Forget the postcard-perfect beaches thronged with tourists. Seychelles holds secrets, and we’re about to unlock ten of its most stunning, secluded beaches. Prepare to discover hidden gems far from the madding crowd, offering tranquility, untouched beauty, and an authentic island experience.
Anse Marron, La Digue: A Natural Swimming Pool
Anse Marron isn’t your typical “lay on the sand and sunbathe” beach. It’s more of an adventure! Getting there is half the fun, and the payoff is incredible. This beach is separated from the open ocean by a natural rock barrier, creating a tranquil, shallow pool ideal for swimming and snorkeling, it’s like your private aquarium .
How to Get There: You absolutely need a guide. Seriously. Don’t attempt this alone. The trail is unmarked, treacherous in parts, and involves boulder hopping and navigating through dense vegetation. Expect a 2-3 hour hike (one way!) from Grand Anse or Anse Source d’Argent. Several local guides offer tours starting around €50-€75 per person. Book in advance, especially during peak season. Some guides even offer lunches as part of the tour.
What to Expect: Crystal-clear water, unique rock formations, and unparalleled solitude. The “swimming pool” is perfect for families with careful supervision. The outer reefs offer good snorkeling, but be mindful of currents. Pack plenty of water, sunscreen, a hat, and sturdy shoes. There are no facilities at Anse Marron, so bring everything you need. Don’t forget your camera! The photographic opportunities are superb. One tip: try to schedule your hike for early morning or late afternoon to avoid the midday heat.
Why It’s Secret: The challenging access keeps the crowds away. Most tourists prefer the easily accessible beaches. Anse Marron requires effort and a willingness to venture off the beaten path.
Anse Cocos, La Digue: Untamed Paradise
While La Digue is known for Anse Source d’Argent, Anse Cocos offers a wilder, less crowded alternative. This beach is a bit of a hike, but the reward is a pristine stretch of white sand fringed with lush vegetation and dramatic granite boulders.
How to Get There: From Grand Anse, follow the trail over the headland. It’s a moderate 30-45 minute hike. The path is well-trodden but can be rocky in places, so wear comfortable shoes. Alternatively, you can hire a bicycle and cycle as far as Grand Anse, then walk the rest of the way. Watch out for sections of soft sand where it can be difficult to cycle.
What to Expect: Anse Cocos has strong currents, so swimming in the open ocean isn’t recommended. However, there are several natural rock pools where you can safely take a dip. The scenery is breathtaking, with turquoise waters, white sand, and dramatic rock formations. The beach is particularly beautiful at sunset. There are no shops or restaurants at Anse Cocos, so bring your own food and drinks. Also, take any trash with you to help preserve the beach’s pristine condition.
Why It’s Secret: The walk deters many visitors. Anse Cocos requires a bit more effort to reach than some of La Digue’s other beaches, making it a haven for those seeking solitude.
Anse Intendance, Mahé: Powerful Beauty
Located on the south of Mahé, Anse Intendance is known for its incredibly powerful and picture-perfect waves. It’s a long sweeping bay of white sand that offers stunning views of the turquoise waters. Be cautious when swimming.
How to Get There: Anse Intendance is easily accessible by car or bus from Victoria, the capital city. There’s a bus (usually route 9) that stops nearby, but check the schedule in advance. If you’re driving, there’s a car park near the beach. From the car park, it’s just a short walk to the sand.
What to Expect: The strong currents and powerful waves make Anse Intendance unsuitable for inexperienced swimmers, especially during the southeast monsoon season (May to September). However, the beach is perfect for sunbathing, walking, and enjoying the dramatic scenery. Surfers occasionally visit Anse Intendance, particularly when the waves are high. The Banyan Tree Seychelles resort is located near the beach, offering luxurious accommodation and dining options. You can get a drink, but expect the prices to be high end. If you are looking for a more budget-friendly version, better bring your own.
Why It’s Secret: Even though Anse Intendance is on Mahé, it’s far enough from the main tourist hubs to retain a sense of seclusion. The strong currents also deter some visitors, adding to its appeal for those seeking a wilder beach experience.
Petite Anse, Mahé: Seclusion and Luxury
Petite Anse is a private beach owned by the Four Seasons Resort Seychelles. While technically private, access can be granted with a reservation at the resort’s restaurant or spa. This allows you to experience a secluded slice of paradise with impeccable service and breathtaking views.
How to Get There: As Petite Anse is part of the Four Seasons Resort, you’ll need to access it through the resort grounds. Book a meal at the Zez restaurant or a treatment at the hilltop spa. Upon arrival at the resort, inform the staff that you have a reservation and wish to access the beach. They will guide you to the beach area. The most stress-free way to get there is by taxi. Alternatively, consider renting a car.
What to Expect: Pristine white sand, crystal-clear water, and impeccable service are the hallmarks of Petite Anse. The beach is incredibly well-maintained and offers excellent swimming and snorkeling opportunities. The Four Seasons provides beach chairs, umbrellas, and towels for its guests. The Zez restaurant offers delicious Mediterranean cuisine with stunning ocean views. While access to Petite Anse requires spending money at the Four Seasons, the experience is well worth it for those seeking a luxurious and secluded beach escape. Note: you’ll likely pay a pretty penny in these parts.
Why It’s Secret: Access is limited to guests of the Four Seasons Resort and those with reservations, ensuring that the beach remains uncrowded and exclusive.
Anse Lazio, Praslin (The Less Crowded End)
Anse Lazio is consistently ranked as one of the world’s most beautiful beaches. While not entirely secret, most tourists congregate near the restaurants and main entrance. Walk to the far left (facing the ocean), past the rocks, and you’ll find a much quieter, more secluded stretch of sand.
How to Get There: Anse Lazio is easily accessible by bus or car. The bus ride from Baie Ste Anne costs around SCR 7 (approx. €0.50).If you drive, you will find a small parking lot at the top of the beach. From the parking lot or bus stop, walk down to the beach, and head left along the sand.
What to Expect: The same stunning scenery as the main part of Anse Lazio – turquoise water, white sand, and granite boulders – but with far fewer people. This area is ideal for swimming, sunbathing, and snorkeling. Look for the small, hidden coves among the rocks. The snorkeling is best around the granite boulders. While there are no facilities directly on this quieter part of the beach, you can easily walk back to the main area for food and drinks. Bringing your own equipment will save money.
Why It’s Secret: Most tourists stop at the main part of Anse Lazio, unaware that a more secluded paradise awaits just a short walk away.
Anse Georgette, Praslin: Hidden Gem with a Twist
Anse Georgette is another stunning beach on Praslin, but access is controlled by the Constance Lémuria Resort. You either need to be a guest at the resort or book in advance to gain access. This controlled access ensures that the beach remains pristine and uncrowded.
How to Get There: If you’re not staying at the Constance Lémuria Resort, you need to request access in advance. Contact the resort via email or phone and request permission to visit the beach. They usually limit the number of non-resident visitors per day, so book well in advance, especially during peak season. Once you are approved, you will be given a time slot to visit the beach. If accepted, the friendly security guard at the gate will direct you down to the beach (approx. 15-minute walk through the golf course).
What to Expect: Anse Georgette boasts pristine white sand, turquoise water, and excellent snorkeling. The beach is sheltered, making it ideal for swimming. The Constance Lémuria Resort maintains the beach to a very high standard. There are no facilities directly on the beach, but you can purchase drinks and snacks at the resort’s bar, with a bit of a walk and if you are allowed. Be aware that the current can be strong at certain times of the year. If you are not staying at the resort, bringing your wallet is a good idea because drinking water is vital.
Why It’s Secret: The limited access policy keeps the crowds away, ensuring that Anse Georgette remains a secluded paradise. You will generally need approval from the resort.
Anse Source d’Argent (The Less Photographed Spots), La Digue
While Anse Source d’Argent is one of the most photographed beaches in the world, most tourists only see the iconic rock formations near the entrance. Explore further along the beach, past the L’Union Estate park fee booths, and you’ll find quieter, equally beautiful sections, with some privacy.
How to Get There: Anse Source d’Argent is located within L’Union Estate on La Digue. You need to pay an entrance fee of SCR 100 (approximately €7) to enter the estate. Once inside, follow the signs to Anse Source d’Argent. Walk past the giant tortoises, the copra factory, and the vanilla plantation. Once you reach the main beach area, keep walking further which will provide further seclusion with a bit of luck.
What to Expect: The same iconic granite boulders, turquoise water, and white sand that make Anse Source d’Argent famous, but with fewer people. The snorkeling is good in the shallow waters. Look for hidden coves and secluded spots among the rocks. There are several juice bars and fruit stands along the beach, but prices can be high. Bring your own snacks and drinks to save money.. Remember to explore at low tide to see even more of the coastline
Why It’s Secret: Most tourists stick to the main section of Anse Source d’Argent, unaware that a quieter paradise awaits just a short walk away (and through a small section with some low water).
Anse Major, Mahé: Hike to Paradise
Accessible only by boat or a rewarding hike, Anse Major on Mahé is a hidden gem for nature lovers. The trail winds along the coast, offering stunning views of the ocean and surrounding landscape. The beach itself is small but beautiful, with crystal-clear water and excellent snorkeling opportunities.
How to Get There: There are two ways to reach Anse Major: by hiking or by boat. The hiking trail starts from the village of Danzil on the northwest coast of Mahé. The hike takes about 1.5-2 hours each way and is moderately challenging with some uneven steps. Be sure to bring enough drinking water. Alternatively, you can hire a boat from Beau Vallon or Bel Ombre. Several local boat operators offer trips to Anse Major. Remember to negotiate the price before booking.
What to Expect: A secluded beach with clear turquoise water, surrounded by lush vegetation and granite cliffs. The snorkeling is good, especially around the rocks on either side of the bay. The beach is relatively small, so it can get crowded during peak season, but it’s still much quieter than Mahé’s more accessible beaches. There are no facilities at Anse Major, so bring your own food, drinks, and sunscreen. Taking a photo near the boulders is recommended.
Why It’s Secret: The lack of road access keeps the crowds away. You may encounter people who have decided to dock their boat for a few hours.
Anse Marie-Louise, Praslin: The Quiet Escape
Located on Praslin, Anse Marie-Louise is a long, sandy beach, perfect for a peaceful escape. The water is shallow and calm, making it ideal for swimming and wading. Casuarina trees line the beach, providing plenty of shade.
How to Get There: Anse Marie-Louise is accessible by car or bus. The ride is enjoyable due to the scenery. If you are driving, you can park along the road. The bus stops are located within a short walking distance of Anse Marie-Louise.
What to Expect: Calm, shallow water, soft sand, and plenty of shade. It’s ideal for families with small children. It’s a relaxing getaway from the busier areas of Praslin. The beach is great for relaxing walks where you can observe a unique environment of casuarina trees, the ocean, and the sand. You will find various small birds running along the beach. There are no stores on Anse Marie-Louise, so make sure to pack food and water.
Why It’s Secret: Its location away from the main tourist hubs and the quieter environment means that it attracts fewer crowds. Local knowledge will tell you that the beach is a great area to avoid tourist.
Anse Badamier, Cousin Island: A Protected Paradise
Anse Badamier, on Cousin Island, is a protected paradise managed by Nature Seychelles. Cousin Island is a special reserve dedicated to protecting wildlife, where you can enjoy nature with the protection of endemic species.
How to Get There: Access to Cousin Island is managed by Nature Seychelles, and visits must be arranged in advance. Tours, including the boat trip to the island and a guided tour, typically cost around €50-€75 per person, but this can vary based on the season and group size. Contact Nature Seychelles to book a tour. Be aware that visits are limited to certain days of the week. The only way to get to the isolated Cousin Island is through certified tour companies because Nature Seychelles requires permits.
What to Expect: Pristine white sand, crystal-clear water, and abundant wildlife. Cousin Island is home to thousands of seabirds, including tropicbirds, fairy terns, and frigatebirds. You may even spot nesting sea turtles. Remember to preserve the local environment. The snorkeling is excellent, with coral reefs teeming with marine life. Wear closed-toe shoes and be mindful of the no-flash photography rule in order to protect nature. You must have drinking water and snacks with you while on the island.
Why It’s Secret: Due to controlled access and its protected ecological state, Anse Badamier remains a hidden and pristine natural paradise that you will never forget as long as you follow the tour guide’s rules and the required permits.
FAQ Section
Are these beaches safe to swim at?
Safety varies from beach to beach. Some, like Anse Marron’s natural pool, are very safe. Others, like Anse Intendance, have strong currents and can be dangerous, especially during certain times of the year. Always check local conditions and be aware of your swimming abilities.
Do I need to bring my own food and drinks?
Yes, definitely! Most of these secret beaches lack facilities. Pack plenty of water, snacks, and sunscreen. Leaving no trace is essential, so take all your trash with you.
What’s the best time of year to visit Seychelles?
The Seychelles enjoys a tropical climate year-round. The best time to visit depends on your priorities. April-May and September-October offer the best weather, with calm seas and sunny skies. November-March is the wet season, with higher humidity and occasional rain showers. May-September is the southeast monsoon season, with stronger winds and rougher seas.
Are these beaches suitable for families with children?
Some are, some aren’t. Anse Marron’s natural pool and Anse Marie-Louise are good options for families with careful supervision. Others, like Anse Intendance, are not suitable for young children due to the strong currents. Always assess the conditions and your children’s swimming abilities before allowing them to enter the water.
Do I need any special equipment?
Snorkeling gear is recommended for most of these beaches. Sturdy shoes are essential for the hikes to Anse Marron and Anse Major. Sunscreen, a hat, and insect repellent are always a good idea. A waterproof bag can be helpful for protecting your belongings.
Is it expensive to visit these secret beaches?
The cost varies depending on the beach. Some, like those accessible by bus, are relatively inexpensive. Others, like Petite Anse (Four Seasons), require spending money at a luxury resort. Costs will vary depending on travel style and planned activities.
References
Seychelles Tourism Board Official Website
Nature Seychelles Website
Constance Lémuria Resort Website
Four Seasons Resort Seychelles Website
Ready to ditch the crowded tourist traps and discover the real Seychelles? These ten secret beaches are just the beginning. Start planning your off-the-beaten-path adventure today. Research your favourite beaches, book that flight, pack your bags, and prepare to be amazed by the hidden beauty of this incredible island nation. Don’t just dream it; discover it. And, most importantly, remember: respect the environment, leave no trace, and help preserve these pristine paradises for generations to come. The Seychelles is waiting to unveil its secrets to you.