Forget the over-crowded tourist traps. Seychelles holds secrets – pristine beaches where your footprints might be the only ones on the sand. We’re talking hidden coves, secluded bays, and stretches of paradise so untouched, you’ll feel like Robinson Crusoe discovering them for the first time. This guide unveils those secret shores, giving you the inside scoop on how to find them, what to expect, and how to experience the unspoiled beauty of the Seychelles.
Unveiling Anse Marron: A South Mahé Sanctuary
Anse Marron is a true gem, a secluded beach on the southern tip of Mahé, the largest island in Seychelles. Getting there isn’t just a walk in the park; it’s an adventure that requires either navigating a challenging coastal hike or hiring a boat. The hike itself takes around 1.5 to 2 hours, depending on your fitness level and the tides. Without a guide, it’s easy to get lost amongst the granite boulders and dense vegetation, and can be potentially dangerous, especially during high tide. The trail isn’t always clearly marked, so engaging a local guide who knows the terrain intimately is highly recommended. Expect to pay approximately SCR 500-800 per person for a guided hike. This ensures your safety and enriches the experience with local knowledge of the flora, fauna, and geology of the area. Consider contacting guides through your hotel or browsing reputable tour operators online before your trip.
The reward for making the journey is a beach unlike any other. Anse Marron is essentially a series of natural pools, protected from the ocean’s full force by a reef. The water is incredibly calm, shallow, and crystal clear, perfect for swimming and snorkeling. Giant granite boulders frame the beach, providing shade and adding to the dramatic scenery. Because of its isolated location, Anse Marron is rarely crowded, offering a sense of tranquility and privacy that is hard to find elsewhere. Pack plenty of water, snacks, sunscreen, and a hat, as there are no facilities nearby. Remember to wear sturdy shoes for the hike and consider bringing water shoes for navigating the rocks in the pools. The best time to visit is during the dry season, from May to September, when the weather is more predictable.
Beyond the Shore: Birdwatching near Anse Marron
The area surrounding Anse Marron is also a haven for birdwatchers. Keep an eye out for the endemic Seychelles kestrel and the Seychelles bulbul in the surrounding forest. Consider bringing binoculars to enhance your viewing experience.
Anse Source d’Argent: Reframing the Familiar
While Anse Source d’Argent on La Digue is hardly a secret, its fame sometimes eclipses the nuance of experiencing it properly. Most visitors cluster near the entrance closest to L’Union Estate, leading to crowded conditions. The real key to enjoying Anse Source d’Argent is exploring its less visited sections. Head south, beyond the iconic rock formations, and you will discover smaller, more secluded coves. These aren’t necessarily marked, so allow time for exploration, taking care of the tide levels as you go.
You’ll need to pay an entrance fee to L’Union Estate to access Anse Source d’Argent, currently around SCR 100 per person. This allows you to explore the plantation house, see the giant tortoises, and walk through the vanilla and coconut plantations before reaching the beach. A good tip is to arrive early in the morning, before the crowds from the inter-island ferries start to arrive. This gives you a precious window of time to enjoy the beach in relative peace and capture those postcard-perfect photos. Another option is to visit in the late afternoon, after the day-trippers have left. The lighting is often beautiful at this time of day, creating a magical atmosphere.
Don’t just snap a quick photo and leave – take the time to swim in the shallow, turquoise waters, snorkel amongst the coral reefs, and simply relax on the soft white sand. Bring snorkeling equipment, as the marine life around the rocks is fascinating. You can often spot colorful fish, starfish, and even the occasional sea turtle. Remember to be respectful of the environment and avoid touching the coral or disturbing the marine life. Find a quiet spot to watch the sunset – the colors reflecting off the granite boulders are truly breathtaking.
Dining near Anse Source d’Argent: A Culinary Escape
While there are no restaurants directly on Anse Source d’Argent, several eateries are located within L’Union Estate and in the nearby village of La Passe. Consider trying a local Creole dish at one of the restaurants in La Passe. Fish curry and grilled seafood are popular choices.
Anse Georgette: Praslin’s Northern Paradise
Anse Georgette on Praslin is often rated as one of the most beautiful beaches in the world, and for good reason. Its powdery white sand, crystal-clear turquoise water, and lush green surroundings create a truly idyllic setting. However, access to Anse Georgette is strictly controlled, as it is located within the Constance Lémuria Resort. There are two ways to access this beach: either by being a guest at the resort or by obtaining prior permission from the resort management. Non-residents must email the resort at least 24 hours in advance to request access. It’s highly recommended to request access well in advance of your trip, as they limit the number of non-residents allowed on the beach each day.
If you are not staying at the Constance Lémuria, another, potentially more rewarding, option is to hike to Anse Georgette from Anse Lazio. This is a challenging but scenic hike that takes around 1-1.5 hours each way. The trail is not always easy to follow, and it involves navigating some rocky terrain and steep inclines. However, the views along the way are spectacular, and the sense of accomplishment upon reaching Anse Georgette is immense. Wear sturdy shoes, bring plenty of water, and start early in the morning to avoid the midday heat. This hike is not recommended for people with mobility issues.
Once you arrive at Anse Georgette, you’ll be rewarded with a pristine beach that feels like your own private paradise. The water is perfect for swimming and snorkeling, and the sand is incredibly soft and white. The beach is also relatively sheltered, making it a great place to relax and soak up the sun. Be aware of the strong currents offshore, especially during certain times of the year. Pay attention to any warning flags that may be posted and swim with caution. As the beach belongs to the resort, there are no public facilities, but since access is controlled, the beach is immaculately maintained.
Anse Lazio: The Perfect Combination to Anse Georgette
Since the hike to Anse Georgette starts from Anse Lazio, consider combining the two beaches into one day trip. Anse Lazio is another stunning beach on Praslin and easily accessible by car or bus. Enjoy a swim and some sunbathing at Anse Lazio before embarking on the hike to Anse Georgette. This will give you a taste of both of Praslin’s most beautiful beaches.
Petite Anse Kerlan: Seclusion on Praslin’s West Coast
While Praslin is famous for Anse Lazio and Anse Georgette, Petite Anse Kerlan offers a more secluded and tranquil experience. Access to Petite Anse Kerlan is primarily through the Raffles Praslin Seychelles resort. While technically a public beach, reaching it without going through the resort is difficult due to the surrounding terrain. Consequently, most visitors are resort guests giving it an extremely private feel.
If you’re not staying at the Raffles, consider contacting the resort in advance to inquire about access. While they might not guarantee it, especially during peak season, explaining your intention to dine at one of their restaurants may increase your chances. Keep in mind that purchasing a meal at the resort will be significantly more expensive than eating at local restaurants.
Petite Anse Kerlan itself is a picture of serenity. The sand is soft and white, and the water is calm and clear, ideal for swimming. The beach is fringed with palm trees, providing shade and creating a tropical paradise. As it is usually less crowded than other beaches on Praslin, offering a more peaceful and relaxing atmosphere. The sunsets at Petite Anse Kerlan can be spectacular, painting the sky with vibrant colors. If you have the opportunity, stay until sunset to witness this unforgettable sight. Remember to respect the privacy of the resort guests and to leave the beach as you found it.
Raffles Spa: Indulge After Your Beach Visit
If you manage to access Petite Anse Kerlan through the Raffles Praslin Seychelles, consider indulging in a spa treatment after your beach visit. The Raffles Spa is renowned for its luxurious treatments and stunning views. This will add an extra touch of pampering to your day.
Anse Cocos: La Digue’s Untamed Beauty
Located on the eastern side of La Digue, Anse Cocos is a more remote and rugged beach than the more popular Anse Source d’Argent. Reaching Anse Cocos requires a hike of around 30-45 minutes from Grand Anse, another beautiful beach on La Digue. The trail is relatively easy to follow, but it does involve some walking over rocks and through wooded areas. Wear comfortable shoes and bring plenty of water.
Anse Cocos is divided into several smaller coves, each with its own unique charm. Some of these coves are protected by natural rock pools, creating calm and shallow areas perfect for swimming. The water is crystal clear, and the sand is soft and white. However, be aware that the currents can be strong in certain areas, so swim with caution. During periods of high surf, swimming is not advised. The Piscine Naturelle is a naturally formed pool that offers a safe haven for swimming and snorkeling, shielding bathers from the full force of the waves.
Anse Cocos is generally less crowded than other beaches on La Digue, making it a great place to escape the crowds and enjoy some peace and quiet. There are no facilities on the beach, so bring everything you need with you, including food, water, and sunscreen. Respect the natural environment and leave no trace behind. Don’t forget your snorkeling gear, as the marine life around the rocks is abundant. You might even spot sea turtles! The hike to Anse Cocos is part of the adventure, allowing you to experience the natural beauty of La Digue. Keep an eye out for wildlife along the trail, such as colorful birds and geckos.
Grand Anse: The Gateway to Anse Cocos
Since you’ll be passing through Grand Anse to reach Anse Cocos, take some time to enjoy this beach as well. Grand Anse is a wide, sandy beach with powerful waves, perfect for sunbathing and enjoying the dramatic scenery. However, swimming is not always safe at Grand Anse due to the strong currents.
Finding YOUR Secret Shore
The Seychelles are full of hidden gems waiting to be discovered. Don’t be afraid to venture off the beaten path and explore the less-visited areas of the islands. Talk to locals, ask for recommendations, and follow your intuition. You might just stumble upon your own secret shore, a place where you can truly escape the crowds and connect with nature.
Remember to always be respectful of the environment and the local culture. Leave no trace behind, and support local businesses whenever possible. By traveling responsibly, you can help to preserve the beauty of the Seychelles for future generations.
Tips for Finding and Enjoying Secret Beaches
Do Your Research: Before your trip, spend some time researching the different islands and beaches in the Seychelles. Look for blog posts, travel guides, and online forums that mention less-known beaches. Use satellite imagery to identify secluded coves and bays that might be worth exploring.
Talk to Locals: The best source of information about hidden gems is often the locals. Talk to hotel staff, taxi drivers, and restaurant owners and ask them for their recommendations. They might know of secret beaches that are not mentioned in any guidebook.
Rent a Car or Bike: Having your own transportation will give you the freedom to explore the islands at your own pace and to reach more remote beaches. On Mahé and Praslin, you can rent a car, while on La Digue, bicycles are the preferred mode of transportation.
Be Prepared for Hiking: Many of the secret beaches in the Seychelles require some hiking to reach. Wear comfortable shoes, bring plenty of water, and be prepared for uneven terrain. Consider hiring a local guide for more challenging hikes.
Pack Light: When visiting a secret beach, pack only what you need. Bring a towel, sunscreen, water, snacks, and snorkeling gear. Leave valuables at your hotel and be mindful of your belongings.
Protect the Environment: Be a responsible traveler and help to protect the natural environment of the Seychelles. Do not litter, avoid touching coral or disturbing marine life, and respect the local culture.
Check Tide Times: Many small beaches disappear entirely during high tide, or become inaccessible because rocks that can be walked around at low tide are covered with water. Be sure to check reliable tide tables before setting out.
Sample Itineraries: Secret Beach Hopping
La Digue: A 3-Day Escape
Day 1: Explore Anse Source d’Argent early in the morning to beat the crowds. In the afternoon, head to Anse Pierrot, a smaller, more secluded beach just south of Anse Source d’Argent.
Day 2: Hike to Anse Cocos and enjoy swimming in the natural rock pools. Spend the afternoon relaxing on Grand Anse and admiring the dramatic scenery.
Day 3: Rent a boat and explore the smaller islands around La Digue, such as Ile Cocos and Felicité Island. These islands offer pristine beaches and excellent snorkeling opportunities.
Praslin: A 4-Day Adventure
Day 1: Visit Anse Lazio and enjoy swimming and sunbathing on this famous beach. Hike to Anse Georgette in the afternoon.
Day 2: Explore the Vallée de Mai Nature Reserve, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and discover the unique coco de mer palm. Relax on Anse Gouvernement in the late afternoon.
Day 3: Hire a boat to visit Curieuse Island, home to giant tortoises and a mangrove forest. Snorkel in the crystal-clear waters around the island.
Day 4: Spend the day exploring the less-visited beaches on the south coast of Praslin, such as Anse Bateau and Anse Bois de Rose.
Mahé: A 5-Day Exploration
Day 1: Relax on Beau Vallon, the most popular beach on Mahé. In the afternoon, visit the nearby Anse Major, accessible by a scenic hiking trail.
Day 2: Explore the southern part of Mahé and discover hidden beaches such as Anse Intendance and Anse Takamaka. Visit the Jardin du Roi Spice Garden and learn about the local flora and fauna.
Day 3: Hike to Anse Marron with a local guide and enjoy swimming in the natural rock pools.
Day 4: Take a boat trip to Sainte Anne Marine National Park and snorkel in the coral reefs. Visit Moyenne Island, home to giant tortoises and hidden pirate treasures.
Day 5: Explore the western coast of Mahé and discover secluded beaches such as Anse Soleil and Baie Lazare.
FAQ Section
What is the best time to visit the Seychelles for beach holidays?
The best time to visit the Seychelles for beach holidays is during the dry season, which runs from May to September. During this time, the weather is generally sunny and dry, with low humidity and pleasant temperatures. The sea is also calmer, making it ideal for swimming and snorkeling. However, the Seychelles is a year-round destination, and each season has its own unique charm. The shoulder seasons (April and October) can also be a good time to visit, as the weather is still generally good, and the crowds are smaller.
Do I need a visa to visit the Seychelles?
Most nationalities do not require a visa to enter the Seychelles for tourism purposes. However, you will need to have a valid passport, a return or onward ticket, and sufficient funds to cover your stay. It is always a good idea to check the latest visa requirements for your nationality before traveling.
What currency is used in the Seychelles?
The currency used in the Seychelles is the Seychellois Rupee (SCR). However, Euros and US Dollars are widely accepted, especially in tourist areas. Credit cards are also accepted in most hotels, restaurants, and shops. It is a good idea to have some local currency on hand for smaller purchases and for visiting more remote areas.
Is it safe to swim in the ocean in the Seychelles?
In general, it is safe to swim in the ocean in the Seychelles. However, it is important to be aware of the potential dangers, such as strong currents, waves, and marine life. Always swim in designated swimming areas and pay attention to any warning flags that may be posted. If you are unsure about the conditions, ask a lifeguard or a local for advice. Some beaches are known for stronger currents than others, primarily on the windward side of the island. Respect the power of the ocean and always swim with caution.
Are there any dangerous animals in the Seychelles?
The Seychelles are generally safe from dangerous animals. There are no large predators such as lions or tigers. The most common types of wildlife you will encounter are birds, geckos, and giant tortoises. However, there are a few things to be aware of. Some beaches may have jellyfish, especially during certain times of the year. It is also important to be careful when walking in the forest, as there may be snakes or scorpions, although their bites are rarely life-threatening.
What should I pack for a trip to the Seychelles?
When packing for a trip to the Seychelles, it is important to bring lightweight and comfortable clothing, swimwear, sunscreen, a hat, sunglasses, and insect repellent. You will also need comfortable shoes for hiking and exploring the islands. If you plan to snorkel or dive, bring your own equipment, or you can rent it from local dive shops. Don’t forget to bring a camera to capture the stunning scenery. A waterproof bag is also useful for protecting your belongings from the water.
Are there any cultural customs I should be aware of?
The Seychelles has a rich and diverse culture, influenced by African, European, and Asian traditions. It is important to be respectful of the local customs and traditions. Dress modestly when visiting religious sites, and avoid public displays of affection. If you are invited to someone’s home, it is customary to bring a small gift. Always ask for permission before taking photos of people. Seychellois people are generally very friendly and welcoming, so don’t be afraid to ask for help or advice.
How can I contribute to sustainable tourism in the Seychelles?
You can contribute to sustainable tourism in the Seychelles by supporting local businesses, reducing your environmental impact, and respecting the local culture. Choose eco-friendly accommodations, eat at local restaurants, and buy souvenirs from local artisans. Avoid using single-use plastics, conserve water and energy, and dispose of your waste properly. Learn about the local culture and traditions, and be respectful of the natural environment.
References List
- Seychelles Tourism Board Official Website.
- Constance Lémuria Resort Website.
- Raffles Praslin Seychelles Website.
- L’Union Estate La Digue Official Website.
- World Travel Guide Seychelles.
Ready to ditch the crowds and discover your own slice of paradise? The secret shores of Seychelles are calling. Start planning your adventure today, research those hidden coves, and prepare to be amazed by the untouched beauty that awaits. Don’t just dream about it, do it! Book your flight, pack your bags, and get ready to explore the Seychelles like never before. Your secret beach is waiting!
Explore Places to Stay in Seychelles
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