Beaches in Seychelles
Including Anse Lazio, Anse Major, and Anse Patates. On the map.
The vibe
Granite boulders flank powdery white shores here in a way that feels worlds apart from the coral atolls found elsewhere in the tropics. The sweet spot arrives during the transition months when the ocean lies completely calm and glassy. Most stretches remain blissfully quiet and untamed, allowing you to walk for miles without bumping into crowds or commercial umbrellas.
Anse Lazio
Praslin
Bjørn Christian Tørrissen / Wikimedia Commons (CC BY-SA 4.0)
A wide bay on Praslin with bright sand and two rocky headlands enclosing deep blue, swimmable water. More open-ocean feel than La Digue's coves, with space to spread out along the shore. Among the Seychelles' top white-sand swimming beaches.
Access. Bus or taxi from Praslin airport and Baie Ste Anne; short walk from parking to the sand. A few beach restaurants; no large resorts on the sand.
Notes. Occasional strong currents on the headlands; swim in the central bay.
Anse Major, Mahé
Seychelles
Njohn5188 / Wikimedia Commons (CC BY-SA 4.0)
A secluded and wild beach on Mahé's rugged northern coast, reached only by a coastal hiking trail or boat. The reward is a pristine stretch of bright sand backed by lush green hills and calm, crystal-clear water ideal for swimming and snorkeling.
Access. Reached via a rewarding 1.5-hour coastal hike from Danzil or by water taxi from Beau Vallon.
Anse Patates, La Digue
La Digue Group
Cybersister27 / Wikimedia Commons (CC BY-SA 4.0)
A small, stunning cove located at the northern tip of La Digue, framed by dramatic dark granite rocks and brilliant white sand. Deep turquoise waters make it an incredible spot for a quick swim and coastal photos.
Access. Easily accessible by bicycle or foot along the island's coastal road.
Notes. Can experience rougher water and currents when the winds shift.
Anse Royale, Mahé
Bel Air
NorbertNagel / Wikimedia Commons (CC BY-SA 4.0)
A long, vibrant coastal stretch on Mahé's southeast side protected by an offshore reef, creating a vast natural swimming pool with crystal-clear turquoise water. Fine white sand and local cafes make it a favorite for a full beach day.
Access. Easily accessible by car or bus with convenient roadside parking.
Anse Source d'Argent
La Digue Group
otterboris / Wikimedia Commons (CC BY 3.0)
Shallow turquoise pools and pale sand framed by weathered granite boulders on La Digue. The water is warm, calm, and wade-perfect, with one of the Seychelles' most photographed shorelines. A benchmark Indian Ocean white-sand cove.
Access. Ferry to La Digue, then bicycle or ox-cart; small park entry fee via L'Union Estate. Extremely popular — arrive early morning.
Notes. Entry fee to estate; tides expose more sand at lower water.
Anse Takamaka, Mahé
Takamaka
Tobi 87 / Wikimedia Commons (CC BY-SA 4.0)
A wide, horseshoe-shaped bay on the southwest coast of Mahé featuring powdery white sand and dramatic Takamaka trees providing natural shade. The gentle slope and rolling waves create a classic, laid-back tropical beach day.
Access. Easily reached by car or public bus on Mahé, with parking and local restaurants nearby.
Notes. Waves and currents can occasionally be strong during the southeast monsoon.