Mahé Island
Anse Intendance
Besting the competition for most unspoiled beach on Mahé, Anse Intendance is one of the few beaches on the island that is not protected by reefs. The waves that roll onto its unencumbered shores make it a popular surfing spot, although swimmers should note that swimming isn’t advisable from June through September when the currents are strong. The Banyan Tree Resort puts out daily safety flags daily to indicate the level of danger for swimmers. There’s a beach bar for cold beers and you can spot baby turtles hatching between October and February.
Anse Major
Anse Major is that secluded, hidden beach that you come to the Seychelles for. There are only two ways in – by boat or by hiking the trail through Morne Seychellois National Park which takes around 45 minutes. You will be one of just a handful of people on the beach; if you’re lucky, you might find yourselves the only ones. The snorkelling here is fabulous and you can properly live out your desert island fantasy. Just be sure to take all refreshments you need including water, as there are no facilities on or anywhere near the beach. If you don’t want to hike back, there is a sign on the beach with a number for a water taxi.
Praslin Island
Anse Lazio
This is a tourist favourite so expect plenty of company, but it makes our list for its sheer beauty. Crystal clear azure waters lap against tall granite boulders that rise out of the seabed, while towering Takamaka trees provide welcome shade along the 500m stretch of shoreline. It’s best to go early to avoid the bulk of the crowds arriving by car and bus – be aware that if you take the bus, you’ll have a fairly steep hill to climb on your way back. There are two beach restaurants right on the beach, Bonbon Plume and Le Chevalier. Bonbon Plume has some of the best Creole food on the island and is worth a visit in its own right.
Anse Georgette
Anse Lazio’s sister beach is smaller and more secluded, making it a great option if you want to avoid the crowds. Hidden away in the grounds of Constance Lemuria Resort, it’s accessible to non-hotel guests but the hotel sets a daily limit on outsiders, so you need to call ahead and get yourself on the list. The other option is to hike across nearby Mont Plaisir from the entrance of the resort and end up on the beach, in which case you don’t need to book. It takes about an hour each way and the trail is open from 9:00 am to 4:30 pm. Anse Georgette has no coral or rocks in the bay, giving the water a particularly breathtaking colour.
La Digue Island
Anse Source D’Argent
Frequently topping the best beach in the world lists and recognized by National Geographic as the world’s most photographed beach, Anse Source D’Argent is located on the west coast of the island within the grounds of L’Union Estate. This is where you’ll get your classic Seychelles beach photo for Instagram. Trademark pink-hued rocks, water in shades of blue that we don’t have words for and a dazzling white powder beach – check, check and check. The beach isn’t great for swimming and unfortunately sundowners is not an option as the gates to L’Union Estate close at 5pm, but once you’re drinking in the undiluted beauty of this shoreline you won’t mind.
Anse Severe
This quiet beach near to La Passe town centre sits at the top of a steep hill and is easily reached by bicycle. With the majority of the crowds headed for the west side of La Digue, this beach is more peaceful than many of its counterparts. There is plenty of shade to cool off in and a juice bar that sells welcome refreshments including fresh coconuts. You can while away the afternoon here before enjoying one of the most spectacular sunset spots on the island.
Photo cred: Michael Breitung
Grand Anse, Petite Anse and Anse Cocos
Known as the beach triplets of La Digue, these three sunbathing spots are located next to each other in a row, making it easy to visit all three during the course of a day. Grand Anse is the most popular and busiest of the three as it’s the most accessible. It’s the first one that you reach after biking through the surrounding forest, a welcome sight of perfect turquoise waves that are excellent for swimming and bodysurfing. To get to Petite Anse you have to hike through the bushes behind Grand Anse; the added trek naturally makes this beach more secluded. There is no natural shade here, but some enterprising locals have set up palm leaf huts which you can use if you purchase a cocktail. Anse Cocos is just as picture-perfect as her siblings, but the additional hike through the bush means it’s virtually deserted – perfect for a romantic picnic.
North Island
Honeymoon Beach
