Location and character
Anse Source d’Argent is said to be the most photographed beach in the world. With its soft white sand, clear turquoise water and huge granite boulders sculpted by time and the elements, it is easy to see why photographers and film-makers keep coming back. The beach lies on the west coast of La Digue and is part of L’Union Estate.
You will not find granite rocks with such unusual colours and shapes on any other beach. It is made up of several larger and smaller stretches, and each one is worth a photo. The sand is fine, though sometimes mixed with washed-up pieces of shell or coral. The beach also gives you a spectacular sunset over the sea.
Getting there and entry
By ferry to La Digue
All ferries dock at the harbour in La Passe. From Praslin the crossing takes about 15 minutes. According to the booking portal, Cat Rose sails up to six times a day, and the last departure from La Digue is at 5 pm. From Mahé, Cat Cocos boats take around 1 hour 45 minutes via Praslin. A direct sailing between La Digue and Mahé runs only on Saturdays and Sundays. Timetables change, so check the times before booking on our page about the Cat Cocos ferry and with the ferry companies. You will find more on planning under Seychelles from A to B.
From the harbour to the beach
From the harbour, cycle south along the coastal road for about 15 minutes until you reach the helicopter pad. This is where L'Union Estate Park begins, and you have to pass through it. In the park you will find the stages of traditional coconut oil production, vanilla plantations, a medicinal plant garden and giant tortoises. At the end of the park there is a large bicycle park. From there you walk the last stretch on foot, and the bike stays in the park.
No public bus goes all the way to the beach. If you would rather not cycle, take a taxi to the entrance. Walking from the harbour is possible, but it is longer than it looks on the map.
Entry fee and opening hours
| Item | Details |
|---|---|
| Entry fee (foreign visitors) | 150 SCR per person (as of November 2026) |
| Validity | one day, with multiple entries and exits; if you buy after 4.30 pm, you can use the ticket the next day |
| Opening hours | daily from 6 am to 6 pm |
| Longer stays | Visitors staying on the island for more than 5 days get a special rate |
Swimming and snorkelling
The beach is protected by an offshore reef, so the water here is very calm and shallow, and you can walk on sand for long stretches. That also makes it a very safe beach for children. The water is extremely shallow and fairly warm. You do not need to expect strong currents, but you can only really swim at high tide. At low tide it becomes very shallow, and you wade out a good way. Tide tables are available at your hotel or from your accommodation.
There are several seagrass beds in the water, so water shoes are a good idea. At low tide these green patches can show above the surface, which makes a great contrast in photos. For snorkelling, the beach suits beginners who want to practise in shallow water. The main attraction here is the rocks rather than the underwater life. If you want to see more, you will find suggestions under Diving and snorkelling.
The bay opens to the southwest and is therefore well sheltered. Which months are particularly calm is shown in the fact box above.
Facilities
The beach itself is undeveloped. Palm trees and small bars provide shade. In the park there is a small shop selling dried vanilla and vanilla essence. Visitors also report souvenir stalls and kayak and stand-up paddleboard hire. Bring drinking water, sun protection and a small snack if you plan to stay for a while. You will find more restaurants and places to stay under Restaurants on La Digue and Accommodation on La Digue.
Tips and what is nearby
Your park ticket also lets you see the rest of the estate: the Plantation House, the giant tortoises and the vanilla plantation. Other beaches nearby are Anse Union in the same park, Anse Songe and Anse Marron further south. The way to Anse Marron crosses rocks and is usually done with a local guide. For an overview of the island, see the page on La Digue, and you will find more beaches under Dream beaches in the Seychelles.
