Location and character
This long stretch of coast runs along the southeast of Mahé as far as Turtle Bay, with narrow beaches and shallow water close to the coast road. At low tide it is fun to stroll across the sand and clamber over the rocky points to discover all kinds of sea creatures in the tidal pools. Local fishermen also use this stretch of coast to set their traps and catch squid, and at low tide you often see them wading out to the reef. At high tide you can swim here, though even then the water is still quite shallow.
Turtle Bay, also known as Au Cap Beach, is a long beach with shallow water and plenty of shade. Sandbanks often appear at low tide. At weekends the beach is popular with locals, who come for a family barbecue, to meet friends or to splash about with the children. Thanks to the shade and the shallow water, it is a very good beach for children (the main road runs right behind the beach, so always keep an eye on them).
The beach faces southeast, so you will not see the sun set over the sea here. If you are looking for the quiet side of Mahé, a weekday is best, when the families are not around.
Getting there
By car
Directions: From Victoria, take the Bois de Rose Avenue heading south. At the roundabout by the international airport turn left and follow the main road south for about 3½ km. After a short climb you will see the Katiolo nightclub on your left (on a sharp bend).
Continue through the village of Anse aux Pins with its large bus stop. Turtle Bay begins shortly after the former Reef Hotel (on the left-hand side of the road). Karl has seen that the complex stands empty; there are plans to build on the site, so check its current state when you get there. The drive takes about 25 minutes for 16 kilometres. You do not have to cross any mountains to get here.
Along the next stretch of road there are several places to park your car and reach the beach. Leave it so that driveways and the narrow coast road stay clear, and do not leave any valuables visible in the car.
By bus
The following routes run from Victoria in this direction:
- Route 4 Anse Boileau via Mt. Posee
- Route 5 Baie Lazare via Takamaka
- Route 5 Baie Lazare via Les Canelles
- Route 9 Port Launay via Les Canelles
Tell the driver you want to get off at Turtle Bay (Au Cap) and look out for the beach on the sea side of the road. Routes and departure times are changed from time to time, so check the current timetable of the bus company SPTC before you travel.
Swimming and snorkelling
The water stays shallow. The best time for a swim is around high tide. At low tide, sandbanks and tidal pools appear, which are better for a walk than for swimming. If you go out over the rocky points and the reef, wear water shoes and leave any living creatures in the pools where you found them. The fishermen set their traps here, so keep your distance from their gear.
From June to September, seaweed can wash up on the beach.
This coast lies in the southeast trade wind, which blows roughly from May to October. During these months the sea on the southeast side is usually rougher. It is generally calmer in the months with less wind, especially outside the trade wind season. The fact box shows which months are listed as calm for this beach.
For snorkelling, the water is only moderately suitable because of the shallows and the tides. For fish and coral, other beaches on Mahé are better, for example Anse Royale further south.
Facilities and tips
Do not expect permanent beach facilities such as sunloungers or showers. Bring water, sun protection and water shoes. The shade comes from the trees on the beach, and at weekends the best spots are taken early.
At weekends there is grilling and partying. If you want peace and quiet, come during the week. The sea here is better suited to a relaxed afternoon with children than to serious swimming.
Nearby
There are small shops and places to eat very close by, for example "Maison Marengo" (closed on Sundays). The Takamaka Rum Distillery (closed on Sundays) and the "Domaine de Val des Prés, Craft Village" (closed on Mondays) are also only a stone's throw away.
| Destination | Distance (as the crow flies) | Note |
|---|---|---|
| Domaine de Val des Prés | approx. 0.6 km | Colonial house Gran Kaz from around 1870 and craft stalls, not all always open. Opening hours vary, so check in advance. |
| Takamaka Rum Distillery | approx. 1.5 km | Free guided tours Mon to Fri at 11, 1 and 3, Sat at 11 and 2. Tasting for a fee. Open Mon to Sat 10:30 to 16:30. |
You can find more about the island on the Mahé page.
