Nestled in the heart of the Indian Ocean, Seychelles is a tropical paradise made up of 115 breathtaking islands, each with its own unique charm, landscapes, and rhythm of life. From white-sand beaches and lush rainforests to coral reefs and granite boulders, Seychelles offers an unforgettable island-hopping experience for every kind of traveler.

Whether you’re planning a romantic honeymoon, an eco-adventure, or simply craving a serene escape, here are the top islands to explore in Seychelles and why each deserves a spot on your travel bucket list.

Islands in Seychelles

1. Mahé – The Heartbeat of Seychelles

Best for: First-time visitors, beaches, nightlife, and culture

Mahé is the largest and most populated island in Seychelles, home to the capital Victoria and the main international airport. It’s the perfect starting point for your island-hopping journey.

Top things to do on Mahé:

• Relax on Beau Vallon Beach, a lively stretch ideal for swimming and water sports.

• Explore Morne Seychellois National Park, offering scenic hiking trails and panoramic views.

• Visit Victoria Market to experience local life, Creole food, and crafts.

• Stop by Mission Lodge Lookout for a touch of history and breathtaking views.

Travel tip: Mahé offers a mix of luxury resorts and budget-friendly guesthouses, making it easy to find accommodation that fits your style.

2. Praslin – The Island of Natural Wonders

 

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Best for: Nature lovers, relaxation, and beaches

Praslin, the second-largest island in Seychelles, is home to the Vallée de Mai Nature Reserve, a UNESCO World Heritage Site that shelters the rare Coco de Mer palm.

Highlights:

• Stroll through the mystical Vallée de Mai, often called the “Garden of Eden.”

• Swim at Anse Lazio and Anse Georgette, two of the most beautiful beaches in the world.

• Visit the Praslin Museum for insight into Seychellois culture.

Getting there: A short 15-minute flight or 1-hour ferry ride from Mahé.

3. La Digue – The Island of Tranquility

Best for: Peaceful getaways, cycling, and photography

La Digue is a dreamlike island where bicycles replace cars and time seems to slow down. It’s best known for Anse Source d’Argent, one of the most photographed beaches on Earth — famous for its pink granite boulders and turquoise waters.

Don’t miss:

• Cycling through lush coconut plantations.

• Visiting the L’Union Estate, home to a vanilla plantation and giant tortoises.

• Snorkeling around Anse Severe and Anse Patates.

Travel tip: La Digue is perfect for couples and solo travelers seeking calm and simplicity.

4. Silhouette Island – The Hidden Paradise

Best for: Seclusion, luxury stays, and eco-tourism

Located northwest of Mahé, Silhouette Island is a lush mountain paradise accessible only by boat or helicopter. It’s part of a national park and known for its pristine wilderness.

Things to do:

• Hike to Mont Dauban, the island’s highest peak.

• Snorkel and dive among colorful reefs.

• Stay at the Hilton Seychelles Labriz Resort & Spa, the island’s only resort, which blends comfort with nature.

5. Curieuse Island – The Island of Giant Tortoises

Best for: Wildlife lovers and eco-adventurers

Just off the coast of Praslin, Curieuse Island is a protected nature reserve and home to hundreds of Aldabra giant tortoises.

Highlights:

• Walk along the wooden boardwalk connecting the beach to mangrove forests.

• Visit the Doctor’s House Museum, a relic of the island’s leper colony past.

• Enjoy a scenic barbecue picnic by the beach.

Access: Day trips from Praslin or La Digue by boat.

6. Cousin Island – A Conservation Success Story

Best for: Birdwatching and eco-tours

Cousin Island is a small granitic island and a protected nature reserve. It’s a haven for seabirds, including fairy terns, tropicbirds, and the endangered Seychelles magpie-robin.

Experience:

• Guided eco-tours led by conservation experts.

• Turtle-watching during nesting season (October–March).

• Photography and birdwatching among lush vegetation.

Tip: Visits are limited to preserve the environment, book your spot in advance.

7. Aride Island – The Untouched Jewel

Best for: Nature purists and bird enthusiasts

Aride Island is one of the least disturbed islands in Seychelles and boasts the highest density of birds in the Indian Ocean. Over 10 seabird species breed here, alongside rare flora.

What to do:

• Take a guided tour through its unspoiled forest.

• Spot frigatebirds, noddy terns, and wedge-tailed shearwaters.

• Experience the island’s raw, natural beauty, no resorts, no shops, just nature.

8. Félicité Island – Luxury and Exclusivity

Best for: Honeymooners and private island experiences

Located near La Digue, Félicité Island is a private island retreat known for its exclusive Six Senses Zil Pasyon Resort, one of the most luxurious stays in Seychelles.

What to expect:

• World-class spa experiences.

• Private villas with panoramic ocean views.

• Pristine beaches and coral reefs for snorkeling.

Ideal for: Couples seeking luxury, seclusion, and world-class hospitality.

9. Denis Island – A Sustainable Escape

 

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Best for: Eco-conscious travelers and luxury seekers

Denis Island is a coral island north of Mahé, celebrated for its commitment to sustainability and conservation. The island runs on solar power, grows its own produce, and reintroduces native wildlife.

Things to do:

• Go deep-sea fishing or diving in crystal waters.

• Tour the island’s organic farm and bird sanctuary.

• Unplug completely, there’s no TV or mobile network!

Where to stay: Denis Private Island Resort, offering barefoot luxury in paradise.

10. Bird Island – The Eco-Friendly Hideaway

 

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Best for: Birdwatching, relaxation, and simplicity

The northernmost island of Seychelles, Bird Island is a coral cay known for its incredible bird colonies and nesting sea turtles.

Highlights:

• See millions of sooty terns between May and October.

• Spot giant tortoises wandering freely.

• Enjoy eco-friendly stays at Bird Island Lodge.

Perfect for: Travelers who love quiet, nature, and rustic charm.

Frequently Asked Questions About Islands in Seychelles

1. How many islands are there in Seychelles?

Seychelles is made up of 115 islands scattered across the Indian Ocean, northeast of Madagascar. These islands are divided into two main groups:

• The Inner Islands, which are granitic and home to most of the population, including Mahé, Praslin, and La Digue.

• The Outer Islands, which are mostly coral atolls and nature reserves known for diving, fishing, and eco-tourism.

2. What are the main islands to visit in Seychelles?

The three main islands most travelers visit are:

• Mahé – The largest island, with beaches, mountains, and the capital city, Victoria.

• Praslin – Known for its beautiful beaches and the UNESCO-listed Vallée de Mai Nature Reserve.

• La Digue – Famous for its relaxed vibe, bicycle-friendly roads, and the world-famous Anse Source d’Argent Beach.

These islands are well-connected by ferry and short domestic flights, making them perfect for island hopping.

3. What is the best time to visit Seychelles?

The best time to visit Seychelles is during the shoulder months of April–May and October–November. These months offer calm seas, warm temperatures (26–30°C), and excellent conditions for snorkeling, diving, and beach activities.
The dry season (May–October) is cooler and windier, while the wet season (November–March) brings short tropical showers and lush scenery.

4. Which island in Seychelles has the best beaches?

All the islands have spectacular beaches, but these stand out:

• Anse Lazio (Praslin) – Often ranked among the world’s best beaches.

• Anse Source d’Argent (La Digue) – Famous for its pink granite boulders and clear turquoise waters.

• Beau Vallon (Mahé) – Ideal for swimming, snorkeling, and beachside dining.
  Each offers its own charm, from family-friendly to romantic or secluded spots.

5. Can I visit multiple islands in one trip?

Yes! Island hopping is one of the best ways to experience Seychelles. You can easily travel between Mahé, Praslin, and La Digue by ferry (30–60 minutes). For more remote islands like Silhouette, Denis, or Bird Island, short flights or boat transfers are available. Many resorts and tour operators also offer day trips to smaller islands.

Final Thoughts

Seychelles isn’t just a destination, it’s an experience that blends luxury, nature, and serenity in perfect harmony.