Location and character
Anse Royale is a long beach of fine sand. The water is shallow and wonderful for swimming, though now and then the waves can get higher.
The beach lies on the south-east coast of Mahé and is made up of several sections. These are small bays framed by rocks, stretching from an area known as Fairyland (see also Fairyland Beach) down to the Anglican church of Anse Royale. This stretch is a lovely spot for swimming and snorkelling. Because it faces south-east, there is no sunset over the sea here; for that, head for the west side of the island.
At weekends local people come with friends, family and children for a barbecue on the beach. It is then noticeably livelier than during the week.
Anse Royale is one of the larger villages on the island, with a few small shops, a petrol station, a bank, souvenir shops and more.
Getting there
By car
Anse Royale is about 11 km from the airport, or roughly 10 minutes by car. At the international airport turn left and follow the main road south to the Anse Royale petrol station (on your right), which is opposite the beach. The restaurant Kafe Kreol is on this beach.
There is plenty of parking along the roadside (especially in the southern part of Anse Royale). There is also a car park at the Fairyland end, behind the granite rocks. On the way there the main road runs right beside the beach, so watch out for traffic if you are on foot.
By bus
Routes 5 and 6 run to Anse Royale from the airport and from Victoria. According to the airport, they run roughly every 20 to 40 minutes, and the journey from the airport takes about 20 minutes. The stop for southbound buses is at the airport, on the opposite side of the road from the exit. Services stop in the evening (around 7.25 pm according to the airport), so do not leave your return journey too late.
Cash is no longer accepted on the buses. You need a bus card, available at the airport, in many shops and online, or you can pay with the bus operator's app. Current timetables and fares can be found at the Seychelles Public Transport Corporation.
By taxi
A taxi from the airport takes about as long as a hire car. Agree the price before setting off.
Swimming and snorkelling
The best snorkelling is around the rocks of Fairyland and extends as far as the little island just off the coast (Ile Souris), where countless brightly coloured reef fish can be seen. The entry point at the Fairyland end, between the rocks, is considered particularly good.
The water here is fairly shallow and enclosed by a reef, which keeps larger fish out. The currents can be deceptively strong, though, so it is wise not to swim too far out. This stretch of coast is especially recommended during the north-west monsoon, when the water is clear, gentle and calm.
| Time | Conditions |
|---|---|
| December to March (northwest monsoon) | On this coastal stretch it is usually calm and clear, the best time for snorkelling. After rain or wind the water can be cloudier for a while. |
| May to October (southeast trade winds) | More wind and waves, and seagrass may occasionally wash ashore. Swimming is usually still possible behind the reef. |
| April and November | Transition periods with changing conditions. |
Facilities
About halfway along the beach you will find "Kafe Kreol". The restaurant is perfect for lunch or a cool drink on a sun lounger right in front of it. The kitchen combines Creole dishes with Italian classics. According to online information, it is open daily from about 10 am to 10 pm. There are showers and lockers, and guests can use the restaurant's toilets. You can find more restaurants on the island under Restaurants on Mahé.
The petrol station, bank and small shops in the village are within walking distance, so you can bring drinks and provisions with you. Apart from the restaurant, there are no facilities on the beach, so bring your own sun protection and water.
Tips and nearby
Bring your own snorkelling gear, as whether and where you can hire equipment in the village varies. It is best to get in the water in the morning, before the wind picks up and the families arrive at the weekend.
Nearby you will find the Kot Man-Ya Exotic Flower Garden and the Domaine de Val des Prés (Craft Village). Other beaches in the south of Mahé include Anse Takamaka, Anse Intendance, Anse Soleil and Anse Bazarca.
