Where to stay in Seychelles: areas and hotels

If you're thinking of Seychelles, your mind probably conjures images of white beaches, turquoise waters, and luxurious resorts. Choosing the right island and the perfect area is key to experiencing the holiday of your dreams. If you're after variety, from the archipelago's liveliest beach to secluded coves, and the convenience of an international airport, then Mahé should be your base. For a more tranquil holiday focused on nature, world-famous beaches, and impressive national parks, Praslin is the ideal choice. If, however, you dream of an almost cinematic escape to a place where time slows down, travel is by bicycle, and beaches look like they've stepped out of a postcard, then La Digue awaits.

On Mahé, the Beau Vallon area is perfect for those who want access to restaurants, water sports, and a bit of nightlife, without losing the beauty of the landscape. The island's southern and western coasts, on the other hand, offer seclusion and luxury in pristine coves. On Praslin, Côte d'Or is the most popular side, with calm waters and plenty of accommodation options, while the north coast hosts some of the most exclusive resorts. Finally, on La Digue, accommodation is concentrated around La Passe harbour and Anse Reunion beach, offering an authentic, laid-back atmosphere. Your choice will determine the pace of your holiday in this unique destination, which rightly features on the list of the world's most exotic islands.

Practical information for Seychelles

Your journey to Seychelles begins with a flight to Seychelles International Airport (SEZ), located on the main island, Mahé. There are no direct flights from the UK, so you'll need at least one stopover, usually at a Middle Eastern hub (Dubai, Doha, Abu Dhabi) or in Europe. The total travel time, including waiting, ranges from 12 to 18 hours. The airport is on Mahé's east coast, approximately 11 kilometres south of the capital, Victoria. From there, access to your hotel can be by taxi, pre-booked transfer, or rental car. To get to Beau Vallon, you'll need about 30 minutes, while for the southern beaches, it's around 40-50 minutes.

Travel between the main islands (Mahé, Praslin, La Digue) is by either fast catamarans or small aircraft. Cat Cocos operates regular ferry services from Mahé to Praslin (approximately 1 hour) and La Digue (approximately 1.5 hours, usually with a stop in Praslin). Air Seychelles offers frequent 20-minute flights between Mahé and Praslin, a quicker but more expensive option. On Mahé and Praslin, hiring a car, as you would for a road trip in Italy, gives you complete freedom to explore the narrow, mountainous roads, although local bus services are a very economical alternative. On La Digue, the main mode of transport is the bicycle. Seychelles is an expensive destination, setting it apart from cheap countries for budget travel. Accommodation prices start from around 150-200€ for a simple guesthouse, with mid-range hotels costing 300-500€ and luxury resorts well exceeding 800€ per night.

The best time to visit Seychelles is during the shoulder months: April, May, October, and November. At these times, the weather is warm, winds are milder, and the sea is calm, ideal for swimming and diving. The period from May to October is influenced by the southeast trade winds, which bring cooler and drier weather, but can make the seas on the southern coasts rougher. Conversely, from December to March, the northwest monsoons bring more heat, humidity, and rainfall, mainly in the afternoon. Nevertheless, the sun is never absent for long, making Seychelles a year-round destination. Don't forget to pack correctly, as described in our packing tips.

Beau Vallon & North Mahé: Lively, water sports, and easy access

The Beau Vallon area on Mahé's northwest coast is the most developed and lively tourist area in Seychelles. Its long, sandy beach is ideal for swimming, water sports, and relaxed sunset strolls. Here you'll find a good variety of restaurants, bars, and shops, as well as the famous night market every Wednesday. It's an excellent base for those who want to combine the beach with amenities and easy access to the capital, Victoria. A little further north, the areas of Glacis and Machabee offer more peace and seclusion, with smaller coves and rocky formations, while remaining close to Beau Vallon. The comparison with other destinations like the Maldives, where each resort is a private island, shows the diversity Mahé offers.

1. STORY Seychelles

A luxury resort right on Beau Vallon beach, combining modern aesthetics with tropical nature. It features spacious suites and villas, seven restaurants, and an award-winning spa, forming an oasis of relaxation at the heart of the action.

• Average cost: 550 to 800 € per night
• Ideal for: couples, families seeking luxury and direct beach access

2. Hilton Seychelles Northolme Resort & Spa

Built on hills above the ocean in the Glacis area, this all-villa resort offers stunning views and absolute privacy. It's famous as it inspired James Bond author, Ian Fleming. Ideal for romantic getaways.

• Average cost: 650 to 950 € per night
• Ideal for: couples, honeymoons

3. CaranaBeach Hotel

A contemporary boutique hotel on the northeast coast, with forty chalets, all boasting sea views. Its location on a small, picturesque beach offers a sense of exclusivity, while remaining close to the amenities of northern Mahé.

• Average cost: 450 to 650 € per night
• Ideal for: couples, travellers seeking style and tranquility

4. Clef des Iles

Offers a different accommodation experience with its self-catering apartments right on the sand of Beau Vallon. It combines the independence of an apartment with the luxury of the location, ideal for those who want to live like locals, but with style.

• Average cost: 300 to 450 € per night
• Ideal for: families, groups, travellers who want autonomy

South & West Mahé: Seclusion, luxury, and pristine beaches

If absolute escape is what you're looking for, Mahé's southern and western coasts are for you. These areas are less developed and quieter than the north, hosting some of the island's most beautiful and secluded beaches, such as Anse Intendance, Anse Takamaka, and Baie Lazare. Here you'll mainly find luxurious resorts built in perfect harmony with the natural environment, offering privacy, exceptional services, and breathtaking views. It's the ideal setting for a romantic honeymoon or for those who simply want to disconnect from the world. The sense of luxury and tranquility strongly evokes the experience offered by another top Indian Ocean destination, Mauritius, with its own unique resorts.

5. Four Seasons Resort Seychelles

Nestled on a hillside overlooking the dreamlike Petite Anse bay, this resort consists exclusively of private villas with pools. Its location, impeccable service, and access to one of the island's best beaches make it a top luxury choice.

• Average cost: 1500 to 2500 € per night
• Ideal for: ultimate luxury, honeymoons, discerning travellers

6. Kempinski Seychelles Resort

Located on the famous Baie Lazare beach, this resort offers a more accessible luxury with excellent facilities. It features a large pool, many dining and activity options, making it an excellent choice for both couples and families.

• Average cost: 500 to 750 € per night
• Ideal for: families, couples, those seeking a combination of relaxation and activities

7. Mango House Seychelles, LXR Hotels & Resorts

An intimate and exceptionally stylish hotel in Anse aux Poules Bleues bay. Formerly the residence of famous photographer Gian Paolo Barbieri, it offers a unique bohemian luxury atmosphere with five restaurants and bars and direct contact with local culture.

• Average cost: 900 to 1400 € per night
• Ideal for: travellers with a high aesthetic sense, gastronomic experiences, couples

8. Valmer Resort and Spa

A more affordable option in the Baie Lazare area, offering self-catering apartments and villas, built on a hillside amidst tropical gardens. It provides excellent value for money for your stay in beautiful southern Mahé.

• Average cost: 250 to 400 € per night
• Ideal for: families, travellers with a mid-range budget, longer stays

Praslin: Côte d'Or & North Coast: Tranquility, nature, and the famous Anse Lazio

Praslin, the second-largest island, is an ideal destination for nature lovers. Here lies the Vallée de Mai, a UNESCO World Heritage forest, home to the unique Coco de Mer. The northeast coast, known as Côte d'Or (Golden Coast) or Anse Volbert, features a long, sandy beach with shallow, calm waters, perfect for families and relaxation. Along it, you'll find many hotels, restaurants, and shops. A little further north, the coastline becomes more dramatic, hosting the world-famous Anse Lazio beach and some of the island's most secluded and luxurious resorts. It's the ideal base for exploring Praslin's natural wonders and enjoying some of the world's best beaches.

9. Raffles Seychelles

On the northeastern tip of Praslin, this resort consists exclusively of villas with private pools, offering stunning ocean views and the neighbouring island of Curieuse. Its location near Anse Lazio makes it an ideal base for luxurious and peaceful holidays.

• Average cost: 1100 to 1800 € per night
• Ideal for: luxury, privacy, families and couples

10. Hotel Le Duc de Praslin

One of the most beloved hotels on Côte d'Or, known for its lush gardens, excellent restaurants, and warm hospitality. Located a few steps from the beach, it offers a variety of rooms and suites to suit every taste.

• Average cost: 400 to 600 € per night
• Ideal for: couples, gastronomy, quality accommodation

11. Paradise Sun Hotel Seychelles

Built in Creole style, this hotel is located right on Côte d'Or beach. It offers a relaxed and friendly atmosphere, with daily activities and complimentary afternoon tea, making it a popular choice for couples and families.

• Average cost: 500 to 750 € per night
• Ideal for: families, couples, beachside accommodation

12. Les Villas D'or

Offers ten spacious self-catering villas nestled in a manicured garden, just behind Côte d'Or beach. It's an excellent choice for those seeking the independence and comfort of a villa with hotel services.

• Average cost: 350 to 500 € per night
• Ideal for: families, groups, autonomous accommodation

La Digue: Relaxed pace, bicycles, and the iconic Anse Source d'Argent

La Digue is an island where time seems to stand still. Here, there are hardly any cars, and transport is mainly by bicycle or on foot. The atmosphere is completely relaxed, and life moves at a slow pace. The island hosts Anse Source d'Argent, one of the world's most photographed beaches, with its characteristic granite boulders and turquoise waters. Accommodation on La Digue ranges from luxurious boutique hotels to charming guesthouses and self-catering options, mainly concentrated around the small harbour of La Passe and along the west coast. It's the ideal choice for you if you want to escape everything and experience an authentic island life. It's different from Crete's all-inclusive hotels, as here the emphasis is on connecting with nature and local culture.

13. Le Domaine de L'Orangeraie Resort and Spa

The island's premier resort, combining luxury with the natural environment. Located near La Passe harbour, it offers impressive villas, one of the best spas in Seychelles, and a stunning infinity pool overlooking the ocean.

• Average cost: 600 to 900 € per night
• Ideal for: luxury, honeymoons, relaxation

14. La Digue Island Lodge

One of the island's most historic hotels, offering a variety of accommodations, from traditional rooms to iconic A-frame chalets on Anse Reunion beach. Its atmosphere is authentically Creole, and its location is ideal for enjoying the sunset.

• Average cost: 350 to 550 € per night
• Ideal for: authentic experience, families, romantic atmosphere

15. Patatran Village Hotel

Built on a hillside with panoramic views on the northern tip of the island, above Anse Patates beach. It offers simple but comfortable rooms and bungalows, most with spectacular sea views. Its pool is one of the best spots for sunset.

• Average cost: 200 to 350 € per night
• Ideal for: views, mid-range budget travellers

16. Cabanes Des Anges

A beautiful guesthouse with apartments and a pool, located in a quiet area near La Passe. It offers excellent value for money, clean and comfortable rooms, and a friendly atmosphere, ideal for an independent stay on the island.

• Average cost: 180 to 280 € per night
• Ideal for: budget accommodation, families, independent travellers

Area comparison at a glance

Frequently asked questions

Which is the best island to stay on in Seychelles?

The answer depends entirely on what you're looking for. Mahé is the largest and liveliest, ideal if you want a variety of beaches, activities, and restaurants. Praslin is the golden mean, combining world-famous beaches and unique nature with a sense of calm. La Digue is for the ultimate escape, with a relaxed pace and travel by bicycle.

How many days do I need for Seychelles?

To get a good taste and avoid rushing, ideally, you need at least 10 days. This will allow you to split your time between two or even three islands (e.g., 4-5 days on Mahé, 3-4 on Praslin, and 2 on La Digue) without feeling rushed.

Is Seychelles an expensive destination?

Yes, Seychelles is considered one of the world's most expensive tourist destinations. The cost of accommodation, food, and activities is high. However, you can reduce costs by choosing self-catering accommodation (guesthouses) and cooking some meals, or by eating at local take-aways that offer delicious and affordable food.

Do I need a car in Seychelles?

On Mahé and Praslin, hiring a car is the best way to explore the islands at your own pace. The roads are narrow and winding, but the freedom it gives you is invaluable. On La Digue, cars are very few, and the main mode of transport is the bicycle, which is part of the island's charm. The rental process is simple, as you would expect from a tourist destination, similar to the experience we describe in our guide to transfers from Istanbul Airport.

Which is the best beach in Seychelles?

That's like asking which is the most beautiful star in the sky! Each beach has its own unique beauty. Anse Source d'Argent on La Digue is world-famous for its granite boulders. Anse Lazio on Praslin is consistently ranked among the world's best beaches. Anse Intendance on Mahé is wild and impressive. The answer depends on your personal taste.

Is Seychelles a good destination for families?

Absolutely. While known as a romantic destination, many beaches like Côte d'Or on Praslin have shallow and calm waters, ideal for children. Several resorts offer family villas and activities. It's an opportunity for children to connect with unique nature, from giant tortoises to colourful fish.

What is the nightlife like in Seychelles?

The nightlife is very discreet and quiet. Don't expect intense clubbing. In Beau Vallon and Eden Island on Mahé, you'll find a few bars and restaurants that stay open late. Generally, most visitors prefer to enjoy a quiet dinner at their hotel or a cocktail under the stars.