Location and character
This tiny beach lies in the south of La Digue and can only be reached on foot. Right behind it rise impressive, tall granite boulders. At high tide the beach almost disappears completely.
Anse Songe lies south of Grand Anse, between the headland of Pointe Canon and Grand l’Anse. Do not confuse it with Grand Anse. The scene is shaped by rocks, coral and sand, with a small island just offshore, which makes the bay a good subject for photographs. Because of the walk, only a few visitors make it here.
Getting there
By bicycle to Grand Anse
La Digue has no rental cars and no scheduled buses, and the number of taxis is limited. The bicycle is the usual way to get around. You can hire bikes at the harbour and through most accommodation, generally for about 150 to 200 rupees a day, while e-bikes cost more (as of November 2026). For how to get to La Digue, see the page on the Cat Cocos ferry.
Directions: From the harbour at La Passe, cycle south along the coast road. At the junction after Gregoires Pizzeria and the STC supermarket, turn left. Shortly before the next fork you cross a river and climb for a few metres. Take the right-hand fork here and follow the road. It climbs in stages and then drops somewhat more steeply. At the end of the tarmac road, carry straight on to Grand Anse. A track with a signboard to Anse Songe branches off to the right. The trip takes about 30 to 45 minutes by bike and roughly 15 to 20 minutes on foot.
Leave your bike at Grand Anse, where the usual parking spot is. If you would rather not cycle, you can take a taxi to Grand Anse. From there you continue on foot only.
On foot from Grand Anse
The path starts at the right-hand end of Grand Anse, in the scrub. The walk takes about 15 minutes and crosses rocks. On the way you will see the sea, a few ruined buildings and the small island off the bay. Wear sturdy shoes, as the rocks can be slippery after rain.
Swimming, waves and tides
Anse Songe is not suitable for swimming because of the surf and currents. The water is deep and rough, and getting in over rocks and broken coral is difficult. At neighbouring Grand Anse too, swimming is not recommended, especially during the southeast monsoon. The bay is hardly worth it for snorkelling either. You will find better options on the page Diving & Snorkelling. For the seasons and sea conditions, read Climate & Weather and Best Time to Travel.
Tips and facilities
There is no shade. There are no sunbeds, kiosk or toilets on the beach. Near Grand Anse there is at least one restaurant (Loutier Coco), but ask about opening times in advance.
Nearby
| Destination | Connection |
|---|---|
| Grand Anse | Starting point, about 15 minutes on foot |
| Petite Anse | From Grand Anse over a small hill, about 15 minutes |
| Grand l'Anse | Further along the coast, rarely visited |
| Anse Cocos | Hiking trail from Grand Anse |
| Anse Marron | Coastal walk over rocks, depending on the tides |
A visit to Anse Songe combines well with a stop at Grand Anse. From there you can also reach Petite Anse and Anse Cocos. The hike to Anse Marron crosses rocks and in places goes through water. Plan it with a local guide and according to the tides. You will find more beaches on the page about La Digue.
