Smooth granitic stones rise incongruously out of the white sand on La Digue’s beaches, their patterned surfaces and towering height creating a modern sculpture garden. La Digue is the third most populated island of the Seychelles, but with less than 3,000 residents, the island is a peaceful getaway. On La Digue, things to do include relaxing on the soft sands of Anse Source d'Argent, visiting the Veuve Nature Reserve to look for the rare black paradise flycatcher, and spending hours exploring the island’s underwater world while snorkeling or scuba diving.
The Indian Ocean’s storms and seasonal trade winds dictate the weather on La Digue, bringing cooler temperatures, rain, and windier days. To avoid this and enjoy clear water undisturbed by turbidity, visit from April to May or October to November. If you’re less concerned with the weather and want to save money, the monsoon season from December to February tends to be a cheaper time to visit, and some visitors appreciate the break from the heat.
La Digue has no airport, so visitors to the island come by ferry from the main island of Mahé. Once on the island, its small size means that bicycles are a popular form of transit, and you can rent them near the ferry pier. It’s also possible to cover much of the island on foot. It’s unlikely that you’ll find any cars to rent, but hotels will typically have a van or small bus to transport guests.
For a quintessential La Digue experience, head away from the busier west coast of the island for a meal at Chez Jules, located right on the beach. Start with a swim to work up an appetite before settling down to a delicious meal of local delicacies, including octopus salad and fruit bat curry. It’s known as one of the best restaurants on the island for good reason—the octopus is tender, their curries are flavorful, and the view is unbeatable.
