Seychelles Tourist Attractions: Best Islands, Beaches & Sights
Explore the hidden side of Seychelles—from untouched nature trails to ancient forests and island wildlife found nowhere else. This guide goes beyond the postcards to reveal the authentic experiences that make each visit unforgettable.
If you’re dreaming of turquoise waters, powdery beaches, and rare island wildlife, Seychelles should be on your radar. This archipelago of 115 islands blends tropical beauty with cultural depth and world-class nature reserves. It’s not just about scenery—what makes Seychelles tourist attractions stand out is how effortlessly they combine conservation with visitor access.
The three main islands—Mahé, Praslin, and La Digue—cover most of the essentials. Mahé hosts the capital, airport, and key hikes; Praslin is home to the legendary Vallée de Mai; and La Digue offers a slower pace with iconic beaches and traditional charm.
From coral reef diving and giant tortoise sanctuaries to UNESCO forests and granite-lined shores, the islands reward every kind of traveler. Up next, we’ll explore the beaches that made Seychelles famous—and why they still live up to the hype.
Iconic Beaches of Seychelles
Seychelles tourist attractions are often defined by their beaches—and with good reason. These islands are home to some of the most photographed coastlines in the world. Each beach offers something distinct: dramatic granite scenery, calm turquoise lagoons, or powerful surf for adventure seekers.
Let’s explore four standout beaches that represent the full range of coastal experiences across Mahé, Praslin, and La Digue.
Anse Source d’Argent – La Digue
This is easily the most recognizable beach in Seychelles. Anse Source d’Argent features giant granite boulders, shallow aquamarine waters, and soft white sand. It’s a favorite for photography, casual swimming, and snorkeling in calm lagoons.
To access the beach, visitors enter through L’Union Estate, where the 10€ fee also covers entry to a working copra mill, giant tortoise pen, and a small vanilla plantation. While it gets busy in high season, early or late visits help avoid crowds and heat.
Best visiting times:
- Early morning (fewer crowds)
- Late afternoon (better lighting)
- High tide (clearer water for snorkeling)
💡 Pro tip: Waterproof gear is a must—both for your feet and your camera.
Anse Lazio – Praslin
Among Seychelles tourist attractions, Anse Lazio stands out as one of the most celebrated beaches in the entire archipelago. Located on the northwest coast of Praslin, it combines postcard views with great swimming conditions, thanks to its protected location and gentle slope.
The granite formations at the western end are perfect for snorkeling. Dining options include two beachfront restaurants serving Creole meals (€20–45 USD) with panoramic views.
Getting there:
- Bus from Baie Sainte Anne or Grand Anse
- Car rental for full island exploration
- Taxi services available on request
💡 Tip: Arrive early—parking is limited, and midday heat can be intense.
Beau Vallon – Mahé
Beau Vallon is the liveliest beach on Mahé and a hub for both tourists and locals. The long bay offers shallow, calm waters ideal for families, while water sports like jet skiing and windsurfing are widely available.
On Wednesday evenings, the beach transforms:
- Beau Vallon Bazaar
- Local Creole food (~€15–40 )
- Traditional crafts and live music
💡 Access options: Regular buses (€0.50 USD) or taxi services. Accommodations nearby range from affordable guesthouses to high-end resorts, making this an easy base for beachgoers.
Anse Intendance – Mahé
Anse Intendance offers a wilder, more remote beach experience. Located on the southern coast of Mahé, it’s known for strong surf, untouched sands, and minimal development. Surfers love it, especially between May and September when the waves peak.
Swimming here requires caution due to powerful currents, strong undertows, and no lifeguard presence. There are no facilities, so visitors must pack in everything needed.
Important safety notes:
- Dangerous swimming during high surf
- No lifeguards on duty
- Strong undertows present
The forest-lined drive adds to the adventure, and a picnic setup is perfect for enjoying the surroundings without relying on beachside services.
💡 Up next: We move inland and offshore to uncover Seychelles’ most unforgettable island escapes—each with its own landscape, wildlife, and character.
Must-Visit Islands in Seychelles
With over 100 islands scattered across the Indian Ocean, the archipelago offers an exceptional variety of Seychelles tourist attractions— from world-class beaches to rare wildlife habitats. While Mahé, Praslin, and La Digue anchor most visits, the outer islands provide unforgettable nature experiences that reward the extra travel.
Mahé Island Highlights
Mahé is the largest island and your likely entry point into the country. It hosts the capital city of Seychelles, Victoria, and Seychelles International Airport. More than 65 beaches line its shores, including popular Beau Vallon and the secluded Anse Major.
Top Attractions:
- Morne Seychellois National Park – scenic hikes and panoramic views
- Sir Selwyn Selwin Clarke Market – fresh produce, local spices, and souvenirs
- Seychelles National Botanical Gardens – home to giant tortoises and rare native plants
- Mission Lodge – historical viewpoint above lush rainforest
Mahé combines natural beauty with cultural stops like the Takamaka Rum Distillery, making it one of the most versatile Seychelles tourist attractions for first-time visitors. Hiking trails such as Copolia and Morne Blanc reveal sweeping island views. Beach hopping here is a must, with coastlines suited for both swimmers and surfers.
Praslin Island Experiences
Just a ferry ride away, Praslin is best known for its UNESCO-listed Vallée de Mai. This primeval forest protects the coco de mer palm—a Seychelles icon—and supports endangered birdlife.
Must-See Spots:
- Vallée de Mai – home to black parrots and massive coco de mer trees
- Anse Lazio – often ranked as one of the world’s top beaches
- Anse Georgette – quiet, secluded, and surrounded by granite boulders
- Côte d’Or Beach – good for swimming and relaxed dining
From Praslin, it’s easy to reach nearby islets like St. Pierre or Curieuse. The pace is calmer than on Mahé, and the landscapes showcase everything travelers expect from Seychelles tourist attractions.
La Digue Island Adventures
La Digue trades cars for bicycles and noise for nature, offering one of the most charming Seychelles tourist attractions for those seeking a slower, more authentic pace. The island’s small size and laid-back lifestyle offer a peaceful escape. Getting around is simple and scenic.
What to Explore:
- Anse Source d’Argent – a granite-lined beach like no other
- L’Union Estate – plantation ruins and roaming tortoises
- Eagle’s Nest – a rewarding hike with panoramic views
- Anse Cocos – accessible by trail, perfect for a quiet swim
You’ll need to pass through L’Union Estate to reach many of the beaches. Entry comes with added perks like plantation tours and tortoise sightings. Those up for a hike can head to Anse Marron—a remote beach well worth the trek.
Curieuse, Aride & Bird Island
Smaller and harder to reach, these islands offer unmatched biodiversity. Most visits require a boat tour or pre-arranged permit.
- Curieuse Island – over 300 free-roaming tortoises, mangrove forests, and snorkeling spots
- Aride Island – breeding site for seabirds and home to rare plant species
- Bird Island – a haven for birdwatchers and nesting sea turtles
Strict conservation rules limit visitor numbers, ensuring these ecosystems stay intact. For travelers focused on nature, these spots represent some of the most rewarding Seychelles tourist attractions available.
Natural Wonders and Parks
Some of the most compelling Seychelles tourist attractions are hidden in its forests and underwater ecosystems. Nature reserves and marine parks protect rare palms, endemic birds, coral reefs, and mountain landscapes. These areas let visitors experience the islands’ raw beauty far beyond the beaches.
Vallée de Mai Nature Reserve
Located on Praslin Island, Vallée de Mai is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of Seychelles’ most iconic natural landmarks. This prehistoric forest has remained virtually untouched for millions of years.
The reserve is best known for the coco de mer palm, whose massive double-lobed seed is the largest in the world. These ancient palms grow only in Seychelles and live for centuries.
Key Features:
- 324 hectares of palm forest
- More than 4,000 coco de mer palms
- Six endemic palm species
The reserve also shelters rare birds like the Seychelles bulbul and Seychelles black parrot. Well-marked trails allow for easy exploration. Entry is open daily from 8:30 AM to 4:30 PM with optional guided tours.
Morne Seychellois National Park
Covering 20% of Mahé Island, this park protects diverse habitats from mountain mist forests to coastal wetlands. At 905 meters, Morne Seychellois is the country’s highest peak.
Hiking trails like Copolia and Morne Blanc offer panoramic views and encounters with unique flora. You’ll find orchids, pitcher plants, and dense fern canopies.
Wildlife includes:
- Seychelles scops-owl
- Blue pigeon
- Seychelles fruit bats
- Endemic insect species
The park also supplies fresh water to Mahé through its rivers and springs. Entry is free, and trails are open daily from 8:00 AM to 4:00 PM.
Sainte Anne Marine National Park
Established in 1979, Sainte Anne is the country’s oldest marine park. It spans six islands off Mahé and protects critical marine ecosystems.
Coral reefs here support vibrant aquatic life including turtles, rays, and countless tropical fish. Seagrass beds serve as nurseries for juvenile species.
Popular activities:
- Snorkeling and diving
- Glass-bottom boat tours
- Swimming and sailing
Entry starts at $15 USD, and access is only by boat from Mahé. This park plays a key role in preserving underwater biodiversity while promoting sustainable tourism.
Together, these reserves and parks highlight another side of the Seychelles tourist attractions—one rooted in conservation, exploration, and natural wonder.
Unique Seychelles Wildlife and Conservation Areas
Some of the most fascinating Seychelles tourist attractions have nothing to do with beaches. From giant tortoises that predate your grandparents to rare birds and nesting turtles, these islands are a sanctuary for endangered species. Conservation here isn’t just a policy—it’s part of daily life.
Giant Tortoises and Endemic Species
In Victoria, the Seychelles National Botanical Gardens give visitors a close look at Aldabra giant tortoises, many of which are over 150 years old. These gentle reptiles roam freely through shaded gardens filled with endemic plants.
Aldabra Atoll holds the world’s largest population of these tortoises—over 100,000 in total. It’s a remote haven where they breed in peace, far from modern interference.
Endemic birds found across the islands:
- Seychelles magpie robin
- Seychelles warbler
- Seychelles black parrot (only in Vallée de Mai)
- Blue pigeon
- Scops owl
Dedicated conservation efforts have helped species like the warbler and magpie robin bounce back from the edge of extinction. On Aride Island, massive seabird colonies thrive in protected conditions, making it one of the Indian Ocean’s most critical nesting sites.
Marine Life & Coral Reefs Experiences
If you’re interested in underwater ecosystems, Seychelles tourist attractions go far beyond the shoreline. Six marine parks protect thousands of tropical fish species, along with sea turtles, rays, and vibrant corals.
Snorkeling and diving spots are accessible for both families and experienced divers. Some parks offer kid-friendly options like glass-bottom boats and shallow reef areas.
Species you’re likely to see:
- Hawksbill and green turtles
- Yellow snappers and clown fish
- Manta rays and parrotfish
Coral reefs function as fish nurseries and provide food for larger species. Depending on the season, visitors might even witness turtle nesting or hatching on protected beaches.
Aldabra and Special Island Reserves
Aldabra Atoll is one of the most remote and protected UNESCO sites on Earth. As the largest raised coral atoll in the world, it supports species that exist nowhere else—including the Aldabra rail, the last flightless bird in the Indian Ocean.
Strict access rules keep its ecosystem untouched by mass tourism. Entry is granted only through special permits and scientific missions.
Other key conservation islands:
- Aride Island Nature Reserve
- Moyenne Island
- Cousin Island
These locations serve as experimental zones for biodiversity preservation. Visitor numbers are intentionally kept low to prevent ecosystem disruption. If you’re drawn to meaningful travel, this side of Seychelles tourist attractions offers a deeper, quieter kind of awe.
Cultural and Historical Landmarks
Not all Seychelles tourist attractions involve sand and sea. The islands also offer a glimpse into a layered history shaped by centuries of colonial, African, and Asian influence. For travelers seeking deeper context, these sites reveal the culture behind the coastline.
Sir Selwyn Selwyn Clarke Market: Local Life in Motion
At the heart of Victoria, the Selwyn Selwyn Clarke Market pulses with color, sound, and spice. It’s not just a place to shop—it’s where island life converges. You’ll find everything from fresh jackfruit and red snapper to woven baskets and Creole textiles.
Don’t miss:
- Cinnamon and vanilla from local growers
- Handcrafted souvenirs
- Colonial architecture framing the open-air stalls
Arrive early for the freshest finds and a slower pace before the midday bustle.
Natural History in a Colonial Setting
Just steps from the market, the Seychelles Natural History Museum helps connect the dots between past and present. Its exhibits cover everything from the plantation era to early seafaring tools, alongside displays of endemic wildlife.
Expect to see:
- Fishing gear used for generations
- Artifacts from colonial governance
- Ethnographic details of Seychellois daily life
The building itself is part of the story, echoing architectural features from the islands’ colonial chapters.
Botanical Gardens and Living Heritage
The Seychelles Botanical Gardens serve as more than just green space—they are also one of the oldest Seychelles tourist attractions rooted in cultural and ecological heritage. With its spice plots and ancient palms, the garden reflects both the biodiversity and agricultural backbone of the islands.
Highlights include:
- Medicinal plants used in Creole traditions
- Orchid varieties unique to Seychelles
- Tortoises wandering among endemic flora
It’s a calm place for reflection—and a good pause between more active excursions.
L'Union Estate and Cultural Trails
La Digue’s L’Union Estate blends history and agriculture with island charm. This working estate preserves traditional coconut and vanilla production methods while showcasing Creole plantation life.
Nearby, the Copolia Trail on Mahé mixes nature with subtle cultural markers—offering sweeping views and insight into how the land shaped local life.
Together, these experiences expand what Seychelles tourist attractions mean: not just where you go, but how you connect with the land and its people.
Other Noteworthy Seychelles Attractions
Some of the best Seychelles tourist attractions aren’t always the most famous. Hidden beaches across Mahé, Praslin, and La Digue offer raw, less crowded alternatives—perfect for those seeking seclusion, surf, or a natural pool in the rocks.
Anse Georgette (Praslin)
- Access via Constance Lemuria Resort or coastal trail
- Quiet, undeveloped beach with postcard-perfect boulders, ideal for those seeking hidden Seychelles tourist attractions.
- Ideal for swimming and relaxed sunbathing
- Bring water—no facilities onsite
Grande Anse (La Digue)
- Long sandy stretch, often empty even in peak season
- Not safe for swimming due to strong currents
- Best for sunset walks and photography
Petite Anse (Mahé)
- Sheltered cove between popular beaches
- Calm waters, low crowds
- Often paired with Anse Soleil for beach-hopping day trips
Anse Cocos (La Digue)
- 30-minute forest hike required
- Stunning granite rock pool—great for a quiet swim
- No services—pack supplies
- Arguably one of the most rewarding lesser-known Seychelles tourist attractions
Anse Takamaka (Mahé)
- Great for surfing and bodyboarding
- Powerful waves, less suited for casual swimmers
- Feels more “local” than northern beaches
- Seafood restaurants nearby
Anse Severe (La Digue)
- Easy to reach by bike
- Family-friendly, shallow entry
- Excellent sunset views and relaxed atmosphere
- Nearby coconut grove adds charm
Why Seychelles Offers More Than Just Beautiful Beaches
What sets Seychelles apart isn’t just its postcard-perfect coastline—but the rare blend of untouched nature, wildlife sanctuaries, and cultural heritage that unfolds across its islands. From hiking Morne Blanc to spotting giant tortoises on Curieuse or strolling through Victoria’s spice-scented markets, every corner adds something new. It’s this variety of Seychelles tourist attractions that turns a tropical getaway into a rich, layered journey.
Seychelles rewards curiosity. Whether you’re here to dive among coral reefs, visit UNESCO forests, or simply relax on quieter beaches like Anse Cocos, the experience feels personal and authentic. The islands don’t demand a checklist—they offer space to slow down, take in the beauty, and connect with nature and culture in equal measure.
Frequently Asked Questions
Top Seychelles tourist attractions include Anse Lazio, Anse Source d’Argent, and the Vallée de Mai Nature Reserve. Nature lovers also visit Aldabra Atoll and Morne Seychellois National Park.
The best time to visit is April–May and October–November for diving, or May–September for surfing and birdwatching. The weather is warm year-round.
Couples enjoy secluded beach picnics, sunset cruises, spa treatments, and island-hopping to romantic Seychelles tourist attractions. La Digue’s peaceful pace makes it especially romantic.
Visitors can meet giant tortoises, explore coral reefs, or spot whale sharks in season. Aldabra and Vallée de Mai offer rare wildlife found only in Seychelles.
Highlights include Beau Vallon Beach, Victoria Market, Mission Lodge, and Morne Seychellois trails. Mahé features a broad mix of nature and culture.
Seychelles offers everything from luxury island resorts to guesthouses and self-catering villas. Options suit all budgets and travel styles.