Island at the incredible Eden Bleu Hotel overlooking the marina with the amazing granite peak backdrop. I couldn’t recommend this enough if you are looking for a Mahe resort or hotel near Victoria.

29. Go Catamaran Sailing

Did you know that one of the most popular ways to experience the Seychelles is to do so by catamaran?

There are dozens of charter companies and private hire companies that allow you to sail between the islands. The amazing Indian Ocean surrounding the Seychelles is prime for sailing, with many small islands reachable within hours.

One of the top-rated catamaran day trips is onboard the Starfish. This is a great way to enjoy a cruise through the Sainte Anne Marine Park and discover the vibrant marine life of the Seychelles.

30. Hike Mahe's Mare Aux Cochons Nature Trail

One of the less-known activities you can do on the Seychelles Island of Mahe is to hike the Aux Cochons Nature Trail. This is a trail that doesn't offer as many spectacular views as the Anse Major or the Morne Blanc Nature Trail.

However, this cross-island trails allows walkers to experience some of the best plant and wildlife viewing in the archipelago. This lightly-trodden trail is perfect if you want to see the real jungle interior and get off-the-beaten-path.

However, to make the most of the experience, I recommend booking a guide. My great friend Roddey took me on this trail. He knows absolutely everything about the history and nature of the Seychelles and will point out all the highlights.

Contact Roddey on Whatsapp: +248 259 6425.

31. Visit Sauzier Waterfall, Mahe

As if beautiful beaches, mountain hiking trails, healthy coral reefs, and abundant wildlife wasn't enough. The Seychelles even has some spectacular waterfalls! This is truly a nature-lovers playground.

If you're looking for a beautiful waterfall trail that allows you to swim in a natural jungle pool, make sure to check out Sauzier Waterfall.

Sauzier is located on the west side of Mahe Island, just near Port Glaud. The entrance fee is only 50 SCR and you can spend as much time as you like here.

Book: 6 Hour Island Tour (includes Sauzier Waterfall) - TripAdvisor Badge of Excellence.

32. Stroll Through Victoria, The Seychelles Capital

Victoria is the capital of the Seychelles and one of the smallest capital cities in the world.

Located on Mahe Island, this small but vibrant city is full of history and culture. Visitors spending some time on Mahe should definitely explore Victoria. Some of the best highlights and attractions in this city include:

• The Victoria Hindu Temple
• Victoria Market (Sir Selwyn Selwyn-Clarke Market)
• Victoria Clock Tower

If you visit in the early morning, you make sure to drop by the market to pick up fresh fruit and vegetables, souvenirs, and fresh fish. If you've never tried it, I recommend buying some breadfruit. This is a delicious fruit best eaten baked or charred on a fire.

33. Hike to the Ros Sodyer Rock Pool on Mahe

Another cool attraction in the Seychelles is the Ros Sodyer Rock Pool, also called the Mahe Rock pool.

This is an awesome, deep, and round natural tidal pool located on the west coast of Mahe. To get here, you'll want to head to Anse Takamaka, then take a short walk through the jungle to reach it.

Once you arrive, you can swim and enjoy the refreshing waters in the pool. Best of all, you'll get to experience a beautiful view over the Indian Ocean. I recommend visiting at low tide for the best experience.

Book: Guided Tour to Ros Sodyer Rock Pool

34. Explore L'Union Estate on La Digue

The L'Union Estate is located on the southern end of La Réunion on La Digue's west coast. This estate offers a unique opportunity to learn about the colonial history of the Seychelles, complete with some of the oldest examples of French colonial architecture on the island.

L'Union Estate La Digue reflects a time in history when coconut farming was the primary source of income for the people of the island. The Plantation House is one of the main attractions and was once the home of a Mauritian Family who worked the estate.

Other attractions include:

• Historic Cemetery
• Traditional Coconut Mill
• Plantation House
• Granit Monolith & Tortoise Pen
• Vanilla Plantation
• Souvenir Kiosks
• Old Pier Cafe
• Farm
• Crystal Kayaks
• Anse Source D'Argent

Tip: Anse Source D'Argent is the Seychelles' most iconic beach. You'll need to pay the 115 SCR entrance fee to the estate to access it.

35. Visit the Jardin Du Roi Spice Garden on Mahe

Due to the Seychelles geographical location between East Africa and India, the archipelago has long been part of an important trading route for spices. This, combined with a tropical climate that is perfect for growing crops like vanilla, cinnamon and nutmeg, means that spice gardens are very common. 

One of the best examples of a Seychellois spice garden can be found at Jardin Du Roi.

This is a beautiful colonial-style plantation and gardens is open to the public and tourists are free to wander through the fruit and spice gardens. At the Jardin Du Roi, you’ll find everything from bananas to breadfruit trees, and even a giant tortoise pen! I highly recommend making the trip to Jardin Du Roi if you're looking for educational things to do in the Seychelles.

36 Stay in a Historic Chateau on La Digue

The Seychelles is full of amazing historic buildings and quaint french-colonialist style chateaus.

For travelers who prefer accommodation with a history to brand new luxury hotels, check out the Chateau St Cloud. This historic chateau is one of the first buildings on La Digue. It was first constructed as the plantation house of a large vanilla farm during the Napoleonic Wars. 

These days, it’s been reinvigorated and expanded to serve as one of the best accommodations available on the island. While it still has its historic touch, you can still expect modern luxuries like a swimming pool and fine-dining restaurant here.

I stayed at the Chateau St Cloud for three nights and was really blown away by the hospitality.

37. Sip Rum at the Takamaka Rum Distillery, Mahe

Would it really be an island vacation without a bit of rum?

They say that if you’re visiting the Seychelles, you have to drink the local Takamaka variety. While this is available in almost every Mahe Island resort, bar, and liquor store, visiting the Takamaka Rum Distillery is easily one of the best things to do in the Seychelles for rum enthusiasts. 

A guided tour of the distillery is a great way to learn about the history of the famous Seychelles rum and includes free tastings.

The distillery is located on the east coast of Mahe, just south of Victoria. The site where locals distill the rum is called La Plaine St. André, which is an iconic heritage site. Here, you’ll find a museum, medicinal garden, historical ruins, and even two Giant Aldabra tortoises– Taka and Maka.

38. Visit Anse Georgette on Praslin

Anse Georgette is another impeccably gorgeous beach located on the northwest side of Praslin island. As an alternative to Anse Lazio, Georgette is a much more quiet and laid-back beach. But, many consider it equally, if not more beautiful!

However, to get to Anse Georgette you’ll either need to stay at the Constance Lemuria Resort, or take a scenic 1-hour trail through the jungle. This trail picks up from the west end of Anse Lazio beach and climbs a hill before dropping back down to Anse Georgette. 

39. Hike the Copolia Trail on Mahe

Similarly to the Morne Blanc Nature Trail, the Copolia Trail is a steep but rewarding hike on Mahe with an excellent view.

The trail picks up on the same road (Sans Soucis Road) as Morne Blanc. This time, the viewpoint faces the east coast, with spectacular views over Victoria and Eden Island,

If you’re game, I highly recommend heading up the Copolia trail early for sunrise for an incredible view. This is easily the best viewpoint on this side of the island. The trail is not too long, at just 1.9 kilometers return. But, just be prepared for a steep incline and subsequent return. Don't worry, the views at the end of this Seychelles highlight is easily worth it!

Book: Guided Nature Trail Hike on Copolia Trail.

40. Snorkel Above the Coral Reefs at Port Launay National Marine Park

Tropical Seychelles life is all about the underwater world! While you can certainly get some great snorkeling in at Sainte Anne Marine Park, make sure to also visit Port Launay Marine National Park on Mahe. 

This is a quieter alternative and offers great snorkeling on coral reefs right off the shores of Port Launay Beach. Since this side of the island is much more relaxed with much fewer people. Expect to find healthy coral reefs, plenty of fish life, and even a cruising turtle or two!

Tip: Also visit Baie Ternay Marine National Park, located just beyond Port Launay.

41. See More Amazing Beaches on La Digue

I've already suggested a few beaches on La Digue you should visit during your trip. But, the truth is that there are just so many spectacular beaches that it's hard to include them all.

In saying that, these top 8 beaches on La Digue definitely deserve at least a mention in this article. Check out my guide for more photos and to narrow down your perfect beach!

• Anse Source D'Argent
• Anse Marron
• Robinson Crusoe Beach (Anse Pierrot)
• Anse Cocos
• Petite Anse
• Anse Songe
• Grand Anse
• Anse Banane

42. Visit Moyenne Island

Moyenne Island (Ile Moyenne), off the coast of Mahe in the Sainte Anne Marine Park. This is a very small island, but it has a very interesting history.

Moyenne has been made famous by its most notable occupant and owner, Mr. Brandon Grimshaw. This man was an unmarried newspaper editor from the UK. After discovering this island beauty in the Seychelles, Mr. Grimshaw purchased the island (for £10 000), and packed his life up to spend the remainder of his days here.

During his occupancy, Mr Grimshaw terraformed Moyenne Island. He brought in several fruit trees and native flora to serve as his private oasis. Interestingly, Mr. Grimshaw also imported several Aldebra Giant Tortoises onto the island, most of which are still there today.

A visit to the Sainte Anne Marine Park is a must when visiting Mahe. Most boat trips and tours stop by Moyenne, where you can see what life was like living on a tiny tropical island in the Seychelles.

43. Take a Local Bus to Port Glaud, Mahe

I always say that one of the best ways to immerse yourself in a destination and truly experience local life is to take public transport.

Luckily, the island of Mahe has a very cheap and convenient bus network. These public buses run all the way across the island and to several remote spots like Anse Takamaka and Port Glaud.

Port Glaud has beautiful beaches and is considered as one of the best places in the Seychelles for snorkeling and relaxing. Furthermore, you’ll find a beautiful small island just off the coast called L’Islette that is great for photos.

44. Stay at a Beachside Resort

If you've come to the Seychelles, chances are you're a fan of the beach. In saying that, who isn't?

One of the best parts about staying in the Seychelles for many travelers is the opportunity to book beachside accommodation. There's nothing like waking up and stepping straight out of your resort villa onto the white sands of one of the world's best beaches!

Visitors to the Seychelles are in luck. There are hundreds of amazing beachside villas, resorts, and hotels available to book. Skip to my accommodation guide below to find the best recommendations.

45. Order Fresh Fruit at a Beach Bar

One of the funnest parts for many people traveling in the tropics is to try exotic fruits they might never have heard of. If you head down to almost any beach on La Digue, Mahe, or Praslin, you'll likely find bamboo-style beach huts.

These little huts are bars, where you can order fresh fruit, cocktails, and even Creole BBQ lunches.

Treat yourself and support small local businesses!

46. Learn About Traditional Seychelles Medicinal Herbs

One thing I love about the Seychelles is that using traditional medicinal herbs and spices is still a huge part of local life. This seems to be a consistent feature of Indian Ocean Islands, and something that I discovered for the first time in nearby Sri Lanka.

In the Seychelles, you'll find most locals growing herbs and spices like ginger, ginseng, lemon grass, aloe vera, and more. Some endemic examples include Bilendbi Baron, Palmis, and the Lantanier fey.

You can learn all about the benefits of these natural herbs and spices by visiting a medicinal garden. Two of the best examples I saw in the Seychelles was at the Takamaka Rum Distillery and at Jardin du Roi.

47. Take a Scenic Flight From Mahe to Praslin

As you'll read more about in the Seychelles travel guide section below, hopping between the inner islands is very easy.

However, if you want to turn that transport time into an experience, then I highly recommend booking the scenic flight from Mahe to Praslin.

This is operated by Air Seychelles and only takes 10-15 minutes. Let me tell you, the view is easily worth the extra cost over the ferry!

48. Spend a Day Hiking on La Digue

Besides the Anse Cocos and Nid D'Aigle hikes that I've already mentioned in this Seychelles must-do list, there are a few more you might want to check out.

La Digue is my favorite island for hiking and there are great network of jungle trails. Make sure to add these to your list if you're a keen hiker.

• Anse Marron Hike
• Eagle’s Nest (Nid D'Aigle) Trail
• Romeo & Juliet (Unique Viewpoint)
• Anse Cocos Trail
• Anse Songe Trail

La Digue Hiking Guide: Best Hiking and Nature Trails

49. Sip Down a Cold Seybrew

While you’re traveling in the Seychelles, you have to try a locally-brewed Seybrew Lager. This beer is sold in almost every resort, restaurant and bar in the country.

I don't know what it is about this beer, but it seems to always go down a treat on the islands!

50. Soak in the Iconic Indian Ocean Sunsets

To wrap up this huge list of the 50 best things to do in the Seychelles, let's take a deep breath and take a moment to enjoy those iconic Indian Ocean sunsets.

The warm waters and tropical climate of the Indian Ocean produces some of the most spectacular sunsets in the world. So, head down to your favorite beach, climb up to that amazing viewpoint and soak in nature's nightly display of grandiose art.

Where to Stay in the Seychelles

No doubt, picking the right accommodation for your trip is important.

That's why I've written this detailed accommodation guide to the Seychelles. This includes all the best areas, the best islands, and the best recommendations for every accommodation budget.

If you want island-specific breakdowns with more options, then also check out the guides below:

• La Digue Accommodation Guide
• Praslin Accommodation Guide
• Mahe Accommodation Guide

Otherwise, continue reading to get some narrowed-down suggestions.

Best Accommodation Picks For La Digue

La Digue is quite a small island and you can get anywhere on a bicycle within 20-30 minutes. You'll find a lot of hotels on the west side of the island near the jetty but only a few along the narrow stretch of coastal road on the mostly inhabited eastern side.

On La Digue, there are a wide variety of hotel and resort offerings ranging from relatively "budget friendly" self-catering lodges to incredible luxury resorts.

Below is a quick summary of the best picks.

• Amazing Chateau: Hotel Chateau St Cloud (Mid-Range) - This is where I stayed on La Digue and I can personally recommend it as one of the best accommodation options on the island. This three-star hotel is perfect as a mid-range option as the location is excellent– just a little out from the main area on a quiet street that is close enough to both the incredible southwest beaches and the port.
• Waterfront Hotel: Le Nautique (High-end) - Rated as one of the best waterfront accommodations on La Digue, Le Nautique is a luxurious offering combining traditional Creole architecture with modern comforts including king-sized beds and rain-showers. Here, you'll also discover an amazing outdoor restaurant and beautiful garden surrounds.
• Self Catering: Dream Holiday (Budget) -located on the northern end of the island very close to the ferry terminal. Offers queen rooms with air-conditioning, TV, private bathrooms, and even a balcony. This is a great option if you're visiting La Digue on a budget while comfort and location are still a priority for you.
• ...9+ more top hotel picks on La Digue

View Top-Rated La Digue Hotels

Best Accommodation Picks for Praslin

Praslin is the second largest of the inner islands and flaunts some incredible hotels and resorts. Being a little sleepier than Mahe, Praslin caters to the more relaxed crowd.

The main area to stay in Praslin is along Cote D'Or Beach. This is the main tourist strip with plenty of hotels and beachside resorts. However, there are also great resorts and accommodation options all over Praslin, including Anse Lazio.

• Amazing Beachside Resort on Cote D'Or: Acajou Beach Resort - Acajou is a beautiful resort offering 4-star accommodation right on the doorstep of the white sands of Cote D'Or. I had the pleasure of staying here and honestly, it was one of the best resorts I've ever stayed at. Acajou offers ocean views rooms, a swimming pool, and some of the best fine dining on the island.
• Luxury Honeymoon Suites: Constance Lemuria - Tucked away between 3 of the best beaches on Praslin, this luxury, 5-star resort is ranked as one of the best honeymoon resorts in the Seychelles. Attached is a luxury spa center complete with a hot tub and sauna set in a palm and bamboo forest.
• Budget Self Catering: Treasure Island Retreat - Those looking to enjoy nature and save a few pennies on accommodation and food, opting for a self-catering stay on Praslin is a good bet. The best one you'll find on the island is Treasure Island Retreat. This hotel offers seafront apartments on Anse Kerlan, each complete with king-sized beds and a fully-equipped kitchen, and a furnished terrace or balcony.
• ...7+ More Top Picks in this Praslin Accommodation Guide

More Top-Rated Praslin Hotels

Best Accommodation Picks for Mahe

Mahé is the main island and home to Victoria, the capital city of the Seychelles. It's the largest of the inner islands and has several great places to stay. Here is a quick area guide with the top 4 accommodation recommendations below.

• Victoria and Eden Island for nightlife
• Beau Vallon for beaches and restaurants
• Private islands for the ultimate island experience

Top Accommodation Picks

• Top pick on Mahé: Eden Bleu Hotel (Eden Island) - The Eden Bleu Hotel is one of the best places to stay if you're looking to be close to the Victoria and on Eden Island. It's an amazing contemporary hotel on the foreshore of Eden Island's prestigious marina.
• Mid-range resort: Berjaya Beau Vallon Bay Resort - This beautiful, beachfront resort and casino combo offers elegantly furnished rooms with all the facilities you could ever want. Here, you'll find a large pool, three restaurants, a pizzeria, a fitness center, PADI diving center, and a tennis court.
• Budget self-catering Studio: Precious Residence - If you want to explore Mahé on a budget, then self-catering accommodation is your best bet. Precious Residence is an apartment with excellent reviews (9.5/10), offering budget apartments equipped with free WiFi, air conditioning, and a kitchenette on Grand Anse (west coast).
• Ultimate getaway: JA Enchanted Island Resort - Looking for the ultimate Indian Ocean getaway? JA Enchanted Island Resort is an impeccably beautiful resort located on a tiny private island on the footsteps of the St Anne Marine Park.
• ...10+ More Top Recommendations in this guide to where to stay on Mahé

See the Top-Rated Mahé Hotels

Seychelles Travel Guide & Tips

After reading that massive Seychelles must-do list, you might have some questions. Or, you might be interested in finding out some tips and insights to making your trip planning easier and more affordable.

Below I'll give you just that, and hope to answer any questions you have about traveling in the Seychelles.

What Are the Best Places & Islands to Visit?

Most first-time visitors to the Seychelles tend to stick to the three main islands; Mahe, Praslin, and La Digue.

Here's a quick breakdown of each.

Mahe - The Capital of the Seychelles

Chances are, if you’re flying into the Seychelles, you’ll land on Mahe, the largest island in the inner island group. That’s because Mahe is where you’ll find the Seychelles International Airport.

My advice is to spend at least a couple of days here exploring all of the great beaches and hiking trails. Victoria, the capital, and Eden Island are also worth stopping by.

Get here by flying into the International Airport. I suggest comparing flights on Skyscanner and CheapOAir to find the best rates.

Praslin - Quieter alternative to Mahe

Praslin is much more laid back than the main island of Mahe. And, you’ll find the same amazing turquoise waters, relaxing beaches and snorkeling opportunities here. 

With beaches like Anse Georgette and Anse Lazio, and awesome island hopping opportunities like those to St Pierre and Curieuse, you'll want at least two to three days here.

Get to Praslin by taking the Cat Cocos ferry. This is the most cost-effective and popular way to get to Praslin. It departs from Mahe and takes roughly 1 hour to arrive at Baie Sainte Anne and it costs €50.

Alternatively, take the scenic flight from the Mahe Domestic Terminal (same as the international airport). The plane is tiny, accommodating about 12 people. What’s great about this option is you’ll get to see the islands from the air on a scenic flight that lasts about 10-15 minutes.

More: How to Get to Praslin

La Digue - Smallest & Most Relaxed

La Digue is my personal favorite island in the Seychelles. It seems to have created the perfect balance of adventure opportunities, relaxed vibes, and tourism infrastructure.

From amazing beaches like Anse Source D'Argent, to hiking trails like Nid D'Aigle, you'll want at least two to three days here as well.

To get to La Digue, I suggest taking the Cat Cocos (fast ferry) directly to the island from Mahe, which costs roughly €60 and takes 1 hour and 15 minutes. Alternatively, make your way to Praslin first, then take the ferry from Praslin to La Digue (Cat Rose).

More: How to get to La Digue

How Many Days In the Seychelles?

This is a difficult question to answer and one that will depend on what you will want to do in the Seychelles.

Most people typically spend 10 days in the Seychelles. This will give you a solid amount of time to check out the three main islands.

However, if time and money permits, I'd recommend spending at least 2 weeks on a Seychelles vacation. As you can see from this travel guide, there are so many things to do in the Seychelles, and ticking off all fifty will be a long task!

Best Time to Visit the Seychelles

The Seychelles sits near the equator within the subequatorial climatic zone. What this means is that the islands enjoy a tropical and mostly-stable climate with a constant temperature between 25-35°C.

As a result, you can generally expect sunny weather year-round with no risk of cyclones. However, there are periods of seasonal rainfall which tend to begin in December and finish in March.

Many sources say that the best time to visit the Seychelles is during the months of April and May and October and November. However, don't be too worried about visiting in the wetter months. My recent trip was in December and as you can see, I enjoyed great weather.

Essential Things to Know About Visiting the Seychelles

• Currency & ATMs: Seychellois rupee (SCR), at the time of writing, 15 SCR is equivalent to approximately 15 Euros. You'll find ATMs on all islands including Praslin, La Digue, and Mahe.
• Internet: Wifi is notoriously slow in the Seychelles. However, LTE (4G) connection is surprisingly quite fast and reliable on all the main islands. There are two main operators; Airtel and Cable and Wireless. You can pick up a sim card when you arrive at Mahe airport at the stall outside arrivals.
• Language: The three official languages of the Seychelles are Seychellois Creole, English, and French. Almost everyone speaks great English which makes travel very easy.
• Clients: One interesting thing that I discovered is that Seychellois call tourists "clients". This isn't that important to know but something I found quite funny and made me feel a little bit fancy.
• Cost: The Seychelles isn't a very budget-friendly place, favoring the honeymoon and luxury crowd. However, it is possible to travel in the Seychelles on a decent budget if you stick to self-lodging accommodation and pick things to do that are free like hiking and beach-hopping.

More Seychelles Things to do & Guides

That is a wrap for this mega travel guide to the Seychelles. I hope you've discovered some awesome attractions, activities, or generally all-round fun things to do!

If you enjoyed this article, make sure to check out some of the other blog posts. I've spent a great deal of time photographing and documenting my own adventures around the Seychelles islands and I'm sure you'll find something you didn't know about before!

• 10 Best Praslin Hotels and Beach Resorts In 2023 (Seychelles)
• 10 Best Seychelles Islands You Need to Visit in 2023
• 11 Best Resorts & Beach Hotels On Mahe Island, the Seychelles (2023)
• 15 Awesome Seychelles Hikes and Nature Trails
• 18 Best Beaches in the Seychelles to Visit in 2023
• 26 Best Things to do on Mahé Island, the Seychelles - 2023 Guide
• 8 Best Praslin Beaches You Need to Visit in 2022 (Seychelles)
• 9 Best La Digue Hotels & Accommodation Options: Where to Stay in 2023 (Seychelles)
• How to Get to Anse Major Beach on Mahe Island, the Seychelles (Nature Trail)
• Mahé Beaches: 12 Best Beaches on Mahé Island, the Seychelles
• Where to Stay in the Seychelles - Best Areas, Hotels & Resorts in 2023

The post 50 Best Things to do in the Seychelles – 2023 Travel Guide appeared first on We Seek Travel.

I think that most people would agree that the Seychelles archipelago is one of the most amazing and beautiful island paradises in the world.

Is lazing on beautiful beaches and snorkeling on pristine coral reefs your kind of thing? What about hiking and discovering unique and endemic wildlife like the Aldabra giant tortoise?

Okay, it’s no wonder why hundreds of thousands of people flock to this Indian Ocean paradise every single year!But, with 115 islands and amazing coral atolls, it’s a tough task narrowing down the best Seychelles islands to visit.

That’s why I’ve formulated this travel guide, breaking down the top 10 best islands in the Seychelles. Here, you’ll find the best ones you should check out on your next vacation, as well as a detailed guide on how to get around to the main islands and where to stay.

About the Seychelles Islands

The Seychelles Islands refers to the island nation of the Seychelles and is comprised of 115 islands. Many of these islands are uninhabited, with most people living in the main, inner island group.

In fact, the main island of Mahe (Mahé - pronounced mah-he) is home to 90% of the 100,000 population. However, that doesn't mean that Mahe is the only place tourists typically visit– far from it!

The truth is that visitors actually do visit more than one island on their trip to the Seychelles.

Usually, it's the three main islands, Mahe, Praslin, and La Digue. These are all within a quick ferry or 10-minute scenic flight distance and have solid tourist infrastructure.

However, If you want to get off the beaten path or perhaps discover a more secluded and unique Seychelles Island, you'll have 7 more to choose from in this list below.

Did you know: Many of the Seychelles Islands are mid-ocean granitic islands. This is a geological feature found nowhere else in the world. This is why the iconic beaches and landscapes are so uniquely beautiful.

Where Are the Seychelles Islands Located?

The Seychelles Islands are located in the Indian Ocean, off the coast of East Africa. This is referred to as the Somali Sea.

This archipelago is quite vast and massively spread out. In fact, the main island of Mahe is separated from the southern Aldabra Atoll by over 1000 kilometers of deep, blue ocean.

When tourists refer to the Seychelles islands, they're often referring to the inner island group. This group of roughly 44 islands is located in what's called the Seychelles Bank.

Map of the Seychelles Islands

Below is a useful map showing the locations of all of the best islands in the Seychelles featured in this blog post.

10 Best Seychelles Islands to Visit

By now you're an expert about the Seychelles. But that's not why you came here. You're here to discover your next tropical holiday destination.

So, without further ado, let's dive into this list of the 10 best islands in the Seychelles!

1. Mahe - Main Island of the Seychelles

I've already introduced Mahe Island as the main island of the Seychelles. This is where you will find the capital city of Victoria– one of the smallest capital cities in the world.

To the south of Victoria, you'll also find the Seychelles International Airport, which is likely where you will fly into when visiting as it's the only international airport in the archipelago.

However, the truth is that it's so much more than just a transfer hub or financial capital. Mahe is a true adventurers playground. In its dense, jungle interior of Morne Seychellois National Park, visitors will discover several scenic nature trails. On the coast, dramatic boulder and palm-tree-lined pristine beaches are around every corner.

There's many reasons why you should visit this amazing island. From wandering in the Botanical Gardens to epic water sports activities at Beau Vallon Bay, there's really something for everyone here.

Below are some starting points. Some contain links to separate blog posts where I've written about the attraction, destination, or resource.

• Where to stay on Mahe
• Best Beaches on Mahe
• The Morne Blanc Nature Trail
• The Ros Sodyer Rock Pool
• Sauzier Waterfall
• Anse Major Beach

2. La Digue - My Favorite Island in the Seychelles

It's hard to find a travel resource on the Seychelles islands that doesn't at least mention La Digue.

This quaint little slice of paradise is the smallest of the three main islands. Here, most people get around by bicycle, and you certainly won't find any traffic jams!

La Digue is often used as the poster-boy for Seychelles tourism. That's because its beaches are truly some of the most beautiful in the world. Let me tell you, it's definitely worth visiting!

Most people flock here to see the beautiful granite boulders, weathered rock formations and the peaceful, palm tree lined, shallow water lagoons like those at Anse Source D'Argent.

There is also plenty of coral reef surrounding the island, where you can snorkel and spot abundant sea life.

Below is a list of some of the best resources and activities you'll want to add to your La Digue planning list.

• How to get to La Digue
• Where to stay on La Digue
• Best La Digue Beaches
• Anse Source D'Argent
• L'Union Estate
• Grand Anse
• Anse Cocos
• Anse Marron
• La Digue Nature Trails

The Ultimate Seychelles Travel Resource

Looking for more Seychelles travel guides and inspiration? Below are my most comprehensive guides that will serve as a great resource for your trip.

• 50 Things to do in the Seychelles
• Where to Stay in the Seychelles (Best Deals)
• 18 Best Beaches in the Seychelles
• 15 Best Hikes in the Seychelles

3. Praslin - Where to See Coco De Mer Palms

Chances are you don't know what a coco de mer palm is. However, in the Seychelles, this endemic palm tree species is a big deal!

Grown exclusively in the Seychelles, the coco de mer palm produces the largest seed in the world. The absolute best place to see this marvel is on Praslin Island, where you'll find the best example of a protected coco de mer forest and a chance to spot rare black parrots.

But, that's not the only reason why you need to visit Praslin. Located just a short hop from La Digue, this pristine, laid back island is another true paradise with loads of excellent resorts, beach hotels, and 5-star all-inclusive honeymoon suites.

As a result, this is one of the best islands in the Seychelles for a family vacation, offering plenty of things to do.

This is the second largest island in the inner island group, and it's also the second most populous. However, it's still much quieter than Mahe.

Additionally, its amazing beaches like Cote D'Or, Anse Georgette, and Anse Lazio are an absolute must-see when visiting the Seychelles islands. Here are some more resources that'll prove useful.

• How to get to Praslin
• Where to stay on Praslin
• Best beaches on Praslin
• Anse Lazio Beach
• Vallée de Mai (Unesco World Heritage Site)

Plan Where to Stay in the Seychelles in 2023

Wondering where to stay in the Seychelles? Don't miss these up-to-date accommodation guides.

• Praslin Hotel Guide
• Where to Stay on Mahé
• Best Places to Stay on La Digue

Top Seychelles Accommodation Picks

4. Curieuse - Best Seychelles Island to See Giant Tortoises

One of the best islands in the Seychelles to visit on day trips is Curieuse Island. And, it's also the best place to come face to face with a Seychelles Aldabra giant tortoise.

Curieuse Island, which was once upon a time a leper colony, has been transformed into the largest tortoise sanctuary outside of the Aldabra atoll. The tortoises on Curieuse roam freely around the island and are often found chilling right on the beach. It's almost impossible not to spot them!

There are also great beaches like Anse St Jose, and scenic nature trails through jungle and native mangrove forests.

Since it's a sanctuary, you can't actually stay on Curieuse Island. Instead, the most popular and best way to get here is to book a snorkeling and island hopping day trip from Praslin.

This boat trip is one of the top-rated tours in the Seychelles and the most cost-effective and value-packed way to get to this amazing Seychelles island. You'll also get a traditional Creole lunch including freshly BBQ'd fish and fresh fruit.

5. St Pierre - Best Island for Coral Reefs

This next island on the list has to be seen to be believed.

St Pierre Islet, located just off the coast of Praslin, is a tiny granite rock formation with strings of coconut palms reaching out from its center. However, this is a very small island and is usually visited as part of the same snorkeling and island hopping trip linked above.

Surrounding its shores is amazing, crystal-clear turquoise water and coral reefs. As a result, this is one of the best islands in the Seychelles for snorkeling and scuba diving.

Truth be told, after traveling full-time for over 4 years to many of the world’s best tropical islands, St Pierre Islet stole my heart and I’d consider it the most beautiful and perfect island I’ve ever seen.

6. Silhouette Island - Best Seychelles Island for a Romantic Getaway

If you find yourself on the shores of Beau Vallon beach on Mahe, you'll spot a steep silhouette climbing deep into the clouds. That's exactly how this next island earned its name.

Silhouette Island is an absolutely breathtaking paradise that is home to only 200 people. Life here is laid back and traditional. For example, the local people of Silhouette still practice the same traditional methods of agriculture that they did hundreds of years ago!

If you're considering a wild and remote island in the Seychelles far from the crowds, check out Silhouette Island.

The main place to stay on this Seychelles island is the Hilton Seychelles Labriz Resort & Spa. This amazing 5-star resort features private plunge pools, private tropical gardens and is located right on the beach. Also, the mountain backdrops here are absolutely stunning and the main beach of Anse La Passe is a must-visit!

7. Cocos Island - Best Island for Snorkeling

If you're coming to the Seychelles, you'll want to take this opportunity to do some snorkeling!

One of the best Seychelles islands for snorkeling is Cocos Island. This is a tiny, rocky island located near La Digue and Praslin.

Similarly to St Pierre, this tiny islet doesn't offer any accommodation opportunities. Instead, its isolated nature means it's a haven for marine life and schooling fish. If you're lucky, you could even spot some green and hawksbill turtles cruising past this spot!

Cocos Island is located next to Felicity Island, which visitors also usually stop by if taking an island hopping or snorkeling trip.

Again, one of the best boat trips is offered from Praslin. I'll link it below so you can book it in advance.

8. Cousine Island - Best Seychelles Island for Honeymoon

In terms of tropical private islands, they really don't come as romantic or outright incredible as Cousine Island. This isn't to be confused with Cousin Island, which is another, small neighboring islet.

Cousine is situated just off the coast of Mahe and is privately owned by a Cousine Island Resort Villas. Consequently, you'll need to be a guest to have the privilege of visiting this amazing tropical island.

But, if you're already trying to narrow down the best Seychelles islands for a romantic honeymoon, the French colonial-styled private villas on Cousine should be on the top of your list! But, due to the exclusivity, this one often sells out– make sure to book in advance!

The best part about staying here is that no matter where you go, you’re always 1 minute’s walk from the beach!

9. Moyenne Island - HIstoric Island in The Ste Anne Marine Park

Moyenne Island (Ile Moyenne), in the Sainte Anne Marine Park off the coast of Mahe, is amongst the most interesting islands in the Seychelles.

This island has been made famous by its most notable occupant and owner, Mr. Brandon Grimshaw.

This unmarried newspaper editor from England saw the beauty of the Seychelles Islands and decided to purchase Moyenne for £10,000 and remained there until his passing.

During his occupancy, he terraformed Moyenne Island, bringing in several fruit trees and native flora to serve as his private oasis. Interestingly, Mr. Grimshaw also brought several Aldebra Giant Tortoises onto the island, most of which are still there today.

A visit to the Sainte Anne Marine Park is a must when visiting Mahe. Most boat trips and tours stop by Moyenne, where you can see what life was like living on a tiny tropical island in the Seychelles.

10. North Island - Private Luxury Island

Truthfully, Cousine Island isn't the only luxury private oasis in the Seychelles.

In fact, there are dozens!

However, this is the list of the very best islands. So, this wouldn't be complete without including North Island (Ile du Nord). This rocky islet is one of the most exclusive private islands in the country, offering just 11 villas spaciously dotted along the island's untouched beaches.

Of course, since this is an exclusive island, you'll again need to be a guest to visit. If you do choose to stay here, you'll get transfers included, as well as access to scuba diving, an incredible spa and an array of fancy beach-side dining options.

Where to Stay in the Seychelles Islands

Now that you know the 10 very best Seychelles islands to visit on your next vacation, time to plan where to stay.

Below I've included the very best picks, with photos and details for each option. However, if you want a more detailed accommodation rundown with more island options, check out my Ultimate Seychelles Accommodation Guide, or the island-specific guides below.

• Mahe Accommodation Guide
• La Digue Accommodation Guide
• Praslin Accommodation Guide

Stay on a private Island

The Seychelles is luxury honeymoon heaven. The best way to celebrate your engagement, wedding, or once-in-a-lifetime family vacation is to spend a night or two on a private island.

Here are your absolute best options.

1. Silhouette Island: Hilton Labriz resort & Spa

It’s no secret that Silhouette Island is one of the most amazing islands in the Seychelles. If you’re going to visit, you’ll want to stay at the one and only Hilton Labriz Resort and Spa.

The spectacular backdrops of soaring mountains and the sound of a gentle breeze rolling in over the Indian Ocean. That’s what I call true tropical tranquility. Silhouette Island offers one of the most unique Seychelles accommodation experiences, with a chance to stay on an island with only 200 inhabitants!

This beach resort features a stunning pool, private garden, and direct access to a spectacular, palm tree lined, white sand beach.

Cousine Island: Cousine Island Resort Villas

This green, tropical private island resort is easily one of the most beautiful in the Seychelles. In fact, Cousine received a best island destination award in recent luxury travel competitions. 

This incredible little island features French colonial-styled luxury, private villas amongst lush island greenery. Additionally, the best part about staying here is that no matter where you go, you’re always 1 minute’s walk from the beach! 

Cousine is located just off the coast of Mahe and a private transfer to the island is included if you book your accommodation here.

North Island: Luxury Collection Resort

You already know North Island is one of the premiere private island getaways in the Seychelles.

The best part about staying here is that there are only 11 villas on the entire island. And, they are all split apart, meaning you'll get a true secluded, private island experience.

There's also plenty to do here, from scuba diving to lazing at the the luxury spa.

Round Island: Ja Enchanted Island Resort

Looking for the ultimate Indian Ocean getaway? JA Enchanted Island Resort is an impeccably beautiful resort located on a tiny private island on the footsteps of the St Anne Marine Park.

The French colonial-style villas have a private infinity pool, a terrance with panoramic views and a private walkway to the beach. If you're looking for a one-of-a-kind honeymoon getaway that is very close to Mahe and easy to get to, this is your best bet.

Best Picks For La Digue

La Digue is quite a small island and you can get anywhere on a bicycle within 20-30 minutes. You'll find a lot of hotels on the west side of the island near the jetty but only a few along the narrow stretch of coastal road on the mostly inhabited eastern side.

On La Digue, there are a wide variety of hotel and resort offerings ranging from relatively "budget friendly" self-catering lodges to incredible luxury resorts.

Below is a quick summary of the best picks.

• Amazing Chateau: Hotel Chateau St Cloud (Mid-Range) - This is where I stayed on La Digue and I can personally recommend it as one of the best accommodation options on the island. This three-star hotel is perfect as a mid-range option as the location is excellent– just a little out from the main area on a quiet street that is close enough to both the incredible southwest beaches and the port.
• Waterfront Hotel: Le Nautique (High-end) - Rated as one of the best waterfront accommodations on La Digue, Le Nautique is a luxurious offering combining traditional Creole architecture with modern comforts including king-sized beds and rain-showers. Here, you'll also discover an amazing outdoor restaurant and beautiful garden surrounds.
• Self Catering: Dream Holiday (Budget) -located on the northern end of the island very close to the ferry terminal. Offers queen rooms with air-conditioning, TV, private bathrooms, and even a balcony. This is a great option if you're visiting La Digue on a budget while comfort and location are still a priority for you.
• ...9+ more top hotel picks on La Digue

View Top-Rated La Digue Hotels

Best Picks for Praslin Island

Praslin is the second largest of the inner islands and flaunts some incredible hotels and resorts. Being a little sleepier than Mahe, Praslin caters to the more relaxed crowd.

The main area to stay in Praslin is along Cote D'Or Beach. This is the main tourist strip with plenty of hotels and beachside resorts. However, there are also great resorts and accommodation options all over Praslin, including Anse Lazio.

• Amazing Beachside Resort on Cote D'Or: Acajou Beach Resort - Acajou is a beautiful resort offering 4-star accommodation right on the doorstep of the white sands of Cote D'Or. I had the pleasure of staying here and honestly, it was one of the best resorts I've ever stayed at. Acajou offers ocean views rooms, a swimming pool, and some of the best fine dining on the island.
• Luxury Honeymoon Suites: Constance Lemuria - Tucked away between 3 of the best beaches on Praslin, this luxury, 5-star resort is ranked as one of the best honeymoon resorts in the Seychelles. Attached is a luxury spa center complete with a hot tub and sauna set in a palm and bamboo forest.
• Budget Self Catering: Treasure Island Retreat - Those looking to enjoy nature and save a few pennies on accommodation and food, opting for a self-catering stay on Praslin is a good bet. The best one you'll find on the island is Treasure Island Retreat. This hotel offers seafront apartments on Anse Kerlan, each complete with king-sized beds and a fully-equipped kitchen, and a furnished terrace or balcony.
• ...7+ More Top Picks in this Praslin Accommodation Guide

More Top-Rated Praslin Hotels

Best Picks for Mahe

Mahé is the main island and home to Victoria, the capital city of the Seychelles. It's the largest of the inner islands and has several great places to stay. Here is a quick area guide with the top 4 accommodation recommendations below.

• Victoria and Eden Island for nightlife
• Beau Vallon for beaches and restaurants
• Private islands for the ultimate island experience

Top Accommodation Picks

• Top pick on Mahé: Eden Bleu Hotel (Eden Island) - The Eden Bleu Hotel is one of the best places to stay if you're looking to be close to the Victoria and on Eden Island. It's an amazing contemporary hotel on the foreshore of Eden Island's prestigious marina.
• Mid-range resort: Berjaya Beau Vallon Bay Resort - This beautiful, beachfront resort and casino combo offers elegantly furnished rooms with all the facilities you could ever want. Here, you'll find a large pool, three restaurants, a pizzeria, a fitness center, PADI diving center, and a tennis court.
• Budget self-catering Studio: Precious Residence - If you want to explore Mahé on a budget, then self-catering accommodation is your best bet. Precious Residence is an apartment with excellent reviews (9.5/10), offering budget apartments equipped with free WiFi, air conditioning, and a kitchenette on Grand Anse (west coast).
• Ultimate getaway: JA Enchanted Island Resort - Looking for the ultimate Indian Ocean getaway? JA Enchanted Island Resort is an impeccably beautiful resort located on a tiny private island on the footsteps of the St Anne Marine Park.
• ...10+ More Top Recommendations in this guide to where to stay on Mahé

See the Top-Rated Mahé Hotels

More: Best Time to Visit The Seychelles Islands

Since the Seychelles sits near the equator within the subequatorial climatic zone, the islands enjoy a tropical and mostly stable climate with a constant temperature range between 25-35°C.

As a result, you can generally expect sunny weather year-round with no risk of cyclones or severe storms. However, there are periods of seasonal rainfall which tend to begin in December and finish in March.

Many sources say that the best time to visit the Seychelles islands is during the months of April & May and October & November.

However, I visited in December and as you can see from the photos, I enjoyed excellent weather!

More Inspiring Travel Guides and Blogs

I hope you've enjoyed this 2023 travel guide to the top islands in the Seychelles! Below are some more useful guides you mihgt want to check out for your next trip.

• 15 Awesome Seychelles Hikes and Nature Trails
• 15 Best Things to do on Praslin Island - Complete PRASLIN TRAVEL GUIDE
• 18 Best Beaches in the Seychelles to Visit in 2023
• 26 Best Things to do on Mahé Island, the Seychelles - 2023 Guide
• 50 Best Things to do in the Seychelles - 2023 Travel Guide
• Epic Mahe Snorkeling Boat Excursion to Sainte Anne Marine National Park (2023)
• How to Get to the Rock Pool on Mahe (Ros Sodyer) - The Seychelles
• Mahé Beaches: 12 Best Beaches on Mahé Island, the Seychelles
• Where to Stay in the Seychelles - Best Areas, Hotels & Resorts in 2023

The post 10 Best Seychelles Islands You Need to Visit in 2023 appeared first on We Seek Travel.

The Seychelles is the definition of tropical island paradise. Located in the heart of the Indian Ocean, this archipelago is home to some of the most beautiful and unique beaches in the world.

But, with so many amazing Seychelles beaches to choose from, it’s hard to find the time to visit them all! After spending loads of time exploring and photographing these amazing granitic islands, I’ve formulated this shortlist of the 18 best beaches in the Seychelles to get you inspired!

18 Best Beaches in the Seychelles

1. Anse Major, Mahe

While I haven't compiled this list in any particular order, Anse Major really is up there with the absolute best beaches in the Seychelles.

Anse Major beach is a pristine, white sand beach with crystal clear, deep, turquoise water. You’ll find it located on the northwestern end of Mahe Island. However, to get here, you’ll need to complete a relatively short but scenic nature trail walk. 

Book in advance: Anse Major Guided Trail Hike

That’s the only way to get here. Anse Major is one of the most remote beaches on Mahe, with no roads leading to it!

Let me tell you though, this is easily one of the most beautiful beaches in the Seychelles. The mountain backdrop is out of this world! Take a look at some of the drone shots I captured from this spot below.

Hike to Anse Major Beach

2. Petite Anse, Mahe

The second beach on this roundup of the Seychelles best beaches is a little-known paradise that can be found on the western corner of Mahe Island.

Petite Anse is just a short fifteen-minute walk over a tiny hill from Grand Anse, another amazing Seychelles beach that just missed this top 18!

This soft powdery, white sand beach is quite small (hence the name) but is unarguably one of the most pristine beaches in the Seychelles. 

While Petite Anse is within the Four Seasons Hotel (one of the best places to stay on Mahe), the good news is that it is open to the public. However, this beach is known to have quite large and high waves, especially when the southeast trade winds blow during the months of May and September. 

But, if you’re looking for a relaxing spot with a great view, or perhaps trying to catch one of those famous Mahe sunsets, Petite Anse is definitely up there with one of the best spots on the island!

3. Anse Marron, La Digue

While it was once a hidden-gem, Anse Marron has quickly become one of the most sought-after beaches on La Digue island. However, not everyone gets out here. That's because this remote beach is tucked away on the far, southern end and requires a bit of an adventure to reach. 

However, once you arrive, you’ll soon discover why this particular beach has become so famous. Large boulders scatter this tiny, isolated beach, leading into some of the clearest water you’ll find in the Seychelles!

Getting here yourself is definitely not recommended and I’ve been told many tourists have gotten lost trying to find the way. Instead, you can book a guided walking tour to Anse Marron on Viator. This has dozens of 5-star reviews and is actually one of the best-rated tours on the island, so make sure to book in advance.

Book: Guided tour to Anse Marron

Plan Where to Stay in the Seychelles in 2023

Wondering where to stay in the Seychelles? Don't miss these up-to-date accommodation guides.

• Praslin Hotel Guide
• Where to Stay on Mahé
• Best Places to Stay on La Digue

Top Seychelles Accommodation Picks

4. Anse Source D'Argent, La Digue

Okay, I'm sure you won't find a single Seychelles beach guide that doesn't mention Anse Source D'Argent.

This is the Seychelles' most prominent beach, made famous globally for its incredible granite rock formations, silky white-sand shores, and clear shallow waters.

You’ll also discover a shallow, protected lagoon just off its shores, making it one of the safest beaches to swim on the island.

Tip: Anse Source D’Argent is located within the L’Union Estate (Union Estate) on La Digue Island. So, you’ll need to pay an entry fee of 115 SCR to access the beach. However, I'd say that it's a Seychelles rite of passage to visit this spot and it's definitely worth checking out the estate too.

5. Beau Vallon Beach, Mahe

Beau Vallon is a popular tourist hub on the Island of Mahe.

That’s because there really is a lot going on down here, from sprawling restaurants and beach-side bars with live music, to amazing waterfront resorts and hotels.

You'll find this Seychelles beach on the calm, northwest side of the island. This beautiful beach is well-protected by fringing coral reefs, resulting in calm waters. As a result, this amazing strand is perfect for swimming, snorkeling and water sports such as kitesurfing, windsurfing, jet ski riding, and scuba diving.

This beach also provides some of the best views of Silhouette Island and the blue Indian Ocean.

Also, there is a weekly Bazaar held every Wednesday and on the last Saturday of the month at Beau Vallon. Definitely head down to experience a local Seychellois market where you can try delicious food and purchase fresh fruit.

My Hotel Pick in Beau Vallon: Berjaya Beau Vallon Bay Resort

6. Anse Lazio, Praslin

This next beach is truly one of the Seychelles' most beautiful. Nestled in a cove on Praslin’s northwest coast is a breathtaking beach with some of the bluest water on the planet.

Anse Lazio, Praslin Island’s most famous beach, is an epic tropical paradise complete with a row of coconut-filled palms above pristine white sand. It's certainly a picturesque paradise, complete with iconic, weathered granite boulders.

Anse Lazio is often referred to as Praslin’s most beautiful beach and is almost always advertised as the poster boy for the island.

Getting to Anse Lazio is quite easy from the main tourist strip at Cote D'Or. But, it will involve booking some transport due to the remote location.

If you’re short on time then a good idea is to book this day trip which also visits the other Praslin Island highlight: Vallée de Mai.

7. Anse Royale, Mahe

Another amazing beach you'll find on Mahe's east coast is Anse Royale.

This is one of the Seychelles' prettiest beaches. Here, beach lovers can enjoy swimming in peace due to the clear, shallow waters and a protective row of coral reefs.

Additionally, if you’re looking for a beach to go snorkeling at, this is a great option. The azure waters here make it quite spectacular, especially at high tide.

You’ll find it’s also quite easy to get to from Victoria or Eden Island, with a regular bus service running down the east coast and a stop within walking distance of the powdery, white-sand shores.

This is quite a popular beach, located in a small village with the same name. Nearby, you'll find the famous Takamaka Rum Distillery, which is the site where the first Seychelles spice garden was established, all the way back in 1772!

Rental Cars on Mahé

If you're looking to explore the main island of Mahé, it's a good idea to rent your own vehicle. However, I recommend booking this well in advance if you want to secure a good rate as rentals are every limited during the peak season.

That's why I recommend using DiscoverCars to compare prices across different companies on Mahé.

Compare Rental Deals

8. Anse Pierrot (Robinson Crusoe Beach), La Digue

If you're a fan of the classic french movie Robinson Crusoe, then you'll definitely want to make a stop at this epic beach!

Anse Pierrot, which is now often referred to as Robinson Crusoe Beach, is an isolated beach just up the coast from Anse Source D'Argent.

This is the site where the famous film was set and where Robinson Crusoe survived on his "deserted island". While fans might be disappointed to find out that the site was in fact not on its own island, the truth is that this beach is in fact quite deserted.

That's because the only way to get here is via boat or kayak, since there are no roads or tracks. If you're planning to visit Anse Source D'Argent, then I highly recommend booking the Crystal Kayaks tour, which will actually make a stop at this amazing beach!

9. Anse Intendance, Mahe

One of the most beautiful beaches in the Seychelles is located on the southwest corner of Mahe Island. It's known as Anse Intendance, and it's a beautiful long stretch of white sand in a quaint, secluded cove.

This is one of those destinations where photos really don’t do justice! Anse Intendance features a dense row of beautiful, tropical palm trees and amazing turquoise water that will seriously blow you away!

Transportation is quite easy, with regular buses running past its bus stop, just a few meters from the beach. Something to note though is that when the trade winds blow in May-September, Anse Intendance can get some of the most seaweed coverage.

However, this is the best time for surfing as the swell at Anse Intendance can get quite impressive!

10. Grand Anse, La Digue

By now, you'll undoubtedly have realized that La Digue has some of the best beaches in the Seychelles! Although not the most popular, my personal favorite beach is Grand Anse.

This is not to be confused with Grand Anse on Mahe or on Praslin (it seems every island has a Grand Anse).

The Grand Anse I'm referring to is found on the southeast corner of the island. This stretch of white sand drops quickly into deep, turquoise waters and is one of the most relaxing places on earth.

This is an excellent beach for swimming as the water is much deeper than the lagoon at Anse Source D’Argent. However, the surf can pick up and strong currents can occur here. So, it's best only for confident swimmers. There are also a few nice hiking trails near Grand Anse, which I'd highly recommend adding to your list of things to do here.

11. Port Glaud Beach, Mahe

Port Glaud is located at the end of the scenic, cross-island road connecting Victoria to the west coast.

This quaint village is seriously beautiful, and much quieter than other parts of Mahe Island.

Port Glaud beach itself is usually deserted, but the view over Port Launay National Park is quite spectacular. Furthermore, if you’re looking for a great beach for snorkeling, the beautiful Port Glaud and Port Launay National Park has some of the best on the island. What you'll want to do is to look for coral reef patches along the shore, especially around L’Islette Island.

Tip: If you’re planning to visit the Mission Lodge or hike the Morne Blanc Trail, then cooling off afterwards at Port Glaud beach is an excellent idea. Also, make sure to include a stop at Sauzier Waterfall, and perhaps Del Place Restaurant afterward as well.

12. Cote D'Or Beach (Anse Volbert), Praslin

Cote D'Or beach, also known as Anse Vorbert, is Praslin's main tourist and resort hub.

Here, you'll find a long stretch of palm trees, white sand, and clear, shallow waters. There are amazing resorts and beach hotel at almost every inch of this beach, since this is where most people book their accommodation on the island.

Since this beach is very long, you can enjoy those memorable sunrise or sunset walks. There are also a famous set of bent palm trees found right in front of “Galerie Passerose” which is a great spot if you want to take some tropical vacation photos.

Best Resort on Cote D'Or: Acajou Resort

13. Anse La Passe, Silhouette Island

Here's a new one. Silhouette Island isn't exactly one of the main visited islands of the Seychelles. However, that doesn't mean it's not worth visiting.

In fact, Silhouette Island is the perfect place to stay in the Seychelles, especially for a once-in-a-lifetime honeymoon experience.

There's only one main resort on this island of only 200 inhabitants, and it's the incredible Hilton Labriz Resort & Spa. This resort is right on the shores of Anse La Passe, which is a spectacular white-sand beach with a majestic mountain backdrop.

14. Anse Cocos, La Digue

Coming in at number 14 on this list of the absolute best beaches in the Seychelles is Anse Cocos on La Digue Island.

This beach is unique in a few ways.

Firstly, you'll need to take a short nature trail hike from Grand Anse to reach it. This makes it more secluded than some of the other beaches.

However, let me tell you, that short walk is definitely worth it! This long, white sand beach has one of the most unique swimming spots on the island. It's known as the Anse Cocos rock pools.

Really though, it's just a sheltered lagoon amongst giant granite boulders. But, the crystal clear water here is absolutely superb, and one of the best beaches for swimming in the Seychelles!

15. Anse Takamaka, Mahe

If you find yourself exploring the incredible island of Mahe, make sure to float across to the southwest coast. Here, you'll find Anse Takamaka beach, a picture-perfect tropical paradise that definitely belongs on a postcard.

The name comes from the rows of tropical takamaka trees that line its shores. Takamaka trees are native to the granitic islands of the Seychelles and can grow up to 20 meters in height. The beach itself is very quaint, and much quieter than some of the other popular beaches in the Seychelles. 

Also, if you make your way here, ensure you visit Ros Sodyer Rock Pool (tidal pool). This coastal attraction is quite unique and definitely worth visiting on a calm day at low tide.

16. Anse Georgette, Praslin

Anse Georgette is another impeccably gorgeous Seychelles beach located on the north-west side of Praslin Island. This is often referred to as an alternative to Anse Lazio. However, I'd recommend giving both a visit!

Anse Georgette is a much more quiet and laid-back beach than Anse Lazio but the truth is that it's equally as beautiful. 

However, to get to Anse Georgette you’ll either need to stay at the Constance Lemuria Resort, or take a scenic 1-hour trial through the jungle. This trail picks up from the west end of Anse Lazio beach and climbs a hill before dropping back down to Anse Georgette.

17. Anse St Jose, Curieuse Island

This next Seychelles beach is located on Curieuse Island, which is a beautiful island just off the coast of Praslin.

St Jose Beach is a long stretch of white sand dropping into shallow water with a long stretch of fringing reef. This is one of the best beaches near Praslin for snorkeling and you can often spot cruising turtles and even some friendly little reef sharks here. 

Anse St Jose is easily accessible from Praslin by taking the snorkeling day trip (the best tour on the island).

Perhaps the biggest reason why I'd recommend visiting this island on a day trip is that it houses the largest sanctuary in the inner Seychelles islands for the giant Aldabra Tortoise. You’ll see them walking around freely on the island, where they are protected and a successful breeding program is in place. 

If you want to see giant tortoises on your trip to the Seychelles, this is what you'll want to do!

Book in advance: Day trip to Curieuse Island

18. Cocos Island Beach, Cocos Island

To round up this beach guide, I'll finish up with Cocos Island beach.

This is a tiny island located near the islands of La Digue and Praslin. While you can't stay here, it is the best beach to go snorkeling in the Seychelles! As a result, many people make their way here on a day trip from Praslin or La Digue.

Cocos Island is abundant with schooling fish and a few cruising green turtles. The beach itself is a narrow string of white sand connected by large granite boulders. 

Cocos Island is very small but neighbors Felicity Island, which is usually included if you book a boat trip from Praslin. The link to the one below also visits La Digue as part of an awesome full-day island hopping adventure.

Book in advance: Cocos Island & Felicity Island Snorkeling Trip

Where to Stay: Best Seychelles Beach Accommodation

Most people visit the Seychelles for the world class beaches on offer. If this sounds like you, then I'll help you out further by giving you some personalized recommendations for where to stay near the beach.

Beach Accommodation on La Digue Island

La Digue is quite a small island and you can get anywhere on a bicycle within 20-30 minutes. You'll find a lot of hotels on the west side of the island near the jetty but only a few along the narrow stretch of coastal road on the mostly inhabited eastern side.

On La Digue, there are a wide variety of hotel and resort offerings ranging from relatively "budget friendly" self-catering lodges to incredible luxury resorts.

Below is a quick summary of the best picks.

• Amazing Chateau: Hotel Chateau St Cloud (Mid-Range) - This is where I stayed on La Digue and I can personally recommend it as one of the best accommodation options on the island. This three-star hotel is perfect as a mid-range option as the location is excellent– just a little out from the main area on a quiet street that is close enough to both the incredible southwest beaches and the port.
• Waterfront Hotel: Le Nautique (High-end) - Rated as one of the best waterfront accommodations on La Digue, Le Nautique is a luxurious offering combining traditional Creole architecture with modern comforts including king-sized beds and rain-showers. Here, you'll also discover an amazing outdoor restaurant and beautiful garden surrounds.
• Self Catering: Dream Holiday (Budget) -located on the northern end of the island very close to the ferry terminal. Offers queen rooms with air-conditioning, TV, private bathrooms, and even a balcony. This is a great option if you're visiting La Digue on a budget while comfort and location are still a priority for you.
• ...9+ more top hotel picks on La Digue

View Top-Rated La Digue Hotels

Beachside Accommodation on Praslin Island

Praslin is the second largest of the inner islands and flaunts some incredible hotels and resorts. Being a little sleepier than Mahe, Praslin caters to the more relaxed crowd.

The main area to stay in Praslin is along Cote D'Or Beach. This is the main tourist strip with plenty of hotels and beachside resorts. However, there are also great resorts and accommodation options all over Praslin, including Anse Lazio.

• Amazing Beachside Resort on Cote D'Or: Acajou Beach Resort - Acajou is a beautiful resort offering 4-star accommodation right on the doorstep of the white sands of Cote D'Or. I had the pleasure of staying here and honestly, it was one of the best resorts I've ever stayed at. Acajou offers ocean views rooms, a swimming pool, and some of the best fine dining on the island.
• Luxury Honeymoon Suites: Constance Lemuria - Tucked away between 3 of the best beaches on Praslin, this luxury, 5-star resort is ranked as one of the best honeymoon resorts in the Seychelles. Attached is a luxury spa center complete with a hot tub and sauna set in a palm and bamboo forest.
• Budget Self Catering: Treasure Island Retreat - Those looking to enjoy nature and save a few pennies on accommodation and food, opting for a self-catering stay on Praslin is a good bet. The best one you'll find on the island is Treasure Island Retreat. This hotel offers seafront apartments on Anse Kerlan, each complete with king-sized beds and a fully-equipped kitchen, and a furnished terrace or balcony.
• ...7+ More Top Picks in this Praslin Accommodation Guide

More Top-Rated Praslin Hotels

Beachside Accommodation on Mahe Island

Mahé is the main island and home to Victoria, the capital city of the Seychelles. It's the largest of the inner islands and has several great places to stay. Here is a quick area guide with the top 4 accommodation recommendations below.

• Victoria and Eden Island for nightlife
• Beau Vallon for beaches and restaurants
• Private islands for the ultimate island experience

Top Accommodation Picks

• Top pick on Mahé: Eden Bleu Hotel (Eden Island) - The Eden Bleu Hotel is one of the best places to stay if you're looking to be close to the Victoria and on Eden Island. It's an amazing contemporary hotel on the foreshore of Eden Island's prestigious marina.
• Mid-range resort: Berjaya Beau Vallon Bay Resort - This beautiful, beachfront resort and casino combo offers elegantly furnished rooms with all the facilities you could ever want. Here, you'll find a large pool, three restaurants, a pizzeria, a fitness center, PADI diving center, and a tennis court.
• Budget self-catering Studio: Precious Residence - If you want to explore Mahé on a budget, then self-catering accommodation is your best bet. Precious Residence is an apartment with excellent reviews (9.5/10), offering budget apartments equipped with free WiFi, air conditioning, and a kitchenette on Grand Anse (west coast).
• Ultimate getaway: JA Enchanted Island Resort - Looking for the ultimate Indian Ocean getaway? JA Enchanted Island Resort is an impeccably beautiful resort located on a tiny private island on the footsteps of the St Anne Marine Park.
• ...10+ More Top Recommendations in this guide to where to stay on Mahé

See the Top-Rated Mahé Hotels

About this Seychelles Beaches Guide

In this travel guide to the Seychelles best beaches, I've included picks from a few different islands in the main, inner island group. If you're still thinking about planning a Seychelles vacation, you might want to read my guide breaking down which islands to stay at.

Otherwise, I've also written a comprehensive travel guide to Mahe Island, Praslin Island, and La Digue Island to get you inspired. Below, you'll also find independent posts breaking down the absolute best beaches in the Seychelles by island.

• Mahe
• Praslin
• La Digue

Tips for Visiting the Seychelles Beaches

Before you go beach hopping in the Seychelles, check out these quick and useful tips!

The Best to go Beach Hopping in the Seychelles

Situated near the equator within the subequatorial climatic zone, the Seychelles enjoys a tropical and stable climate with a constant temperature range between 25-35°C.

As a result, you can generally expect sunny weather year-round with no risk of cyclones. However, there are periods of seasonal rainfall which tend to begin in December and finish in March.

Many sources say that the best time to visit the Seychelles beaches is during the months of April and May and October and November. However, I visited in December and as you can see from the photos, I enjoyed excellent weather!

How to Get to the Other Inner Islands from Mahe

If this beach list has overloaded you with options, don't worry.

Traveling and island hopping in the Seychelles is actually very easy. In fact, I would recommend that everyone should visit more than one island to get the most out of their experience.

How to get to Mahe

This is the main island of the Seychelles At Mahe, you'll find the Seychelles International Airport. As a result, most tourists will land here first when flying into the Seychelles.

Tip: Compare flight fares on Skyscanner and CheapOAir to get the best deals.

How to get to Praslin

There are three main options for getting to Praslin Island from Mahe. I’ve written this detailed guide which goes into the details but here’s a quick summary. 

Mahe to Praslin Ferry
Taking the Cat Cocos ferry is the most cost-effective and popular way to get to Praslin. It departs from Mahe and takes roughly 1 hour to arrive at Baie Sainte Anne and it costs €50. You can book this online in advance to secure a spot. 

Mahe to Praslin Flight
Yes, there’s also a flight and this is what I did. Regular flights are run by Air Seychelles and depart from the Mahe Domestic Terminal (same as the international airport). The plane is tiny, accommodating about 12 people. What’s great about this option is you’ll get to see the islands from the air on a scenic flight that lasts about 10-15 minutes.

How to Get to La Digue

Again, there are two similar options to get to La Digue to start exploring the amazing Seychelles beaches here. Here's the complete guide.

Mahe to La Digue Ferry
Firstly, you could take the Cat Cocos (fast ferry) directly to La Digue Island from Mahe, which costs roughly €60 and takes 1 hour and 15 minutes. 

Mahe to Praslin Flight > Ferry to La Digue
Your second option is to take the Air Seychelles scenic flight to Praslin, then take the Cat Rose to La Digue Island. This is a scenic option and includes a breathtaking low-flying flight over the islands.

More Seychelles Travel Guides & Blogs

And that's a wrap for this massive list of the absolute best beaches in the Seychelles! I really hope that it's inspired you to visit this amazing tropical archipelago.

While you're here on my blog, make sure to check out some of my other articles. I've written loads more guides and travel reports from my experiences on the islands and beaches.

• 10 Best Praslin Hotels and Beach Resorts In 2023 (Seychelles)
• 10 Best Seychelles Islands You Need to Visit in 2023
• 11 Best Resorts & Beach Hotels On Mahe Island, the Seychelles (2023)
• 15 Awesome Seychelles Hikes and Nature Trails
• 15 Best Things to do on Praslin Island - Complete PRASLIN TRAVEL GUIDE
• 26 Best Things to do on Mahé Island, the Seychelles - 2023 Guide
• 50 Best Things to do in the Seychelles - 2023 Travel Guide
• 9 Best La Digue Hotels & Accommodation Options: Where to Stay in 2023 (Seychelles)
• Epic Mahe Snorkeling Boat Excursion to Sainte Anne Marine National Park (2023)
• How to Get to Anse Major Beach on Mahe Island, the Seychelles (Nature Trail)
• How to Get to the Rock Pool on Mahe (Ros Sodyer) - The Seychelles
• Mahé Beaches: 12 Best Beaches on Mahé Island, the Seychelles
• Morne Blanc Nature Trail Hike on Mahe Island, Seychelles
• Sauzier Waterfall - Amazing Mahe Waterfall In Port Glaud (Seychelles)
• Where to Stay in the Seychelles - Best Areas, Hotels & Resorts in 2023

The post 18 Best Beaches in the Seychelles to Visit in 2023 appeared first on We Seek Travel.

Whether you’re planning a honeymoon, family vacation, couples getaway or a business trip, I think it’s safe to agree that the Seychelles is one of the best tropical destinations to consider in the Indian Ocean. From exploring beautiful white sand beaches to relaxing in private plunge pools, to hiking and water sports, the Seychelles has it going on!

However, with a total of 115 islands, it can be a little daunting to when trying to choose where to stay in the Seychelles. When I was planning my first trip, one of the most difficult parts was narrowing down the best islands to visit, let alone trying to find the best areas and places to stay!

After a lot of research, I’ve finally narrowed down the absolute must-visit islands, as well as the top Seychelles hotels, resorts, and accommodations based on my personal experience, guest reviews, and price.

Where to Stay in the Seychelles - The Best Areas

Before I get into the Seychelles hotel and resort recommendations, below is a quick run-down of the best areas to stay.

The truth is, while there are 115 islands in the Seychelles, most people tend to visit the main three in the inner islands group, which has a total of 43 islands.

These three main islands are Mahe, Praslin, and La Digue. If you're visiting the Seychelles, I recommend breaking up your trip to stay on at least, these three islands.

Don't worry, getting to each is very easy by either boat or scenic flight, and doesn't take long since they are very close together. In saying that, I'm actually going to recommend five islands in total to give you a bit of variety.

• Mahe
• Praslin
• La Dique
• Silouhette Island
• Cousine Island

Below I'll go into more detail about why you should stay on these Seychelles islands. But you can skip straight to the hotel section for a personalized and hand-picked hotel, resort, and accommodation recommendations for where to stay on each.

Mahe - Best Place To Stay in the Seychelles For Families

From white-sand beaches complete with tropical, turquoise water and beautiful granitic rock formations, to amazing hiking and adventure opportunities with spectacular jungle views, Mahe Island is the ideal place to spend a Seychelles vacation.

Chances are, if you're flying into the Seychelles, you'll land on Mahe, the largest island in the inner island group. That's because this is where you'll find the Seychelles International Airport.

More: Mahe Accommodation Guide

Furthermore, the capital of the Seychelles, Victoria, if found here. But don't let that worry you. Victoria is very laid back and is actually one of the smallest capital cities in the world!

There are loads of beach hotels, luxury resorts, and private guest houses on Mahe, making it a great place to stay for families. You can also book loads of trips or hire a local guide to show you and the family around the island.

But, Mahe is not just for families. Many people choose to stay here either when they land or the days before they fly out. The best areas to stay in Mahe are:

• Victoria & Eden Island
• Beau Vallon
• West Coast
• Takamaka
• Sainte Anne Marine Park

Best Mahé Hotels

Praslin - Where to Stay in the Seychelles for Relaxing Holidays

Praslin Island is another great place to stay in the Seychelles, especially for relaxing and unwinding.

The island of Praslin is located just a short ferry or scenic flight away. It's really easy to get here from Mahe, and I'd say it's definitely worth a visit.

Praslin is much more laid back than the main island of Mahe. And, you'll find the same amazing turquoise waters, relaxing beaches and snorkeling opportunities here.

More: Praslin Accommodation Guide

One of the main reasons why people chose to stay on this Seychelles island is to see the one and only Anse Lazio, and to take a day-trip to Curieuse Island, where you can meet several giant Aldabra tortoises roaming freely.

As you might expect, there are plenty of excellent honeymoon lodgings, family resorts, and romantic beach hotels on Praslin. The best areas to stay are:

• Anse Takamaka
• Grand Anse
• Anse Kerlan
• Chauve Souris Island
• Baie Ste Anne (near the ferry terminal)

Best Praslin Hotels

La Digue - Best Place to Stay in the Seychelles for Adventure

The funnest place to stay in the Seychelles is the tiny, granitic island of La Digue.

Chances are, you'll have already seen plenty of photos from this amazing Indian Ocean island, especially shots of the world-renowned Anse Source D'Argent. This beach is commonly featured in travel magazines and ads, showcasing its amazing tranquil waters and beautiful granite boulders.

More: La Digue Accommodation Guide

However, the truth is that this island has so much more to offer. From amazing hiking to more beautiful beaches, this tiny little island is an adventurer's playground.

Best of all, there aren't many cars on the island, meaning you can ride a bicycle almost anywhere!

Visiting La Digue and wondering where to stay on this amazing Seychelles island? The main areas are L’Union and La Passe. This is close to the ferry terminal, which is where you will arrive from Praslin. In this area, there are lots of boutique hotels and luxury beach resorts right on the palm tree-lined beach.

Best La Dique Hotels

Silhouette Island - Where to Stay in the Seychelles for Honeymoon

With the main islands out of the way, let's look at two more amazing islands you can stay on in the Seychelles.

The first is Silhouette Island. This incredible destination is best known for its outstanding mountain landscape. Life here is quiet, laid back, and traditional. In fact, only about 200 people live here, and their traditional methods of agriculture have remained unchanged for several hundred years.

The main place to stay on this Seychelles island is the Hilton Seychelles Labriz Resort & Spa. This amazing 5-star resort features private plunge pools, and private tropical gardens, located right on the beach. The mountain backdrops here are absolutely stunning.

And, due to the relaxed and isolated location, makes it one of the best places to stay in the Seychelles for your honeymoon!

Silhouette Island Hotels

Cousine - Best Seychelles Private Resort Island

The last island I'm going to recommend staying on is Cousine Island.

This green, tropical private island resort is easily one of the most beautiful in the Seychelles. In fact, Cousine received the best island destination award in recent luxury travel competitions.

This incredible little island features French colonial-style, luxury private villas amongst lush island greenery. The best part about staying here is that no matter where you go, you're always a 1 minute's walk from the beach!

Cousine is located just off the coast of Mahe and a private transfer to the island is included if you book your accommodation here.

View on Booking.com

Seychelles Accommodation Summary

Okay, now that you have a good idea about the best areas and islands to stay on in the Seychelles, let's get into the detailed accommodation recommendations!

I've personally selected the below best 6 luxury resorts, 5 mid-range hotels, and 4 "cheap" self-catering and guest houses. These Seychelles accommodations are spread out in the list of recommended islands and places to stay above.

My selections are based on my personal experience staying at the hotels, as well as hours of comparative research.

Below is a summary table, but I've also given detailed descriptions for each accommodation recommendation below.

Best Luxury Hotels & Resorts in the Seychelles

	Option	Island	Price
	Cousine Island	Cousine	$$$$$
	Four Seasons Resort	Mahe	$$$$
	Anantara Maia Villas	Mahe	$$$$
	Constance Lemuria	Praslin	$$$
	Hilton Labriz Resort & Spa	Silhouette	$$$
	Le Domaine de L'Orangeraie	La Digue	$$$

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Alternative Private Island Experience: North Island Resort

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Best Seychelles Mid-Range Hotels

	Option	Island	Price
	Le Domaine de la Reserve	Praslin	$$$
	Acajou Beach Resort	Praslin	$$
	Eden Bleu	Mahe	$$
	Berjaya Beau Vallon Bay	Mahe	$$
	Chateau St Cloud	La Digue	$$

Best Cheap Seychelles Accommodation

	Option	Island	Price
	Treasure Island Retreat	Praslin	$$
	Dream Holiday	La Digue	$
	East View Self Catering	Mahe	$
	Precious Residence	Mahe	$

Best Seychelles Hotels, Luxury Resorts, And Cheap Accommodation

By now, you'll probably have a good idea about where you'll want to stay in the Seychelles based on your budget and your style of travel.

Below, I'll go into a bit more detail on why I've selected these Seychelles accommodation options as the best places to stay. Note I've split these up into varying budgets, so it should cover everyone from luxury honeymooners to budget family getaways.

Best Luxury Hotels

Looking for ultimate luxury?

These six 5-star resorts are commonly recommended as the best luxury accommodation in the Seychelles. From private island resorts to prime, beachfront hotels with tennis courts, spacious villas, and spa treatments, you won't need to look beyond this list when choosing where to stay in luxury!

1. Cousine Island

• Island: Cousine
• Best for: Ultimate private island getaway

One of the most premium luxury offerings in the Seychelles is a stay at the Cousine Island private villas.

These incredible villas are expensive, but that's because they tailor to those looking for a once-in-a-lifetime tropical vacation or honeymoon. Cousine Island is privately owned and is immaculately maintained to preserve the lush endemic vegetation and wildlife, while simultaneously offering a truly luxury villa.

There are plenty of pool villa options to choose from. Several feature amazing private plunge pools, tropical gardens, and spectacular views of the jungle interior or the Indian Ocean.

If you really want to spoil your significant other, check out the presidential suite, one of the most amazing luxury accommodations in the Seychelles.

View on Booking.com

2. Four Seasons Seychelles Resort

• Island: Mahe
• Best for: Couples or families wanting quiet luxury on a beautiful private beach

Nestled on the hills overlooking one of Mahe's best beaches is a high-end, luxury Seychelles resort ran by the Four Seasons Seychelles.

Four Seasons is one of the best hotel brands that is world-famous for its high-end, luxury accommodations and amazing service. And, the Four Seasons in the Seychelles is no exception, being one of the premiere luxury resort offerings in the country.

This hotel offers spectacular villas and features several world-class, elegant restaurants on site. If you're bringing your family, you'll also love the kid's programs and the activities you can book directly from the hotel.

This great location is quite unique, being situated on the secluded Petite Anse on Mahe's west coast. This region is quiet but features some of the most amazing turquoise water beaches and most spectacular granite rock formations on the island.

View on Booking.com

3. Anantara Maia Seychelles

• Island: Mahe
• Best for: Couples or families wanting to immerse themselves in 5 star luxury

One of the best, 5 stay luxury resorts in the Seychelles is found on Anse Louis Beach in Sainte Anne Marine Park, just off the coast of Mahe.

Anantara Maia is one of the Seychelles best luxury island resorts and features a gourmet restaurant, wellness center and mini spa.

The private suites at this resort have to be seen to be believed. Although pricey, this is one of the top-reviewed 5-star beach resorts on the island and is loved by honeymooners and couples seeking ultimate perfection with amazing service.

The unique location also makes it one of the best places to stay on the island for activities and adventures. Picture yourself paddle boarding, kayaking, or snorkeling right on the doorstep of the National Marine Park!

View on Booking.com

4. Constance Lemuria

• Island: Praslin
• Best for: Couples who want to immerse themselves in the Seychelles culture

Tucked away between 3 of the best beaches on Praslin, this luxury, 5-star resort is ranked as one of the best honeymoon resorts in the Seychelles. The Constance Lemuria is an amazing and feature-rich Seychelles accommodation option on the quiet side of Praslin.

Attached is a luxury spa center complete with a hot tub and sauna set in a palm and bamboo forest. There’s even an 18-hole golf course on this property!

What’s great about Constance Lemuria is it provides access to Anse Georgette, one of the most famous and beautiful beaches on Praslin!

View on Booking.com

5. Hilton Labriz Resort and Spa - Where to Stay on Silhouette Island, the Seychelles

• Island: Silhouette Island
• Best for: A truly unique honeymoon getaway

It's no secret that Silhouette Island is one of the most amazing islands in the Seychelles. If you're going to visit, you'll want to stay at the one and only Hilton Labriz Resort and Spa.

The spectacular backdrops of soaring mountains and the sound of a gentle breeze rolling in over the Indian Ocean. That's what I call true tropical tranquility. Silhouette Island offers one of the most unique Seychelles accommodation experiences, with a chance to stay on an island with only 200 inhabitants!

This beach resort features a stunning pool, private garden, and direct access to a spectacular, palm tree-lined, white sand beach.

View on Booking.com

6. Le Domaine de L'Orangeraie

• Island: La Digue
• Best for: Young families or honeymooners wanting a luxury island escape on La Digue

Le Domaine de L’Orangeraie is a beautiful beachside resort located on the north end of La Digue Island (La Passe).

This amazing luxury resort features an island-famous pool with views overlooking the tranquil Indian Ocean. Furthermore, at Le Domaine de L’Orangeraie, you’ll also find two large restaurants, a full wellness spa with massage and body treatments, a spa, sauna, gym, and babysitting/child-minding services.

This high-end accommodation offering on La Digue is great for families or honeymooners looking for a tropical getaway with all the bells and whistles.

View on Booking.com

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Another must-see luxury hotel: Senses Zil Pasyon

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Best Mid-Range Hotels

Looking for a touch of luxury without the price tag? The below recommendations are among the best places to stay in the Seychelles for mid-range budgets.

1. Le Domaine de la Reserve

• Island: Praslin
• Best for: Couples wanting to escape to paradise with incredible snorkeling.

One of the best mid-range Seychelles beach hotels is found on the shores of Anse Petite Cour on Praslin Island. The Domaine de la Reserve is a stunning hotel accommodation overlooking the beautiful Curieuse Island National Park and features a huge swimming pool with beach-front water access. 

There are two bars and two restaurants at this amazing hotel and the complex is designed so that every single room as views over the ocean. This is an excellent choice for where to stay for couples wanting to unwind and relax in a secluded area of Praslin Island.

Right on the edge of the private beach, you'll have amazing views of the iconic Seychelles granite rock formations.

View on Booking.com

2. Acajou Beach Resort

• Island: Praslin
• Best for: Amazing beach-side luxury resort with excellent restaurant without the price tag

Acajou is a beautiful resort offering 4-star accommodation right on the doorstep of the white sands of Cote D’Or beach, one of the best on Praslin.

I had the pleasure of staying here and honestly, it was one of the best resorts I’ve ever stayed at. Acajou offers Indian Ocean view rooms, a swimming pool, and some of the best fine dining on the island.

If you're wondering about where to stay the Seychelles, particularly on Praslin, make sure you consider this amazing beachside hotel on the white sandy shores of Cote D'Or Beach.

View on Booking.com

3. Eden Bleu (Eden Island)

• Island: Eden Island (Mahe)
• Best for: Business travelers wondering where to stay near the Seychelles capital

For business travelers, or guests wanting an unrivaled luxury hotel experience close to Victoria, the Seychelles capital, consider checking out Eden Bleu. This is located on the amazing artificial island of Eden. Here, you'll find excellent facilities including a supreme shopping complex, an amazing luxury yacht harbor, and an array of high-class restaurants.

The restaurant at Eden Bleu serves one of the best breakfasts and set-menu dinners at any hotel I’ve stayed at on Mahe. Furthermore, Eden Bleu sits adjacent and overlooking the incredible Eden Island luxury yacht marina, which makes for some pretty spectacular views.

The luxurious, spacious rooms are also beautifully designed, with a unique glass centerpiece shower layout. The master bedroom also features a balcony which is the perfect place to watch the sunset over the marina.

View on Booking.com

4. Berjaya Beau Vallon Bay

• Island: Mahe
• Best for: Families or couples wanting the choice of exploring gorgeous beaches & hanging by the swimming pool.

For a mid-range beach hotel on Mahe, Berjaya Beau Vallon Bay offers some of the best value!

This beautiful, beachfront resort and casino combo offer elegantly furnished rooms with all the facilities you could ever want. Here, you’ll find a large pool, three restaurants, a pizzeria, a fitness center, amazing tropical gardens, a PADI scuba diving center, and a tennis court. To add to that, you'll even find a casino at this amazing Seychelles hotel on the beach!

The location is great as it’s away from the hustle and bustle of Victoria with plenty of beautiful beaches and restaurants around. In fact, Beau Vallon Beach is probably the best place to stay on Mahe!

View on Booking.com

4. Chateau St Cloud

• Island: La Digue
• Best for: Quiet location on La Digue, close to Grand Anse.

Chateau St Cloud is where I stayed on La Digue and I can personally recommend it as one of the best accommodation options on the island.

This three-star hotel is perfect as a mid-range option as the location is excellent– just a little out from the main area on a quiet street that is close enough to both the incredible southwest beaches and the port.

The staff is all very accommodating and the buffet breakfast is. The rooms are very spacious and the hotel even has a beautiful pool and fully-stocked bar.

This historic chateau is one of the first buildings on the island. It was first constructed as the plantation house of a large vanilla farm during the Napoleonic Wars. These days, it’s been reinvigorated and expanded to serve as one of the best accommodations available on the island.

View on Booking.com

Best Cheap Seychelles Accommodation

Okay, to be fair, there isn't really such a thing as cheap accommodation in the Seychelles. At least not in a traditional backpacker sense.

That's because the islands mostly cater to luxury travelers and vacationers.

However, if you are looking for Seychelles accommodation on a budget, you can save money by choosing a self-catering option. This means you get all of the facilities you need to cook and prepare your own fresh meals.

What's great about this is that fresh produce is usually quite cheap in the Seychelles, meaning you can enjoy a luxury, private experience without the huge bills!

1. Treasure Island Retreat

• Island: Praslin
• Best for: Those wanting to enjoy nature and explore the island without breaking the bank

What’s great about this island is that independent travelers and those who are budget conscious can also find great places to stay on the Seychelles Island of Praslin.

Those looking to enjoy nature and save a few pennies on accommodation and food, opting for a self-catering stay on Praslin is a good bet.

The best one you’ll find on the island is Treasure Island Retreat. This Praslin self-catering hotel offers seafront apartments on Anse Kerlan, each complete with king-sized beds, a living room, and a fully-equipped kitchen with a furnished terrace or balcony. Treasure Island Retreat is the answer to accommodation on a budget!

View on Booking.com

2. Dream Holiday

• Island: La Digue
• Best for: Budget-conscious travelers wanting to explore the best parts of La Digue

Dream Holiday Self Catering is located on the northern end of the island very close to the ferry terminal. This is a self-catered apartment surrounded by beautiful palm trees and tropical gardens.

This location is great as you’ll be close to bike rental shops, snack stores, and even supermarkets on the main strip on La Digue.

Additionally, Dream Holiday offers queen rooms with air-conditioning, TV, private bathrooms, and even a balcony. This is a great option if you’re visiting La Digue on a budget while comfort and location are still a priority for you.

View on Booking.com

3. East View Self Catering

• Island: Mahe
• Best for: Couples or singles wanting a private self-catering experience overlooking incredible mountains

Jungle surrounds, a private pool on a beautiful wooden deck patio, your own BBQ, and a quiet, private location? That’s exactly what you’ll discover at East View Self Catering.

You might not have heard of Au Cap, but that’s exactly why those wanting a private escape come here. This self-catering option is located in the jungle, just 15 minutes walk to the main road. Nearby, you’ll also find the famous Seychelles Golf Club, and the must-visit historic Takamaka Bay Rum Distillery.

View on Booking.com

4. Precious Residence - Cheapest Accommodation in the Seychelles

• Island: Mahe
• Best for: Families or those wanting to explore the beautiful island of Mahe without breaking the bank

An excellent family-run self-catering accommodation on Mahe is the Precious Residence.

Precious Residence is an apartment with excellent reviews (9.5/10), offering budget apartments equipped with free WiFi, air conditioning, and a kitchenette on Grand Anse (west coast).

For one of the cheapest places to stay in the Seychelles, this apartment certainly doesn’t feel like it. The location of Grand Anse is also an excellent choice that is close to fun natural attractions like the Ros Sodyer Rock Pool and the Sauzier Waterfall.

View on Booking.com

More Travel & Adventure Guides

And that's a wrap for this Seychelles accommodation guide.

I hope it has helped you plan your next vacation and answered your questions about where to stay in the Seychelles! Since you're in a planning mood, stick around and check out some of my other articles.

The Ultimate Seychelles Travel Resource

Looking for more Seychelles travel guides and inspiration? Below are my most comprehensive guides that will serve as a great resource for your trip.

• 50 Things to do in the Seychelles
• 18 Best Beaches in the Seychelles
• 10 Best Islands in the Seychelles
• 15 Best Hikes in the Seychelles

I've written extensively about my adventures and experiences traveling in the amazing Seychelles Islands. Below you'll find some of my favorites! Enjoy.

• 10 Best Praslin Hotels and Beach Resorts In 2023 (Seychelles)
• 10 Best Seychelles Islands You Need to Visit in 2023
• 11 Best Resorts & Beach Hotels On Mahe Island, the Seychelles (2023)
• 15 Awesome Seychelles Hikes and Nature Trails
• 15 Best Things to do on Praslin Island - Complete PRASLIN TRAVEL GUIDE
• 18 Best Beaches in the Seychelles to Visit in 2023
• 26 Best Things to do on Mahé Island, the Seychelles - 2023 Guide
• 50 Best Things to do in the Seychelles - 2023 Travel Guide
• 8 Best Praslin Beaches You Need to Visit in 2022 (Seychelles)
• 9 Best La Digue Hotels & Accommodation Options: Where to Stay in 2023 (Seychelles)
• Epic Mahe Snorkeling Boat Excursion to Sainte Anne Marine National Park (2023)
• How to Get to Anse Lazio Beach on Praslin, Seychelles (& Why You Should Visit)
• Mahé Beaches: 12 Best Beaches on Mahé Island, the Seychelles
• Morne Blanc Nature Trail Hike on Mahe Island, Seychelles
• Vallée de Mai, Praslin - Complete 2023 Visitor Guide (Seychelles)

The post Where to Stay in the Seychelles – Best Areas, Hotels & Resorts in 2023 appeared first on We Seek Travel.

I think most would agree that a trip to the Seychelles is incomplete without at least spending a few nights on the main and largest island of the Seychelles.

From white sand beaches complete with tropical, turquoise water and beautiful granitic rock formations, to amazing hiking and adventure opportunities with spectacular jungle views, Mahe Island is the ideal place to spend a Seychelles vacation.

However, arguably one of the most difficult parts of planning a visit is choosing where to stay on Mahe. With so many amazing luxury resorts, beach hotels, guest houses, and all-inclusive options, finding the right place to stay for your trip can be a little daunting. At least it was for me.

I spent hours researching the best accommodation options for my trips and have finally come up with this hand-picked list of the best Mahe Island hotels, resorts, and self-catering guest houses for every budget. If you're a first time visitor, I'll help you out further by giving you a brief rundown of the best areas to stay on Mahe to help you pick the right hotel for you.

Read More: Mahé - 26 Unmissable Things to do

The Best Areas - Where to Stay on Mahe Island

Before I get into the hotel and resort recommendations, below is a quick run-down of the best areas to stay on Mahe. Since Mahe is the largest island in the main, inner group and the place where you'll land at the Seychelles International Airport, understanding the benefits and offerings in each region will help you better plan your trip.

Instead, you can skip to the resort recommendations.

Below are my recommendations for the best places to stay on Mahe Island.

• Victoria & Eden Island
• Beau Vallon
• West Coast
• Takamaka
• Sainte Anne Marine Park

Victoria & Eden Island

Victoria, located on the east coast of Mahe, is the capital city of the Seychelles. However, don't let that dissuade you. This is a quaint little city and is actually one of the smallest capital cities in the world and has a few popular hotels.

Staying in Victoria is a great option, especially for travelers visiting Mahe on a business trip. Attractions and public areas like the Sir Selweyn-Clarke market, Hindu Temple and the Victoria Clock Tower also make this area a great option for travelers looking to explore local Seychellois culture. Furthermore, you'll find a great network of public buses running to most highlights and attractions on the island from Victoria.

Eden Island is located just a short drive south of Victoria and is a luxury, man-made island complete with a high-end yacht harbor, shopping complex, and a selection of luxury resorts and hotels.

Hotels in Victoria

Beau Vallon

Beau Vallon, located on Mahe's north coast, is commonly mentioned as the best place to stay on Mahe island.

This is a popular beach destination featuring several beachside hotels, resorts, and even self-catering guest houses. There are also loads of excellent restaurants and bars with live music at Beau Vallon Bay. This makes it an excellent, romantic place to stay for honeymooners and couples.

The main beach here is stunning. A long stretch of palm tree lined white sand dropping into deep, turquoise waters makes it one of the best beaches on the island.

Beau Vallon Hotels

West Coast

The west coast of Mahe is a much-less visited part of the island. But, in my opinion it's one of the best areas to base yourself, especially if you love beaches and adventures like hiking.

The west coast has some of Mahe's best beaches, including Grand Anse, Anse Takamaka, Port Glaud Beach, and Petite Anse. There are also great hikes and waterfalls nearby.

If you're looking for accommodation on Mahe's west coast, I'd recommend Port Glaud, Petite Anse, and Port Launay.

West Coast Mahé Hotels

Takamaka

Takamaka is a village district located on the exclusive south end of Mahé. This is a much quieter area than Victoria and Beau Vallon Bay, which will attract those looking for a tropical island getaway.

There are a few select hotels, luxury resorts, chalets and wellness center, yoga, and spa retreats located in Takamaka. This region appeals more to couples and those looking to really unwind.

Takamaka Hotels on Booking.com

Sainte Anne Marine Park

The final region I recommend staying on Mahe is within the incredible Sainte Anne Marine Park. The biggest draw to stay here is the amazing snorkeling and the opportunity to stay on a private island.

The marine park is made up of six islands, but you can only book accommodation on two. The best private island experience is at the amazing JA Enchanted Resort on Round Island (Ronde). This is easily one of the best honeymoon resorts on Mahe Island!

Alternatively, if you just want to visit, you can book a day-trip excursion to Sainte Anne Marine Park from Victoria.

View on Booking.com

Summary of the Best Hotels in Mahe

Okay, now that you have a good idea about the best areas to stay on Mahe Island, let's get into the detailed recommendations!

I've personally selected the below best four luxury resorts, four mid-range beach hotels, and three self-catering or guest house options. My selections are based on my personal experience staying at the hotels, as well as hours of comparative research.

In the end, these choices reflect the best options for high-end to low budgets. When choosing, I consider guest reviews, location, facilities, extra inclusions, and price.

Below is a summary table, but I've also given detailed descriptions for each accommodation recommendation below.

Mahe Luxury Hotels

	Option	Area	Price
	Anantara Maia Villas	Anse Boileau	$2,576
	JA Enchanted Island Resort	Sainte Anne Marine Park	$1109
	Hilton Northolme Resort	Beau Vallon	$550
	Constance Ephelia	Port Launay	$469

Mid-Range Beach Hotels In Mahe

	Option	Area	Price
	Berjaya Beau Vallon Bay	Beau Vallon	$272
	Bliss Boutique Hotel	Glacis Beach	$225
	Coral Strand	Beau Vallon Bay	$220
	Bonus: Eden Bleu	Eden Island	$350

Self Catering & Guest Houses In Mahe

	Option	Area	Price
	VallonEnd Beachfront Villa	Bel Ombre	$205
	East View Self Catering	Au Cap	$131
	Precious Residence	Grand Anse	$75

Explainer: I've written Mahe Hotels without the diacritic "é" (Mahé Hotels) in this article as it's how most foreigners type it on a western keyboard. The true way to write it is: Mahé, pronounced mah-he.

Best Mahe Resorts, Beach Hotels, & Self-Catering

Now for the detailed recommendations.

Below you will find a detailed summaries and reasons why I've chosen these amazing Mahe accommodation options.

4 Best Mahe Luxury Hotels

Whether you're searching for the perfect 5 star honeymoon escape, ultimate luxury family getaways, or you want to impress your colleagues with a luxury resort for your next business trip, the below options will have you covered. As you'd expect, many of these excellent Mahe hotel options include a hot tub, private infinity pools, free parking, and of course, world-class room service.

1. Luxury Private Villa: Anantara Maia Seychelles Villas

• Area: Sainte Anne Marine Park
• Best for: Couples or families wanting to immerse themselves in 5 star luxury

One of the best, 5 stay luxury resorts on Mahe is found on Anse Louis Beach in Sainte Anne Marine Park. Anantara Maia is one of the Seychelles premiere luxury island resorts and features a gourmet restaurant, wellness center and mini spa.

The private suites at this resort have to be seen to be believed. Although pricey, this is one of the top-reviewed 5 star beach resorts on the island and is loved by honeymooners and couples seeking ultimate perfection.

The unique location also makes it one of the best places to stay on the island for activities and adventures. Picture yourself paddle boarding, kayaking, or snorkeling right on the doorstep of the National Marine Park!

View on Booking.com

2. Ja Enchanted Island Resort

• Area: Sainte Anne Marine Park
• Best for: Those wanting a honeymoon getaway

Looking for the ultimate Indian Ocean getaway? JA Enchanted Island Resort is an impeccably beautiful resort located on a tiny private island on the footsteps of the St Anne Marine Park.

Round Island (Ronde Island) is a picturesque, green island surrounded by turquoise water and coral reef. It's one of the smallest private islands you can stay at in Mahe!

The French colonial-style villas have a private infinity pool, a terrance with panoramic views and a private walkway to the beach. If you’re looking for a one-of-a-kind honeymoon getaway, this is your best bet. The price is slightly more affordable than Anantara Maia, making it my personal recommendation for a private island stay on Mahe.

View on Booking.com

3. Hilton Seychelles Northolme Resort

• Area: Beau Vallon
• Best for: Couples wanting a private villa with outdoor pool in a 5 star resort

By now, you'll already know that Beau Vallon Bay is one of the best resort areas on the island. If you're going to pick a luxury resort in this beautiful cove, make it the Hilton Northholme Resort.

Hilton is a brand that is synonymous worldwide with luxury and excellent service. And, this luxury villa-style hotel is no exception to that rule. Couples in the reviews love the 5-star service and the romantic, candlelit dinners.

This Mahe beach hotel is situated overlooking the Indian ocean on an elevated position above beautiful granite rock formations. These are some truly spectacular views!

The free breakfast is one of the best on the island and guests can choose to have a buffet at the 5-star restaurant dining area or in your room.

View on Booking.com

4. Constance Ephelia

• Area: Port Launay
• Best for: Couples wanting to a secluded 5 star getaway surrounded by nature and white sandy beaches

Next up on this shortlist of the best luxury resorts on Mahe is the Constance Ephelia.

Nestled amongst the hills and beaches of Port Launay on the west coast, this amazing 5 star luxury resort features private plunge pools overlooking the Indian Ocean, amazing tropical gardens, and plenty of facilities and activities.

This area without the crowds is much quieter than Beau Vallon Bay, but has equally beautiful beaches. Apart from soaking up the Seychelles sun, there are plenty of activities to choose from, including tennis, squash, swimming, snorkeling, and kayaking– all from the resort!

View on Booking.com

4 Best Mid-Range Beach Hotels In Mahe

If your budget falls somewhere in the mid-range category, here are your best picks. I've purposely chosen these four as they are Mahe beach resorts that are located on the water, since that's what the Seychelles is all about!

1. Berjaya Beau Vallon Bay Resort

• Area: Beau Vallon
• Best for: Families or couples wanting the choice of exploring gorgeous beaches & hanging by the pool.

For a mid-range beach hotel on Mahe, Berjaya Beau Vallon Bay offers some of the best value!

This beautiful, beachfront resort and casino combo offers elegantly furnished rooms with all the facilities you could ever want. Here, you’ll find a large pool, three restaurants, a pizzeria, fitness center, amazing tropical gardens, a PADI scuba diving center, and tennis court.

The location is great as it’s away from the hustle and bustle of Victoria with plenty of beautiful beaches and restaurants around.

View on Booking.com

2. Bliss Boutique Hotel Seychelles

• Area: Glacis Beach
• Best for: Couples wanting a romantic relaxing experience overlooking the Indian Ocean

For a private beach resort experience, take a look at Bliss Boutique Hotel.

This amazing beach hotel is tucked away in Mahe's northern corner in the village of Glacis. This is a quiet region with amazing beaches perfect for snorkeling or lazing on the white sand underneath a coconut palm tree. You won't find big crowds up here. Instead, you'll often have the beach all to yourself!

Bliss Boutique is a luxury hotel that doesn't break the bank. Guests can experience spa treatments on the sundeck or at the spa. There's also an incredible natural rock pool that you can swim in. This resort is renowned for amazing sunsets, which you can watch every night from your balcony.

View on Booking.com

3. Coral Strand Smart Choice

• Area: Beau Vallon Bay
• Best for: Couples wanting a romantic activity-filled getaway

Coral Strand Smart Choice really is a smart choice if you want amazing beachside luxury without breaking the bank.

Located in Beau Vallon Bay, this is a great option for where to stay on Mahe for families as you'll get access to loads of activities including jet skis, volley ball, parasailing, and more!

Guests have the option of choosing mountain view or ocean views, but it's the layout that really earned this hotel a spot on this Mahe accommodation shortlist. The swimming pool is literally right on the edge of the white sand beach and is surrounded by tropical palms.

View on Booking.com

Bonus: Eden Bleu Hotel on Eden Island

• Area: Eden Island
• Best for: Business travelers

Okay, Eden Bleu isn't exactly a Mahe beach hotel, but it does sit adjacent and overlooking the incredible Eden Island luxury yacht marina.

For business travelers, or guests wanting a luxury hotel close to Victoria and the excellent facilities on Eden Island, you'll want to consider this gem. The restaurant at Eden Bleu serves one of the best breakfasts and set-menu dinners at any hotel I've stayed at on Mahe.

The luxurious rooms are also beautifully designed, with a unique glass centerpiece shower layout. Rooms also feature a balcony which is the perfect place to watch the sunset over the marina.

View on Booking.com

3 Best Self Catering Hotels & Guest Houses In Mahe

One of the biggest costs involved with staying on Mahe Island is purchasing meals. If you don't book a half-board or full-board accommodation package, you'll be left paying high prices for every meal!

That's why, one of the best options for budget travel in the Seychelles is to book self-catering accommodation. This means you get access to a kitchen and facilities to prepare your own, fresh island meals. While there aren't many cheap hotels on Mahe, choosing self-catering will save you money!

Below are the best three budget picks for Mahe Island.

1. VallonEnd Beachfront Villa

• Area: Bel Ombre
• Best for: Couples wanting a self catering experience overlooking the ocean at an exceptional price.

If you thought beachside luxury in a great location just wasn't possible on a budget in Mahe, think again. VallonEnd Beachfront Villa is an exception villa with everything you'd ever want in a self-catering pick.

You'll get a 4-star luxury villa experience complete with a kitchen, lounge room, open plan living, balcony, TV, fridge, bathroom, desks, and wifi at an affordable price.

This is my recommendation for the best couples villa on Mahe. You'll find it located at Bel Ombre, just a short walk from Beau Vallon.

View on Booking.com

2. East View Self Catering

• Area: Au Cap
• Best for: Couples or singles wanting a private self catering experience overlooking incredible mountains

Jungle surrounds, a private pool on a beautiful wooden deck patio, your own BBQ and a quiet, private location? That's exactly what you'll discover at East View Self Catering.

You might not have heard of Au Cap, but that's exactly why those wanting a private escape come here. This self-catering option is located in the jungle, just 15 minutes walk to the main road. Nearby, you'll also find the famous Seychelles Golf Club, and the must-visit historic Takamaka Bay Rum Distillery.

View on Booking.com

3. Precious Residence

• Area: West Coast (Grand Anse)
• Best for: Families or those wanting to explore the beautiful island of Mahe without breaking the bank

An excellent family-run self-catering accommodation on Mahe is the Precious Residence.

Precious Residence is an apartment with excellent reviews (9.5/10), offering budget apartments equipped with free WiFi, air conditioning, and a kitchenette on Grand Anse (west coast).

For a budget pick, this apartment certainly doesn't feel like it. Grand Anse is also an excellent location close to fun natural attractions like the Ros Sodyer Rock Pool, and the Sauzier Waterfall.

View on Booking.com

Beyond Mahe: Where to Stay on Praslin & La Digue

I hope this detailed accommodation guide to Mahe Island in the Seychelles has helped you plan your next holiday! Since the Mahe international airport is the only one of its kind in the Seychelles, it makes sense to visit Mahe first.

However, the planning doesn't end there. If you're coming to the Seychelles, you're going to want to check out some of the other amazing islands nearby.

Thankfully, islands like Praslin and La Digue are very easy to get to from Mahe and you should definitely think about staying at least a few nights there as well. To help you out, I've written detailed guides to both of those islands, which you'll find below.

La Digue

• How to get to La Digue
• Things to do on La Digue
• Best La Digue Accommodation
• Best Beaches on La Digue
• Highlight: Anse Source D'Argent Beach

Praslin

• How to get to Praslin
• Things to do on Praslin
• Where to Stay on Praslin
• Best Beaches on Praslin
• Highlight: Vallée de Mai

More Travel & Adventure Guides to Mahe & the Seychelles

And that's a wrap for this in-depth Mahe Island accommodation guide.

The Ultimate Seychelles Travel Resource

Looking for more Seychelles travel guides and inspiration? Below are my most comprehensive guides that will serve as a great resource for your trip.

• 50 Things to do in the Seychelles
• Where to Stay in the Seychelles (Best Deals)
• 18 Best Beaches in the Seychelles
• 10 Best Islands in the Seychelles
• 15 Best Hikes in the Seychelles

While you're still here on my blog, make sure to check out some of my other detailed guides to the Seychelles. I've spent a great deal of time documenting and photographing my adventures in this amazing country and I guarantee you'll find something you didn't know existed!

• 10 Best Praslin Hotels and Beach Resorts In 2023 (Seychelles)
• 15 Awesome Seychelles Hikes and Nature Trails
• 15 Best Things to do on Praslin Island - Complete PRASLIN TRAVEL GUIDE
• 18 Best Beaches in the Seychelles to Visit in 2023
• 20 Amazing Things to do on La Digue Island - Seychelles Guide (2023)
• 26 Best Things to do on Mahé Island, the Seychelles - 2023 Guide
• 50 Best Things to do in the Seychelles - 2023 Travel Guide
• 9 Best La Digue Hotels & Accommodation Options: Where to Stay in 2023 (Seychelles)
• How to Get to the Rock Pool on Mahe (Ros Sodyer) - The Seychelles
• Mahé Beaches: 12 Best Beaches on Mahé Island, the Seychelles
• Where to Stay in the Seychelles - Best Areas, Hotels & Resorts in 2023

The post 11 Best Resorts & Beach Hotels On Mahe Island, the Seychelles (2023) appeared first on We Seek Travel.

White sand, turquoise water, abundant wildlife, and soaring granite peaks– Mahé Island is a dream travel destination that is a true tropical paradise. There are so many amazing things to do on Mahé Island, from unwinding on the beautiful tropical beaches to hiking the incredible nature trails in Morne Seychellois National Park.

In order to help you narrow down your itinerary and get inspired, I’ve formulated this travel guide to Mahé!

I’ve included the 26 best things to do on Mahé Island in the Seychelles based on my personal experience. I’ve included photos from my adventures and formulated a useful travel guide with transport tips, accommodation recommendations, and adventure inspiration to get you pumped for your Seychelles vacation!

Mahé Island Map

If you're planning your vacation and looking for things to do on Mahé, check out this useful map. Here, I've pinned all of the highlights, attractions, and must-see landmarks listed in this travel guide.

Tip: If you're arriving at Mahé Island Airport, book a private airport transfer in advance. This is only €30 and will save you money instead of trying to organize a taxi to your resort or hotel at the airport.

Quick Option: Mahé Island Tour: Best things to do in a day

Before we get into this list of things to do on the island of Mahé, you'll want to consider this particular tour on Get Your Guide.

This is a unique tour as it is fully customizable meaning you can choose your own highlights for what to do on Mahé and the driver and guide will combine it into an amazing day trip. Furthermore, being a local licensed guide, your driver can also make recommendations and take you to places you might not know about!

Customizable Mahé Island Day Trip

26 Best Things to do on Mahé Island

Without further ado, let's get into this list of the best things to do on Mahé Island in the Seychelles. This list is based on my personal experience traveling around Mahé and the Seychelles. And, like always the photos (unless listed otherwise) are all taken by me.

1. Hike to One of the World's Most Beautiful Beaches: Anse Major

When you think Mahé or the Seychelles, blue-water beaches and palm-lined white-sand beaches spring to mind. In fact, beaches like the Anse Source D'Argent on La Digue put the Seychelles on the map as a travel destination.

However, in my opinion, the most beautiful beach in the Seychelles is not Anse Source d'Argent nor is it the world-class Anse Lazio on Praslin.

Instead, my pick is Anse Major, an incredible white sand beach tucked away beneath lush green granite mountains on Mahé Island's northwest coast. This beach is absolutely stunning. However, a large part of its allure is its remoteness. There are no roads leading to this section of Mahé, so eager visitors will need to hike a scenic nature trail through the jungle to reach it.

Don't let the photos scare you off though. The hike follows a relatively easy trail along the coast!

Book: Anse Major Guided Trail Hike

2. Mahé Island Hopping & Snorkeling at Sainte Anne Marine Park

If you've come to the Seychelles to explore the underwater world, then there's no better place to do it than by going island hopping at Sainte Anne Marine Park. This area has the richest marine life and is home to over 150 species of fish and other magnificent underwater life.

The marine park is the first of its kind in the West Indian Ocean and consists of six small islands and several coral reefs. These include St Anne Island, Ile Moyenne, Ile aux Cerf, Chachée Island, Ile Ronde, and Ile Longue.

The location is perfect if you're staying at Eden Island, Victoria, or on the West Coast as it is easily accessible via boat trips from Victoria.

Highlights of this amazing marine national park include

• Visiting the historical giant tortoise sanctuary on Moyenne Island
• Snorkeling at Cerf reef
• Relaxing on the sandbar near Ronde Island (Round Island)
• Spotting sea turtles

Sainte Anne Marine Park Excursion

3. Visit the Seychelles National Botanical Gardens

Due to the remote location in the Indian Ocean, the Seychelles is abundant with unique and endemic species. Its tropical climate has allowed some incredible plants that are found nowhere else. This includes the famous coco de mer palm from Vallée de Mai on Praslin, which produces the largest seed on earth.

For those visiting Mahé Island, wonder down to the Seychelles National Botanical Gardens in Victoria. Here, you'll find many endemic plants, excellent examples of tropical flora from around the world and even a giant tortoise enclosure.

4. Discover the Popular Beaches of Mahé Island

While I've already recommended Anse Major, there are actually many, many more popular beaches on Mahé Island. Depending what you are looking for, or what mood you're in, there'll be a perfect spot for you. Whether you want to sit back and soak in the rays, or enjoy some wild water sports or surfing, you'll find it right here on Mahé.

At many of the amazing beaches, you'll often find small shops and beach shacks selling fresh fruit, Creole BBQ fish, and even cocktails!

I've written a comprehensive guide summarizing the 12 best beaches, but here are my top four, not including the (spoiler) two pristine beaches on this featured list of things to do on Mahé.

• Grand Anse
• Beau Vallon Beach
• Anse Takamaka
• Anse Royale

Book: 5 Beach Seychelles Day Tour

5. Visit the Mission Lodge

The Mission Lodge at the historic Venns Town is a UNESCO World Heritage listed cultural site. There are ruins here of a 19th century school dedicated to children dumped on the island following the abolition of slavery.

The school itself was built by the London Missionary Society but is now in rubbles. There are information plaques throughout the site which details the history. Furthermore, if you continue on you'll find an amazing viewpoint overlooking Morne Seychellios National Park. Entry to the Mission Lodge Venns Town is 100 SCR for tourists.

Rental Cars on Mahé

If you're looking to explore the main island of Mahé, it's a good idea to rent your own vehicle. However, I recommend booking this well in advance if you want to secure a good rate as rentals are every limited during the peak season.

That's why I recommend using DiscoverCars to compare prices across different companies on Mahé.

Compare Rental Deals

6. Dine at Eden Island

Eden Island is an artificial island located just off the coast of Victoria on the east coast of Mahé Island. This island is referred to as reclaimed land by Seychellois and was constructed during the 2000s by funds from Dubai investors.

Today, Eden Island is a luxury area complete with beautiful villas, luxurious hotels, shopping complexes, and a high-class marina full of super yachts. If you're looking for things to do on Mahé before departing at the airport, go for a stroll at Eden Island and sit down at one of the incredible restaurants. Alternatively, stay here a night or two at one of the amazing hotels.

In fact, I chose to stay at Eden Island at the incredible Eden Bleu Hotel overlooking the marina with the amazing granite peak backdrop. I couldn't recommend this enough if you are looking for a Mahé resort or hotel near Victoria.

7. Go Catamaran Sailing on Mahé Island

One of the most popular activities on Mahé Island is to charter a yacht or jump onboard a catamaran sailing trip. The amazing Indian Ocean surrounding the Seychelles is prime for sailing, with many small islands reachable within hours.

One of the top-rated catamaran day trips is onbard the Starfish. This is a great way to enjoy a cruise through the Sainte Anne Marine Park and discover the vibrant marine life of the Seychelles.

Book: Starfish - Odezir Catamaran Sailing

The Ultimate Seychelles Travel Resource

Looking for more Seychelles travel guides and inspiration? Below are my most comprehensive guides that will serve as a great resource for your trip.

• 50 Things to do in the Seychelles
• Where to Stay in the Seychelles (Best Deals)
• 18 Best Beaches in the Seychelles
• 10 Best Islands in the Seychelles
• 15 Best Hikes in the Seychelles

8. Hike the Morne Blanc Trail in Morne Seychellois National Park

For the adventurers chasing amazing viewpoints or a once-in-a-lifetime sunrise or sunset spot, make sure to check out the Morne Blanc Trail in the Seychellois National Park.

Morne Blanc is one of the highest peaks on Mahé Island and offers arguably the best views of the west coast. The summit is reachable via a short but steep nature trail hike. You'll find the trailhead on Sans Soucis Road, which is the cross-island road connecting Victoria to Port Glaud.

If you'd prefer to hike this one with a guide, you can call or text my friend Roddey on Whatsapp: +248 259 6425.

Roddey is an amazing guide and knows absolutely everything about the history and nature of Mahé Island and the Seychelles.

9. Go Scuba Diving on Mahé Island

Whether you're a seasoned pro or a beginner looking to immerse yourself in the underwater world of scuba, Mahé Island is a great place to go diving.

That's because the Seychelles is the only place on earth where you can dive at a granitic rock site, since this geology is unique to the archipelago. There are dozens of great dive sites on Mahé, ranging from 8 meters to 30 meters in depth.

I went diving with Big Blue Divers and was taken to three amazing sites. Each was unique, including a wreck dive, a coral reef dive and a granitic rock slope dive. Highlights for me were the dozens of turtles outside Beau Vallon Bay, as well as spotting a huge Manta Ray on the northwest tip of the island near Anse Major.

If you're visiting Mahé Island during the months of October and November, you can even experience a whale shark dive! Whale sharks are not stationary in the Seychelles but migrate here every year.

10. Explore the Island Via Beach Buggy

Looking for a unique way to explore Mahé island? Why not book a full-day tour via beach buggy?

This is a famous tour on the island ran by Francois. This man has been running this tour for over 20 years and grew up on the island. He speaks several languages, including English, French, and German and will show you some great spots you might miss otherwise!

Book: Island day trip via beach buggy

11. Stay on a Private Island

Are you visiting Mahé Island and the Seychelles for your honeymoon? You're not alone. The Seychelles is one of the best places to enjoy a tropical honeymoon and one of the best ways to do it is to enjoy your stay in complete privacy on a private island!

One of the best private island experiences on Mahé is the Ja Enchanted Resort. This resort is located on Round Island (Ile Ronde) in the Sainte Anne Marine National Park. This is a five-star resort with some of the best reviews in the Seychelles! Each suite features amazing, sweeping views of the incredible Indian Ocean and the rich coral reef systems below.

12. Hike the Mare Aux Chochon Nature Trail

Private islands not your thing? Prefer to adventure and hit the hiking trails? I hear you.

Due to the mountainous topography and rich biodiversity, hiking on Mahé is easily one of the best things to do on the island. For a challenging but rewarding hike, consider the Mare aux Chochon trail. This hike begins from the villages near Beau Vallon and crosses the island to finish at Port Glaud.

Along the way, you'll pass amazing mountain wetlands, dense forested areas and clear mountain plateaus. You might also get a chance to spot the very rare and unique jellyfish tree!

I completed this trail with my good friend and guide Roddey in roughly 4 hours (Whatsapp number above). We took our time as Roddey taught me everything about the rare and endemic plant and wildlife species we discovered along the way.

If you search the Mare aux Chochon trail on Google, it states that it's permanently closed. However, this is not the case and the trail is actively maintained. With that said, I'd certainly recommend a guide for this one, not just because navigation can be tricky, but you'll enjoy the experience much more with a local guide who adds a whole lot more to the experience than just the directions.

13. Unwind at Sauizer Waterfall

Located at Port Glaud, on the west coast of Mahé Island (coincidentally where you finish the Mare aux Chochon trail), is the best waterfall on Mahé. This waterfall is called Sauzier and is easily accessible via the village at Port Glaud.

To get to the falls, you'll only need to complete a very short walk on even ground. The nature trail is only 5-10 minutes and at the end you'll discover an amazing jungle waterfall complete with a deep swimming hole.

Entry fee: 50 SCR

I highly recommend visiting Sauzier Waterfall if you're wondering what to do on Mahé Island and want to experience a freshwater swim in the jungle!

14. Day Trip to Port Glaud

Suazier Waterfall isn't the only draw to the west coast of Mahé Island. The small village of Port Glaud is absolutely beautiful and a relaxed, quiet alternative to Beau Vallon Bay.

Port Glaud has beautiful beaches and is considered as one of the best places for snorkeling on the island. Furthermore, you'll find a beautiful small island just off the coast called L'Islette that is great for photos.

If you're stopping by, make sure to check out Del Place restaurant. This waterfront restaurant is rated as one of the best on the island and I couldn't agree more!

Plan Where to Stay in the Seychelles in 2023

Wondering where to stay in the Seychelles? Don't miss these up-to-date accommodation guides.

• Praslin Hotel Guide
• Where to Stay on Mahé
• Best Places to Stay on La Digue

Top Seychelles Accommodation Picks

15. Check Out the Hindu Temple in Victoria

If you trace your steps back to the capital, you'll find that there are many unique attractions and hidden gems in Victoria!

One of the most interesting Mahé landmarks is the Hindu Temple located right near the market street. This amazing architectual building is called Sri Navasakthi Vinayagar Temple and it's a site you won't miss if you're strolling through the streets of Central Victoria.

The building is much smaller than those you'll find in India or Sri Lanka. However, this small but brightly painted monument is very attractive and stands out as it is the only Hindu temple in the Seychelles archipelago.

Tip: If you enter the temple, be sure to remove your hat and shoes.

16. Wander Through The Victoria Market

The most famous market in Mahé and all of the Seychelles is the Sir Selwyn Selwyn Clarke markets, also simple known as the Victoria Markets. Wandering through the narrow streets of this sprawling market is a great way to immerse yourself in the culture and everyday life of the Seychellois community.

Tourists can take the opportunity to pick up some souvenirs or keepsakes at the market. Furthermore, if you're staying in self-catering lodging, the Victoria Markets are an excellent spot to stack up on fresh fruit and local produce, seafood and spices. If you wander down Market Street, you can also purchase local food and Creole BBQ'd fresh fish.

Alternatively, I took the opportunity to stroll through the markets on an early Sunday morning before my flight out and captured some photos as my personal keepsake.

Fun fact: Victoria on Mahé Island is one of the smallest capital cities in the world and boasts some incredible colonial architecture.

17. Learn the Traditional Art of Seychelles Sun Printing

Looking for a unique and cultural activity to add to your list of things to do on Mahé Island or in the Seychelles?

Why not take an interactive class to learn the traditional art of Seychelles Sun Printing? This unique and interesting art form involves using the sun to print patterns onto textiles. It has been used for centuries by local communities in the Seychelles, who use native plants to paint colorful fabrics.

Tourists can join in on a fun interactive workshop class where you can make your own take-home printed textile design by booking on Viator on the link below.

Book: Seychelles Sun Printing Class

18. Hike The Copolia Trail

The Copolia Trail is an excellent nature trail hike on Mahé Island that offers spectacular views over Victoria and Eden Island on the east coast. Similarly to the Morne Blanc trail, the Copolia Trail begins on Sans Soucis Road, but this time closer to Victoria than Port Glaud.

Also similarly to Morne Blanc, this hike is fairly steep and finishes at an amazing viewpoint atop a granite peak. This out-and-back hike isn't too difficult and only 1.9 kilometers (1.2 mi) return.

If you're game, I highly recommend heading up the Copolia trail early for sunrise for an incredible view. Again, my friend Roddey can organize the trip for you.

Best Travel Insurance for Seychelles

Important: All visitors to Seychelles must show proof of travel insurance covering expenses related to COVID-19. One of the best offerings with COVID inclusion is from Safetywing, which has cover starting at under $50.

Get SafetyWing Travel Insurance

19. Meet an Aldabra Giant Tortoise

Nature and animal lovers have to see a giant tortoise when visiting Mahé Island! These tortoises are endemic to the Aldabra atoll, but are now found throughout the Seychelles archipelago. These tortoises are among the largest in the world and can live up to 200 years!

You can spot giant tortoises on Moyenne Island, at the Jardin Du Roi Gardens, the Takamka Rum Distillery, or at the Seychelles Botanical Gardens in Victoria.

Alternatively, if you're planning to visit Praslin, then make sure to include a Curieuse Island day-trip. This is the largest tortoise sanctuary within the inner islands and a place where the tortoises are free to roam in the wild.

20. Swim in the Ros Sodyer Rock Pool

One of the most unique things to do on Mahé Island in the Seychelles is to cliff jump into a deep, circular tidal pool called Ros Sodyer.

This amazing turquoise water rock pool is located Mahé's southwest coast near the breathtaking Takamaka Beach (Anse Takamaka). To reach it, you'll need to complete a short nature trail hike through the jungle and around the coast.

Book in advance: Rock Pool Organized Trip

If you arrive during low tide and with calm ocean conditions, you can swim in this private little pool sheltered by an impressive, sloping granite slab. I did a depth check and found that this little pool was super deep so decided to do some cliff jumping into the pool from the rock above.

21. Visit the Jardin Du Roi Spice Garden

Due to its strategic geographical location between East Africa and India, the Seychelles has long been part of an important trading route for spices. This, combined with a tropical climate that is perfect for growing crops like vanilla, cinnamon and nutmeg, means that spice gardens are very common.

However, one of the best examples of a Seychellois spice garden is at Jardin Du Roi. This is a beautiful colonial-style plantation and the gardens are open to the public and tourists are free to wander through the fruit and spice gardens. At the Jardin Du Roi, you'll find everything from bananas to breadfruit trees and even a giant tortoise pen!

22. Sip Rum at the Takamaka Rum Distillery

Want to channel your inner pirate? They say that if you're visiting the Seychelles, you have to drink the local Takamaka Rum! While this is available in almost every Mahé Island resort, bar, and liquor store, visiting the Takamaka Rum Distillery is easily one of the best things to do for rum-enthusiasts.

A guided tour of the distillery is a great way to learn about the history of the famous Seychelles rum and includes free tastings. The distillery is located on the east coast of Mahé, south of Victoria. The site where locals distill the rum is called La Plaine St. André, which is an iconic heritage site. Here, you'll find a museum, medicinal garden, historical ruins, and even two Giant Aldabra tortoises– Taka and Maka.

Book in advance: Shared Island Tour Including Takamaka Rum Distillery

23. Photograph the Victoria Clock Tower

The Victoria Clocktower in Mahé is one of the most iconic historical monuments in the Seychelles. It's an exact replica of the one at Victoria Station on Vauxhall Bridge Road in London and was erected way back in 1903!

If you're passing through Victoria, make sure to stop by the famous Victoria Clock tower located at the end of Independence Avenue.

24. Sunset at Petite Anse

Of course, the Mahé beaches are going to be the biggest attraction for many tourists visiting the island. While I've touched on a few already in this Mahé travel guide, make sure to add Petite Anse to your beach-hopping list.

Situated on the west coast, Petite Anse is a beautiful small beach at the bottom of a hill. While the beach is owned by the famous and very popular Four Seasons Hotel situated at the end of the beach, it is free to visit for the public! The trip out here is well worth it as it's an incredibly scenic drive.

The view over the magical Indian Ocean during sunset at Petite Anse is unmatched and should definitely be added to your list of what to do on Mahé!

25. Snorkel at Port Launay National Marine Park

Tropical island life is all about the underwater world! While you can certainly get some great snorkeling in at Sainte Anne, make sure to also visit Port Launay Marine National Park.

This is a quieter alternative and offers great snorkeling on coral reefs right off the shores of Port Launay Beach. Here, you'll get to swim with hundreds of fish species and even get a chance to spot a cruising green turtle!

Tip: Also visit Baie Ternay Marine National Park, located just beyond Port Launay.

26. Relax in a Private Pool

After all that exploring, one of the best things to do on Mahé Island is to simply sit back and relax in your very own private swimming pool.

If you haven't noticed by now, the Seychelles is a travel destination very much catered to the luxury crowd. Mahé Island is a favorite vacation spot for everybody from honeymooners to luxury couple and business travelers.

So, as you'd expect, there are dozens of great hotels, resorts and even guest houses that include private plunge pools during your stay. If you want complete privacy and ultimate relaxation, keep reading on for an up-to-date accommodation guide for a run-down on where to stay!

Where to Stay on Mahé: Accommodation Guide

Mahé is the main island and home to Victoria, the capital city of the Seychelles. It's the largest of the inner islands and has several great places to stay. Here is a quick area guide with the top 4 accommodation recommendations below.

• Victoria and Eden Island for nightlife
• Beau Vallon for beaches and restaurants
• Private islands for the ultimate island experience

Top Accommodation Picks

• Top pick on Mahé: Eden Bleu Hotel (Eden Island) - The Eden Bleu Hotel is one of the best places to stay if you're looking to be close to the Victoria and on Eden Island. It's an amazing contemporary hotel on the foreshore of Eden Island's prestigious marina.
• Mid-range resort: Berjaya Beau Vallon Bay Resort - This beautiful, beachfront resort and casino combo offers elegantly furnished rooms with all the facilities you could ever want. Here, you'll find a large pool, three restaurants, a pizzeria, a fitness center, PADI diving center, and a tennis court.
• Budget self-catering Studio: Precious Residence - If you want to explore Mahé on a budget, then self-catering accommodation is your best bet. Precious Residence is an apartment with excellent reviews (9.5/10), offering budget apartments equipped with free WiFi, air conditioning, and a kitchenette on Grand Anse (west coast).
• Ultimate getaway: JA Enchanted Island Resort - Looking for the ultimate Indian Ocean getaway? JA Enchanted Island Resort is an impeccably beautiful resort located on a tiny private island on the footsteps of the St Anne Marine Park.
• ...10+ More Top Recommendations in this guide to where to stay on Mahé

See the Top-Rated Mahé Hotels

About the Island of Mahé in the Seychelles

Mahé is the largest island in the inner islands of the Seychelles. It's also the main island of the archipelago, with the country's capital Victoria found on the east coast. Approximately 90 percent of the Seychelles 98 000 people live on Mahé!

Seychellois People and Culture

This remote island has a rich and diverse history, being settled by Arab merchants, British and French colonialists, Chinese and Tamil traders and African slaves. As a result, the modern Seychellois or Creole culture is rich and unique, abundant with lively customs, foods, dance, and art.

The vast majority of Seychellois speak three languages; their mother-tongue Creole, as well as excellent English and French. As a result, travel on Mahé and in the Seychelles is very easy for native English and French speakers.

Location

Mahé Island is located approximately 1000 miles off the east coast of Africa in the Indian Ocean. It's likely that Mahé is going to be your first stop when traveling through the beautiful Seychelles islands since most land at the Mahé Island Airport. From here, it's easy to visit both La Digue and Praslin Island via a scenic flight or public ferries.

Landscape

Mahé Island is a granitic Island. This is a unique feature of the Seychelles and exists nowhere else on earth. The coast has sections of coastal mangrove forests and is lined with some of the most beautiful beaches in the world. The Mahé beaches attract countless visitors each year thanks to the impressive granite boulders, soft white sand and crystal clear waters.

You'll also find plenty of nature reserves including the Morne Seychellois National Park (Morne Seychelles National Park), which is abundant in tall granite peaks and well-maintained walking trails. Morne Seychellois is located in this park and is the highest peak in the Seychelles at 2,969 ft or 904 meters.

Mahé Island Travel Guide

Now that you have all the information you need on things to do and where to stay on Mahé, let me help you out with even more travel and logistical advice.

How to Get to Mahé Island

Unless you're coming in on a cruise ship or private vessel, the only way to get to Mahé Island is via the Seychelles International Airport.

This airport is located just south of Victoria. As you'd expect for a nation of only 98 000 individuals, this airport is very small.

The Mahé Island airport serves as the international gateway to the Seychelles and the most popular routes stop via Dubai.

When booking flights, make sure to first check CheapOAir, where you'll often find the cheapest and best fares available to the Seychelles.

Getting Around on Mahé Island

Since Mahé is the largest island in the inner island group, getting around is best done by car. Depending on what you'd like to do and see on the island, you can either rent a car, book organized tours, ride the bus, or take a taxi.

Rental Cars on Mahé
If you're going to be doing a lot of exploring, it might work out cheaper and easier to simply hire a rental car. DiscoverCars is going to be your best resource for finding cheap and reliable cars on Mahé.

Most car rentals can be picked up in Victoria once booked online.

Book organized tours
In this Mahé travel guide I've included links to only the best and top-rated tours for many of the attractions and things to do on the island. All of these tours include private or shared transport, which is going to save you money. Alternatively, if you want a flexible way to explore, remember to book the customizable tour to add all your must-see destinations to your itinerary.

Public buses
There's also a regular bus service connecting several points on the island. These buses are very cheap at only 14 SCR per trip. There are bus stations around Mahé and the best way to find routes is to ask locals and the driver once you board.

Taxis
Uber, Lyft, Grab and other ride-share services do not exist on Mahé. Therefore, old-fashioned taxis are going to be your best bet for getting around. These taxis are often metered but you can also barter a price for a day-trip as well.

Best Time to Visit Mahé

Situated near the equator within the subequatorial climatic zone, the Seychelles enjoys a tropical and stable climate with a constant temperature range between 25-35°C.

Mahé Island weather is a little wetter than some of the other inner islands due to the higher mountains. In saying that, you can generally expect sunny weather year-round with no risk of cyclones. However, there are periods of seasonal rainfall which tend to begin in December and finish in March.

Many sources say that the best time to visit Mahé Island is during the months of April and May and October and November. However, I visited in December and as you can see from the photos, I enjoyed excellent weather!

FAQS: Visiting the Island of Mahé

Q. What language do people speak in Mahé?

The mother tongue in the Seychelles is Seychellois Creole. However, nearly all locals speak excellent English and some level of French as well. Since tourism makes up 90% of the Seychelles' economy, you can expect many local guides to speak several languages, including German and Arabic.

Q. What is the Seychelles Currency?

The currency used in Mahé and the Seychelles is called the Seychelles Rupee (SCR). However, due to the large amount of tourism stemming from Europe, tourists can often pay in Euros at major resorts, hotels, and even bars.

Q. What do people of Mahé do for fun?

The people of Mahé live in one of the most beautiful destinations on earth. Seychellois enjoy the same activities as you'd likely want to do on your vacation, from beach hopping, to hiking, to shopping in the capital.

Q. How long should I spend on Mahé Island?

There are so many amazing things to do on Mahé Island that I'd suggest staying at least a week here! However, if you're short on time or want to island hop to some of the other inner islands like Praslin or La Digue, then 3 days would also be a good amount of time.

Q. Can I go to La Digue or Praslin from Mahé?

As Mahé has the only international airport in the Seychelles, the only way to get to Praslin and La Digue is by first landing in Mahé. For both islands, you'll have the options of taking the ferry called Cat Cocos at the Victoria ferry terminal, or the scenic island-hopper flight operated by Air Seychelles.

If you're planning to visit several islands, make sure to read my detailed guides on how to get to La Digue and how to get to Praslin from Mahé as well.

Q. Which Country is Mahe Island?

Mahé is located in, and is the capital of The Republic of Seychelles.

Q. Is Mahé Island safe?

Mahé Island and the Seychelles in general is considered very safe. The country has some of the lowest crime rates of any African country and very little crime involves tourists. You are arguably going to be safer in Mahé than you would be taking public transport in New York city or wandering the streets of Berlin.

Q. Why is Mahé Island attractive to tourists?

Mahé is very attractive to tourists looking for amazing beaches, beautiful nature trails, and a luxury vacation.

Q. Mahé has how many islands?

Mahé is considered one of the 115 islands of the Seychelles. However, surrounding Mahé are 10 smaller islands. The most notable include Conception Island, Therese Island, Saint Anne, Moyenne, and L'Islette.

Beyond Mahé: More Seychelles Things to do & Travel Inspiration

And that's a wrap for this comprehensive and detailed Mahé Island travel guide featuring the 26 best things to do on Mahé! I hope that it has better prepared you for the vacation of a lifetime, or inspired you to visit this amazing travel destination.

While you're here on my blog, make sure to check out some of my other articles as well. I've spent a great deal of time compiling the most up-to-date and inspiring travel guides and content for the Seychelles. Below you'll find a handful of other relevant articles, with more of my photography and guides to lesser-visited hidden gems!

Mahe: Vacation Story

• 10 Best Praslin Hotels and Beach Resorts In 2023 (Seychelles)
• 10 Best Seychelles Islands You Need to Visit in 2023
• 11 Best Resorts & Beach Hotels On Mahe Island, the Seychelles (2023)
• 15 Awesome Seychelles Hikes and Nature Trails
• 15 Best Things to do on Praslin Island - Complete PRASLIN TRAVEL GUIDE
• 18 Best Beaches in the Seychelles to Visit in 2023
• 20 Amazing Things to do on La Digue Island - Seychelles Guide (2023)
• 50 Best Things to do in the Seychelles - 2023 Travel Guide
• 8 Best Praslin Beaches You Need to Visit in 2022 (Seychelles)
• 9 Best La Digue Hotels & Accommodation Options: Where to Stay in 2023 (Seychelles)
• Curieuse Island & St Pierre From Praslin - Snorkeling & Tortoise Sanctuary (Seychelles)
• How to Get to Anse Lazio Beach on Praslin, Seychelles (& Why You Should Visit)
• How to Get to Anse Marron, La Digue Island, The Seychelles in 2023
• La Digue Hikes - 6 Best Hiking & Nature Trails on La Digue Island (Seychelles)
• Mahé Beaches: 12 Best Beaches on Mahé Island, the Seychelles
• Where to Stay in the Seychelles - Best Areas, Hotels & Resorts in 2023

The post 26 Best Things to do on Mahé Island, the Seychelles – 2023 Guide appeared first on We Seek Travel.

Planning a trip to the relaxing Seychelles island of Praslin and wondering where to stay? Here’s an up-to-date travel guide featuring the best Praslin hotels, lodges, luxury resorts, and self catering, semi-budget options.

I’ve formulated this Praslin accommodation guide to provide you with the most reliable and comprehensive resource to Praslin Island hotels and resorts you’ll find online. Here, you’ll find 10 recommendations including the 4 best luxury picks, 3 best mid-range hotels and 3 self-catering accommodations.

I’ve also included a run-down on the island including the best places to stay, tips on booking, and a comparison for hotels for every budget.

The Quick Answer: The Best Places to Stay on Praslin

Praslin is the second largest of the inner islands and flaunts some incredible hotels and resorts. Being a little sleepier than Mahe, Praslin caters to the more relaxed crowd.

The main area to stay in Praslin is along Cote D'Or Beach. This is the main tourist strip with plenty of hotels and beachside resorts. However, there are also great resorts and accommodation options all over Praslin, including near the famous Anse Lazio.

• Amazing Beachside Resort on Cote D'Or: Acajou Beach Resort - Acajou is a beautiful resort offering 4-star accommodation right on the doorstep of the white sands of Cote D'Or. I had the pleasure of staying here and honestly, it was one of the best resorts I've ever stayed at. Acajou offers ocean views rooms, a swimming pool, and some of the best fine dining on the island.
• Luxury Honeymoon Suites: Constance Lemuria - Tucked away between 3 of the best beaches on Praslin, this luxury, 5-star resort is ranked as one of the best honeymoon resorts in the Seychelles. Attached is a luxury spa center complete with a hot tub and sauna set in a palm and bamboo forest.
• Budget Self Catering: Treasure Island Retreat - Those looking to enjoy nature and save a few pennies on accommodation and food, opting for a self-catering stay on Praslin is a good bet. The best one you'll find on the island is Treasure Island Retreat. This hotel offers seafront apartments on Anse Kerlan, each complete with king-sized beds and a fully-equipped kitchen, and a furnished terrace or balcony.

More Top-Rated Praslin Hotels

The Best Area to Stay on Praslin Island

While significantly larger than its quieter neighbor La Digue, Praslin Island is still a very laid-back, relaxed island without the traffic and party scenes you'll find on Mahé. However, there is still very solid tourism infrastructure including restaurants, resorts, hotels and transport services.

The most popular area to stay on Praslin is along Cote D'Or Beach (Anse Volbert). This is a resort and hotel strip with many luxury beachfront accommodation options and excellent restaurants. However, the truth is that there are many places to stay on Praslin beyond Cot D'Or.

If you'd prefer to stay near the famous Anse Lazio, there are a couple of great accommodation choices on the northern tip.

Since Praslin has an island airport, many people choose to fly here from Mahe. Consequently, there are a few great Praslin hotels and resorts near the airport on the east coast on Grand Anse.

Below are a few more great areas to stay on Praslin.

• Anse Takamaka
• Grand Anse
• Anse Kerlan
• Chauve Souris Island
• Baie Ste Anne (near the ferry terminal)

Summary of the Best Hotels & Resorts On Praslin

Below is a summary of all the best Praslin hotels & resorts listed in this article. I've included three categories based on various budgets in order to ensure this is a great resource for everybody.

If you’re in a rush to choose the best Praslin hotel for your Seychelles vacation, you can go straight to the booking page by clicking the link in the table.

Prices below are listed in USD per night but on Booking.com you can book using your local currency without conversion costs.

Praslin Luxury Resorts

	Option	Area	Price
	Raffles Seychelles	Anse Takamaka	$1135
	Constance Lemuria	Petite Anse Kerlan	$944
	Chauve Souris Relais	Chauve Souris Island	$388
	Acajou Beach Resort	Cote D'Or	$385

Best Praslin Beach Hotels

	Option	Area	Price
	Paradise Sun Hotel Seychelles	Cote D'Or	$817
	Le Domaine de La Reserve	Anse Petite Cour	$550
	Castello Beach Hotel	Anse Kerlan	$436

Praslin Guest Houses or Self catering

	Option	Area	Price
	Le Duc Hillview Villas	Cot D'Or	$965
	Treasure Island Retreat	Anse Kerlan	$360
	Les Villas D'or	Baie Sainte Anne	$355

Where to Stay: Best Praslin Hotels & Resorts

Let's dive straight into this detailed comparison of the best hotels on Praslin Island.

These recommendations include 10 places to stay on Praslin, which is made up of the 4 best luxury resorts, 3 best mid-range beach hotels, and 3 best Praslin guest houses and self-catering picks.

Keep in mind, in the Seychelles, most hotels and resorts have specific terms that refer to their meal offerings. This includes: 

• Free breakfast: breakfast only (buffet or al a carte)
• Half board: breakfast and dinner included
• Full board: breakfast, lunch and dinner included
• All-inclusive: All meals and drinks included

4 Best Praslin Luxury Resorts

Raffles Seychelles

• Area: Anse Takamaka
• Best for: Couples and young families wanting to close access to beautiful beaches

Raffles Seychelles is an incredible beachside resort on Praslin located on the scenic Anse Takamaka. This amazing resort hotel features suites with a private plunge pool, six restaurants, and its very own salon and kids club. This is a great place to stay on Praslin for moms who want to get their hair done while the kids play!

The views on offer at this amazing Praslin hotel are unbeatable! It also has some of the best reviews on the internet for luxury places to stay on Praslin

View on Booking.com

Constance Lemuria

• Area: Petite Anse Kerlan
• Best for: Perfect for couples who want to immerse themselves in the Seychelles culture

Tucked away between 3 of the best beaches on Praslin, this luxury, 5 star resort is ranked as one of the best honeymoon resorts in the Seychelles. Attached is a luxury spa centre complete with hot tub and sauna set in a palm and bamboo forest. There’s even a 18-hole golf course on this property!

What's great about Constance Lemuria is it provides access to Anse Georgette, one of the most famous and beautiful beaches on Praslin!

View on Booking.com

Chauve Souris Relais

• Area: Chauve Souris Island 
• Best for: For adults only who want to experience a private island resort

This next resort isn't technically on Praslin, but just off its shores opposite Anse Volbert Village (Cot D'Or beach) on the private Chauve Souris Island. This is an adults-only resort featuring amazing rooms with complete privacy overlooking the Indian Ocean.

If you're planning your honeymoon and wondering where to stay on Praslin Island, Chauve Souris Relais is going to be one of the most amazing options. Imagine jumping into the beautiful turquoise water and snorkeling right off your hotel doorstep! Black Parrots are even known to fly over this island on occasion!

View on Booking.com

Acajou Beach Resort

• Area: Cot D'Or beach
• Best for: Amazing beach-side luxury resort with excellent restaurant without the price tag

Acajou is a beautiful resort offering 4-star accommodation right on the doorstep of the white sands of Cote D’Or. I had the pleasure of staying here and honestly, it was one of the best resorts I’ve ever stayed at. Acajou offers Indian Ocean view rooms, a swimming pool, and some of the best fine dining on the island.

View on Booking.com

3 Best Praslin Beach Hotels

Paradise Sun Hotel Seychelles

• Area: Cot D'Or (Anse Volbert)
• Best for: Excellent for couples wanting to participate in activities or spa together

Looking for an amazing 4-star Praslin beach hotel on Dot'Dor? Make sure to check out Paradise Sun Hotel. This resort hotel features a daily buffet with live music and dance and has an amazing spa running massage, yoga, and facials.

Paradise Sun Hotel has one of the largest swimming pools on Praslin, which sits below beautiful coconut palm trees on the edge of the ocean.

The team at this Praslin hotel can also arrange a variety of indoor and outdoor activities, including cooking classes and even volleyball!

View on Booking.com

Le Domaine de La Reserve

• Area: Anse Petite Cour
• Best for: Couples wanting to escape to paradise with incredible snorkelling

Another excellent Praslin beach hotel is the Le Domaine de la Reserve situated on the incredible Anse Petite Cour. This stunning accommodation overlooks the beautiful Curieuse Island National Park and features a huge swimming pool with beach-front water access.

There are two bars and two restaurants at this Praslin hotel, and the complex is designed so that every single room as views over the ocean. This is an excellent choice for where to stay on Praslin for couples wanting to unwind and relax in a secluded area of the island.

View on Booking.com

Castello Beach Hotel

• Area: Anse Kerlan
• Best for: Perfect for families wanting a tropical getaway experience

Catello Beach Hotel is known for its excellent location on Anse Kerlan. There's a large pool at this hotel, with rooms overlooking the ocean. Furthermore, parents will love the children's playhouse where staff arranges activities daily. If you're looking to relax, there are great facilities including a massage pavilion and beach seating with hammocks reserved for patrons and guests of this Praslin beach hotel.

For those looking to explore the island, there are also bike rentals included. Additionally, there are a bunch of great restaurants and bars located close by.

View on Booking.com

3 Best Praslin Guest Houses and Self-catering Accommodation

Le Duc Hillview Villas

• Area: Cot D'Or Beach (Anse Volbert Village)
• Best for: Couples or singles wanting a private villa with self-catering experience overlooking the ocean with incredible views and access to a private beach.

For those interested in complete privacy in their very own self-catered villa, Le Duc Hillview Villas is going to be your best bet on the island. This is an amazing villa situated on the hill overlooking the ocean. There's a private beach just below, with a gym facility and a private pool. Additionally, villa has a kitchen and even a hot tub to enjoy the view from and sip cocktails.

This villa provides excellent means and a buffet breakfast. Guests especially loved that upon entry they were treated with a welcome cocktail!

View on Booking.com

Treasure Island Retreat

• Area: Anse Kerlan
• Best for: Those wanting to enjoy nature and explore the island without breaking the bank

What's great about this island is that independent travelers and those who are budget conscious can also find great places to stay on Praslin.

Those looking to enjoy nature and save a few pennies on accommodation and food, opting for a self-catering stay on Praslin is a good bet. The best one you’ll find on the island is Treasure Island Retreat. This Praslin self catering hotel offers seafront apartments on Anse Kerlan, each complete with king-sized beds and a fully-equipped kitchen and a furnished terrace or balcony.

Treasure Island Retreat is the answer for where to stay on Praslin on a budget!

View on Booking.com

Les Villas D'or

• Area: Baie Sainte Anne
• Best for: Self catering experience for families and couples with direct beach access

Les Villas D'Or is located on the south end of Cot D'or beach close to the beautiful Baie Sainte Anne, which is where you'l find the ferry terminal. This is a great location if you want to explore the nearby islands of the Seychelles or the interior of Praslin with a direct road to the UNESCO World Heritage site of Vallée de Mai.

Les Villas D'Or offers bungalow-style, self catering rooms with a pool. This is a very popular self catering Praslin beach hotel for families with kids and is serviced daily with breakfast!

View on Booking.com

More Islands to Visit After Praslin

I hope that you've enjoyed this comprehensive where to stay guide to the best Praslin beach hotels, resorts, and self-catering villas.

The Ultimate Seychelles Travel Resource

Looking for more Seychelles travel guides and inspiration? Below are my most comprehensive guides that will serve as a great resource for your trip.

• 50 Things to do in the Seychelles
• Where to Stay in the Seychelles (Best Deals)
• 18 Best Beaches in the Seychelles
• 10 Best Islands in the Seychelles
• 15 Best Hikes in the Seychelles

While you're here on my blog, make sure to check out some of my other guides to the Seychelles. I've written comprehensive accommodation guides to La Digue and Mahé, as well as many great resources for things to do from visiting Source D'Argent Beach to hiking to Anse Major!

• 11 Best Resorts & Beach Hotels On Mahe Island, the Seychelles (2023)
• 15 Awesome Seychelles Hikes and Nature Trails
• 15 Best Things to do on Praslin Island - Complete PRASLIN TRAVEL GUIDE
• 18 Best Beaches in the Seychelles to Visit in 2023
• 20 Amazing Things to do on La Digue Island - Seychelles Guide (2023)
• 26 Best Things to do on Mahé Island, the Seychelles - 2023 Guide
• 50 Best Things to do in the Seychelles - 2023 Travel Guide
• 8 Best Praslin Beaches You Need to Visit in 2022 (Seychelles)
• 9 Best La Digue Hotels & Accommodation Options: Where to Stay in 2023 (Seychelles)
• Curieuse Island & St Pierre From Praslin - Snorkeling & Tortoise Sanctuary (Seychelles)
• How to Get to Anse Major Beach on Mahe Island, the Seychelles (Nature Trail)
• La Digue Hikes - 6 Best Hiking & Nature Trails on La Digue Island (Seychelles)
• Mahé Beaches: 12 Best Beaches on Mahé Island, the Seychelles
• Where to Stay in the Seychelles - Best Areas, Hotels & Resorts in 2023

The post 10 Best Praslin Hotels and Beach Resorts In 2023 (Seychelles) appeared first on We Seek Travel.

Being the main, and largest of the inner islands of the Seychelles with an international airport, Mahé is often the first port of call when visiting the archipelago. And, of course, a visit to the Seychelles just isn’t complete without seeing the world-famous Mahé beaches.

Whether you’re looking for a vibrant beach-side resort vibe, or a secluded beach overlooking the Indian Ocean, you’ll find it in this blog post. Here, I’ve summed up 12 of the best beaches on Mahé, with photos and a description of each to get you inspired for your next Seychelles vacation.

Featured in: Mahé Island Travel Guide

Mahé Beach Map

Before we get into the list, here is a map showing the best Mahé beaches from this article. This will prove useful for planning your beach-hopping adventures on Mahé Island!

Tip: Mahé is a large island. If you don't have your own transport, I'd highly recommend booking this customizable full-day tour of Mahé. Especially if you're planning to visit some of the more remote beaches (usually the best ones).

12 Best Beaches in Mahé

1. Grand Anse

It seems that every island in the Seychelles seems to have a "Grand Anse". This particular beach on Mahé is the longest on the west coast.

Grand Anse on Mahé has beautiful turquoise waters, with a wide, long stretch of soft, white sand. At the end of the beach, you'll find a stack of small granite boulders leading on from the palm-lined shores. This picturesque spot is one of the most beautiful beaches on Mahé, and made even more so by the incredible mountain backdrop of Morne Seychellois National Park.

There's a bus stop at Grand Anse, making it easy to get here from Victoria. Just make sure to plan according to the weather. This beach does not have any coral reefs, but instead just deep water that can get dangerous in storms.

2. Anse Major - Amazing Remote Mahé Beach & Nature Trails

Anse Major is easily one of the most beautiful beaches on Mahé. However, to get here, you'll need to complete a short, yet scenic hike through endemic jungle. That's because Anse Major is one of the most remote beaches on Mahé, located in the northwest of the island, where there are no roads leading to it.

Let me tell you though, this is easily one of the most beautiful beaches on the island, and perhaps even in all of the Seychelles. Here, you'll discover a thin strip of soft sand, falling into deep, turquoise waters. The mountain backdrop is reminiscent of famous Hawaiian Beaches, with green, jagged mountain ridges poking out from every direction.

Due to its secluded nature, this beach is also usually very quiet, with only a few visitors each day. If you've come to the Seychelles to get away, this is the best place to do it! Just be mindful that you can experience strong currents and large waves here, so make sure you are prepared.

3. Beau Vallon - One of the Best Beaches on Mahé for Resorts & Bars

Beau Vallon beach is one of the most popular beaches on Mahé Island. That's because there really is a lot going on down here, from sprawling restaurants and beach-side bars to amazing waterfront resorts and hotels.

Beau Vallon is found on the northwest side of Mahé and is arguably the most famous beach on the island. This beautiful beach is well-protected by fringing coral reefs, resulting in calm waters which is perfect for swimming, snorkeling and water sports such as kitesurfing, windsurfing, jet ski riding, and scuba diving. This beach also provides some of the best views of Silhouette Island and the blue Indian Ocean.

Also, there is a weekly Bazaar held every Wednesday and on the last Saturday of the month at Beau Vallon. This is great if you want to experience a local Seychellois market where you can try delicious food and purchase fresh fruit.

Great Resort at Beau Vallon: Berjaya Beau Vallon Bay Resort

Rental Cars on Mahé

If you're looking to explore the main island of Mahé, it's a good idea to rent your own vehicle. However, I recommend booking this well in advance if you want to secure a good rate as rentals are every limited during the peak season.

That's why I recommend using DiscoverCars to compare prices across different companies on Mahé.

Compare Rental Deals

4. Anse Takamaka

Floating across to the southwest coast of Mahé and you'll find Anse Takamaka beach, a picture-perfect, postcard beach that is definitely worth visiting.

The name comes from the rows of tropical takamaka trees that line its shores. Takamaka trees are native to the granitic islands of the Seychelles and can grow up to 20 meters in height. The beach itself is very quaint and much quieter than some of the other popular beaches on Mahé.

Perhaps the biggest draw is the nearby Ros Sodyer Rock Pool (tidal pool). This coastal attraction is quite unique and definitely worth visiting on a calm day at low tide.

Book a tour: Anse Takamaka & Rock Pool

5. Petite Anse

Petite Anse is located just a short fifteen-minute walk over a small hill from Grand Anse. This soft powdery, white sand beach is quite small (hence the name) but is unarguably one of the most pristine beaches in Mahé.

While Petite Anse is within the Four Seasons Hotel, the good news is that it is open to the public. However, this beach is known to have quite large and high waves, especially when the southeast trade winds blow during the months of May and September.

But, if you're looking for a relaxing spot with a great view, or perhaps trying to catch one of those famous Mahé sunsets, Petite Anse is definitely up there with one of the best places to go.

6. Anse Royale

Anse Royale, on Mahé's east coast, is a popular beach near a small town with the same name. It's located just south of the famous Takamaka Rum Distillery and was the site where the first Seychelles spice garden was established back in 1772.

Anse Royale is a pretty beach, with clear, shallow waters and a protective row of coral reef. If you're looking for a beach to go snorkeling at on Mahé, this is a great option. The azure waters here make it quite spectacular, especially at high tide. You'll find it's also quite easy to get to from Victoria or Eden Island, with a regular bus service running down the east coast and a stop within walking distance of the powdery sand shores.

Plan Where to Stay in the Seychelles in 2023

Wondering where to stay in the Seychelles? Don't miss these up-to-date accommodation guides.

• Praslin Hotel Guide
• Where to Stay on Mahé
• Best Places to Stay on La Digue

Top Seychelles Accommodation Picks

7. Anse Soleil

Another amazing beach right near Petite Anse on Mahé's southwest coast is Anse Soleil. This is easy to reach if you're taking a road trip down the western coastal road, requiring only a short walk from a large parking area.

Anse Soleil is another small beach with plenty of small stores and restaurants around. One of the best ways to explore this coast is to beach-hop from Grand Anse to Anse Soleil, then finish at Petite Anse.

Snorkeling is one of the most popular activities at this beach, but when conditions are right (high tide), it's also the perfect spot for surfing.

Best Travel Insurance for Seychelles

Important: All visitors to Seychelles must show proof of travel insurance covering expenses related to COVID-19. One of the best offerings with COVID inclusion is from Safetywing, which has cover starting at under $50.

Get SafetyWing Travel Insurance

8. Anse Forbans

If you're taking the South Coast Road all the way down from Victoria to southern Mahé, you have to stop at Anse Forbans! This is a quiet beach, where you will find a lot of great resorts and hotels, including the famous Hilton Allamanda.

The shallow water and golden sand on this perfect strand make it a great photo stop, as well as a great spot for families with small children. On the way, you'll pass other famous Mahé beaches including Turtle Bay and Anse aux Pins. While they didn't quite make the list, also have amazing beaches and definitely worth visiting if you make the trip down to Anse Forbans.

Tip: Continue on to the beautiful Police Bay for a secluded island experience at a truly wild beach!

9. Sunset Beach

Sunset Beach is one of the most famous beaches on Mahé, perhaps due to its name. In reality, almost any beach on Mahé is great for watching the sunset, especially those on the west coast.

However, Sunset Beach has gained a tonne of popularity over the past few years thanks to social media and the famous Sunset Beach Hotel. You'll find it right up to the north of Mahé, past Beau Vallon beach on the way to North East Point.

This is another small beach, edged with tropical greenery and a large rock formation at its point. It's got deeper water, typical of the northern beaches of Mahé, which is good if you are an experienced swimmer.

10. Port Glaud Beach - Great Mahé Beaches for Snorkeling

Port Glaud is a beautiful bay located on the west coast of Mahé, just on the other end of the cross-island road called Sans Soucis. If you're planning to visit the Mission Lodge or hike the Morne Blanc Trail, then cooling off afterward at Port Glaud beach is an excellent idea.

Port Glaud beach itself is usually deserted, but the view over Port Launay National Park is quite spectacular. If you're visiting, make sure to include a stop at Sauzier Waterfall, and perhaps Del Place Restaurant afterward as well.

Furthermore, if you're looking for a great beach for snorkeling, the beautiful Port Glaud and Port Launay National Park have some of the best on the island. Look for coral reef patches along the shore, especially around L'Islette Island.

11. Anse Intendance

If you search for the most beautiful beach in the Seychelles, Anse Intendance will often be a feature. This is one of Mahé's most amazing beaches and one you should definitely consider making the trip out to.

Anse Intendance has a dense row of beautiful, tropical palm trees and turquoise water that will blow you away! This is one of those destinations where photos really don't do justice! Transportation is quite easy, with regular buses running past its bus stop, just a few meters from the beach.

Tip: When the trade winds blow in May-September, Anse Intendance can get some of the most seaweed coverage. However, this is the best time for surfing as the swell at Anse Intendance can get quite impressive.

12. Baie Lazare

The final beach on this Mahé travel guide is Baie Lazare. This is a public beach just south of Petite Anse, again, on the southwest corner of Mahé. It's named after the famous French explorer, Lazare Picault, and is located in a sheltered cove facing south.

The best time to visit this beach is during high tide, as the shallow waters often dry all the way up during low tide. If you catch this beautiful bay at the right time, you'll discover some of the best photo opportunities in the Seychelles! The beach lines up to two points, Lazare Picault and Gaulette, where you'll find beautiful granite formations meeting translucent calm water. This is one of the best snorkeling spots on the island!

The Ultimate Seychelles Travel Resource

Looking for more Seychelles travel guides and inspiration? Below are my most comprehensive guides that will serve as a great resource for your trip.

• 50 Things to do in the Seychelles
• Where to Stay in the Seychelles (Best Deals)
• 18 Best Beaches in the Seychelles
• 10 Best Islands in the Seychelles
• 15 Best Hikes in the Seychelles

Where to stay Near the Best Beaches on Mahé

Mahé is the main island and home to Victoria, the capital city of the Seychelles. It's the largest of the inner islands and has several great places to stay. Here is a quick area guide with the top 4 accommodation recommendations below.

• Victoria and Eden Island for nightlife
• Beau Vallon for beaches and restaurants
• Private islands for the ultimate island experience

Top Accommodation Picks

• Top pick on Mahé: Eden Bleu Hotel (Eden Island) - The Eden Bleu Hotel is one of the best places to stay if you're looking to be close to the Victoria and on Eden Island. It's an amazing contemporary hotel on the foreshore of Eden Island's prestigious marina.
• Mid-range resort: Berjaya Beau Vallon Bay Resort - This beautiful, beachfront resort and casino combo offers elegantly furnished rooms with all the facilities you could ever want. Here, you'll find a large pool, three restaurants, a pizzeria, a fitness center, PADI diving center, and a tennis court.
• Budget self-catering Studio: Precious Residence - If you want to explore Mahé on a budget, then self-catering accommodation is your best bet. Precious Residence is an apartment with excellent reviews (9.5/10), offering budget apartments equipped with free WiFi, air conditioning, and a kitchenette on Grand Anse (west coast).
• Ultimate getaway: JA Enchanted Island Resort - Looking for the ultimate Indian Ocean getaway? JA Enchanted Island Resort is an impeccably beautiful resort located on a tiny private island on the footsteps of the St Anne Marine Park.
• ...10+ More Top Recommendations in this guide to where to stay on Mahé

See the Top-Rated Mahé Hotels

Travel Tips for Enjoying the Best Beaches on Mahé

I hope that you've found some great beaches to visit for your next trip to Mahé Island. Before you go, I've included some useful travel tips and ideas to make your visit more enjoyable.

• Getting around - Mahé is the main island of the inner group in the Seychelles. It's a big island that is much larger than La Digue and Praslin. Therefore, you'll want to either arrange a private driver to get around or rent your own car. A little tip, if you choose the latter, make sure to compare prices on Discover Cars first.
• Beach bars - at most of the popular beaches on Mahé, you'll find palm leaf-roofed bamboo huts serving fresh fruit and drinks. There's nothing better than a fresh tropical fruit platter on a hot day in paradise. So, do yourself a favor and order something from the locals!
• Travel insurance - if you're planning on exploring some of the more remote beaches on Mahé, then it's a good idea to get travel insurance. The best options at the moment are SafetyWing and World Nomads.
• Costs - visiting all the beaches on the island are free. There are currently none that require an entrance fee.
• More beaches: Of course, there are loads more great beaches on Mahé Island that didn't quite make the cut. If you're looking for more, check out Anse Louis, Carana Beach and Baie Ternay Beach (nature reserve at Baie Ternay Marine National Park).

Beyond Mahé: More Must-See Beaches in the Seychelles

Looking to explore some of the other must-see islands of the Seychelles? Below are links to more clear water beach guides for some of the beaches on both La Digue and Praslin that you definitely should not miss.

La Digue: Beach Guide

• Anse Source D'Argent
• Anse Cocos
• Grand Anse
• Anse Marron

Praslin: Beach Guide

• Anse Lazio
• Anse Georgette
• Curieuse: Anse St Jose

More Seychelles Travel Inspiration

I hope you've enjoyed this comprehensive travel guide to the best beaches on Mahé Island, the Seychelles. This main island can get busy, but I hope that I've shown you that you don't need to visit private islands to enjoy a secluded beach with unmatched scenery!

While you're still here on my blog, make sure to check out some of my other guides and inspiring resources. If you're going island hopping, make sure to read my guide to visiting Praslin, and my La Digue Island Guide too.

• 10 Best Praslin Hotels and Beach Resorts In 2023 (Seychelles)
• 10 Best Seychelles Islands You Need to Visit in 2023
• 11 Best Resorts & Beach Hotels On Mahe Island, the Seychelles (2023)
• 15 Awesome Seychelles Hikes and Nature Trails
• 15 Best Things to do on Praslin Island - Complete PRASLIN TRAVEL GUIDE
• 18 Best Beaches in the Seychelles to Visit in 2023
• 20 Amazing Things to do on La Digue Island - Seychelles Guide (2023)
• 26 Best Things to do on Mahé Island, the Seychelles - 2023 Guide
• 50 Best Things to do in the Seychelles - 2023 Travel Guide
• 8 Best Praslin Beaches You Need to Visit in 2022 (Seychelles)
• 9 Best La Digue Hotels & Accommodation Options: Where to Stay in 2023 (Seychelles)
• Epic Mahe Snorkeling Boat Excursion to Sainte Anne Marine National Park (2023)
• La Digue Hikes - 6 Best Hiking & Nature Trails on La Digue Island (Seychelles)
• Morne Blanc Nature Trail Hike on Mahe Island, Seychelles
• Where to Stay in the Seychelles - Best Areas, Hotels & Resorts in 2023

The post Mahé Beaches: 12 Best Beaches on Mahé Island, the Seychelles appeared first on We Seek Travel.

Are you looking for an adventure on the incredible Mahé Island of the Seychelles? You’ve found the right page! In this quick guide, I’ll give you a complete run-down on Ros Sodyer near Anse Takamaka, also known as the Mahe rock pool.

I’ll give you two options for how to get here, as well as some photos from my trip that I hope will inspire you to visit this natural attraction on Mahe.

#20 in 26 Best Things to do in Mahe

About the Mahe Rock Pool

This incredible geological formation is located on the rocky coast of Mahé Island. It's a saltwater tidal pool, which fills up with the rising tide. During low tide, you can enjoy a swim in the pool or even cliff-jump into it from the rocks above.

The official name is Ros Sodyer, and it is a natural phenomenon, meaning not man-made. You can reach the pools via a short nature trail hike from Anse Takamaka (more below).

After speaking to my local friend Roddey, who grew up on Mahé, I have now learnt that locals don't like to call Ros Sodyer the "Mahe Rock Pool". That's because the official rock pool is in the north of the island, which is pinned as Machabee Rock Pool.

However, in this guide, I am using both names because most people looking for the Rock Pool on Mahe will be much more interested in the beautiful Ros Sodyer, and not the official Machabee.

Tip: Visit at low tide for the best experience.

How to Get to the Rock Pool on Mahe

There are two options for getting to the Mahe Rock Pool.

The first, and easiest option is to book this famous hiking tour on Viator to the rock pool (Tripadvisor badge of excellence). This trip includes hotel pick-up and a guided nature trail tour to the rock pool. This is great as you'll also get to learn a lot about endemic species of the Seychelles from a qualified, local guide.

This tour has loads of reviews and an overall 5/5 stars, making it one of the best-rated tours on the island.

Book Your Tour Online

The second option for how to get to the Mahe Rock Pool is to take a taxi or a bus to Anse Takamaka Beach. There are several buses running around the island, and this only costs SCR 14. However, you'll need to ask around at the stand or at the bus station in Victoria for the correct route to Anse Takamaka.

Anse Takamaka is one of the most beautiful beaches on Mahé, so make sure you time your visit to enjoy it as well!

Tip: If you'd prefer to rent a car on Mahé instead, make sure to first compare prices on Discover Cars. You can often find great prices if you book in advance.

Where is the Mahe Rock Pool (Ros Sodyer)

If you're taking the independent option, below you'll find the exact location of Ros Sodyer, or the famous Mahe Rock Pool.

Once you arrive at Anse Takamaka, you'll find signs on the southern end of the beach indicating the trailhead location. There's also a large car park here amongst tropical trees and palms.

Related: How to Get to Anse Major Beach

The Ultimate Seychelles Travel Resource

Looking for more Seychelles travel guides and inspiration? Below are my most comprehensive guides that will serve as a great resource for your trip.

• 50 Things to do in the Seychelles
• Where to Stay in the Seychelles (Best Deals)
• 18 Best Beaches in the Seychelles
• 10 Best Islands in the Seychelles
• 15 Best Hikes in the Seychelles

The Hike to Ros Sodyer Rock Pool

• Hiking Distance: 2.2 km return (1.35 mi)
• Duration: 45-60 minutes return
• Elevation: Undulating (100 m total gain)
• Difficulty: Easy

The nature trail to the Mahe Rock Pool begins at the southern end of Anse Takamaka Beach. To begin, you'll have to walk through private property, which almost looks as if you're about to walk through somebody's yard. Enter, turn left, go through the gate, and you'll see the trail clearly into the jungle.

The hike itself is quite easy, as long as you have a general level of fitness. However, there are some undulating sections and some others where you'll need to climb a steel ladder to get up to the next bit. This is not difficult by any means but could throw some people off.

The nature trail is quite beautiful as you walk through the jungled sections. Towards the end, you'll walk up onto the rocks with views over the Indian Ocean. Continue on and keep an eye out for markings indicating the way to the pool.

The Mahe Rock Pool (Ros Sodyer), only becomes visible right at the end, where you required to descend a rocky surface towards the ocean. I'd imagine this could be quite slippery following heavy rainfall.

Also nearby: Sauzier Waterfall and the Morne Blanc Nature Trail

What to Expect At Ros Sodyer

After a sweaty hike to the rock pool, it was an easy decision to jump right in to cool off! The Ros Sodyer rock pool is a perfectly round, tidal pool at the very edge of the cliff and shielded from behind by a wall of rock.

The pool is very deep. I dove down to try to touch the bottom and I'd say that it is at least 3.5 meters in depth.

I was quite lucky when visiting as I had timed the tides perfectly (low tide), and I had the entire Mahe rock pool to myself! So, I spent about one hour cooling off in the pool and jumping off the wall behind it. The jump is about 3 meters if you launch off the very top. This is by no means a huge jump, but fun nevertheless.

Remember, when cliff jumping, always do a depth check first!

Where to Stay on Mahé

Mahé is the main island and home to Victoria, the capital city of the Seychelles. It's the largest of the inner islands and has several great places to stay. Here is a quick area guide with the top 4 accommodation recommendations below.

• Victoria and Eden Island for nightlife
• Beau Vallon for beaches and restaurants
• Private islands for the ultimate island experience

Top Accommodation Picks

• Top pick on Mahé: Eden Bleu Hotel (Eden Island) - The Eden Bleu Hotel is one of the best places to stay if you're looking to be close to the Victoria and on Eden Island. It's an amazing contemporary hotel on the foreshore of Eden Island's prestigious marina.
• Mid-range resort: Berjaya Beau Vallon Bay Resort - This beautiful, beachfront resort and casino combo offers elegantly furnished rooms with all the facilities you could ever want. Here, you'll find a large pool, three restaurants, a pizzeria, a fitness center, PADI diving center, and a tennis court.
• Budget self-catering Studio: Precious Residence - If you want to explore Mahé on a budget, then self-catering accommodation is your best bet. Precious Residence is an apartment with excellent reviews (9.5/10), offering budget apartments equipped with free WiFi, air conditioning, and a kitchenette on Grand Anse (west coast).
• Ultimate getaway: JA Enchanted Island Resort - Looking for the ultimate Indian Ocean getaway? JA Enchanted Island Resort is an impeccably beautiful resort located on a tiny private island on the footsteps of the St Anne Marine Park.
• ...10+ More Top Recommendations in this guide to where to stay on Mahé

See the Top-Rated Mahé Hotels

More Reasons to Visit Mahé Island, the Seychelles

I hope you've enjoyed this quick guide to visiting the Mahe Rock Pool, also known as Ros Sodyer, at Anse Takamaka on Mahé Island, the Seychelles.

While you're here on my blog, make sure to check out one or two of my other posts. I've spent a great deal of time documenting and photographing my adventures around the islands and I've got loads of spots and tips to share with you. If you're going to visit more islands in the Seychelles, make sure to read my guide to Praslin and my guide to La Digue as well for more great tips!

• 10 Best Seychelles Islands You Need to Visit in 2023
• 11 Best Resorts & Beach Hotels On Mahe Island, the Seychelles (2023)
• 15 Awesome Seychelles Hikes and Nature Trails
• 18 Best Beaches in the Seychelles to Visit in 2023
• 50 Best Things to do in the Seychelles - 2023 Travel Guide
• Epic Mahe Snorkeling Boat Excursion to Sainte Anne Marine National Park (2023)
• How to Get to Anse Major Beach on Mahe Island, the Seychelles (Nature Trail)
• Morne Blanc Nature Trail Hike on Mahe Island, Seychelles
• Sauzier Waterfall - Amazing Mahe Waterfall In Port Glaud (Seychelles)
• Where to Stay in the Seychelles - Best Areas, Hotels & Resorts in 2023

The post How to Get to the Rock Pool on Mahe (Ros Sodyer) – The Seychelles appeared first on We Seek Travel.

Planning a trip to the incredible Seychelles island of La Digue and wondering where to stay? Here’s an up-to-date travel guide featuring the best La Digue hotels, lodges, luxury resorts, as well as self catering, semi-budget picks.

I’ve formulated this La Digue accommodation guide to provide you with the most reliable and comprehensive resource to La Digue hotels and resorts you’ll find online.

Here, you’ll find 9 recommendations including the 3 best luxury picks, 3 best mid-range La Digue hotels and 3 self-catering accommodations. I’ve also included a run-down on the area, tips on booking, photos and comparisons for hotels for every budget.

A Quick Rundown of Where to Stay On La Digue Island

Top Picks:

• Best La Digue Hotel: Le Nautique (9.6/10)
• Amazing La Digue Luxury Hotel: Le Domaine de L'Orangeraie
• Historic Chateau: Hotel Chateau St Cloud
• Best Budget Self Catering Accommodation: Dream Holiday

As you might expect, La Digue is a small island, located within the inner islands of the Seychelles. It's a very popular destination to visit for its famous beaches with crystal clear waters and magnificent granite formations, as well as its many nature trails and unique, endemic wildlife.

Therefore, it's certainly worth staying at least a night or two on the island if you want to get the most out of your visit.

For an island of only 3.9 square miles in size (9.9km²), you'll find that La Digue has a huge selection of hotels and resorts to choose from. In terms of choosing the best area or region for where to stay, this isn't too important on La Digue. That's because you can get almost anywhere on the island within 30 minutes by bicycle.

However, if you're looking to stay as central as possible, then the main tourist hub of La Digue is on the west side of the island near the jetty. This comprises of two adjacent villages called L'Union and La Passe. Here, visitors will find a variety of hotels, luxury resorts and self-catering lodges to choose from. This region is also within walking distance to highlights like the L'Union Estate and the incredible Anse Source D'Argent.

Summary of the Best La Digue Hotels For Every Budget

Below is a summary of all the accommodation options listed in this article. If you're in a rush to choose the best La Digue hotel for your Seychelles vacation, you can go straight to the booking page by clicking the link in the table.

Prices below are listed in USD but on Booking.com you can book using your local currency without conversion costs.

La Digue Luxury Hotels

	Option	Area	Price
	Le Domaine de L'Orangeraie	Anse Serve	$497
	Le Repaire Hotel	Anse Reunion	$360
	Le Nautique	La Passe	$333

Best Mid-Range La Digue Hotels

	Option	Area	Price
	Hotel Chateau St Cloud	Anse Reunion	$240
	Pataran Village Hotel	La Passe	$205
	La Digue Island Lodge	L' Union Estate	$190

Best La Digue Self Catering Options

	Option	Area	Price
	Cocotier du Rocher	La Passe	$163
	Dream Holiday	La Passe	$140
	Chez Mera	La Passe	$120

Related: How to get to La Digue Island (3 options)

Where to Stay: Best La Digue Hotels, Resorts & Self-Catering

Looking for a more detailed comparison of the best hotels on La Digue? I've got you covered. Below I compare and give recommendations for 9 places to stay on La Digue. This includes the 3 best luxury resorts, 3 best mid-range La Digue hotels, and 3 best options for self-catering on the island.

Keep in mind, in the Seychelles, most hotels and resorts have a few offerings in terms of food. This includes:

• Free breakfast: breakfast only (buffet or al a carte)
• Half board: breakfast and dinner included
• Full board: breakfast, lunch and dinner included
• All-inclusive: All meals and drinks included

La Digue Luxury Hotels & Resorts

Le Domaine de L'Orangeraie

• Area: Anse Severe
• Best for: Young families or honeymooners wanting a luxury island escape

Le Domaine de L'Orangeraie is a beautiful beachside resort located on the north end of La Digue Island (La Passe). This amazing luxury resort features an island-famous pool with views overlooking the tranquil Indian Ocean. Furthermore, at Le Domaine de L'Orangeraie, you'll also find two large restaurants, a full wellness spa with massage and body treatments, spa, sauna, gym, and babysitting/child-minding services.

This high-end accommodation offering on La Digue is great for families or honeymooners looking for a tropical getaway with all the bells and whistles.

View on Booking.com

Le Repaire

• Area: Anse Reunion
• Best for: Couples and groups wanting modern rooms with a great location

Le Repaire resort is a stunning beachside luxury resort located at Anse Reunion in the heart of L'Union village. Each room is very spacious, with private bathrooms and modern living areas. If you're lucky and get in early, you can even secure rooms with views overlooking the Indian ocean and Praslin Island.

At this resort, you'll also find an on-site restaurant and bar, with excellent reviews for great quality food. The resort also offers diving and fishing excursions, as well as bike hire so you can get around and explore some of the more remote beaches like Grand Anse and Anse Cocos.

View on Booking.com

Le Nautique

• Area: La Passe
• Best for: Couples or business visitors wanting an authentic family-run experience with a luxury touch

The third and final recommendation for the best luxury hotel on La Digue is Le Nautique. This beautiful resort-style hotel features large rooms, each with a patio with pool or ocean views. Guests describe it as a luxury, family-run hotel with amazing hosts that cater to all your needs.

Like most of the luxury resorts on La Digue, you'll find an onsite restaurant and bar, as well as a tour office to arrange all your excursions when visiting the island. Le Nautique is located in La Pass, only 300 meters from the La Digue Marine where you get the Cat Coco ferry in from either Mahe or Praslin. This makes it one of the best luxury La Digue hotels in terms of location!

View on Booking.com

Best Mid-Range La Digue Hotels

Hotel Chateau St Cloud

• Area: Anse Reunion
• Best for: Quiet location and incredible buffet breakfast

Chateau St Cloud is where I stayed on La Digue and I can personally recommend it as one of the best accommodation options on the island.

This three-star hotel is perfect as a mid-range option as the location is excellent– just a little out from the main area on a quiet street that is close enough to both the incredible southwest beaches and the port. The staff are all very accommodating and the buffet breakfast is. The rooms are very spacious and the hotel even has a beautiful pool and fully-stocked bar.

This historic chateau is one of the first buildings on the island. It was first constructed as the plantation house of a large vanilla farm during the Napoleonic Wars. These days, it’s been reinvigorated and expanded to serve as one of the best accommodations available on the island.

View on Booking.com

La Digue Island Lodge

• Area: Anse Reunion
• Best for: Couples wanting to immerse themselves in the Seychelles culture 

La Digue Island lodge is a unique place to stay on the island as they offer beautiful triangle-shaped lodges in a great location on Anse Reunion. On-site facilities include an awesome L-shape pool with a swim up bar and a great restaurant serving up authentic Creole Cuisine. Guests rave about the seafood dinner menu and the cultural experience at the beachfront restaurant.

If you're looking to explore the island, this hotel also offers fishing and island tours. I recommend checking out the Anse Marron trail!

View on Booking.com

Patatran Village Hotel

• Area: Anse Patates
• Best for: Couples and young families wanting to share snorkeling experiences

Looking for an amazing mid-range La Digue hotel on the beach but in a quiet location? Patatran Vilalge is located on the northern tip of La Digue Island on Anse Patates. This hotel has a beachside pool and offers half-board accommodation as well as bakery snacks. Each room as a great balcony, wifi, and air conditioning.

If you're looking to step it up a notch, the Captain's room has a 180-degree view of the ocean. The BBQ facilities onsite are also available for those wanting to cook fresh fish from the island.

This is also one of the best La Digue hotels for young families looking to do some snorkeling as Anse Patates and the nearby beaches have some healthy coral reefs to explore.

View on Booking.com

Best La Digue Self Catering Options

Cocotier du Rocher

• Area: La Passe
• Best for: Self-catering groups wanting modern living spaces

Self catering accommodation is common in the Seychelles and great for large groups or budget-conscious travelers looking to get more out of the location for their money. Cocotier du Rocher in La Passe offers everything you need to live comfortably and enjoy La Digue island. All rooms are equipped with private bathrooms, wifi, air conditioning, and outdoor patios.

If you're traveling with kids and looking for the best self catering accommodation for where to stay on La Digue, this is a great bet as there are babysitting services and laundry available on site. While not beachfront, Cocotier du Rocher is in a quiet location with many beautiful beaches within riding distance.

View on Booking.com

 Dream Holiday

• Area: La Passe
• Best for: Budget-conscious travelers wanting to explore the best parts of La Digue

Dream Holiday Self Catering is located on the northern end of the island very close to the ferry terminal.

This location is great as you’ll be close to bike rental shops, snack stores, and even supermarkets on the main strip on La Digue. Dream Holiday offers queen rooms with air-conditioning, TV, private bathrooms, and even a balcony. This is a great option if you’re visiting La Digue on a budget while comfort and location are still a priority for you.

View on Booking.com

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Accommodation Guide: Praslin Island

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Chez Mera

• Area: La Passe
• Best for: Authentic Seychellois visit with beautiful garden & close to marine

This final La Digue accommodation recommendation is Chez Mera. This self-catering guesthouse is run by a wonderful host named Mera. She offers very spacious rooms with fully-equipped kitchens, fridges, microwaves, toasters, and anything else you'd need.

Again, this self-catering house is close to the La Digue marina and Mera offers bike rentals to explore the surrounding area.

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Beyond La Digue: Where to Stay on Mahé & Praslin

I hope this detailed accommodation guide to La Digue Island in the Seychelles has helped you plan your next holiday!

However, the planning doesn't end there. If you're coming to the Seychelles, you're going to want to check out some of the other amazing islands nearby.

Thankfully, islands like Mahe and Praslin are very easy to get to. And, you should definitely think about staying at least a few nights there as well. To help you out, I've written detailed guides to both of those islands, which you'll find below.

Mahé

• Things to do on Mahe
• Best Mahe Accommodation
• Best Beaches on Mahe
• Highlight: Anse Major

Praslin

• How to get to Praslin
• Things to do on Praslin
• Where to Stay on Praslin
• Best Beaches on Praslin
• Highlight: Vallée de Mai

More Travel Guides & Inspiration for The Seychelles

I hope that this rundown on the 9 best La Digue hotels and accommodation options has helped you decide where to stay on the island. If you're still planning your Seychelles vacation, make sure to check out some of my other articles.

The Ultimate Seychelles Travel Resource

Looking for more Seychelles travel guides and inspiration? Below are my most comprehensive guides that will serve as a great resource for your trip.

• 50 Things to do in the Seychelles
• Where to Stay in the Seychelles (Best Deals)
• 18 Best Beaches in the Seychelles
• 10 Best Islands in the Seychelles
• 15 Best Hikes in the Seychelles

I've written extensively on the best activities, beaches, hikes and adventure excursions you can enjoy on the Seychelles inner islands. All of my posts are based on my experience with my photography, go check them out!

• 10 Best Praslin Hotels and Beach Resorts In 2023 (Seychelles)
• 11 Best Resorts & Beach Hotels On Mahe Island, the Seychelles (2023)
• 15 Awesome Seychelles Hikes and Nature Trails
• 18 Best Beaches in the Seychelles to Visit in 2023
• 20 Amazing Things to do on La Digue Island - Seychelles Guide (2023)
• 26 Best Things to do on Mahé Island, the Seychelles - 2023 Guide
• 50 Best Things to do in the Seychelles - 2023 Travel Guide
• 8 Best Beaches on La Digue Island, the Seychelles
• Anse Cocos on La Digue Island - How to Get Here & What to Expect
• Anse Source D'Argent - Is this the Best Beach on La Digue? (Seychelles)
• Grand Anse, La Digue Island Seychelles - Why You Need to Visit
• How to Get to Anse Marron, La Digue Island, The Seychelles in 2023
• How to Get to La Digue Island from Praslin or Mahe in 2023 (Seychelles)
• How to Get to Praslin Island from Mahe, The Seychelles (2023)
• La Digue Hikes - 6 Best Hiking & Nature Trails on La Digue Island (Seychelles)
• Mahé Beaches: 12 Best Beaches on Mahé Island, the Seychelles
• Where to Stay in the Seychelles - Best Areas, Hotels & Resorts in 2023
• Why You Need to Visit L'Union Estate on La Digue, The Seychelles

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