Anse Bonnet Carré
Many visitors to La Digue walk or cycle to the famous Anse Source d’Argent, but few take the trouble to explore further along the coastline. Anse Bonnet Carré rewards those that do; a beach that can only be accessed by foot. It has the same white sands as its famous neighbour, with fewer rocks and the same shallow warm waters, more suitable for a relaxing wallow than an energetic swim.
Anse Cocos
This pretty bay on the eastern coast of La Digue is only accessible by foot, either by taking a path from Grand Anse, or, in the other direction, from Anse Fourmis. Because of its more sheltered aspect, this beach, unlike its neighbouring bays of Grand and Petit Anse, is safe for swimmers, but there are still some strong currents, so care does need to be taken.
Anse Gaulettes
On the north of the island, Anse Gaulettes is a long narrow stretch of sand close to the coastal road. The water is suitable for swimming, and cyclists on a tour around the island often stop here for a quick cooling dip.
Anse la Reunion
La Digue Island Lodge and Choppy’s Beach Bungalows lie along its shore. Anse la Reunion is an attractive long, curving sun-soaked beach offering fine views of the neighbouring island of Praslin.
Anse Patates
On the northernmost tip of La Digue, Anse Patates is close to Patratran Village and borders the longer beach of Anse Gaulettes. Blessed with soft white sands and calm seas, it well suited for both swimming and snorkelling.
Anse Pierrot
When walking along the famous Anse Source d’Argent, continue across the small river until you reach Anse Pierrot. This beach is slightly narrower than Source D’Argent and its rocks are less photogenic, but it has the same shallow warm waters.
Anse Severe
From the jetty at la Passe, this is the first beach along the road to the left. Although there are a number of small hotels along its shore, the beach is a wonderful place to be.
Anse Source D’Argent
This is reputed to be the most photographed beach in the world. With its soft white sands, clear turquoise water and huge granite boulders sculptured by the elements and time itself, it is not difficult to see why photographers and film makers still love to come here.
Anse Union
This beach is part of the L’ Union Estate, a plantation open to the public. Along its shore is a small boat-building yard, a traditional craft of La Digue. The sea here is good for swimming and for snorkelling.
Grand Anse
A picturesque beach with huge waves and surrounded by large granite rocks, the sea is unfortunately not for swimming and there are signs on the seashore warning of the dangers of swimming here. Although the sea may look inviting, there is an extremely strong undertow so do not be tempted.
Petit Anse
A large beach for one named petit! This is the sister beach to Grand Anse and can be reached by walking across the rocks from Grand Anse, following the footpath. Swimming here is also as dangerous, but it is a secluded beach for sunbathing or picnicking.
Takamaka Beach
This is the longest beach on Cerf Island, and offers excellent conditions for numerous activities, two beach restaurants, and a few unique features such as a guided snorkelling trail and a night-time aquarium.
Anse la Fontaine
A small, oft-deserted beach on the south coast of Cerf Island, which is a tiny satellite island of Mahé, situated in the Sainte Anne Marine Park. This private spot is well-suited for relaxation in total solitude, a walk along the beach, snorkelling, scuba diving, and fishing.
Ile Cachée,
Translated to ‘Hidden Island’ in English, this is a beautiful little island located near to Cerf Island in the Sainte Anne Marine Park, offshore from Mahé. The beach here can be reached at low tide from Cerf by simply walking across the sand, or at high tide by boat. It is rumoured that the beach is also home to some buried pirate treasure!
When you have exhausted Seychelles’ world-beating beaches, remember that there is so much more still to do on these islands where the fun never stops and where you are only ever one step away from your next adventure.