If you drive non-stop, you can go around the island in 3 hours – an awesome thing to do in Mahe
That’s what our hotel host told us. Well, what’s the point of going around not to stop an enjoy the stunning beauty of the gorgeous island Mahé?
Here is the google maps itinerary (for the beaches and Jardin do Rui) we chose when going around the island and exploring things to do in Mahe. It was a really great ride, even though the northwest side of the island tends to have serpentine roads when going up the hills (if you’d like more info about rent-a-car, check out my top tips for visiting the Seychelles!)
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Where to Stay on Mahe Island, Seychelles
Budget accommodation on Mahe island:
- Diamond Plaza Beachfront Apartments, Booking.com rating: 10, Price per night: 54 EUR
- Rowsvilla Guest House, Booking.com rating: 8.6, Price per night: 71 EUR
Affordable luxury accommodation on Mahe island:
- Avani Plus Barbarons Seychelles, Booking.com rating: 9.1, Price per night: 408 EUR
- Gardens Hill Resort & Spa, Booking.com rating: 8.9, Price per night: 438 EUR
Things to do in Mahe: Beaches
1. Beau Vallon Beach
This stunning beach is one of the most popular tourist destinations in the country, and it‘s easy to see why it is one of the top things to do in Mahe. We were staying close to this beach and we were there every single day to watch the sunset – it was spectacular!
The beach itself is a stunning stretch of white sand, lined with palm trees and crystal clear waters. The beach is perfect for swimming, snorkeling, and sunbathing, and there are plenty of beach bars and restaurants to enjoy a refreshing drink or a delicious meal. The area around Beau Vallon is also full of activities to enjoy. There are plenty of water sports to try, such as kayaking, sailing, and windsurfing. There are also plenty of hiking trails to explore, as well as some of the best diving spots in the Seychelles. Beau Vallon is also home to some of the best hotels and resorts in the Seychelles. Whether you‘re looking for a luxurious stay or a more budget–friendly option, there‘s something for everyone. If you’re planning on a longer stay, check out this perfect 1-week itinerary in the Seychelles.
2. Constance Ephelia Beach in Mahe
The water on this beach was incredibly calm and perfect for snorkeling. They also have the most amazing swing under one of the trees – it has really long ropes and, to be honest, I hadn’t enjoyed myself like that in quite a bit. This is a hidden gem I hadn’t read about in advance! We actually went to the nearby hotel to ask for directions to the beach, and they were quite nice to direct us there.
3. Anse Boileau Beach in Mahe
We caught a bit of rain when coming here. But we considered this lucky since this gorgeous beach was absolutely empty! This part of the island was definitely less crowded than the North and not as steep. So if you’re for top things to do in Mahe – don’t miss this lovely beach!
4. Anse Soleil Beach in Mahe
Anse Soleil is what you’d expect from hearing its name – a sunny gorgeous beach! 🙂 It was a little bit of a challenge getting there, as there were some steep slopes (even for our rental car). However, you can park your car really close to the beach, so don’t give up easily! In case you’re hungry and would like to stop for lunch – Anse Soleil Cafe Chez Julien is right on the beach. It’s a tad more expensive than the usual cafe in the Seychelles, but there aren’t too many options to eat close by, unfortunately. If you’re not that hungry, stopping at this top place to visit on Mahe for just a little bit for ice cream is also a good choice.
5. Anse Royale Beach in Mahe
Anse Royale is a very large bay that is not too good for swimming/snorkeling, but is too gorgeous to miss. If you take a look at our itinerary again, it is on the way back and on the east side of the island. The east side offers a calm straight road right by the seaside, so I really recommend going back this way. I have no doubt you’ll enjoy this place to visit on Mahe, as it is definitely one of the best beaches on the island!
If you’re planning on bringing your little ones with you on your Seychelles vacation, check out this post about visiting the Seychelles with kids!
Things to do in Mahe – Other
6. Visit Victoria Market
If you’re looking for a unique shopping experience in Mahe, then you have to check out Victoria Market. This vibrant market is located in the heart of the city and is a great place to find local produce, handmade crafts, and souvenirs. The market is bustling with activity and is a great place to people watch. You’ll find vendors selling everything from fresh fruits and vegetables to handmade jewelry and clothing. The atmosphere is lively and the vendors are friendly and eager to help you find what you’re looking for. The market is also a great place to sample some of the local cuisine. You’ll find a variety of food stalls offering up delicious dishes like curries, samosas, and rotis. There are also plenty of sweet treats like coconut cakes and banana fritters. Victoria Market is a great place to pick up some unique souvenirs to take home. You’ll find a variety of handmade items like jewelry, pottery, and wood carvings. There are also plenty of souvenir shops selling t–shirts, hats, and other items with the Seychelles flag. For more, check out my post about Victoria and Eden island.
7. See the amazing Arul Mihu Navasakthi Vinayagar Temple
If you‘re looking for a unique and spiritual experience, then you must visit the Arul Mihu Navasakthi Vinayagar Temple in Victoria, Mahe. This temple is a beautiful and peaceful place of worship that is dedicated to the Hindu god, Lord Ganesha. The temple is located in the heart of Victoria, Mahe and is surrounded by lush greenery and a tranquil atmosphere. Honestly, once you’re right in front of this temple, you’ll easily see why this is one of the top things to do in Mahe.
The temple is a popular destination for both locals and tourists alike, and it is a great place to experience the culture and traditions of the region. The temple is a beautiful structure with intricate carvings and sculptures that depict the various forms of Lord Ganesha. Inside the temple, you will find a large statue of Lord Ganesha, which is said to be over 500 years old. The temple also houses several other deities, including Lord Shiva, Lord Vishnu, and Goddess Parvati. The temple is open to visitors throughout the year and offers a variety of activities and events. During the festival of Ganesh Chaturthi, the temple is decorated with colorful lights and flowers, and devotees come to offer their prayers and seek blessings from Lord Ganesha.
8. Check out Eden Island
Located just off the coast of Mahé, Eden Island is a man–made island that offers a luxurious and exclusive holiday experience. The island is home to a variety of luxury villas, apartments, and penthouses, all of which offer stunning views of the Indian Ocean. Whether you‘re looking for a romantic getaway or a family vacation, Eden Island has something for everyone. The island is also home to a variety of restaurants, bars, and cafes, so you can enjoy a delicious meal or a refreshing drink while taking in the stunning views. There are also plenty of activities to keep you entertained, from snorkeling and diving to kayaking and sailing. Eden Island also offers a variety of amenities, including a spa, fitness center, and a variety of shops. There‘s also a marina, so you can take a boat out to explore the nearby islands. If you‘re looking for a luxurious and exclusive holiday experience, then Eden Island in the Seychelles is the perfect destination. With its stunning views, luxurious accommodations, and variety of activities, you‘re sure to have an unforgettable experience.
9. Botanical Garden of Mahe – Jardin Du Roi
The Jardin Du Roi (or Spice Garden) is one of the places where you can see my favorite creatures – the giant tortoises! Even though they do not roam free in the garden, they have a dedicated place where you can pet them or feed them. They’re really friendly and they’ll love it, don’t worry 🙂 The spice garden also has the infamous Seychellian Coco De Mer – the largest nut in the world. You can see cinnamon tree, bananas and pineapples in the making and many other curious spices and fruits. Luckily, the garden is open every day from 10am-5pm, so you can even visit on Sundays. It’s really a great thing to do in Mahe!
10. Snorkeling in the Seychelles
his archipelago of 115 islands in the Indian Ocean is home to some of the most stunning coral reefs and marine life in the world. The warm, crystal–clear waters of the Seychelles make it an ideal spot for snorkeling. With visibility of up to 30 meters, you’ll be able to spot a variety of colorful fish, sea turtles, and other marine life. The coral reefs are also home to a variety of sponges, anemones, and other invertebrates. You can book a snorkeling trip if you’d like to explore further reefs.
The best part about snorkeling in the Seychelles is that you don’t need to be an experienced diver to enjoy it. With a variety of shallow reefs and lagoons, you can explore the underwater world without having to dive deep. If you’re looking for a more adventurous experience, you can also explore the deeper waters of the Seychelles. Here, you’ll find a variety of shipwrecks, caves, and other underwater wonders. For more, check out my Seychelles snorkelling post.
Things to do in Mahe – Day trips
11. Go to a Marine Safari
The marine safari is one of the coolest things you can do as a day trip from Mahe. You get to ride a boat with a glass floor – you can see all the little fish swimming below and around you. If you’d like to see more, check out my full blog post about the Marine Safari – one of the top things to do in Mahe. You can book your glass bottom boat trip here.
12. Visit Moyenne Island
Moyenne Island is a small, picturesque island located in the Seychelles archipelago. It is a paradise for nature lovers, with its lush vegetation, crystal clear waters, and stunning beaches. The island is home to a variety of wildlife, including giant tortoises, rare birds, and a variety of fish. It is also a great spot for snorkeling and diving, with its coral reefs and colorful marine life. The island is also home to a unique history. It was once owned by a British pirate, Thomas Spratt, who used it as a hideout. Today, the island is owned by a private trust, and is open to visitors. The island is a great place to relax and enjoy the beauty of nature. There are several beaches to explore, and plenty of opportunities for swimming, snorkeling, and diving. There are also several hiking trails, and a few restaurants and bars. If you‘re looking for a peaceful, secluded getaway, Moyenne Island is the perfect destination. With its stunning scenery, abundant wildlife, and unique history, it‘s a great place to escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life. Book your day trip to Moyenne island here and check out my blog post about this day trip here.
13. Visit La Digue Island
If you‘re looking for a tropical paradise, La Digue Island in the Seychelles is the perfect destination. Located in the Indian Ocean, this stunning island is known for its stunning beaches, lush vegetation, and unique culture. The beaches on La Digue are some of the most beautiful in the world. With crystal clear waters and white sand, it‘s easy to see why this is a popular destination for beach lovers. The most popular beach is Anse Source d’Argent, which is known for its unique rock formations and stunning views. The island is also home to a variety of wildlife, including giant tortoises, sea turtles, and a variety of birds. There are also plenty of opportunities for snorkeling and diving, as the waters around La Digue are teeming with colorful fish and coral. The culture of La Digue is unique and vibrant. The locals are friendly and welcoming, and the island is home to a variety of traditional Creole dishes. There are also plenty of opportunities to explore the island‘s history, with a number of museums and historical sites. Book a day trip to La Digue island here.
14. Visit Praslin Island
This stunning island is the second largest in the archipelago and is home to some of the most beautiful beaches in the world. The island is a haven for nature lovers, with its lush tropical forests, stunning coral reefs, and abundant wildlife. The Vallee de Mai Nature Reserve is a must–see, with its unique palm trees and rare species of birds. The beauty of this island is unmatched – there’s a reason why it’s one of the top things to do in Mahe.
The island is also home to some of the best beaches in the world, with white sand and crystal clear waters. Anse Lazio and Anse Georgette are two of the most popular beaches, and are perfect for swimming, snorkeling, and sunbathing. Praslin Island is also a great place to explore the local culture. The island is home to a number of traditional villages, where you can learn about the history and culture of the Seychelles. There are also plenty of restaurants and bars to explore, offering a variety of local and international cuisine.
Bonus
Other great beaches you could explore when going around the island are Petite Anse and Anse Bazarca Beach (which is a bit further south). Also – don’t hesitate to stop and enjoy the gorgeous views when going uphill in the north part of the island – they are simply breathtaking!
3 comments
Love the imagery here. It’s calling me 🙂
[…] we had rented our car for two days, we decided to spend one of them going around Mahe, and the other – to explore Victoria, the capital city, as well as Eden Island – the […]
I loved the post. I could feel everything as I have been to Mahe too 🙂