Petite Anse Mahé
A secluded, stunning beach with powder-soft sand and calm turquoise waters, accessed via the Four Seasons Resort.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, better parking
Petite Anse Mahé
Best Time
Fewer crowds, better parking
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A secluded, stunning beach with powder-soft sand and calm turquoise waters, accessed via the Four Seasons Resort.
"Petite Anse is, without a doubt, the most beautiful beach I’ve ever seen in my life."
🚗 Parking & Access
Park before the Four Seasons gate, get visitor bracelets, and enjoy the 10-15 min walk. :car:
🥾 Steep Walk Back
Be mindful of the steep incline on your return walk from the beach. :athletic_shoe:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Pristine White Sands
Beachfront
Powder-like white sand meets incredibly calm, turquoise waters, offering a serene beach experience.
Tranquil Bay Waters
Bay area
The bay's calm waters are ideal for swimming, snorkeling, and simply floating in peace.
Spectacular Sunset Views
Western horizon
Witness breathtaking sunsets painting the sky in soft pastels and deep orange hues.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Accessing Petite Anse
Best Time to Visit for Serenity
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚗 Parking & Access
Park before the Four Seasons gate, get visitor bracelets, and enjoy the 10-15 min walk. :car:
🥾 Steep Walk Back
Be mindful of the steep incline on your return walk from the beach. :athletic_shoe:
☀️ Limited Shade
Bring your own umbrella or hat as natural shade is limited. :sunwithface:
🐠 Stingray Sightings
Keep an eye out for small stingrays in the clear waters! :fish:
Tips
from all over the internet
🚗 Parking & Access
Park before the Four Seasons gate, get visitor bracelets, and enjoy the 10-15 min walk. :car:
🥾 Steep Walk Back
Be mindful of the steep incline on your return walk from the beach. :athletic_shoe:
☀️ Limited Shade
Bring your own umbrella or hat as natural shade is limited. :sunwithface:
🐠 Stingray Sightings
Keep an eye out for small stingrays in the clear waters! :fish:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Petite Anse is overwhelmingly praised as one of the most beautiful beaches, with its soft white sand and incredibly calm, turquoise waters making it ideal for swimming and relaxation. Visitors appreciate the lack of crowds and the serene atmosphere. However, access through a private resort and the steep walk back are noted considerations.
"This was the most beautiful beach in the area we visited! The beach strip was wide, the sand was white and powder like. The water was amazing and much calmer in comparison to other beaches nearby.
Not overcrowded at all.
To reach it, you have to go through the „Four Seasons“ resort. Aim to go early as there are not many available parking spots. The staff at the gate was really nice and welcoming. You have to let them know you want to visit the beach, leave your contact details and get visitor bracelets.
The beach is within 10-15 minutes on foot. The road is very steep on the way back, so make sure you don’t forget something once you head to the beach.
Limited shade."
Yana Chipilska
"Beautiful Beach but you must go by walk through the private holidays camp (15 min) and when arrived impossible to get a drink, since it is reserved to the person of the camp. A beautiful beach which is 99% private :-("
Christophe T
"Petite Anse is, without a doubt, the most beautiful beach I’ve ever seen in my life. Tucked away in a bay at the Four Seasons, it’s a true slice of paradise. The turquoise water is perfect for swimming, and the calmness of the bay makes it ideal for snorkeling or simply floating and relaxing in peace.
What truly made my stay unforgettable was the sunset on my last day - it was absolutely phenomenal. The sky turned into a masterpiece of soft pastels and deep orange hues, reflecting off the ocean in the most magical way."
Ihar Beliauski
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Petite Anse is accessed via the Four Seasons Resort. You'll need to inform the gate staff you're visiting the beach, provide contact details, and receive visitor bracelets. Parking is available before the resort entrance, followed by a 10-15 minute walk to the beach.
Yes, parking is available before the entrance to the Four Seasons Resort. It's recommended to arrive early, especially during peak times, as spots can be limited.
The walk from the parking area to Petite Anse is about 10-15 minutes. Be prepared for a steep incline on the return journey.
No, you cannot drive directly to Petite Anse. Access is managed through the Four Seasons Resort, requiring a walk from the designated parking area.
While public transport can get you close to the Four Seasons Resort area on Mahé, the final access to Petite Anse is through the resort's private grounds, requiring the walk.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
There is no direct entry fee for Petite Anse beach itself. However, access is through the Four Seasons Resort, and you'll need to register as a beach visitor at the gate.
As access is through the Four Seasons Resort, it's best to visit during daylight hours when the resort is operational. The beach itself is accessible when the resort is open.
Yes, Petite Anse is accessible to the public, but you must go through the Four Seasons Resort entrance and register as a visitor.
Advance booking is not typically required for beach visitors. However, informing the gate staff upon arrival and registering is necessary.
Upon registering at the Four Seasons gate, you'll receive a visitor bracelet, which grants you access to walk to and enjoy Petite Anse beach.
📸 📸 Photography
Early mornings offer soft, diffused light and fewer people for pristine shots. Late afternoons provide stunning golden hour light, perfect for capturing the sunset.
Drone usage regulations can be strict in resort areas and protected bays. It's advisable to check with the Four Seasons Resort directly before flying a drone.
Petite Anse is ideal for landscape, seascape, and sunset photography due to its stunning natural beauty and calm waters.
While you can see the resort from the beach, be mindful of privacy. Focus on the natural beauty of the beach and bay for your photography.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive beach and bay. A polarizing filter can enhance the blues of the water and sky.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Access to food and drinks at Petite Anse is generally reserved for guests of the Four Seasons Resort. Visitors may not be able to purchase items directly on the beach.
The Four Seasons Resort itself has several dining options. For other choices, you would need to travel a short distance from the resort area.
Bringing your own snacks and water is a good idea, as options on the beach for non-resort guests are limited.
The Four Seasons Seychelles offers a variety of exceptional restaurants, catering to different tastes and dining experiences.
While the resort may have beachside service for guests, it's not guaranteed for general visitors. It's best to confirm with the resort upon arrival.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Parents should be prepared for the steep walk back up from the beach, which might be challenging with very young children or strollers. Bringing plenty of snacks and drinks is recommended, as on-site purchasing options for visitors are limited. The tranquil environment ensures a relaxing day for the whole family.
💖 Couples & Romantic Getaways
The spectacular sunsets at Petite Anse are particularly memorable, providing a magical end to a day. While amenities are resort-focused, the sheer beauty and tranquility of the beach make it a top choice for honeymooners or couples looking for a serene and picturesque destination.
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
Aim for early morning or late afternoon for the best light. The golden hour before sunset is especially magical, painting the sky with incredible colors. Be prepared for the walk and the limited shade, but the photographic rewards are immense.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Navigating Access to Petite Anse
Parking is available before you enter the resort premises. From the parking area, it's a pleasant 10-15 minute walk down to the beach. However, it's crucial to remember that the return journey involves a steep incline. Planning your visit with this in mind, especially if you have mobility concerns or are carrying beach gear, is advisable.
While the beach itself is a public resource, the surrounding amenities and direct access are managed by the resort. This setup contributes to the beach's pristine condition and relatively uncrowded atmosphere, making it a sought-after spot for those seeking tranquility.
The Allure of Petite Anse's Waters
Snorkelers often report seeing small stingrays gliding through the shallow waters, adding a touch of marine wonder to the experience. The gentle lapping of waves against the shore provides a soothing soundtrack, ideal for relaxation. Whether you're floating peacefully or exploring the underwater world, the tranquil waters of Petite Anse offer a truly idyllic escape.
This calmness also extends to the visual appeal of the water, which boasts a stunning turquoise hue. The combination of the white sand and the vibrant blue water creates a postcard-perfect scene, making it a favorite for photographers and beach lovers alike.
Capturing the Magic: Photography at Petite Anse
For the best photographic results, timing is key. Early mornings provide soft, diffused light that is ideal for capturing the beach's serene beauty without harsh shadows. As the day progresses, the light becomes more direct, but the late afternoon offers the magical golden hour. This period before sunset bathes the entire scene in a warm, ethereal glow, making it perfect for capturing the dramatic skies and reflections on the water.
When planning your shots, consider the limited natural shade. This can be a challenge for midday photography but also presents opportunities for creative use of light and shadow. Remember to also capture the details – the texture of the sand, the gentle ripples on the water, and any marine life you might spot.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit