Port Launay Marine National Park
A breathtaking marine park on Mahé, Seychelles, offering pristine beaches and vibrant coral reefs teeming with diverse marine life.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Calm waters for snorkeling
Port Launay Marine National Park
Best Time
Calm waters for snorkeling
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A breathtaking marine park on Mahé, Seychelles, offering pristine beaches and vibrant coral reefs teeming with diverse marine life.
"One of the most beautiful beaches I ever visited! Blue sea, white sand and local people serving you a refreshing and delicious coconut!"
🤿 Bring Snorkel Gear
The underwater world is the star! Pack your own mask and snorkel to explore the vibrant coral reefs.
💧 Pack Water & Snacks
No facilities here! Bring plenty of water and food, and remember to take all your trash with you.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Vibrant Coral Reefs
Underwater
Explore a kaleidoscope of marine life, from colorful fish to sea turtles and rays. A snorkeler's paradise!
Pristine White Sand Beach
Port Launay Beach
Relax on a stunning beach with crystal-clear blue waters and soft white sand, perfect for a tranquil escape.
Abundant Marine Biodiversity
Within the park
Witness an incredible array of sea creatures, including clownfish, angelfish, groupers, and even reef sharks.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Pack Smart for Paradise
Accessing the Underwater World
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🤿 Bring Snorkel Gear
The underwater world is the star! Pack your own mask and snorkel to explore the vibrant coral reefs.
💧 Pack Water & Snacks
No facilities here! Bring plenty of water and food, and remember to take all your trash with you.
🚗 Easy Bus Access
Public buses are a convenient and affordable way to reach the park from nearby areas.
☀️ Sun Protection is Key
The Seychellois sun is strong. Bring sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses for a comfortable day out.
Tips
from all over the internet
🤿 Bring Snorkel Gear
The underwater world is the star! Pack your own mask and snorkel to explore the vibrant coral reefs.
💧 Pack Water & Snacks
No facilities here! Bring plenty of water and food, and remember to take all your trash with you.
🚗 Easy Bus Access
Public buses are a convenient and affordable way to reach the park from nearby areas.
☀️ Sun Protection is Key
The Seychellois sun is strong. Bring sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses for a comfortable day out.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about Port Launay's stunning beach and vibrant snorkeling opportunities, calling it one of the most beautiful beaches in Seychelles. However, some note the lack of public facilities and the presence of fuel smells from nearby boats.
"Nice beach with hotel on the coast. It is possible to go to the hotel bar, maybe even to the restaurant, but we didn't try that.
There aren't many options here where to get something to eat, or it's not worth much, so I recommend bringing something with you."
Michal Vodák
"Very beautiful beach (one of the best on Seychelles) with wonderful views and also many beautiful fisches (one of the best beaches for snorkeling). It's very clean. Also there's a bus stop nearby, so to commute it's very easy. Definitelly recommend"
MathematicaLeaf
"One of the most beautiful beaches I ever visited!
Blue sea, white sand and local people serving you a refreshing and delicious coconut!"
PALOMA RUIZ
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Port Launay Marine National Park on Mahé Island is accessible by public bus, making it a convenient destination. Taxis are also available.
Parking can be limited, especially during peak times. Arriving early or using public transport is recommended.
Absolutely! Port Launay is a perfect spot for a day trip to enjoy the beach and snorkeling.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
While specific park fees aren't always clearly stated, it's a protected marine area. It's always best to check for any local regulations or potential conservation contributions.
As a natural park and beach, Port Launay is generally accessible during daylight hours. There are no strict opening or closing times for the beach itself.
Public facilities are minimal and can be run down. It's advisable to come prepared with everything you need.
🎫 🐠 Onsite Experience
Snorkeling is a must-do to witness the vibrant coral reefs and diverse marine life. Relaxing on the beach and swimming are also popular activities.
Yes, Port Launay is considered one of the best beaches for snorkeling in Seychelles, with many beautiful fish and coral formations.
While the waters are rich with marine life, including various fish, specific sightings of sharks are not guaranteed and depend on natural conditions.
Expect to see a variety of colorful fish, angelfish, groupers, and potentially even reef sharks.
The waters are generally calm and safe for swimming, especially with the hotel grounds at the back providing a sense of security.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Options for food and drink are very limited. It's highly recommended to bring your own food and beverages for the day.
There are not many convenient places to eat nearby, so packing your own provisions is the best strategy.
Some reviews mention a hotel bar nearby that might be accessible, but it's not a guaranteed public amenity.
📸 📸 Photography
Capture the stunning turquoise waters, white sandy beaches, and the vibrant underwater world while snorkeling. The diverse marine life offers unique photo subjects.
A waterproof camera or a good underwater housing for your phone is ideal for capturing the marine life. For beach shots, a wide-angle lens can be useful.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
While there are limited facilities, the abundance of marine life visible even from the shore can captivate young minds. Encourage them to look for colorful fish near the water's edge. Remember to pack plenty of snacks and drinks, as well as sun protection, to ensure a comfortable outing for the whole family.
💰 Budget Travelers
Bring your own snorkeling gear to fully enjoy the park's main attraction without incurring rental fees. The natural beauty of the beach and the underwater world are the primary draws, offering a rich experience that doesn't require a large budget.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring the Underwater Paradise
Beyond the fish, the park is also known for its larger inhabitants. Keep an eye out for sea turtles gracefully gliding through the water and rays resting on the sandy seabed. While sightings are not guaranteed, some visitors have reported encountering reef sharks, adding an element of thrilling discovery to the snorkeling experience.
It's crucial to practice responsible tourism when visiting this delicate ecosystem. Avoid touching the coral, do not feed the fish, and ensure you take all your trash with you. By respecting the environment, we can help preserve the beauty of Port Launay for future generations to enjoy.
Beach Bliss and Local Flavors
While the natural beauty is undeniable, dining options directly at the park are very limited. Many visitors recommend bringing your own food and drinks to ensure a comfortable and enjoyable day.
Getting to Port Launay is relatively straightforward. Public buses are a popular and economical choice, connecting the park to various points on Mahé Island. This makes it an accessible destination for budget travelers and those looking to experience local transport.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit