Dreaming of turquoise waters, soft white sands, and tropical adventures? Welcome to the Seychelles, a slice of paradise in the Indian Ocean! From secret beaches to breathtaking viewpoints and unique wildlife encounters, this archipelago has it all. Whether you’re chasing adventure, soaking up the sun, or hunting for Instagram-worthy spots, I’ve rounded up 15 unforgettable things you can’t miss in the Seychelles to make your trip absolutely epic!
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Table of Contents
1. Hike to Anse Cocos on La Digue Island
If you’re up for a bit of adventure, hiking to Anse Cocos on La Digue is absolutely worth it. Honestly, I think this hidden beach is even more stunning than the famous Anse Source d’Argent—and that’s saying a lot. It’s easily one of those things you can’t miss in the Seychelles.
The journey starts with a bike ride from the jetty to Grand Anse, about 6 kilometers away. The ride includes a gentle uphill stretch, and fair warning—the route isn’t very well signposted. Google Maps helps, or just ask a local (everyone’s super friendly). Once you reach Grand Anse, park your bike near the restaurant and get ready to walk.
From there, it’s an easy 10-minute hike through a lush forest to Petite Anse. This part is super pleasant and gives you a little taste of what’s coming. After that, the real adventure begins—a roughly 30-minute hike to Anse Cocos. This section can be a bit more challenging, especially if it’s been raining. The path is rocky and sometimes slippery, so proper shoes are a must.
But once you arrive… wow. Golden sand, crystal-clear water, and total peace and quiet. Chances are, you’ll have the beach almost entirely to yourself, which makes it feel extra special—like you’ve stumbled onto your own private slice of paradise.
And before you head back, don’t skip the Anse Cocos Bar. Grabbing a cold drink there after the hike is the perfect way to end the experience.
2. Explore Mahé and Praslin with a Rented Car
We explored both Mahé and Praslin with a rented car, and it honestly made the whole trip so much better. It’s one of those things you can’t miss in the Seychelles if you want to see more than just the main spots. Having our own wheels meant total freedom—no schedules to worry about and no pressure to rush from place to place.
While public transport is reliable, driving ourselves allowed us to stop whenever we wanted, chase viewpoints that caught our eye, discover quieter beaches, and even change plans on a whim. That flexibility was a game-changer. And surprisingly, renting a car in the Seychelles was very affordable.
👉 FIND THE BEST CAR RENTAL RATES IN SEYCHELLES
One quick tip from our experience: be mindful of where you park. Coconuts really do fall from trees and can damage your car (and cause injuries). We always tried to park in open or designated areas just to be safe—and it’s definitely worth keeping in mind.
3. Embark on a Boat Tour to Visit Cocos, Felicite & La Digue Islands
If you’re staying on Praslin, a half-day speedboat tour to Cocos, Félicité, and La Digue is one of the top things you can’t miss in the Seychelles. These tours usually start with a morning pickup from your hotel on Praslin and take you out on a fun speedboat ride to explore some of the most beautiful islands in the archipelago.
The first stop is typically Cocos Island, which is famous for its crystal-clear water and incredible snorkeling. It’s one of the best places in the area to see colorful fish, coral reefs, and even turtles.
Next, the tour heads to Félicité Island, a small granite island surrounded by protected marine park waters. Here, you’ll have more time to snorkel and swim while enjoying the untouched, tropical scenery.
The final stop is La Digue, where you can explore the island’s relaxed vibe and stunning beaches. Many tours include time to visit spots like the historic Copra Mill, the old cemetery, and the iconic Anse Source d’Argent with its massive granite boulders and white-sand beach.
After the island-hopping adventure, you’ll hop back on the speedboat and return to Praslin, where you’ll be dropped off at your hotel.
👉 Find out more about this half-day boat tour from Praslin HERE.
4. Eat like a local
Eating like a local is definitely one of the things you can’t miss in the Seychelles, and the best way to do that is by hitting up the takeaway stands.
They’re everywhere, super affordable, and honestly, some of the best meals we had. It’s a very local experience, the food is freshly cooked, and you’re almost guaranteed to eat well.
Takeaways are also a great alternative to sit-down restaurants if you’re traveling on a budget. With fewer overhead costs and a strong focus on traditional dishes, they let you save money without sacrificing quality—or flavor. The menu usually changes daily, which makes it fun. One day it’s grilled fish, the next it’s curry, stews, or fried noodles, always served with rice, salad, veggies, or chips.
One thing to keep in mind: check opening times. Most takeaways are closed on Sundays, and they can get very busyduring peak lunch hours, so going a bit earlier is usually a good idea.
Here are some of my favorite local spots we loved during our trip:
La Digue Island. Gala Takeaway
Gala Takeaway is a go-to spot on La Digue, offering a wide selection of dishes like lamb, chicken, fish, stews, curries, fries, plus fresh juices and shakes. You can eat at the outdoor tables and enjoy the island vibe, or take your food back to your terrace. The variety and laid-back atmosphere make it perfect for an easy, satisfying meal.
Pralin Island. Coco Rouge
Located near the ferry port, Coco Rouge is a lovely family-run place with an excellent takeaway menu. Prices are very reasonable, and the food is genuinely delicious. Some standouts were the grilled fish (catch of the day), mango salad, and smoked fish salad. Their homemade cakes are also amazing.
If you’re planning to eat in for dinner, it’s best to make a reservation since it fills up quickly—although the friendly owner often tries to make things work even without one.
Mahé Island. Ole Take Away & Pizzeria
This is a great little spot with generous portions and a solid takeaway selection. You’ll find everything from chow mein and curry to pizza, fish and chips, and burgers—perfect to grab and enjoy on the beach. The grilled fish (catch of the day) is delicious and well worth ordering.
5. Discover Anse Georgette on Praslin
Anse Georgette is one of those rare beaches that really does feel special—and it’s definitely one of the things you can’t miss in the Seychelles.
Tucked away on Praslin’s northwest coast and framed by massive granite boulders, it feels exclusive in the best way. Think powdery white sand, unreal turquoise water, and unique palms swaying all around—it’s the kind of place where you instantly slow down and just enjoy the moment.
Accessing Anse Georgette requires some planning. Since it’s located within the Constance Lemuria Resort grounds, you’ll need to make a reservation in advance. Book at least a day in advance, especially during busy periods, and your host or accommodation can usually help arrange it for you.
Getting there is part of the experience. From the bus stop, it’s about a 5-minute walk to the resort’s main gate, followed by a scenic 20–25 minute walk through the resort to the beach. There are no restaurants or shops directly on Anse Georgette, so bringing your own food and drinks is a good idea. That said, you’ll often find a local vendor selling fresh fruit and coconut water, which is perfect for a beach day.
For us, the walk to Anse Georgette was just as memorable as the beach itself. Along the way, we reached a viewpoint with breathtaking panoramic views of the ocean and the surrounding coastline. We stopped there for a while, taking photos and soaking it all in before continuing. Once we finally reached the beach, we did exactly what it invites you to do—relax, swim, and enjoy every second. And trust me, you’ll want to do the same.
6. Rent a Bike and Explore the Island of La Digue
One of the absolute must-dos in the Seychelles is renting a bike on La Digue. It’s honestly the best way to explore the island at your own pace, discover hidden gems, and soak in the peaceful, laid-back vibe that makes La Digue so special.
Since there are only a handful of cars on the island, bikes are the main way locals—and most tourists—get around. Spending a day pedaling through the island is pure joy. You can visit iconic spots like L’Union Estate, the famous Anse Source d’Argent with its giant granite boulders, or the stunning Grand Anse, all while enjoying the island scenery along the way.
If you’re just visiting La Digue for the day, you’ll find bike rental stands right near the ferry terminal. Rentals typically cost around 150 SCR (roughly 10€ / $10) per day. The bikes might not be perfect, but the staff are always helpful and make sure you’re ready for a smooth ride.
For longer stays, it’s worth arranging your bike through your hotel or guesthouse. They’ll deliver it straight to your door, so you can hop on and start exploring immediately—no fuss, no waiting.
Riding around La Digue by bike really makes you feel part of island life—it’s relaxed, fun, and absolutely unforgettable.
7. Relax at the Secluded Anse Petite Boileau in Mahé
If you’re looking for a truly quiet, off-the-beaten-path beach in Mahé, Anse Petite Boileau is an absolute gem—and honestly, it became our favorite in the Seychelles. The beach is near Police Bay in the south of the island, and while it’s a bit tricky to reach, the peace and exclusivity make it totally worth it. We had the whole place to ourselves, which made it feel like our own private paradise.
There are two ways to get there: from Petite Police Beach (the easier route) or from Anse Capucins. The trail from Anse Capucins is rough, unmarked, and winds through dense forest, so unless you’re really up for an adventure, I’d stick with the first option.
From Petite Police Beach, park your car, turn left, and follow the road—it’s about a 60-minute walk. The trail can feel a little eerie at times because of the thick vegetation, but there’s nothing to worry about. Just enjoy the sounds of nature and the hike. The path leads straight to the beach, so getting lost isn’t a problem.
Once you arrive, you’ll see why the walk was worth it. Virgin white sand, turquoise waters, and maybe even some sea turtle tracks greet you. The currents can be strong, so swim carefully—but on our visit, the sea was calm, perfect for a long, relaxing swim.
We loved this hidden beach so much and hope to return someday. Just remember to respect the environment and leave only footprints behind.
Coordinates: 4° 48’05.8″S 55° 31’45.0″E
8. Full-Day Tour of Vallée de Mai and Anse Lazio on Praslin
If you only have one day to explore Praslin, a full-day tour combining Vallée de Mai and Anse Lazio is a must—and definitely one of the things you can’t miss in the Seychelles.
Vallée de Mai, often called the Garden of Eden, is a tiny UNESCO World Heritage Site packed with wonders. It’s home to the famous Coco de Mer palms, which produce the world’s largest seeds and are strictly protected. Walking along the circular trail through the reserve, which takes about two hours, feels like stepping straight into a jungle paradise.
Along the way, you might spot black parrots, blue pigeons, fruit bats, geckos, and even vanilla orchids. The paths are well-marked with signs, so you can explore without getting lost.
After the jungle adventure, the tour heads to Anse Lazio, one of the most beautiful beaches in the world. Soft white sand, crystal-clear waters, and the perfect spot for swimming or snorkeling make it an unforgettable experience. With hotel pickup and drop-off included, it’s an easy, stress-free way to make the most of your day on Praslin.
👉 Find out more about this guided tour HERE.
9. Visit the Capital City of Victoria
If you’re seeking to escape the beach life, exploring Victoria in Mahé is one of the things you can’t miss in the Seychelles.
Victoria is Africa’s smallest capital city, only 5 kilometers from Beau Vallon Beach. It is a great place to spend half a day, stroll through the streets, soak in the atmosphere, admire the colonial architecture and interact with the locals.
Start your visit with the Victoria Clock Tower, a mini replica of Big Ben, which was brought to Seychelles in 1903 when it became a British colony.
Next, head to the Natural History Museum, a restored old building with new interactive displays that glimpse Seychelle’s history and offer insights into pirates, Aldabra tortoises, and Creole culture.
Afterward, stop by St. Paul’s Cathedral, a prominent landmark in Seychelles.
Then, visit the Sir Selwyn Clark Market for a unique cultural experience. The colorful market offers a variety of fresh fruits, vegetables, fish, tea, and spices. It is open daily, Monday through Saturday.
Finally, make sure not to miss the Victoria Botanical Gardens, conveniently located just two bus stops from Victoria’s main bus terminal. Here, you can marvel at the endemic island species, including the famous Coco de Mer and the Aldabra giant tortoises.
👉 Explore Victoria in just a few hours with my detailed guide HERE.
10. Discover Anse Source d’Argent on La Digue Island
Anse Source d’Argent is probably the most famous—and most photographed—beach in the Seychelles. If you’ve seen pictures of giant granite boulders framing crystal-clear water, that’s likely this beach. Stretching for about a kilometer, every cluster of boulders offers a slightly different view, making it a photographer’s paradise.
Most tourists come to La Digue specifically to see Anse Source d’Argent, so it can get crowded, and there’s an entrance fee to manage the flow. Honestly, I found it a little underwhelming compared to some of the more secluded beaches we visited. The shallow water and some seaweed made swimming tricky, and finding a quiet spot in the shade was a challenge. We even tried to beat the daytrippers by arriving before 11 a.m.—but no luck.
Still, this beach is iconic and absolutely one of the things you can’t miss in the Seychelles. Even if swimming isn’t perfect, it’s worth visiting to see the stunning boulders, take photos, and soak in the unique scenery.
11. Fly Between Mahé and Praslin
One of the things you can’t miss in the Seychelles is taking the flight between Mahé and Praslin. It was one of our absolute favorite experiences in the Seychelles. It’s not just practical—it’s genuinely fun, and honestly, it became a highlight of our trip.
Flying is especially convenient during the Southeast Monsoon season, when ferry rides can get rough. Air Seychelles operates the short 20-minute flight on a small Twin Otter with around 20 seats. At first, the tiny plane seemed a little intimidating—but that only made it more exciting!
The views from above completely blew us away. Turquoise waters, scattered islands, and lush greenery stretched out below us—it’s a perspective you just can’t get from a ferry. We loved every second of it, and it felt like the perfect mix of convenience, adventure, and a little thrill all rolled into one.
👉 Find flights between the islands of Seychelles
12. Full-Day Cruise to Curieuse Island from Praslin
If there’s one day trip we absolutely fell in love with, it’s the full-day cruise to Curieuse Island—and it’s definitely one of the things you can’t miss in the Seychelles.
Our day started stress-free with a hotel pickup and transfer to the boat launch. From there, the adventure kicked off with a 45-minute snorkeling session that completely blew us away. Swimming among vibrant fish and colorful coral felt like stepping into another world—it was mesmerizing.
Next, we cruised to Curieuse Island, where we had some time to relax on the beach before setting off on a guided nature trail tour across the island. Seeing giant tortoises roaming freely was unforgettable, and of course, we took way too many photos! The highlight was definitely the Creole BBQ, a perfect way to refuel while soaking in the island’s tropical beauty.
Depending on the sea conditions, the tour included stops at St. Pierre or other reefs, and later, a final snorkeling session at Anse La Farine—or, if the water wasn’t perfect, at the stunning beaches of Anse Georgette or Anse Lazio. Every stop felt like a little slice of paradise.
As the day wrapped up, we sipped Takamaka rum cocktails while cruising back to Praslin, watching the sunset over the ocean. The entire tour felt effortless—comfortable, safe, and adaptable to the weather, which made the experience even more enjoyable.
Honestly, this was our favorite activity on Praslin. We couldn’t recommend it enough—if you have the chance, do it. You’ll be talking about it long after your trip ends.
👉 This tour was our favorite Praslin activity, and I highly recommend you try it. Find out more about this full-day boat trip HERE.
13. Explore Morne Seychellois National Park in Mahé
If you love nature, hiking, or just breathtaking views, Morne Seychellois National Park is an absolute must on Mahé. We took the Sans Souci Road out of the capital and found ourselves surrounded by lush jungle, fresh mountain air, and trails that led to some of the island’s most incredible vistas.
There are hikes for every level of fitness: the Les Trois Fréres Trail is perfect if you want a longer trek with amazing views of Victoria and the east coast (about 5 hours).
The Copolia Trail is a moderately challenging 1.5-hour round-trip that rewards nature lovers with stunning scenery.
And for the seasoned hiker, the Morne Seychellois Trail climbs to Mahé’s highest point at 905 meters—a five-hour challenge that’s tough but incredibly rewarding.
Not into hiking? No worries! You can still enjoy the park by visiting the Tea Plantation House, taking a free tour of the factory, learning about Seychelles’ tea history, and enjoying lovely views over the bay.
14. Snorkel in the Seychelles
Snorkeling was hands down one of our favorite activities—it’s absolutely one of the things you can’t miss in the Seychelles. There are so many incredible spots, and we tried a few of the best.
On a half-day trip to Curieuse Island, we stopped at St. Pierre Island, which was perfect for snorkeling. Swimming alongside turtles and colorful fish for half an hour felt like stepping into another world—it was magical.
On Mahé, Anse Royale stole our hearts. We spent over four hours in the water, mesmerized by the endless variety of fish. Honestly, the only reason we got out was that our fingers had shriveled up like prunes!
If you’re staying on Praslin, head to Anse Marie-Louise, right across from the Fond Ferdinand reserve. Swim out toward the small boulders in the distance, and you’ll find yourself surrounded by an incredible number of fish. We couldn’t stop marveling at the diversity—it’s pure joy.
On La Digue, Anse Patates is a smaller beach framed by massive granite boulders. The water is crystal clear, there’s plenty of shade, and it’s easily accessible from the Patratan Hotel. The snorkeling here is beautiful, but watch out for occasional strong currents.
Snorkeling in the Seychelles really felt like diving into a living aquarium. We loved every single minute and couldn’t get enough.
15. Learn about Rum-Making at Takamaka Rum Distillery
One of the highlights of our time on Mahé was visiting the Takamaka Rum Distillery—and honestly, it’s one of the best things you can’t miss in the Seychelles. Nestled in a stunning location, the distillery offers free guided tours that give you a fascinating look into the art of rum-making.
We loved learning about the history and meticulous process behind each batch of Takamaka rum, and of course, the tasting sessions were a real treat. Walking through the lush backyard, surrounded by tropical plants, trees, and even turtles, made the experience feel relaxed and magical.
There are also little stands selling souvenirs and rum, so it’s the perfect place to pick up a gift or a bottle to take home. Visiting the distillery felt like a fun, immersive way to connect with local culture—and we couldn’t recommend it more!
Seychelles Travel Resources
Before heading to the Seychelles, a few practical things made our trip smoother—and they’ll probably help you too:
Currency & Payments
Seychelles uses the Seychellois Rupee (SCR), but most places also accept credit cards. We carried some cash for small takeaways and island markets—it’s convenient and often necessary.
Safety Tips
The Seychelles is very safe, but like anywhere, we stayed cautious with valuables and didn’t leave belongings unattended on beaches. Strong currents can appear at some beaches, so we always check before swimming.
Travel Insurance
The islands are a paradise, but travel is full of surprises. We never skip insurance—it’s not just a good idea, it’s essential. Having it gave us peace of mind the whole trip.
👉 Get a quote for your travel insurance with a 5% discount HERE.
e-SIM
Staying connected was a breeze thanks to an e-SIM. No physical SIM card, no long-term commitments, and topping up through an app was super convenient. Honestly, it made navigating, booking trips, and finding local spots so much easier.
👉 Find the best data plan for Seychelles HERE.
Getting to Seychelles
Most travelers fly into Seychelles International Airport (SEZ) on Mahé, which is the perfect gateway to the islands. From there, it’s easy to continue your journey by ferry or domestic flight.
👉 Grab the best deals on flights to the Seychelles HERE.
Getting Around by Bus
On a tighter budget, the local blue TATA buses on Mahé and Praslin are surprisingly good. They’re cheap, reliable, and honestly a fun way to see local life up close.
Renting a Car in Seychelles
One of the best decisions we made was renting a car on Mahé. It completely changed how we explored both Mahé and Praslin—hidden beaches, local eateries, and spontaneous detours were all possible because we had our own wheels. Honestly, having a car is one of the best things you can’t miss in the Seychelles. Public transport works, but nothing beats the freedom a car gives you.
👉 Check car rental rates HERE.
Where to Stay in Seychelles
Accommodation can be pricey, but there’s something for everyone. We loved self-catering villas for budget-friendly stays—you get a kitchen, a terrace, and freedom to cook or order takeout. For comfort or luxury, Mahé and Praslin offer everything from boutique hotels to high-end resorts, while La Digue is smaller and more intimate with charming guesthouses.
👉 Check accommodation rates HERE.
SEYCHELLES RELATED POSTS
If you’re planning to explore more of the islands, check out my articles for detailed itineraries and travel tips on the best things you can’t miss in the Seychelles!
Happy travels!
A COMPLETE GUIDE TO LA DIGUE ISLAND IN SEYCHELLES
THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE VISITING SEYCHELLES
A COMPLETE GUIDE TO PRASLIN ISLAND IN SEYCHELLES
A COMPLETE GUIDE TO MAHÉ ISLAND IN SEYCHELLES
