Desroches is part of the Amirantes and lies about 230 kilometres south-west of Mahé. The flat coral island is roughly 6 kilometres long and just under 2 kilometres wide. Almost the entire coastline is pale sandy beach, around 14 kilometres in total. A coral reef protects large stretches of it, so the water in many bays is calm and well suited to swimming and snorkelling.
Unlike Mahé, Praslin or La Digue, there is no coastal road here with bus stops. The island can only be reached by air, and the flight from Mahé takes about 35 to 40 minutes (details on the page Domestic Flights). The only resort on the island is the Four Seasons Resort Seychelles at Desroches Island. If you are not staying there, check in advance whether a visit is possible, as beach access and transfers are arranged through the resort. Getting around the island to the beaches is by bicycle or buggy.
On the following pages you will find the individual beaches of Desroches, with their location, water conditions and facilities. General information about the island, getting there and accommodation can be found under Desroches. Which months are best for calm water and good visibility is explained on the page Best Time to Travel. If you would like to explore the reefs underwater, you will find tips under Diving and Snorkelling. More beaches on other islands are presented in the overview Dream Beaches.