Petite Anse, Mahé
Cozy and elegant, the beach of Petite Anse is one of the pearls on the island of Mahé. Not to be mistaken with Petite Anse Kerlan, also known as Petite Kerlan located on the island of Praslin.
A brief overview
Small beach on the southwestern coast of Mahé.
Surroundings offering walks and hiking opportunities.
No major establishments or amenities directly on the beach.
Perfect for those seeking relaxation and tranquility.
Petite Anse is a small but captivating beach located on the southwestern coast of the largest island in the Seychelles – Mahé. Obtain your approved eTA Seychelles and get ready for this tiny, beautiful beach.
Information
200m x 20 to 30m
Small beach, less people
Usually calm waters with moderate currents, and gentle waves
No restaurant or café on the beach
Getting there
There are several ways to reach Petite Anse:
Rental Car: rent a car from the airport or other locations on Mahé Island. Drive south along the coastal roads, following the signs towards Petite Anse. The journey takes approximately 45 minutes from the airport, depending on traffic and road conditions.
Public Transportation: take a public bus from the airport to Anse Boileau, which is the closest bus stop to Petite Anse. From there, you can either walk or take a short taxi ride to the beach. Buses on Mahé are reasonably priced, but the schedules may not always align with your preferred timing.
Private Transportation: Arrange for a private transfer or taxi from the airport or your accommodation to Petite Anse. This is a convenient but relatively more expensive option.
Entrance fee
Petite Anse is a public beach which means, no fee applies to visit it. However, it’s important to note that Petite Anse is located near the Four Seasons Resort Seychelles, which has private access to the beach. If you are not a guest of the resort and wish to access the beach through the resort’s premises, there might be restrictions or charges imposed by the resort for non-guests. It’s recommended to inquire with the resort directly about their policies and any associated fees.
If you choose to access Petite Anse from a public entry point or via alternative routes, there should not be any fees for enjoying the beach.
When to go?
The best time to visit Petite Anse is during the dry season which typically runs from May to October. This is also the best time for divers as there is less runoff from rainfall. However, if you prefer slightly cooler temperatures, you may consider visiting during the transitional months between seasons, such as April, May, October, or November. Whale sharks and mantra rays can be spotted between August and November.
Things to do
As almost everywhere on the Seychelles, Petite Anse is perfect for all photography enthusiasts. The tiny dimension of this beach makes it perfect for picnicking. Petite Anse’s westward orientation allows for beautiful sunset views over the Indian Ocean.
What to bring?
Petite Anse is a very small beach with no facilities on it. You will have to bring your beach essentials like a hat and glasses, a towel, beach umbrella, first aid kit. It’s important to stay hydrated, so bring with you a lot of water. And do not forget to put sun cream on you.
Tips for visiting
On weekdays, particularly from Monday to Thursday, there tends to be fewer visitors compared to weekends. Many tourists and locals often visit beaches on weekends, so choosing a weekday can provide a more tranquil experience. Arriving at Petite Anse early in the morning, especially shortly after sunrise, can offer a quieter and more serene atmosphere. Then, towards the late afternoon, especially as the day starts to transition into evening, the number of visitors may decrease. The beach is also likely to be less crowded during the shoulder seasons (April to June and September to November).
Where to lunch?
There are several dining options nearby Petite Anse:
Zerof Restaurant: Zerof Restaurant is located within the Four Seasons Resort Seychelles, near Petite Anse. This restaurant offers a variety of international and Creole dishes in a stunning setting overlooking the ocean. It’s an excellent option for a luxurious and upscale dining experience.
Kaz Zanana: Kaz Zanana is a charming restaurant located in Anse Soleil, which is not far from Petite Anse. They serve delicious Creole and international cuisine with a focus on fresh seafood. The restaurant also provides lovely views of Anse Soleil beach.
Maria’s Rock Cafe: Situated in Baie Lazare, Maria’s Rock Cafe is a popular restaurant known for its relaxed atmosphere and excellent food. They serve a variety of dishes, including Creole cuisine, fresh seafood, and international fare. The restaurant offers indoor and outdoor seating with beautiful views of the ocean.
Le Jardin Du Roi Spice Garden: Le Jardin Du Roi is a restaurant and spice garden located in Anse Royale, a short drive from Petite Anse. This unique establishment offers an extensive menu featuring dishes made with fresh ingredients sourced from their own organic garden. You can enjoy a meal surrounded by lush greenery and stunning panoramic views.
Surfers Beach Restaurant & Pizzeria: Surfers Beach Restaurant & Pizzeria is situated in Anse Parnel, not far from Petite Anse. They offer a casual dining experience with a diverse menu that includes seafood, pizzas, burgers, and more. The restaurant has a relaxed beachfront setting, making it a great spot to enjoy a laid-back lunch.
