Anse Boileau in the Seychelles: beach, best hotels and things to do

Anse Boileau is a charming corner in the south of Mahé, the main island of the Seychelles, at the foot of a lush green mountain. This area is surrounded by dense tropical forests and is home to a picturesque beach of the same name. In the past, it was an authentic fishing village, while today Anse Boileau offers modern tourist infrastructure: small hotels, guest houses, shops, cafés and car rental services.

The area is not as popular as, for example, Beau Vallon, but the granite rocks framing the beach give the coast a distinctive character. This part of Mahé is ideal for a quiet and peaceful holiday.

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Where Anse Boileau is located

Anse Boileau is located on the southwestern coast of Mahé, about a 25-30 minute drive from Seychelles International Airport. The area stretches along a picturesque bay at the foot of mountains covered with dense tropical forest. The atmosphere of a small Creole village has been preserved here: local shops, small cafés, fruit stalls and fish stalls operate along the road, where fresh catches can be seen in the morning.

Anse Boileau does not have many restaurants, nightlife venues or tourist crowds, so the resort is usually chosen for its peaceful atmosphere and relaxed pace. Thanks to its convenient location, it is easy to travel from here to other beaches on the southwestern coast, including the famous Anse Louis, Takamaka and Anse Intendance.

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What the beach is like in Anse Boileau

Anse Boileau Beach is a wide sandy bay surrounded by granite boulders and tropical vegetation. The sand is light and soft, and the entry into the water is gentle, although swimming conditions depend on the season. During the northwestern monsoon, which usually lasts from October to March, the sea is generally calmer and suitable for swimming. From May to September, when southeastern winds prevail, waves and underwater currents may appear, so it is worth checking the condition of the ocean before swimming.

Anse Boileau cannot be called a typical snorkelling beach because there are few coral reefs close to the shore, and water clarity depends on the weather and waves. However, the beach is excellent for walks along the ocean and watching sunsets. Since there are far fewer tourists here, it is easy to find a secluded place on the shore even during the high season.

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Things to do in Anse Boileau

Most activities here are connected with the ocean, picturesque beaches and discovering Creole culture. If you rent a car, Anse Boileau is also a convenient starting point for exploring other attractions on the southwestern coast of Mahé.

• Beach holidays. The spacious sandy bay is ideal for walks, relaxing by the water and watching sunsets. In calm weather, you can swim here, while on windy days you can admire the powerful ocean waves.
• Le Jardin du Roi spice garden. One of the most famous botanical gardens on Mahé is only a few minutes away by car. Cinnamon, vanilla, nutmeg, pepper and other spices are grown here, while the viewpoints offer beautiful views of the southern coast of the island.
• Neighbouring beaches. Anse Louis, Takamaka, Petite Anse and the famous Anse Intendance are nearby. The latter is one of the most beautiful beaches in the Seychelles, with a wide strip of white sand and impressive granite rocks.
• Sea excursions. Many hotels and local companies organise boat trips along the coast of Mahé, fishing, diving, snorkelling and excursions to neighbouring islands of the archipelago.
• Creole cuisine. Anse Boileau has small family-run restaurants and cafés where you can order dishes made with fresh fish, octopus, prawns and traditional Creole curries. One of the best-known establishments in the area for many years has been Chez Plume. Opened in the 1990s, the restaurant became popular among tourists and local residents thanks to its authenticity and cosy atmosphere.

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Where to stay in Anse Boileau

Anse Boileau does not have as many large resorts as Beau Vallon, but many travellers consider this an advantage. Small boutique hotels, villas and guest houses are common here, allowing visitors to enjoy a peaceful atmosphere and beautiful ocean views.

Anantara MAIA Seychelles Villas

Anantara MAIA Seychelles Villas is one of the most luxurious resorts on the southwestern coast of Mahé, located on Anse Louis Beach near Anse Boileau. The complex consists of only 30 spacious villas with private pools, panoramic terraces and personal butler service. The design by Bill Bensley combines modern comfort with the natural beauty of the Seychelles, and most villas offer views of the Indian Ocean.

Guests can relax on a secluded sandy beach, visit Anantara Spa, practise yoga, go diving, snorkelling and enjoy other water sports. The resort also organises excursions around Mahé, boat trips and visits to Praslin and La Digue. It is an excellent choice for a romantic holiday and for those who value privacy, a high level of service and a peaceful atmosphere.

Anantara MAIA Seychelles Villas

Auberge Chez Plume

A charming guest house located on the southwestern coast of Mahé, in the fishing village of Anse Boileau. Auberge Chez Plume offers seven double rooms with bathrooms and terraces, as well as two family rooms accommodating up to five people. All rooms have air conditioning, safes and refrigerators. Guests can use free Wi-Fi and relax by the pool or on the terrace, where they can dine outdoors.

One of the main features of the guest house is the Chez Plume restaurant, known for its Creole cuisine and dishes made with fresh seafood. In the evening, guests can enjoy refined dishes, while on Sundays a Creole buffet is served.

The hotel is located directly on the beachfront. Auberge Chez Plume offers a wide range of activities, including kayaking, fishing, hiking, boating, diving and snorkelling.

Auberge Chez Plume

Eden Hills Residence

Eden Hills Residence on Mahé is a secluded place with stunning views of the ocean and mountains. The complex consists of 5 luxurious apartments built using natural materials, creating a sense of harmony with the surrounding nature. The villas are ideal for those seeking peace and comfort. Eden Hills has a swimming pool with a children's area, sun loungers, parasols and a barbecue area.

The complex offers 4 two-bedroom villas and 1 one-bedroom villa. The two-bedroom apartments have spacious living areas, a choice of bed configurations, two bathrooms, a kitchen and dining area, as well as a terrace with panoramic views of the mountains, garden and pool. The one-bedroom apartment is equipped with all modern amenities and has its own small garden overlooking the mountains.

Activities include hiking, diving, snorkelling and horse riding. It is an ideal option for families and couples who want to enjoy a peaceful holiday away from busy tourist centres.

Eden Hills Residence

BayView Seychelles

A boutique hotel offering privacy and tranquillity. It is ideal for both family holidays and romantic trips. Anse Boileau Beach is only a 5-minute walk from the hotel, while several well-known tourist attractions are nearby: Le Jardin Du Roi spice garden and the exotic Kot Man-Ya flower garden, both within a 10-minute drive.

BayView has 20 rooms with modern amenities, including a minibar, coffee machine and tea-making facilities. Spacious rooms with upholstered furniture and picturesque ocean views create an atmosphere of comfort and luxury. Some rooms open onto a terrace or have private sitting areas where guests can enjoy seclusion.

A continental breakfast is served in the morning. For lunch and dinner, guests can visit nearby restaurants or use the room delivery service.