Anse Patates: A Small, Striking Beach on La Digue

What public reviews show

Anse Patates has a Google rating of 4.8 from 533 reviews, and the public feedback is clear about its main appeal: this is a small, exceptionally photogenic beach. Reviewers repeatedly mention fine sand, palm trees, unusual rock formations and strikingly coloured water. Several describe it as a favourite small beach on La Digue, while others see it as a worthwhile stop during a bike tour.

The setting makes an immediate impression. The beach is compact, framed by large rocks and tropical vegetation, with a narrow strip of sand that looks especially dramatic in photographs. It suits a short swim, a few quiet minutes with a view, or a cooling stop on a cycling route. It is less convincing as a full-day beach base.

Snorkelling and swimming

Snorkelling is a recurring reason to visit. One review describes large, colourful fish close to shore, and another calls the beach a good snorkelling spot. The water can be rewarding without requiring a long swim offshore.

Conditions are not consistently gentle. Public reviews mention choppy water and large stones close to, or beneath, the surface. Some rocks may be difficult to see while swimming, creating a genuine injury risk. Water shoes are recommended in the reviews and make sense for entering the water, but they do not remove the need to check the conditions first.

Low tide can leave more room to sit on the beach, according to one reviewer. Visitors should still treat the shoreline as a rocky, wave-affected swimming area rather than a sheltered lagoon. Families with young children may find the conditions unsuitable, particularly when the sea is rough.

How to use the stop

Anse Patates works best as part of a La Digue bicycle outing. One reviewer stopped for a quick dip, while another described it as more of a photo stop than a place to settle in for hours. Its small size means it can feel crowded quickly, and one visit felt overcrowded even though the beach itself was considered stunning.

Visitors planning to stay a while should bring drinks and snacks. A review specifically recommends doing so rather than cycling back for supplies. There is no indication in the supplied public information that the beach offers a broad range of on-site services, so independent preparation is sensible.

Verdict

The public feedback supports a strong recommendation for scenery, photography and a short snorkelling stop. Anse Patates delivers memorable colour and rock formations in a very small footprint. Timing matters. The last week of May was described as relatively quiet by one reviewer, though that observation is only a single experience.

The beach is less suitable for visitors seeking spacious sand, calm family swimming or a long, uninterrupted stretch of relaxation. Choppy water, submerged rocks and quick crowding are the practical drawbacks. For a careful swimmer on a La Digue cycling route, it is an easy place to appreciate briefly. Bring water, wear water shoes and look closely before entering the sea.

Plan the rest of the trip

• More attractions in Seychelles
• What else is worth booking in Anse Reunion, Seychelles
• All Seychelles travel reviews
• Browse every destination we cover