Location and character
At the northern tip of La Digue, close to Patatran Village, lies Anse Patates, which borders the somewhat longer beach of Anse Gaulettes. With its soft white sand and calm sea, it is very good for swimming as well as snorkelling.
The beach is small, only about 60 by 5 metres according to guidebooks. Granite rocks frame the bay, and there are palms and casuarinas along the roadside. Guests of the neighbouring hotel and cyclists on a tour of the island are usually the only people here. Even so, it can get crowded around midday, simply because space is so limited.
Getting there
Directions
At the boat jetty in La Passe, turn left and follow the main road. When you pass the Patatran Village hotel (on your right), Anse Patates is on the opposite side of the road.
Travel time from the harbour: about 15 minutes.
Bike, on foot and parking
There are hardly any cars on La Digue, and most visitors get around by bicycle. The road runs right alongside the beach, and you can leave your bike at the roadside. On foot, allow about 20 minutes from La Passe. There is no car park of its own. Access to the sand is via a flight of steps from the road. The last step is high, so take care on the way down.
For the ferry to La Passe and connections from Mahé and Praslin, see the page Cat Cocos ferry, and for further routes Seychelles from A to B.
Swimming and snorkelling
The seabed is very stony, though. When the waves are high (especially during the north-west monsoon between November and March), the surf makes swimming here far from pleasant. Water shoes are definitely recommended.
At high tide the little beach often disappears completely.
The sea is usually calmer outside the north-west monsoon, so roughly from April to October. That is when snorkelling around the rocks is most rewarding. At low tide and in clear water you can see reef fish here and occasionally turtles or rays. If you have already snorkelled on large reefs, you will find this more of a pleasant introduction than a top spot. You can read more about the seasons under Climate & Weather and Best time to visit.
Facilities
The beach itself has no facilities. A few trees and the rocks provide shade, but the area is small. There are no sun loungers or refreshments on the beach, so bring water and sun protection. The restaurant of the Patatran Village Hotel is on the other side of the road. Ask on the spot whether visitors can have lunch or use the toilets. You will find other places to eat on the island under Restaurants on La Digue.
Tips and nearby
- Come early in the day, when the beach is usually emptier. Check the tides beforehand, as little sand is left at high water.
- About 500 metres away is Anse Sévère. It is a good alternative if the sea at Anse Patates is rough.
- The longer Anse Gaulettes adjoins it directly.
- You can reach the famous Anse Source d’Argent by bike from the harbour, and a visit combines well with Anse Patates.
- For an overview of all the island's beaches, see Seychelles dream beaches. You will find places to stay on La Digue under Holidays on La Digue.
