La Digue is the smallest of the Seychelles‘ three main tourist islands, yet it is often considered the most beautiful and distinctive. Located just a short ferry ride from Praslin, the island is famous for its spectacular granite rock formations, palm-fringed beaches and wonderfully relaxed atmosphere. Unlike Mahé and Praslin, La Digue has remained largely untouched by large-scale development, with bicycles and traditional ox carts still serving as popular forms of transport.
Life moves at a gentle pace on La Digue. Quiet roads wind between coconut plantations, colourful Creole houses and secluded beaches, while the island’s small villages provide an authentic glimpse into everyday life in the Seychelles. Visitors come not only to relax but also to enjoy some of the finest coastal scenery in the Indian Ocean, with crystal-clear lagoons, giant granite boulders and lush tropical vegetation creating unforgettable landscapes.
Although compact enough to explore in just a few days, La Digue offers plenty to see and do. From cycling between world-famous beaches to snorkelling among colourful marine life and exploring traditional coconut plantations, the island provides a perfect combination of natural beauty and island charm. It is particularly popular with honeymooners, photographers and anyone looking to escape the pace of modern life.
Best Things to Do on La Digue
Visit Anse Source d’Argent
Anse Source d’Argent is one of the most photographed beaches in the world and the island’s most famous attraction. Its enormous weathered granite boulders, powder-soft white sand and shallow turquoise lagoon create one of the Seychelles’ most iconic landscapes. Protected by an offshore reef, the calm waters are ideal for swimming and snorkelling, while photographers are drawn by the spectacular scenery throughout the day.
Cycle Around the Island
Exploring La Digue by bicycle is one of the island’s greatest pleasures. With very little traffic and relatively flat roads, cycling provides an easy and enjoyable way to discover secluded beaches, traditional villages and scenic coastal viewpoints. Bicycles can be hired throughout the island, allowing visitors to explore at their own pace while enjoying the peaceful atmosphere that makes La Digue so special.
Relax on Grand Anse
Located on the island’s southeastern coast, Grand Anse is one of La Digue’s most dramatic beaches. A wide sweep of golden-white sand backed by lush tropical forest creates an impressive natural setting. Strong currents often make swimming unsuitable, but the spectacular scenery and peaceful atmosphere make it a wonderful place for a walk, a picnic or simply enjoying the power of the Indian Ocean.
Explore L’Union Estate
L’Union Estate offers an insight into the history and traditional industries of the Seychelles. Visitors can explore a former coconut plantation, see a traditional copra mill and vanilla plantation, and meet giant Aldabra tortoises that roam freely around the estate. The estate also provides access to Anse Source d’Argent, making it one of the island’s most popular attractions.
Walk to Anse Cocos
For those willing to venture beyond the more accessible beaches, Anse Cocos rewards visitors with one of La Digue’s most secluded stretches of coastline. Reached via a scenic walking trail from Grand Anse, the beach offers soft white sand, swaying palms and crystal-clear water. Natural rock pools provide safe places to cool off while enjoying the peaceful surroundings away from the crowds.
Snorkel at Anse Severe
Situated on the island’s northwestern coast, Anse Severe is one of the best places on La Digue for snorkelling. Calm, shallow waters support colourful reef fish and healthy coral, while the beach itself offers beautiful views across the channel towards neighbouring islands. It’s also one of the island’s favourite spots for watching the sunset after a relaxing day by the sea.
Visitor Information
Getting There: La Digue is reached by regular ferry services from Praslin in around 15 minutes, with onward ferry connections to Mahé. There is no airport on the island.
Getting Around: Bicycles are the preferred form of transport and can be hired from numerous shops near the ferry terminal. Walking is also an excellent way to explore many of the island’s attractions.
How Long to Spend: Two to three days is ideal for enjoying the island’s beaches, cycling routes and relaxed atmosphere. Many visitors combine La Digue with Mahé and Praslin as part of an island-hopping holiday.
Best Time to Visit: Warm tropical temperatures make La Digue an attractive destination throughout the year. April, May, October and November generally provide calm seas and excellent conditions for swimming and snorkelling.
La Digue perfectly captures the relaxed spirit of the Seychelles. Whether you’re cycling between spectacular beaches, admiring the island’s famous granite boulders or simply unwinding beneath a palm tree beside the Indian Ocean, it offers an unforgettable tropical escape and remains one of the true highlights of any visit to the Seychelles.