Fodor's Expert Review Anse Royale

A large and beautiful white-sand beach fronting one of the larger "towns" in Mahé's south, Anse Royale hosts calm waters, plenty of shady palms, and a few restaurants, hotels, and shops supplying amenities just a few feet away. During the northwest monsoon this stretch of coast is calm and tranquil, making the stretch of small rock-fringed coves near the Anglican church great for swimming and snorkeling. Swim out from the rocks at "Fairyland" and up to the small island just off the coast. This area is enclosed by a reef and fairly shallow. Beware of currents, however. Les Dauphins Heureux restaurant is a great option when all the swimming and sunning have made you ravenous. Amenities: food and drink (at nearby restaurants and take-aways); toilets (at restaurants). Best for : snorkeling; swimming.