15 BEST Mahé Beaches, Seychelles (2024 Guide)

Mahé beaches are arguably the most idyllic beaches in the Seychelles.

This beautiful archipelago is made up of more than 100 islands off the east coast of Africa in the Indian Ocean, a region of unrivaled beauty and several of the world’s greatest beaches. 

Beach-hopping in Mahé is a must on your list of things to do on the island, and the sand on these remarkable shorelines is unmatched.

Below the surface, there is an abundance of underwater life like sea turtles, and coral reefs rich with colorful, and when you add in the gorgeous backdrop of mountainous peaks, granite boulders, and luscious rainforest, you’ll get a sense of the island’s natural beauty.

In this guide, I have put together a complete list of the best beaches in Mahé Seychelles that you absolutely can’t miss during your visit!

15 BEST MAHE BEACHES

It can be difficult to decide on the best beaches in Mahe worth visiting which is why I have put together this list of the ones that are a must-see in the little time you may have on the island.

Before diving in (no pun intended), make sure to prepare and pack your favorite travel accessories so that you have everything you need when visiting the island.

1. BEAU VALLON BEACH

Beau Vallon is the main beach on the island (and arguably the best beach in Mahé Seychelles) and has endless things to offer. Drooping palms wave hello from above a long stretch of silvery and smooth sand that provides a shaded haven.

This is Mahé’s main beach with a smattering of beach hotels, restaurants, and retail stores.

It’s a family-friendly destination with some of the island’s safest swimming where you can wade in the shallows and play around with youngsters as the tide comes in and out gently with little waves. 

Beau Vallon is also a great spot for fun-fuelled beach activities including parasailing, paddleboarding, jetskiing, beach volleyball, snorkeling, and of course the sunsets are to die for.

The drawback is that this area is more commercialized than the other beaches on Mahe so you can expect more crowds here.

2. SUNSET BEACH

Sunset Beach is located on Mahé’s west coast, near the island’s northern point. The beach is very popular with visitors coming all the way from Victoria.

While it is frequently crowded, the number of visitors here has reduced dramatically given that the nearby Sunset Beach Hotel closed down.

The shallow, tranquil water is ideal for a variety of sports and is completely safe for children and inexperienced swimmers. Needless to say, this makes Sunset Beach a terrific place for families, couples, and solo travelers looking to enjoy the stunning landscape and good swimming conditions. 

It’s worth noting that there is no parking lot near the beach but you’ll be able to park on the roadside and walk down the steps to reach the shoreline.

Lastly, it is one of the best places in the whole of Mahé Island for snorkeling since the water is shallow and the visibility is clear.

3. GRAND ANSE BEACH

As the name suggests, Grand Anse is one of the biggest Mahé beaches, and arguably the longest on the western coast. This wide bay is breathtakingly lovely, with fine sand and a stunning turquoise sea.

You’ll find the impressive mountainous environment around the beach, which contrasts with the flat, gorgeous Grand Anse Beach.

RELATED ARTICLE: 15 AWESOME THINGS TO DO IN MAHÉ

Although this spot is appropriate for swimming and surfing, visitors should exercise caution because the current under the water may be fairly strong at times. Also, the water is relatively deep compared to other beaches in Mahe Seychelles.

Grand Anse provides plenty of opportunities for relaxation, sunbathing, family games, sand strolls, and much more.

What I particularly liked is that Grand Anse is conveniently positioned close to Mahé’s coastal road, making access to the beach straightforward.

This, along with the availability of parking and a bus service that passes by the beach, makes it a convenient destination for many visitors.

4. ANSE INTENDANCE

Anse Intendance is a well-known beach on Mahé. This stunning white sand beach is surrounded on all sides by amazing granite formations and is one of the most gorgeous places in the south of the island. 

Fortunately, traveling to the beach by car or bus is a breeze, especially if you plan to rent a car and explore the West Coast Road. 

On the other hand, you can jump on a bus or a taxi and stop by the bus stop – from there, it will only take a few minutes to reach Anse Intendance.

The only downside to this beach is that there is practically nothing else around and you may only go for a quick swim or snorkel before making your way back to Victoria. That being said, you’ll find a little beach bar selling food and cool beverages to keep you going while you relax on the beach. 

Because there is no offshore coral reef to defend the bay from the open ocean, the water may grow rather deep rapidly, and strong waves can hit the beach during the southeast trade wind (May to September), making swimming potentially risky.

When renting a car, make sure to bring along all the travel accessories for a road trip to make the most of your time at Anse Intendance and also all the other best beaches in Mahé Seychelles.

5. ANSE BAZARCA BEACH

Near Anse Intendance on the south coast, the uncrowded Anse Bazarca is a small beautiful cove that’s worth visiting when exploring Mahé Island.

It’s located near Police Bay and Petit Police Bay and you can visit both three spots in a couple of hours or less. 

The water here, unlike many other Mahé beaches, is quite deep, and the waves pound the shore with greater ferocity. As a result, I wouldn’t recommend including Anse Bazarca in your itinerary if you’re searching for the perfect beach to swim or snorkel.

The sand recedes somewhat from June to September and from October to May, the sand almost completely covers the area. Anse Bazarca does not have much to offer in terms of activities but there are some nice rock pools to explore.

All in all, it’s one of the most stunning beaches on Mahe worth visiting for an hour or so.

6. ANSE TAKAMAKA BEACH

Anse Takamaka is the opposite bay to Anse Intendance and you can easily understand why it’s one of the best beaches in Mahé when you get here.

Crystal-clear water, beautiful surroundings, and a magnificent sandy surface combined create this remarkable location.

Due to its crystal-clear water and profusion of marine life, Anse Takamaka is ideally suited for snorkeling. However, because there is no equipment rental on-site, visitors need to bring their own flippers and masks.

The beach is also great for swimming, and the water is shallow enough that even kids and inexperienced swimmers may enjoy a swim in the ocean.

Aside from this, the beach is home to a notable Creole restaurant, Takamaka Beach Restaurant, as well as Le Reduit.

Anse Takamaka is easily accessible owing to a nearby bus stop only 20 meters away and the parking lot, guaranteeing that anybody visiting has easy access.

Lastly, you’ll be able to see the turtles on the beach and this alone is worth a visit.

7. ANSE ROYALE BEACH

Anse Royale, located on Mahé’s southeast coast, is one of the island’s most popular beaches. The beach is easily accessible owing to adjacent public parking and a bus station.

When coming from Victoria, a local bus will only take 30 to 45 minutes and will set you back SCR 7.

Out of all the beaches on the island, Anse Royale is one of the most entertaining since it has several restaurants and activities nearby.

Anse Royale Beach is ideal for windsurfing, especially during the summer months when the trade winds blow between June and September.

The little town next to the beach is known as “Anse Royale,” and it has a variety of amenities, including a gas station, hospital, banks, the Seychelles University, and a variety of lodging options.

Some of these stores will even rent you fishing, snorkeling, or scuba diving equipment, so you can make the most of your time at the beach.

All things considered, Anse Royale is an iconic beach with granite boulders that are not to be missed.

MUST READ: BEST THINGS TO DO IN LA DIGUE SEYCHELLES

8. ANSE BOILEAU BEACH

Anse Boileau is a long, curving bay on Mahé’s West Coast Road, about halfway between Anse à la Mouche and Anse Boileau.

Getting to Anse Boileau is relatively easy since a bus stop is located on the main road making getting to the beach a breeze.

On the other hand, it’s very easy to get here by car, and there are multiple parking places right adjacent to the beach. For this reason, you can rent a car and have no issues getting here whatsoever.

While some areas of the beach are muddy, the bottom is generally sandy and the beach itself is pristine. From June to September, there may be some seaweed, and the beach itself may disappear at high tide, but the bay has a lot to offer.

Windsurfers can also be seen enjoying the calm ocean surface, and the beach is also a fantastic place to catch a sunset.

Apart from that, there are several hotels and villas available nearby which is a great opportunity for those willing to spend the night here.

Nearby you can also find some restaurants and supermarkets offering food, snacks, and drinks that you can take with you for a picnic on the beach.

9. ANSE LOUIS

Anse Louis is a picturesque, protected cove on the west coast of Mahé near Anse Boileau. The waves at the beach are typically higher than they are elsewhere in Seychelles.

The water is deeper here than in other parts of the island but it’s still safe if you plan to come with children – as long as you always keep an eye on them.

Because of its closeness to the popular luxurious Anantara Maia Seychelles Villas, Anse Louis is a favorite destination for guests.

MUST READ: BEST BEACHES IN SEYCHELLES

For those who are spending their vacation elsewhere on the island, the beach is adjacent to the coastal road, making it easy to get there by car or bus. The nearby bus station and parking lot ensure that visitors from all around may come to Anse Louis.

Since there isn’t any special attraction nearby, Anse Louis Beach is known among surfers for not being crowded and catching great waves although the beach will appeal to anybody.

The views are breathtaking, and the water is safe for swimming and snorkeling. Anse Louis is especially perfect for photographers and romantic strolls down the beach because of the sunset views.

10. ANSE MAJOR BEACH

A hidden gem on the northwest coast of Mahé, Anse Major can only be accessed by foot hiking the Anse Major Trail or getting a boat from Beau Vallon beach.

No roads lead to this secluded paradise, so you’ll have to park and hike in, which can take anywhere from 45 minutes to one hour. 

The reward: dramatic views of an impeccable coast from atop a granite cliff and a tranquil scene you’ll be hard to beat. 

As mentioned previously, you can get a taxi boat from Beau Vallon to reach the beach. I recommend Taxi Boat Happiness to take you to and from Anse Major Beach and other spots along the coastline.

However, if you’re adventurous enough to hike your way up, it will be a much more enjoyable experience, and cheaper of course.

Head to the beach in the morning to avoid the hot sun, as there’s little shade offered on the trail.

Also, be sure to pack plenty of water, snacks, and everything else you need for the beach, as there are no amenities here, as opposed to other best beaches on Mahé.

11. SURF HOUSE BEACH

Surf House is a popular surfing school on Mahé Island that offers courses for all beginners, intermediate, and advanced surfers.

Surf House Beach is one of the not-so-popular Mahé beaches since most visitors are the surf school’s customers and guests coming from the Kempinski Resort.

The resort is the main attraction here and they have the Kempiski Zoo, two restaurants, and a Spa. 

Apart from the Kempinski Resort, you’ll also find the Pebbles Cove Reef, one of the best places on the island to snorkel with lots of different underwater species.

For a night out, make your way to the nearby Club Liberté Casino after sunset on this magnificent beach.

12. CROWN BEACH

Crown Beach in Mahe Seychelles is a tropical paradise located in front of the Crown Beach Hotel on the east coast of the island.

During my visit to Mahe, I personally stayed at Crown Beach Hotel for 3 nights and had a wonderful stay. If you’re looking for accommodation on the island, I can highly recommend this hotel.

The beach is open to the public, and you can also rent kayaks and snorkeling gear from the hotel.

Take a stroll along the shoreline, paddle the bay in a kayak, or snorkel around the rocky outcrop at the southern end of the beach.

Feeling hungry or thirsty? Be sure to try some delicious cuisine at the hotel’s restaurant by the pool.

Check Rates & Availability: Crown Beach Hotel

13. GLACIS BEACH

Glacis Beach is another one of the best beaches in Mahé that is worth visiting.

Nestled on the island’s northwestern corner, there is no coral reef to shelter the water here, the depth increases as you go further out from the beach.

At high tide, the water becomes fairly deep and currents are strong at times so it’s worth pointing out that children should be supervised if you’re planning a family trip.

You will also notice local fishermen with their colorful boats around and that will give you a glimpse of their daily lives. That is a great addition if you don’t have the time to explore the other Mahé beaches in the south of the island.

Once you reach the beach, you’ll be greeted by a rock formation that divides both parts of the beach, and that is worth some photos. 

Unfortunately, there is no bus stop near the beach, but arriving by car is simple and there’s a parking lot available in front of the beach.

You won’t find many attractions around apart from two convenience stores but you can go further north to have a drink at the K Food Catering or spend some time at the Machabee Rock Pool.

14. POINTE AU SEL BEACH

Located on the southeast of Mahe, Pointe Au Sel Beach in Seychelles is a hidden gem that offers a nice escape from the hustle and bustle of other beaches on the island.

The beach boasts shallow crystal-clear waters that are perfect for swimming, snorkeling, or even a nice walk along the shore.

The beach is not only a great spot for unwinding but also for witnessing stunning sunsets that provide an ideal backdrop for capturing memories. Of course, you don’t want to forget your camera, as you’ll get Insta-worthy shots here!

What’s more, children can enjoy swimming here as the waters are shallow and calm, making it a perfect place for an unforgettable family vacation.

15. BAIE LAZARE

Last but not least in this guide to the best beaches in Mahé is Bair Lazare.

The beach, named after French explorer Lazare Picault, boasts two endpoints – Lazare Picault and Gaulette – and locals claim to have discovered pirate treasure on its shimmering shores.

But beyond its interesting history, Baie Lazare offers visitors a range of activities to enjoy during their stay. Swim, windsurf, and snorkel in the shallow waters, or simply soak in the scenery.

And when it’s time to relax, you’ll have top-notch resorts like Valmer Resort and Kempinski Seychelles await you.

BEST BEACHES IN MAHÉ – FAQ

Below you’ll find answers to the most frequently asked questions by first-time visitors about Seychelles Mahe beaches.

ARE ALL BEACHES PUBLIC IN SEYCHELLES?

All Mahé best beaches, and in Seychelles as a whole, are public property by law. Even though some of the beaches are remote, these beautiful shorelines are begging to be explored.

This is also the case for beaches belonging to hotels and resorts and you theoretically don’t need to pay any fee to spend the day there.

IS IT SAFE TO SWIM IN SEYCHELLES?

The beaches in Seychelles are some of the nicest in the world, but you will need to be cautious of the sea conditions depending on which beaches you visit.

Some Seychelles beaches have severe surf, and swimmers should be aware of undertows, whereas some beaches have a fringing reef and the water is always calm and safe to swim.

It’s worth noting that some beaches are only safe to swim at during one season but harmful during another. And you should never swim alone or go swimming at a beach where you are not sure it’s safe to enter the water.

You’ll also want to consider wearing water shoes to protect your feet from rocks on some beaches because they’re quite rough.

To sum up, yes, it’s overall safe to swim at the beach in Seychelles.

BEST TOURS IN MAHÉ ISLAND SEYCHELLES?

REEF SAFARI AT ST ANNE MARINE NATIONAL PARK

Discover the marvels of the St. Anne National Marine Park on this fun-filled day trip full of adventures. Reach Mahé’s islands to explore the depths of the Marine Park.

Next, board a semi-submersible boat and descend into the ocean to discover the wonders of the park’s vibrant coral gardens for some much-needed snorkeling or swimming. 

After a morning on the water, explore Moyenne Island and its ancient ruins before returning to Mahé. 

If you’re willing to explore some of the best places to visit in Mahe including snorkeling with an abundance of marine life, this tour is your safest bet.

Click here to check availability and rates on the Get Your Guide website.

PRIVATE CUSTOMIZABLE MAHÉ FULL DAY TOUR

This is another must-do tour when in Mahé, a private customizable full-day tour, where you’ll discover the natural beauty and rich history of the area.

Start your day with a visit to Seychelles National Botanical Gardens, where you’ll encounter native creatures such as the Coco De Mer and endemic birds.

Next, head to Mission Lodge Lookout and take in the views over the west coast of Mahé, and continue to Domaine de Val des Pres Craft Village and Takamaka Rum Distillery for the ultimate experience.

There’s more, and you’ll stop at waterfalls, different beaches, and more!

This is a customizable tour, which means that you’ll be edit the itinerary to your liking, and this is definitely the best part!

Click here to check availability and rates on the Get Your Guide website.

WHAT TO PACK FOR MAHE?

When visiting Mahe, here is a list of items I highly recommend bringing with you:

MORE SEYCHELLES TRAVEL GUIDES

• How To Get From Mahé To La Digue
• BEST Beaches On La Digue Island, Seychelles
• BEST Beaches In Seychelles – The Ultimate Guide
• Things To Do In Mahé Island, Seychelles

FINAL THOUGHTS – SEYCHELLES MAHE BEACHES

So there you have it! These are the top beaches in Mahe and if you have any questions at all, please leave a comment below this post and I will get back to you as soon as I can.

For a quicker response, be sure to join Jonny Melon’s Travel Tribe on Facebook and post your questions or recommendations to our awesome community.

TRAVEL RESOURCES FOR YOUR NEXT TRIP

Whether you’re a seasoned traveler or it’s your first trip overseas, here are some useful travel resources to help you kick-start your next adventure!

THANKS FOR READING

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