An up-to-date accommodation guide to the best Mahe hotels, luxury beach resorts and self-catering villas for where to stay on a trip to the Seychelles.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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!
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.
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.
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!
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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!