Beaches & Watersports

The number of film crews that arrive in the islands every year to shoot commercials and films is testament enough to the notion that the Seychelles has some of the most beautiful beaches in the world.

With relatively few hotels and excellent beaches throughout the islands, you can generally find an idyllic spot to relax away from the crowds.

If you seek more sporting endeavours then there are some excellent facilities for snorkelling, scuba diving, wind surfing and sailing that are available in most hotels. Some hotels also have tennis courts and an 18-hole golf course is open at Lemuria Resort on Praslin. Please note that not all hotels have all these facilities so please check with us before you book to avoid any disappointment.

Deep sea fishing

The Seychelles archipelago contains some of the best fishing areas in the world; the diverse geology of its undersea world from its plateaus to drop-offs, sandy cays to shallow lagoons washed by the rich tropical currents guarantees excellent fishing throughout the year.

Deep sea fishing is generally best during the time of the south-east trade winds (April – October) whilst bottom fishing is recommended during the time of the north-west winds (November – March) when the seas are generally calmer. Half or full day deep sea fishing can be arranged from all the main islands as well as all inclusive overnight fishing expeditions for the very keen sportsman.

An abundance of pelagic fish including sailfish, marlin, tuna, wahoo, giant barracuda and rainbow runner are some of the species to be found offshore in and among shoals of bait fish. Over the years the waters surrounding Desroches, Denis and Bird Islands have proved to be extremely rewarding owing to their close proximity to steep drop-offs whilst the Silhouette and North Island area is notable for sailfish both in numbers caught and size.

Flora & Fauna

The Seychelles is famous for its rich diversity of flora and fauna throughout the islands, which includes areas of virgin forest on Mahe, Praslin, Silhouette & North, home to coconut palms, casuarina trees, pitcher plants, frangipani and also the giant coco de mer palm. The Botanical Gardens in Victoria are beautifully kept and well stocked so well worth a visit.

Some of the more common animals include the flying fox, fruit bat, gecko and the giant tortoise which can be seen on a number of the islands.

The marine life is also spectacular with many species of coral and tropical fish living around all the islands and in particular in the designated marine national parks. Dolphins, barracudas and porpoises are often seen, as well as sharks and whales that visit the area.

The bird life is also prolific throughout most of the islands and as a result the Seychelles is an ornithologist’s paradise. A number of the bird species here are endemic, such as the very rare magpie robin found on Fregate and Aride Islands, the brush warbler on Cousin Island and the black parrot on Praslin. Bird Island is home to literally millions of fairy terns and some of the islands have been designated as bird sanctuaries to ensure that they remain protected.

Hiking

Although not considered to be a hiker’s destination, the Seychelles offers some fantastic walks, especially on the granitic islands of Mahe, Praslin, Silhouette & North. The lush green vegetation of the hills contrasts beautifully with the white beaches and azure waters below and the number of endemic plant species is a botanist’s delight.

A walk in the Vallee de Mai National Park on Praslin, home to the rare Coco de Mer palm, should not be missed whilst the island of La Digue also offers some fascinating trails around the L’Union Estate copra factory and the Veuve Reserve which serves as a bird sanctuary and is home to the endemic black paradise flycatcher.

Banyan Tree

Location: Situated in the scenic Intendance Bay on the south-west coast of Mahe.

Rooms: 60 Pool & Hillside Villas

Facilities: 3 restaurants, 2 bars, spa, boutique, gym, infinity pool, library & tennis court.

Activities: Snorkelling, canoeing, diving, deep sea fishing, Mahe sightseeing and island hopping, mountain biking, Hawksbill and Green turtle watching.

Our view: The hotel is nestled amidst exotic trees and flowers on the stunning Intendance beach. The villas are set either on the beach or on the hillside, and are very private and spacious, ideal for a honeymoon. This is a world class 5 star hotel in a beautiful location.

Denis Island

Location: This is a privately owned tropical island approximately 30 minutes flying time from Mahe.

Rooms: 25 Cottages and Villas

Facilities: Restaurant, bar, tennis, swimming pool, billiards table and boutique.

Activities: Scuba diving, snorkelling, deep-sea fishing, table tennis, jogging, nature walks, windsurfing, canoeing and sailing.

Children: Children of all ages are welcome.

Our view: There is only one lodge on the island so it enjoys complete privacy and exclusivity. The cottages are beautifully styled, spacious and very comfortable and the food and service are excellent. The surrounding coral reefs and white sand beaches are simply stunning and this is a true island hideaway, ideal for honeymooners or those searching for real peace and tranquility.

Desroches Island Resort

Location: Situated on a beautiful island in the Amirantes group of islands. Approximately 40 minutes flying time from Mahe.

Rooms: 20 Suites & Villas

Facilities: 2 restaurants, bar, spa, tennis court, swimming pool and bicycles.

Activities: Scuba diving, snorkelling, fishing, cycling, tennis and boat trips.

Children: Childern of all ages are welcome.

Our view: The stylish lodge is the only accommodation on the island, so peace and tranquility are ensured. It offers a very high level of service and hospitality whilst remaining low-key and informal. Beautiful beaches and great watersports for those who want to either chill or be active. A delightful hideaway island offering barefoot luxury in a Robinson Crusoe setting.

Four Seasons

Location: Situated on the beatiful beach of Petite Anse on the south-west coast of Mahe.

Rooms: 67 Villas & Suites with private infinity edge plunge pools

Facilities: 2 restaurants, 2 bars, spa, boutique, fitness centre, 517 sq. metres pool & library.

Activities: Snorkelling, kayaking, scuba diving, deep sea fishing, trimaran sailing, jogging, walking, Mahe sightseeing and island hopping.

Our view: Set amongst the lush green slopes above one of the archipelago’s most stunning coral sand beaches, the Four Seasons offers an exclusive and secluded haven for a romantic escape. The standard of service and quality of cuisine are extremely high, and its peaceful location and atmosphere make it an ideal couple’s retreat.

Fregate Island

Location: 20 minute helicopter ride east of Mahe.

Rooms: 16 Villas

Facilities: 2 restaurants, bar, 2 freshwater pools, 7 beaches, spa, gym, Kids Club and library.

Activities: Snorkelling, deep-sea fishing, scuba diving, kayaking, boat trips, walking, helicopter and light aircraft rides.

Children: Children of all ages are welcome.

Our view: Fregate Island is one of the most luxurious and exclusive hideaways in the Seychelles. A good size island with a handful of villas set in beautiful, tropical gardens and some of the world’s most beautiful beaches ensure Fregate’s reputation as one of the Indian Ocean’s uber-luxurious and private islands.

L’Archipel

Location: Situated on Anse Gouvernement on the north-east coast of Praslin Island.

Rooms: 30 Rooms and Suites

Facilities: 2 restaurants, bar, massage facilites, gym and a games room.

Activities: Snorkelling, canoeing, windsurfing, boat trips, deep-sea fishing, scuba diving, bottom fishing and yacht charters.

Children: Children under 3 years of age on request only.

Our View: L’Archipel is a delightful 4 star hotel set on a large private estate overlooking a beautiful beach. The rooms are very comfortable and the food and service are excellent. Being a small hotel it is ideal for honeymooners and one of our favourites on Praslin.

Labriz Silhouette

Location: A 45 minutes boat ride west of Mahe on Silhouette Island.

Rooms: 110 Villas and Pavilions

Facilities: 4 restaurants, bar, lounge with a library, boutique, tennis court, swimming pool, fitness centre, spa.

Activities: Scuba diving, snorkelling, non-motorised water sports, big game fishing, mountain walks, Silhouette Giant Tortoise Sanctuary and night fishing.

Children: Children of all ages are welcome at Labriz.

Our view: Silhouette Island is a remote and beautiful retreat with lovely beaches and the reputation for some of the best diving in the Seychelles. Although it is the third largest island in the archipelago, it has remained relatively untouched and wild with Labriz offering world-class accommodation.

La Reserve

Location: In a secluded bay on the west coast of Praslin.

Rooms: 40 Sea-facing rooms

Facilities: Restaurant, bar, gym & swimming pool.

Activities: Kayaking, sunset cruise, snorkelling, scuba diving, big game fishing, island excursions and cycling.

Children: Children of all ages are welcome.

Our view: This romantic and elegant hotel is situated on its own private beach, Anse Petite Court. The emerald sea and white sandy beach are surrounded by a large variety of palms and red granite rocks, making La Reserve a colourful and exclusive retreat on this exotic island. The atmosphere of the hotel is very much one of casual elegance with an emphasis placed on charming and hospitable service and is ideal for honeymooners.

Lemuria Resort

Location: On the north-west coast of Praslin Island.

Rooms: 104 Junior & Senior Suites and Luxurious Villas

Facilities: 3 restaurants, bars, tennis courts, golf course, spa and fitness centre, library, Kids Club, boutique and swimming pool.

Activities: Pedalos, snorkeling, sailing, catamarans, kayaks, windsurfing, deep-sea fishing, scuba diving, mountain biking.

Children: Children of all ages are welcome.

Our view: Lemuria is a luxurious 5 star resort with a great location on the north-west coast of Praslin Island. Being a Constance hotel, the quality of the rooms, service and cuisine is superb and there are three secluded beaches from which to choose, ensuring that there is always a quiet spot available. The resort is also home to a great 18 hole golf course. Arguably the best hotel on Praslin.

Maia Resort & Spa

Location: Situated on the secluded, pristine beach of Anse Louis on the south-west coast of Mahe.

Rooms: 30 Villas

Facilities: Gourmet restaurant, beach bar, spa and swimming pool.

Activities: Meditation, canoeing, kayaking, snorkelling, boat trips and helicopter rides, scuba diving and deep sea fishing.

Children: Children of all ages are welcome.

Our view: Maia Resort & Spa is setting new standards of 5 star luxury within the Seychelles archipelago. Each of the 30 villas offers an 180 degrees uninterrupted sea view, air-conditioning, private infinity pool and a secluded outdoor gazebo with a large day bed. It is quite expensive compared to other hotels, but the quality is world-class.

North Island

Location: A 20 minutes helicopter ride from Mahe Island.

Rooms: 11 two bedroomed villas, all with private plunge pool, sala and butler service.

Facilities: Dining area, lounge, wine cellar, swimming pool, library, health spa, gym, four beaches.

Activities: Snorkelling, scuba diving, massage and health therapy, nature walks and bird watching (either by yourself or with the lodge’s resident naturalist), deep-sea and fly fishing, windsurfing, kayaking, hobie sailing, boat trips to neighbouring islands and mountain biking.

Children: Children of all ages are welcome.

Our view: North Island is all about ‘barefoot luxury’ with the aim of providing the very best in privacy, service and location. A large private island with only eleven huge, sumptuous villas ensure complete privacy. The food and service are superb and its eco credentials are inspirational. Although expensive, North Island is arguably the best beach hideaway in the whole of the Indian Ocean. Simply stunning!

Sainte Anne Resort & Spa

Location: Set on the private island of Sainte Anne 10 minutes boat ride from Mahe.

Rooms: 87 Villas

Facilities: 3 beaches, 4 restaurants, bar, spa, sport and leisure centre, tennis courts, Kids Club and boutique.

Activities: Snorkeling, sailing, windsurfing, kayaking, pedaloes,glass bottom boat trips (motorised watersports are not available from the island). Deep-sea fishing, scuba diving and sea excursions may also be arranged at extra cost, as can excursions to Mahe and other islands.

Children: Children of all ages are welcome.

Our view: The Sainte Anne Resort offers sumptuous accommodation in a variety of individual, single storey villa suites, some with private plunge pool. Owing to its location within a Marine Park the island has very well protected reefs and some superb snorkelling from the beaches. There are also plenty of tracks on the island along which one can walk or cycle. As part of the Beachcomber collection of hotels the quality of service and cuisine are assured, and the resort is highly recommended both for couples and families.