Petit Anse

The beach lies on the south-east coast of La Digue and faces the open ocean. Pale sand, granite boulders on both sides and greenery growing right down to the beach are all here, just as at Grand Anse, only with far fewer visitors. Many day trippers turn back at Grand Anse, so Petit Anse usually stays quiet.

Directions:

At the ferry jetty in La Passe, turn right and follow the main road to the junction opposite the school. Turn left there, pass the Zerof restaurant (on your left) and then turn right. Follow the road until you reach Grand’ Anse beach. From there, take the footpath on the left, which leads to Petit Anse.

Businesses used as landmarks can change. If in doubt, follow the signposts to Grand Anse. By bike, the ride from La Passe takes about 20 to 30 minutes depending on your fitness, and the route has a few climbs and descents. You can hire a bike at the harbour or through your accommodation. Travellers report about 10 euros per day (a rough guide, as of November 2026). Check the brakes and gears before you set off.

Leave your bike at Grand Anse, as you can't count on anything like proper parking on the island. The path leads over rocks and through vegetation at the left-hand end of the beach, with roots and some ups and downs. Allow 10 to 20 minutes. After rain the path becomes muddy and slippery, so sturdy footwear is worth it.

You reach La Digue by ferry from Praslin or Mahé; details are on the Cat Cocos ferry page. The Cat Rose also runs between Praslin and La Digue. Its timetable lists the last return sailing to Praslin on Mondays at 5:00 pm (as of November 2026). If you are planning a day trip, check the times with the operator beforehand and allow plenty of buffer for the walk back from Grand Anse.

Outside the trade wind season, roughly October to April, the sea is usually calmer. There are no guarantees, though, and the waves on the day decide. For more on wind and seasons, see Best time to visit and Climate & weather.

Petit Anse is not suitable for snorkelling because of the surf. A better option is the rock pool at the northern end of Anse Cocos, which is sheltered from the open sea and considered the only safe place to swim on this stretch of coast. You will also find calmer water at Anse Sévère.

The beach is undeveloped. There are no sun loungers, parasols or toilets here; you will find all of these at Grand Anse, where there is also a restaurant. Travellers occasionally mention a small kiosk or beach bar at Petit Anse. Whether it is open, and when, varies, so pack water and food in your rucksack. Bring cash in rupees too, as small shops and stalls usually do not accept foreign currency.

Driftwood and a few trees at the edge of the beach provide shade, but at midday it is not enough. A hat, sun cream and a light cloth to sit on will help.

Arrive early, when the path and the beach are at their most pleasant and you will have the granite formations almost to yourself. If you walk on, you will find the path to Anse Cocos at the end of the beach. The way back follows the same route to Grand Anse. The walk makes a good full-day outing, and you can read more under Hiking.

More beaches on the island: Anse Songe, Anse Source d’Argent and Anse Patates. For an overview, see Dream beaches in the Seychelles.