Location and character
Few people know Anse Bonnet Carré. Most visitors to La Digue walk or cycle to the famous Anse Source d’Argent, and only a handful take the trouble to explore the island's other shores. The little beach rewards those who do. It can only be reached on foot, so it is often deserted. It has the same white sand as its famous neighbour, slightly fewer rocks and the same warm water, although the reef, sharp-edged stones and waves make it unsuitable for swimming here.
The beach lies on the south coast of La Digue, between Anse aux Cèdres and Anse Marron. The coast here is wild and undeveloped. Anyone who arrives usually has the bay to themselves, or meets only hikers heading on to Anse Marron.
Getting there
By bike to the park
Directions: From La Digue harbour, head south along the coast road and ride through L’Union Estate park (entrance fee, 150 SCR per person, as of November 2026), then leave your bike at the car park. You cannot go any further by car, as the island is explored almost exclusively by bike or on foot. The crossing to La Digue is described on the ferry page.
On foot to the beach
Walk to the end of the beach at Anse Source d’Argent. At low tide (which also applies to the way back) you can wade from here to the next beaches, Anse Pierrot and Anse aux Cèdres. From there the route continues over rocks and partly through the jungle to Anse Bonnet Carré. There is no real path, so you have to push your own way through the bushes or clamber over the rocks. Only at low tide can you also walk through the water, ideally in water shoes.
| Stage | On foot or by bike | Duration |
|---|---|---|
| La Digue harbour to L’Union Estate car park | Bike | approx. 15 minutes |
| La Digue harbour to L’Union Estate car park | On foot | about 30 minutes |
| Car park to Anse Bonnet Carré | On foot | 30 to 45 minutes |
Swimming and water
There is almost no shade, and swimming is not possible because of the reef, the sharp-edged stones and the waves. Water shoes are therefore useful along the whole route, not just for the stretches through the water. The bay is not suitable for snorkelling. Other beaches on the island are better for that, and you can read more on the page Diving and snorkelling.
How calm the sea is depends on the wind and the season. The fact box above shows the calmer months for this beach, and you will find general information under Climate and weather and best time to travel.
Facilities
There are no sun loungers, no vendors and no toilets on the beach. The nearest facilities are in L'Union Estate Park, including a café. Bring water, food, sun protection and a hat, and take your rubbish home with you.
Tips and what is nearby
Start early, so that you arrive at a favourable water level and have plenty of time for the return. Combine the trip with a visit to the park, where you will find the Plantation House and the Granite Boulder, as well as an enclosure with giant tortoises.
On the way you pass Anse Source d'Argent and Anse Pierrot. Further south come Anse Marron and Anse Songe. You will find more walks on the hiking page, and other beaches under dream beaches.
