Searching for paradise? Well, you’ll find it roughly 1,500 kilometers off the coast of East Africa in the heart of the Indian Ocean. The Seychelles, a dreamy 115-island archipelago, is comprised of granitic rock, lush tropical forest, and of course, some of the world’s most desirable beaches. On larger islands like Mahe, Praslin, and La Digue, luxury resorts and locally owned hotels provide a gateway to some amazing sandy stretches. From the best spots for snorkeling and swimming to secluded strips accessible only by hour-long hikes, here are eight of the best beaches in the Seychelles.
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1. Anse Intendance, Mahe Island
The short jungle trek to the unspoiled sands of Anse Intendance makes the grand reveal as you break through the trees and out onto the beach that much more spectacular. One of Mahe’s most beautiful spots, the nearly one-mile stretch of powdery white sand is also one of the island’s more remote — yet perfectly accessible — beaches. Aside from the nearby Banyan Tree Resort, there is little development around the beach, which retains a luxe, wild feel that sums up the Seychelles. Popular for surfers, but less suited to swimmers, the beach has colored flags that signal the water conditions on any given day.
Hotel Pick:
2. Petite Anse, Mahe Island
In addition to its white sand, the curved Petite Anse Bay stands out for its protruding granite rocks that beautifully split the blue sky and sparkling turquoise water. Booking a stay at the Four Seasons Seychelles will grant you easy access to the sand here as well as gorgeous beach views from private villas. However, you don’t have to be a guest to enjoy the free-to-use beach (or order drinks and snacks from the hotel bar).
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3. Anse Major, Mahe Island
Anse Major; Falco Ermert/Flickr
At the opposite end of Mahe, Anse Major lives up to its name — in that a major reward awaits those who make the one-hour hike through Morne Seychellois National Park to reach the beach. Provided you’re up for the challenge, the route through the rugged Anse Major trail is beautiful. Pack snorkel gear and explore the shallow waters of the picturesque bay. The tricky trek to reach the beach also keeps the crowds at bay, so expect to find solitude upon arriving. Make sure to pack a picnic and drinks (as there no beach bars here), but rest assured that a water taxi will regularly swing by to whisk weary legs away.
Nearby Hotel Pick:
4. Anse Source d’Argent, La Digue Island
Anse Source d’Argent So Seychelles via Flickr
Anse Source d’Argent is not only one of the best beaches in the Seychelles, but also the world. Between the weathered pink boulders that resemble an art installation, the drooping palms sweeping over the powdery white sand, and the crystal-clear water, it’s easy to see why this is such a famous spot. Visitors can access the beach through the historic L’Union Estate, which requires a $10 fee — a small price to pay for Instagram gold. Shallow waters are ideal for paddling, and snorkeling around the nearby reef is great for beginners.
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5. Beau Vallon, Mahe Island
Beau Vallon; So Seychelles via Flickr
Beau Vallon might not be the most beautiful beach on Mahe, but it’s still one of the best. Located in one of the more developed areas of the island, it’s busier than most beaches and it’s the place to go for water sports. There are bars and restaurants in adjoining hotels and fisherman sell the freshest catch, lending it a lively local vibe. Plus, water taxis take off from the beach and sail to the likes of the secluded Anse Major.
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6. Grand Anse, La Digue Island
Grand Anse; Thomas Gee/Flickr
Although Grand Anse is the largest beach on the island of La Digue, it is certainly not the most popular. Due to strong currents, swimming here is perilous (visitors can only paddle), but that shouldn’t stop folks from heading to this impressive strip of bright white sand, which is met by low-growing foliage rather than the usual palms found through the Seychelles.
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7. Anse Lazio, Praslin Island
Anse Lazio; So Seychelles via Flickr
Many travelers come to Anse Lazio on Praslin Island to recline beneath a hovering palm, marvel at the rocky boulders poking up from the water, and listen to the sound of the ocean breaking gently against the shore. But this beach is more than just a pretty face. At nearly half-a-mile long, Anse Lazio offers some of the best swimming and snorkeling conditions on the island. Plus, there are bars and restaurants directly on the sand.
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8. Anse Georgette, Praslin Island
Anse Georgette; So Seychelles via Flickr
Located on the northwest end of Praslin Island, Anse Georgette occupies a smaller stretch of sand than Anse Lazio, but the snorkeling and swimming are equally as good — unlike many Seychelles beaches, where strong currents and choppy waves make the water perilous. A true oasis, the compact beach provides castaway vibes, especially once you leave the nearby Constance Lemuria hotel.
NearbyHotel Pick:
You’ll Also Like:
- The 12 Most Beautiful Resorts in the Seychelles
- 7 Islands You Need to Visit Now Before They’re Gone Forever
- The Best Honeymoon Destinations Around the World
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