A guide to La Digue Seychelles

La Digue is an island in Seychelles, located in the Indian Ocean. La Digue is the proof you need that paradise on Earth exists which is why this small island is a popular honeymoon destination. Palm trees, white sandy beaches, coral reefs and exotic tropical vegetation make a Seychelles trip a true wishlist destination.

This smaller island is home to some of the most beautiful beaches in the world like Anse Source d’Argent, Anse La Reunion Beach or Grand Anse. These might not be the most secluded, but don’t worry as there are plenty of small and intimate beach spots where you can just sip on fresh coconuts.

La Digue island is home to many accommodation options to suit all budgets. While you’ll find some luxury hotels suitable for honeymoon and luxury travellers, you’ll also find many local owned villas with private apartments and en-suite rooms.

Why visit La Digue

La Digue is a small island, part of the Seychelles Archipelago. Is a popular honeymoon destination but unlike its bigger sisters, Mahe or Praslin, La Digue is more laid back. On this island locals and tourists bike or walk and you’ll rarely see a motored vehicle.

Time flows slower, which is why this Seychelloise island is idyllic and relaxing, much like what you’d expect from the perfect place on Earth. Rest, unwind and admire a romantic sunset over the Indian ocean. Take the bike out and circle the island on the main road where you’ll feel safe at all times as there are very few cars here. There is always a beautiful beach with white sand in close proximity. As you explore the island, you’ll likely encounter giant tortoises just munching on leaves. If you’re a bird lover, bring your binoculars with you for a chance to spot the rare paradise flycatcher.

You’ll have an amazing time whether you stay in a luxury hotel, the famed La Digue island lodge or private accommodation. Just bring your swimsuit and flip-flops and leave your worries at home.

You Could Travel Waves Beach La Digue

How do you get to La Digue

There are a few ways to get to La Digue island and I will walk you through your options.

  • From Mahe – When you fly internationally, you will very likely arrive at the main international airport with Air Seychelles, then you’ll need to get on a local ferry from Mahe to La Digue. Book a direct ferry which takes around 90 minutes. For your peace of mind, I recommend packing some motion sickness pills with you as there are times when the waters are a bit choppy and rough. The price for Mahe – La Digue is ≈ 60 € for adults (one-way) in the main cabin.
  • From Praslin island – La Digue is very close to Praslin island, just 15 minutes away by ferry. This is why many people opt to take just a day trip or half day from Praslin Island to visit La Digue. We recommend staying in La Digue for at least 2 or 3 nights as it’s a fantastic location with a lot more to explore than just the popular highlights.
  • Book your tickets here.
  • By plane – The only way to get to La Digue by plane is to land at Praslin’s airport, take a cab to the port and from there take the 15-minute ferry across to the island.
  • Day trips from or to small islands – Take a short trip to the nearby islands like Nationalpark Coco island or Felicite. These have a more exclusive feel. Nationalpark Coco island is ideal for diving or for snorkel whereas you can sleep in the Six Senses Zil Pasyon on Felicite.
Granite White Sand Beach La Digue

Hotels in La Digue Seychelles

As mentioned before, La Digue hotels are mainly small, self-catering villas run by locals, but opulent choices are of course, available. Le Domaine de L’Orangeraie Resort and Spa is one of the best hotels on the island. Rent a private room with an en-suite or the whole villa for a more sensational experience. For honeymooners who want affordable luxury, we recommend booking a villa a few months prior to the trip.

Le Domaine de L’Orangeraie Resort and Spa
Luxury Hotel8.8

This is the best hotel in La Digue Seychelles, just 6 minute walk from the beach. It’s not just its fantastic location or friendly staff, but this hotel also features two restaurants, three bars, an outdoor swimming pool and a tropical garden.

Click here for prices and book Le Domaine de L’Orangeraie Resort and Spa

Apartments Domaine Les Rochers
Mid-range Hotel 8.8

Set in a tropical garden and 500 feet from the beach, Domaine Les Rochers is located in the village of La Passe on La Digue. It offers self-catering bungalows and apartments with access to a kitchen. Bicycle rental can be found 250 yards from the property. A great option in La Digue Seychelles.

Click here for prices and book Apartments Domaine Les Rochers

Hotel Le Nautique Waterfront La Digue
Luxury Hotel8.8

Le Nautique Waterfront Hotel La Digue has a restaurant, outdoor swimming pool, a bar and garden in La Digue. It has a fantastic location too, just a few minutes from Anse La Reunion Beach. This hotel can be booked for 3 nights at a time.

Click here for prices and book Hotel Le Nautique Waterfront La Digue

Food in La Digue Seychelles

There are a few restaurants for you to try during your holiday on La Digue island. Some, such as Le Repaire, overlook the ocean, making it the ideal place for a dinner with sunset. Another great restaurant is Chez Jules with a focus on seafood and local cuisine. Le Domaine de L’Orangeraie located on La Passe, La Digue, will have international dishes with a more refined presentation, yet again, making it perfect for a romantic dinner with your partner.

For a budget friendly holiday, rent a room with access to a kitchen and make your own food. There are local markets on La Digue, where you can buy fresh fish. Experiment with local ingredients and spices or purchase international ingredients at the Le P’ti shop.

During your stay, you’ll very likely take a few trips to the Rey & Josh Cafe Takeaway, located just next to the Veuve Reserve. Belle Vue is a popular restaurant next to Nid d’Aigl, an observational deck with incredible views of the sea.

Love cocktails? Then grab the bike and head over to the Sunset Bar on the North of the Island or get a refreshing juice from the Bikini Bottom.

You Could Travel La Digue Seychelles

BEACHES IN LA DIGUE Seychelles

La Digue has some of the most photographed beaches in the world, and for a good reason: they are incredible. As you explore the island on foot or by bike, you come across beach after beach that’s more superb than the last one. Some look wild and unexplored, while others seduce you will their coral reefs and tropical green fringes.

L'Union Estate La Digue Seychelles

The best beach on La Digue is Anse Source d’Argent and has been named one of the best in the world for a good reason. To get to the beach you’ll need to go through the L’Union Estate Farm. En route, you will pass the plantation house and get to see a real vanilla plantation. There is a small entrance fee to access the beach but it’s well worth it. You’ll be surrounded by fascinating vegetation and you won’t want to leave this place ever again. On-site, there’s the Fruita Cabana Bar, a little stall selling fresh juices. Make sure to visit at low tide. Congrats, you’ve made it to paradise. Anse Source d’Argent really makes the perfect wallpaper photo.

La Digue Seychelles the most beautiful beaches in the world

You’ll be spoilt for choice when it comes to beach selection in La Digue. Our next recommendation is Petite Anse. It feels more intimate and secluded, with trees offering natural shade from the sun.

Seychelles You Could Travel

No trip to Seychelles is complete without seeing Grand Anse, a spectacular beach with white sands and the most serene turquoise waters. Since you’re here, visit the Pointe Grand Anse, a scenic point with those typical granite boulders and tropical palms all around. It’s probably the right time to pinch yourself!

Anse La Reunion beach is located just 20 minutes from the port and it’s most easily accessible by tourists who stay on the West side of the island. It’s also worth noting that most accommodation in Seychelles is located on the West side. From this beach make your way to the Veuve Nature Reserve, a small natural forested park. La Digue Veuve reserve preserves flora and fauna including small mammals and rare birds.

For magnificent views hike to the Eagle’s Nest Mountain so you can spot your favourite bach from atop. Book a guided tour on La Digue.

Seychelles Views Ocean Beach Palm

Is La Digue safe?

Seychelles is a safe destination and La Digue is one of the safest islands. It’s so laid back and chilled. Of course, as with every place in the world, stay vigilant and practise some common sense. Close the windows and draw the curtains when you leave your hotel room. Keep an eye on your belongings and don’t leave your items unattended.

Be extra careful when swimming in the sea as there might be underwater currents. Respect the signs that tell you where you can or cannot swim as this is for your own safety. Give family and friends your exact location before your arrival to Seychelles just so someone else knows of your whereabouts.

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Why is La Digue famous?

La Digue is famous for its incredible beaches and magnificent views. Anse source d’argent is by far one of the most photographed beaches in the world, so many take a trip from nearby islands just to admire its beauty. La Digue is also well known for its quiet and relaxed atmosphere. There is no light pollution, loud music or party places here. This is heaven for travellers who need a moment to rest and unwind.

La Digue Seychelles Honeymoon You Could Travel

How long does it take to walk around La Digue?

There are several routes you can take: along the coast, through cliffs or in the water at low tide. It will probably take you about three or four hours to walk around La Digue. Do allow some extra time as you’ll want to stop and admire all the beaches, eat some lunch and sip coconut water from a fresh coconut. You’ll cover La Digue much faster on a bike, and you can rent one from helpful staff from hotels.

Is La Digue worth visiting?

Yes, it’s really worth visiting. Even if you take a short trip to the island and see just one beach on this incredible island, it’s still worth your while. La Digue is naturally beautiful, unspoiled, with a calm vibe. It’s the perfect location for an island holiday in the Seychelles.

La Digue island is one of the most beautiful places in this world. Whether you visit because you need a break or you just want to relax on some of the world’s most beautiful beaches, you can’t go wrong with a holiday to La Digue. Since there are no or very few street lights on La Digue island, you can admire the most perfect night sky, while sipping cocktails surrounded by nature’s finest sounds. I, for once, cannot wait to go back to Seychelles!

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Cory from You Could Travel entering Senso-ji in Tokyo, Japan

Cory Varga – Cory is a published travel writer and award-winning photographer. She travels full time with her husband and is passionate about creating in-depth travel guides. Cory published her first book on Japanese customs and manners because she’s obsessed with everything Japan. She has visited hundreds of destinations and has lived in 7 different countries. Cory is multilingual and an alumna from The University of Manchester.

Comments

12 responses to “A guide to La Digue Seychelles”

  1. Omiete Charles-Davies Avatar
    Omiete Charles-Davies

    Currently on honeymoon in Seychelles and I’m writing this comment from Anse Source de L’argent.

    I read your blog a lot before embarking on this trip, thanks for the insight. However, there are a few things I’ll like to state.

    The ferry ride from Mahe was very lovable and one of the exciting parts of this trip. I had prepared to have a lot of nausea after reading your blog but I didn’t feel that way, my wife even made us come towards the deck.

    Also, did you get a Seychelles sim card with mobile data? That’s a great way to always stay connected. The apartment we rented has free Wi-Fi and is pretty decent.

    Great job by the way, my wife and I read your blog before heading here.

    1. I’m SO excited you had a better experience with the ferry. We must have been incredibly unlucky with the choppy seas during our trips. I must add, I am a little jealous, as I really wanted to take amazing pictures from the ferry ride!
      I suppose I should take this as a sign and book another holiday to Seychelles 😀
      We didn’t get a local sim card at the time. We relied entirely on our GPS and wifi from hotels.

      I’m really happy you both had an amazing time. I’m very glad you loved Seychelles (it’s paradise for sure)

  2. Hi Cory. Your article had been really useful but it got me worried also as I will be travelling with my four-year and seven- year olds in two weeks’ time. I guess it’s better i opt out of La Digue and Praslun and stick only to Mahé. Please advise
    Neelum

    1. Hi Neelum,

      Please don’t worry. You shouldn’t be worried at all. They are all safe and wonderful islands and you will have a great time. What are your worries? Maybe I can help with answering some of your questions?

      Kind Regards,

      Cory

  3. STEPHEN LARKIN Avatar
    STEPHEN LARKIN

    Hi Cory. I am hoping to travel to La Digue with my 20 yr old daughter in April. We really want to do a lot of snorkelling. Is there a particular location we should stay for good snorkelling or are most beaches easily accessible regardless of where we stay? Thanks. Stephen

    1. Hi Stephen,

      You are going to love the island. There is no particular location I recommend. All the beaches are awesome for it. Just please be mindful that some wild beaches have super strong waves and I encourage you to not go in the water there. Don’t worry, they are well marked so you will know which one is which 🙂

  4. Dawn Eschardies Avatar
    Dawn Eschardies

    About How long would it take to go around the entire island by foot or bike?

    1. By bike, it took us 6 hours in total with stops. I reckon it can take a lot less if you don’t want to stop and just go go go. But it’s nice to spend half a day just taking it easy, exploring, stopping for pics and a picnic 🙂

  5. Hi Cory,
    I read your post with interest and curiosity.
    I am always interested to know what other travellers think….
    I have been in Seychelles many times and I spent there more than 4 months.
    Being there so long helped me a lot to understand the place, people and many inside things.
    Thank you!!

  6. Laura Worth Avatar
    Laura Worth

    When u went to fish trap did u go for the food or wifi?also maybe u don’t know but if u have a business class ticket that person goes to the front of the line with no waiting.Did u ask thenpeople that u thought were cutting in line if they had a business class ticket?

    1. Hi, we went there for cocktails and we also wanted to access the wifi as we work all the time.

      As for people cutting in line, there were two clear queues at a time. Business-class had their separate queue. People cutting in line simply cut in here and there. They didn’t just go in front of everyone else.

  7. Pradeep Dey Avatar
    Pradeep Dey

    You’re Experience regarding food and stay seems to have been wrong choice. All over Seychelles food is expensive. Try fish on the beaches you may get some fresh taste.
    The beach d’Argent is good but too risky to venture out in the sea. Didn’t find it too crowded during my visit in November 2019

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