Table of Content
Welcome to Praslin, Seychelles
Praslin Island is the second-largest islands in Seychelles and an all-year-round destination! The best months to visit Praslin are April, May, October and November. These are the months with almost no rainy days and the temperature ranges between 25° and 30°. The sea is calm and is perfect for Island Hopping.
Praslin Island is the place to experience the surreal beauty of nature and some of the best pristine beaches in the World! Here are my top outdoor activities and the best places you cannot miss when visiting Praslin!
Beach Hopping in Praslin
Wherever you go, whatever you do – there will be one beach waiting for you! Seychelles is the synonym of a lush tropical scenery with jaw-dropping white sand beaches with clear turquoise waters – so does Praslin! Praslin is the second largest island of Seychelles and similar to all other islands it offers some of the best beaches in the whole World.
Praslin’s coastline is about 45 km long and thereof more than 80% are dream tropical beaches. One of these beaches is always in the top 10 for the best beaches in the World! What else you could wish for … of course if you are looking for the best tropical escape I mean!
Here are my top 10 Best Beaches in Praslin you cannot miss during your stay!
Explore Praslin Island
Getting around Praslin is easy to handle if you rent a car. The island is only 38.5 km2 and there is only one road connecting the north-west tip of Praslin with the north-eastern one. Good to know is that you will have to drive on the left side, the road is very narrow, steep and curvy so it is an advantage if you are an experienced driver.
Although it could be tricky to drive on Praslin, I think it is the most appropriate way to explore the island! There are so many hidden gems and secluded spots where nobody is … it’s a “shame” if you only could visit the beaches where everyone is going for …
The other option is to explore the island by bus. The local bus is a cheap and efficient way to go anywhere but you should know that the bus on Praslin is something you will be waiting for. The bus runs from five a.m. to nine p.m during the week. You should ask for the weekend schedule as it sometimes changes depending on the season.
The third option is to get a taxi but this one is the most expensive one if you want to travel a lot. All taxis charge the same rates and it’s important to know, that many taxis won’t accept luggage.
Visit the Vallée De Mai or Fond Ferdinand to See The Coco De Mer Trees
Visiting one of the national reserve parks of Praslin is a must-do when visiting the Island! You can choose between Vallée De Mai Nature Reserve which is a World Heritage Site and Fond Ferdinand Nature Reserve. Fond Ferdinand is less touristy than Vallée de Mai, the entry is way cheaper and the views over Praslin, the clear ocean and the neighbouring Seychelles Islands are just amazing!
Fond Ferdinand is the smart alternative to the very popular Vallée de Mai. Fond Ferdinand Nature Reserve is one of the most picturesque locations in the Seychelles Islands. Fond Ferdinand Foundation (1,5km²) is home to hundreds of indigenous species, including the famous Coco de Mer palm trees. Fond Ferdinand is more than six times larger than Vallée de Mai! Its flora and fauna are richer in terms of endemic plant and animal species.
Learn more about Fond Ferdinand Nature Reserve:
Go Snorkelling or Scuba Diving in Praslin
Seychelles islands are in the Indian Ocean which means that Snorkelling and Scuba Diving is always a good Idea! The waters are warm and there is enough to see if you go for snorkelling or scuba diving. The best time to dive in Praslin is from March to May and from September to November when the water temperature is between 26 and 28 ° and with moderate currents.
The good thing about snorkelling and diving on Praslin is that most of the diving spots are easily reached by a five-minute boat ride. The most famous places for diving are Chimney Rock, Shark Rock, Cayman Rocks, South Marianne, and Whale Rock which has a 10m tunnel to explore.
Meet The Aldabra Giant Tortoise in Praslin
I admit it – the place where I saw Aldabra Giant Tortoise for the first time in my life was Praslin Island! The Aldabra Giant Tortoise is one of the largest tortoise species on Earth and is endemic to the Aldabra Atoll in Seychelles.
There are many places where you can spot the giant tortoise in Seychelles, but probably the best place is Curieuse Island which is a protected bio-reserve. There are more than 120 Aldabras on the island and I promise – you will end up loving them!
Bird Watching in Praslin
Overall, Seychelles is famous for bird-watching activities and Praslin is one of the best places for doing that. For example, Vallée de Mai and Fond Ferdinand are home to the Seychelles Black Parrot, Whimbrel, Greenshank, Grey Plover and Common Sandpiper.
One of the best places for bird watching is Anse Pasquière Beach located on the north-eastern coast of Praslin Island. The grey heron and green-backed heron are often spotted here. The beach is one of the virgin places on Praslin and offers some amazing views of Curieuse island.
Pasquière is 450m long and 20m wide. The waters here are very shallow, making it unsuitable for swimming. The beach is a great spot if you are looking for secluded, hidden spots on Praslin as it is often empty! The beach is also a famous spot for hiking and fly fishing.
Visit Cousin, Curieuse & St Piere Island
There are many boat trips you can choose from if you want to visit the neighbouring islands of Praslin. One of the most famous trips is the one-day trip to Cousin, Curieuse & St Piere Island.
Cousin Island is a nature reserve for the protection of seabirds and Curieuse Island – is for Aldabra Giant Tortoises. The final stop is at St. Pierre where you can snorkel around and discover the unique marine life of the region. All three islands are kind of touristy and if you want to enjoy your time it is probably the best option to book a private tour, which could be very expensive compared to all standard tours.
Enjoy the Day at Anse Lazio in Praslin
Anse Lazio is often voted the Best Beach in The World! Anse Lazio meets all the requirements you could have when you imagine the “perfect one”. Anse Lazio is located in the northwestern of Praslin. The beach is relatively easy to reach by car or bus if you are staying in the north of the island.
Anse Lazio is surrounded by loft palm, Takamaka trees and impressive boulder formations. The water is glassy, turquoise and calm. The sand – white and soft and the scenery – unique! Anse Lazio is 600m long and 25m wide, perfect for sunbathing, snorkelling, and swimming, and perfect for takings some of your best photos!
If you are staying for the whole day, good to know is that there are a small shop and two restaurants at each end of the beach. Of course, the prices are much higher compared to the main tourist locations on Praslin.
Watch the Sunset at Anse Kerlan in Praslin
Probably the best place for watching the sunset in Praslin is at Anse Kerlan which is located on the north-west tip of the Island. The beach is 220m long and 10m wide which makes it relatively small for all the visitors and the many clients of the Lemuria Resort. The Bay is absolutely beautiful however the only downside is that it kind of “belongs” to the hotel Lemuria so you have to obtain permission from the resort staff first.
Where to Stay in Praslin
Best Luxury Hotels
- Raffles Seychelles: Nestled in the heart of Praslin, Raffles Seychelles offers an exquisite luxury experience. The spacious villas feature private pools and stunning views of the Indian Ocean. Guests can indulge in world-class dining options, relax at the tranquil spa, and enjoy direct access to Anse Takamaka beach. The resort’s impeccable service and attention to detail ensure a memorable stay.
- Constance Lemuria: Situated amidst lush vegetation and pristine beaches, Constance Lemuria is renowned for its luxurious amenities and breathtaking surroundings. The spacious suites and villas offer elegant furnishings and private terraces. Guests can enjoy a round of golf, rejuvenate at the spa, and dine at the resort’s exceptional restaurants. The resort also boasts its own private beach and offers various water activities.
- Dhevatara Beach Hotel: This boutique hotel offers a secluded and intimate atmosphere on the beautiful Anse Gouvernement beach. The stylish suites and villas feature contemporary designs and modern amenities. Guests can unwind at the infinity pool, savor delectable cuisine at the beachfront restaurant, and enjoy personalized service throughout their stay.
Best Mid-Range Hotels
- Coco de Mer Hotel and Black Parrot Suites: Nestled amidst lush tropical gardens, this mid-range hotel offers comfortable rooms and suites with stunning views of the ocean or gardens. Guests can relax by the pool, enjoy direct beach access, and savor delicious meals at the hotel’s restaurant. The hotel’s tranquil location provides a peaceful retreat on Praslin.
- Paradise Sun Hotel: Located on the pristine Côte d’Or beach, Paradise Sun Hotel offers a relaxed and inviting atmosphere. The spacious rooms feature modern amenities and private terraces. Guests can enjoy water sports activities, soak up the sun by the pool, and indulge in delightful cuisine at the hotel’s restaurant. The friendly staff and idyllic beachfront location make for a pleasant stay.
- Acajou Beach Resort: Situated along the stunning Côte d’Or beach, Acajou Beach Resort offers comfortable accommodations surrounded by tropical gardens. The spacious rooms and suites feature contemporary designs and modern amenities. Guests can unwind by the pool, explore the nearby nature reserves, and dine at the resort’s restaurant, which serves a variety of international and Creole dishes.
Best Guest Houses
- Palm Beach Hotel: Located near the beautiful Anse Volbert beach, Palm Beach Hotel offers budget-friendly accommodations for travelers. The rooms are simple yet comfortable, and guests have access to amenities like a restaurant and bar. The hostel’s convenient location allows easy access to nearby shops, restaurants, and attractions.
- Villa Anse La Blague: This charming guesthouse provides affordable accommodations in a tranquil setting near Anse La Blague beach. The rooms are clean and cozy, and guests can relax on the terrace overlooking the garden. The friendly hosts offer personalized service and can assist with arranging activities and tours.
- Residence Praslinoise: Situated in a peaceful residential area, Residence Praslinoise offers affordable self-catering apartments for travelers on a budget. The apartments are well-equipped with kitchenettes and offer a comfortable stay. Guests can enjoy the nearby beaches, explore the island, and take advantage of the convenience of having their own cooking facilities.
As you would expect from a major travel destination, Seychelles has no shortage of options when it comes to accommodation. As always, I’d suggest you stay somewhere central, to make accessing all the attractions as easy as possible.
Planning a trip to the Seychelles?
Seychelles Accommodation
Begin your search for the perfect accommodation now while the excitement is still fresh in your mind. Discover stylish and affordable options, and find the best accommodations at the lowest prices:
- Explore a wide range of hotels in Seychelles by clicking here (Booking.com)
- Explore a wide range of hotels in Seychelles by clicking here (Tripadvisor)
- Explore a wide range of hotels in Seychelle by clicking here (Agoda)
- Discover affordable hostels in Seychelles by clicking here (Hostelworld)
- Easily compare prices and book hotels in Seychelles by clicking here (Hotellook).
Seychelles Flights
Make the most of your trip by finding the most affordable flights. We highly recommend using Kiwi.com, a reliable flight comparison site. Click here to compare and book cheap flights to Seychelles.
Private Airport Transfers
Kiwitaxi is a popular online platform that specializes in providing private airport transfers and transportation services worldwide. It offers convenient and reliable door-to-door transfers between airports, hotels, and other destinations. With Kiwitaxi, you can pre-book private taxis or minivans with professional drivers, ensuring a comfortable and hassle-free journey.
Rental Car Seychelles
Looking to rent a car in Seychelles? Rentalcars.com has you covered! We search through all the major car rental companies in Seychelles to find you the best price possible.
Seychelles Tours
If you enjoy guided tours, here you can find the best-organized tours here
Travel Insurance
When it comes to travel insurance, we understand the importance of finding reliable coverage that suits your needs. That’s why we highly recommend Safety Wing – a trusted provider offering comprehensive travel insurance plans even for digital nomads. Safeguard your travels and gain peace of mind by exploring the excellent coverage options provided by Safety Wing.
Enjoy the day!
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