Looking for white sand beaches, crystal clear waters or an undisturbed environment? The Seychelles offers all this and more. 

Located in the Indian Ocean and comprised of around 115 islands, the Seychelles is one of the most sought-after destinations in the world. Let's dive in and explore the seven most popular islands in the Seychelles, and what makes them so attractive to visitors. 

Found in what is known as the Somali Sea, the Seychelles is a vast and massively spread out archipelago. A popular tourist destination, known for its stunning beaches, turquoise waters, and lush natural surroundings, the Seychelles is most commonly known for its inner island group. The Inner Islands of Seychelles consist mostly of the Granitic Seychelles, which are located in the middle of the Seychelles Bank and made of granite rock. The other coral islands, such as Bird Island and Denis Island, lie along the edge of the Seychelles Bank.  

Despite its popularity, the Seychelles remain relatively unspoiled, with many of the islands designated as national parks or nature reserves. The remote location of the Seychelles has helped preserve its unique flora and fauna, making it a paradise for nature lovers and outdoors enthusiasts. 

1. Mahe Island:

With over 70% of the Seychelles' population making its home on this 28.2km island, Mahe is the largest island in the country. A variety of national parks, protected areas, and nature trails are found on Mahe, making it a popular destination for hiking and trekking enthusiasts. The beaches on Mahe island are diverse and beautiful.Some of the best beaches areBeau Vallon Beach, which is popular for resorts and bars; Anse Major, which is a remote beach accessible by hiking or boat; and Anse Intendance, which is a wild beach with white sand and granite boulders.  

2. Praslin Island:

The second-largest island in the Seychelles and with a rich history of being a hideaway location for pirates, Praslin is home to the gorgeous Anse Georgette beach. This beach remains one of the most beautiful in the world due to its placid waters and pristine sands. The island's towering granite outcrops and mountain ranges make it a popular destination for nature lovers. Praslin Island is also home to the Vallee de Mai Nature Reserve, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, where you can find therare and endemic coco de mer, the largest seed in the world 

3. La Digue Island:

La Digue Island is popular for its picturesque scenery. Famous for its granite boulders that tower over the white-sanded shorelines and turquoise waters, it offers excellent opportunities for swimming, snorkelling and exploration. Visitors can also catch a glimpse of traditional Seychellois architecture, and locals may be seen riding bicycles rather than cars.

4. Silhouette Island:

Just 20km northwest of Mahe Island lies the third-largest island of the Seychelles, Silhouette. Named after the unique shape of its mountain range, Silhouette has a rich history. It is now part of the Silhouette National Park, which boasts rare endemic wildlife, migratory birds, and crystal clear waters for swimming and diving.

5. Bird Island:

Bird Island is perfect for nature lovers and bird enthusiasts. This coral island is known for its birdlife, including sooty terns, fairy terns and common noddies. You can also find some of the endemic bird species of the Seychelles, such as the Seychelles magpie robin, the Seychelles fody and the Seychelles white-eye. With some of the largest numbers of migratory seabirds that breed each year, visitors can witness the famous 'bird dances' during the vacation season. The island is small and features stand-alone accommodation which offers a relaxed and secluded retreat for visitors. 

6. Denis Island:

Denis Island is a private island resort that features its own airstrip. It’s a small coral island that is named after a French explorer and lies at the northern edge of the Seychelles bank. This resort is famous for its coral reefs and diving opportunities. The resort has been designed to offer the highest level of luxury and provides a range of features such as a natural hammock oasis on the shores.

7. Cerf Island:

Cerf Island is a small island off the coast of Mahe Island, but it's still one of the most popular islands to visit. Cerf Island features many stunning beaches known for their crystal clear waters. The island is a paradise for water sports enthusiasts and offers snorkeling trips, kayaking, and other outdoor activities.

What is the best island to stay in Seychelles?  

While all of the tropical islands in Seychelles are magnificent, there are a few that stand out for their sheer beauty and unforgettable experiences. To make the most of your stay, we recommend exploring the granitic islands of Mahe and Praslin. From soaking up the sun on sandy beaches to indulging in Seychelles' rich culture, the islands of Mahe and Praslin promise to deliver an unforgettable experience for visitors. 

Seychelles is an incredible destination to visit, a unique set of islands with crystal clear waters, exotic flora and fauna, and a relaxed atmosphere. From picture-perfect white sandy shorelines to towering granite outcrops and abundant wildlife, Seychelles offers a new and exotic experience with every island. These are just seven of the most popular islands to visit, and trust us – you won't regret visiting them. We have fantastic Seychelles packages to help you start planning your trip today!