Kayaking in Seychelles
Including Beau Vallon Bay and Curieuse and Praslin Channel. On the map.
The vibe
Paddling through shallow turquoise lagoons and winding mangrove creeks lets you slip past nesting seabirds in a way that bigger boats simply cannot manage. The calmest cruising happens early in the morning before the tropical winds pick up across the channels. It is an easy, go-at-your-own-pace affair with rentals readily available along the main island coasts.
Beau Vallon Bay
Beau Vallon
B.navez / Wikimedia Commons (CC BY-SA 3.0)
Paddle across the calm, turquoise waters of Mahé's most popular bay with views of granite mountain backdrops and distant Silhouette Island. Sea kayakers can explore nearby secluded coves, vibrant coral reefs, and coastal rock formations accessible only from the water.
Access. Kayak rentals and guided coastal paddling excursions are widely available directly from operators along Beau Vallon beach.
Notes. Best conditions occur during the calmer Northwest monsoon months from October to April. Check local wind forecasts before heading past the bay protection.
Curieuse and Praslin Channel
Seychelles
Bjørn Christian Tørrissen / Wikimedia Commons (CC BY-SA 4.0)
Cross the sheltered channel between Praslin and Curieuse Island by sea kayak, paddling past mangrove forests and granite boulders. The route leads to pristine beaches and marine sanctuaries frequented by giant tortoises and colorful reef fish.
Access. Kayak rentals and guided crossing trips are offered by operators based on Praslin Island, particularly around Anse Volbert.
Notes. Open water crossings require mindful navigation of boat traffic and tidal currents in the channel.