Located on the southwest shore of La Digue Island, Seychelles, Anse Source d’Argent is famed for its surreal granite boulders, powdery sands and translucent lagoon. According to Lonely Planet, it ranks among the world’s best beaches; Forbes India even named it the 2nd-best beach worldwide in 2023. Locals and guides often call it a “photographic paradise”. Indeed, the iconic pink-gray boulders — sculpted by millennia of erosion — loom like primeval guardians over the sand. This guide draws on the latest 2025 data and first-hand reports to help you experience Anse Source d’Argent at its best. It covers how to get there, entry and fees, photography and drone rules, geology and ecology, and insider tips gleaned from decades of travel experience.
The entire inner Seychelles archipelago is made of ancient granite, the remnants of a split-off part of Gondwana. The towering rocks at Anse Source d’Argent are part of these Precambrian granite formations, estimated to be around 650–700 million years old. Union Estate signage and history highlight the rocks’ age: the adjacent 40m “Giant Union Rock” is said to be ~700 million years old. Over vast timescales, weathering etched and rounded these boulders into the fantastical shapes we see today.
The beach lies within L’Union Estate, a former coconut and vanilla plantation turned nature park. Union Estate was established in the 18th century under French colonial administration, using slave and later indentured labor to grow coconut and vanilla. Today a preserved Plantation House (open daily 7:00–17:00) showcases period architecture. The estate grounds also include the island’s first cemetery (for early settlers) and a giant tortoise enclosure. En route to the beach you will pedal or walk past coconut groves and vanilla vines, evoking bygone days.
Seychelles’ tourism boomed in 2025, with 354,000+ visitors by November (a 12% rise over 2024). Most international flights land on Mahé (Seychelles International Airport, SEZ). From Mahé, take an inter-island ferry to La Digue: typically via Praslin. For example, the Cat Cocos ferry from Victoria (Mahé) to Praslin takes ≈75–90 minutes, then a local Cat Rose fast ferry or taxi-boat shuttles you 15–20 minutes to La Digue. Some operators offer day-trip charters direct to La Digue. In 2025, check updated ferry timetables (they run multiple times daily on key routes). Once on La Digue, the island is essentially car-free. Most visitors cycle or walk. Rental bikes or ox-carts are available near the small harbor (La Passe). From La Passe village it’s a 5–10 minute bike ride or ~20-minute walk to L’Union Estate – the only land entry to the beach. Many hotels in La Digue offer complimentary bike rental and advice on riding routes.
| Leg | Transport | Approx. Duration | Details (2025) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Mahé (Victoria Port) → Praslin | Fast Ferry (Cat Cocos) | ~1.5 hours | Multiple daily departures |
| Praslin → La Digue | Fast Ferry (Cat Rose) | ~15 minutes | Frequent service (early AM to late PM) |
| La Digue Harbor → L’Union Estate | Bicycle or Walk | 5–10 min by bike; ~20 min walk | Island roads are paved; no cars |
| L’Union Estate → Anse Source d’Argent | Footpath | ~2 minutes (200–300 m) | Short stroll through shade trees |
Visa & Customs: Seychelles grants visa-free entry (up to 3 months) to most nationalities, provided you have proof of accommodation, onward travel, and S$150/day spending money. Arrival taxes and health declarations should be checked on official government sites (requirements evolve year to year).
Anse Source d’Argent is only accessible via the L’Union Estate National Park. Upon arrival at the end of the coastal road, you’ll encounter a ticket booth and turnstile. As of 2025, entry costs 150 Seychelles Rupees per adult (≈€10 or US$10). Children under 12 pay less (≈60 SCR); local residents and workers enter free with ID. The fee funds park maintenance and conservation. After paying, you’re given a wristband and allowed to walk through the plantation. In under a minute you emerge onto the beach through a gap in the trees.
Opening Hours: L’Union Estate is generally open 7:30 AM to 5:30 PM daily. (Hours may shift slightly by season; confirm on arrival or via official sites.) Note: You can enter up to closing time (5:30 PM) and remain on the beach afterwards, but if you arrive after 5:30 PM you will be turned away. Many travelers aim to enter just before closing so they can watch the sunset; some even buy a late ticket and stay past dark. (One smart visitor tip: buy your ticket after 4:30 PM – it covers that afternoon and the next morning, effectively letting you see two sunsets for one fee.)
Within the estate, besides the beach there’s a small shop/kiosk selling cold drinks, coconuts and snacks near the path. Restrooms are available at the park entrance and a few along the trail. The plantation also houses points of interest: a historic vanilla plantation, an old French-colonial Plantation House, a tidy tortoise enclosure, and the giant Union Rock. These are worth a quick look on your way to or from the beach.
After the shady path, Anse Source d’Argent opens into a long, narrow crescent of immaculate white sand lined by coconut palms. The shoreline is framed by towering granite boulders, many shaped like draped cloth or giant eggs (a hallmark of Seychelles). These rocky outcrops separate the beach into little coves and scenic “rooms,” giving photographers endless compositions. The ocean’s shallow lagoon is protected by a coral reef a few meters offshore. On calm days the water is glassy turquoise-green, and tiny fish patrol the sandy shallows right up to the rocks.
The interplay of light on the granite is mesmerizing. At sunrise and sunset the rocks glow in soft pastel pinks and oranges; in mid-morning they appear more silvery against a blue sky. At high tide the lagoon deepens, reflecting the tropical sky. At low tide the sand bars and tidal pools emerge – a fantastic time to walk among the boulders and photograph their bases up close. One popular spot is a natural granite arch on the west end, where a narrow gap between rocks frames the sea. The far horizon often features distant sailboats and the silhouette of Praslin Island.
Photography Tip: The best light is early or late. Plan to shoot at sunrise (when the beach is calm and nearly empty) or late afternoon (golden light). Midday sun will bleach out details on the rocks. Tidal timing matters too – a low tide unveils more sand and channels for foreground interest. During the day, look for reflections and interesting patterns in the shallow water. The lagoon’s clarity also makes a GoPro or snorkel gear rewarding for capturing underwater scenes.
Drone Use: Drone enthusiasts note that Seychelles allows recreational drones with conditions. All drones ≥200 grams must be registered with the Seychelles Civil Aviation Authority (even tourist drones). In practice, many hobbyists launch around dawn or dusk to capture aerial shots. Always avoid flying over crowds, the plantation house, or villages without permission. Note that flights in national parks or over sensitive areas may require extra clearance. The 360° views from a drone or kayak can be breathtaking – just be sure to respect wildlife (turtles, birds) and privacy.
While Anse Source d’Argent is perfect for lounging, it also offers plenty to keep you busy and make the trip memorable. Popular activities include:
Many travelers recommend exploring a bit beyond the main cove. To the east (left when facing the ocean), a narrow path leads around a large boulder to a smaller adjacent beach – more rustic and often less crowded. Similarly, the path westward can bring you to intimate mini-beaches nestled among the rocks. If time allows, consider cycling further along the coast to visit Grand Anse or Petite Anse on La Digue’s southern shore; each has its own character.
The pristine beauty of Anse Source d’Argent is a testament to Seychelles’ conservation ethos. The beach and surrounding waters are part of a protected network: on land, the L’Union Estate park limits development and foot traffic; offshore, the La Digue Island Marine National Park (Shell Reserve) shields coral and fish life. Visitors are strongly encouraged to minimize impact. That means no collecting shells or corals, no littering, and using reef-safe sunscreen. Many frequent travelers note that swift litter cleanup and education have kept the sands spotless. Locals and guides often mention the giant Aldabra tortoises grazing in the estate – please admire them from a distance and never feed human food.
Marine life around the reef is recovering but remains delicate. In recent years, coral bleaching events (linked to warming seas) have damaged some reef areas. Ongoing reef conservation programs work to replant coral gardens and monitor biodiversity. By snorkeling responsibly (avoiding standing on coral) and supporting community eco-projects (some tour fees and hotel room levies fund environment groups), visitors play a direct role in keeping this paradise healthy.
As seasoned travelers advise, plan ahead to make the most of Anse Source d’Argent:
| Tip / Item | Recommendation / Detail |
|---|---|
| Entry Fee | SCR 150 per adult (≈ €10) |
| Estate Hours | ~7:30 AM – 5:30 PM daily |
| Best Photo Lighting | Early morning or late afternoon |
| Drone Rules | Drones ≥200 g must be registered; avoid flying over crowds (SCAA rules) |
| Nearest Town | La Passe (5–10 min by bike; well-marked cycling routes) |
| Facilities | Kiosk (drinks & snacks), restrooms near the entrance |
| Marine Protected Area | Inshore waters protected under La Digue Shell Reserve |
Q: How do I reach Anse Source d’Argent?
A: Fly into Mahé (SEZ) then take the inter-island ferry to La Digue (usually via Praslin). From La Digue’s jetty, rent a bike or take an ox-cart to L’Union Estate (5–10 min ride). Walk through the estate park (150 SCR entry fee) to reach the beach.
Q: Is there an entrance fee for Anse Source d’Argent?
A: Yes. Entry to L’Union Estate (which contains Anse Source d’Argent) is SCR 150 per adult (about €10). Children under 12 pay less (~SCR 60). The fee is typically paid in cash at the park entrance. This covers beach access plus the estate’s historic sites and tortoise enclosure.
Q: What time is best to visit Anse Source d’Argent?
A: The beach is most beautiful at sunrise or late afternoon when light is soft. It also stays uncrowded early in the morning. Seasonally, the shoulder months April–May and October–November have calmer weather and clear seas. Try to arrive at L’Union Estate by its opening (around 7:30–8:00 AM) to enjoy the lagoon in peace.
Q: What are the opening hours of L’Union Estate (Anse Source d’Argent)?
A: L’Union Estate (through which the beach is accessed) generally opens by 7:30 AM and closes around 5:30 PM daily. You must enter before closing time, but once inside you can stay on the beach after hours. There is no exit deadline, so you could see sunset on the beach even if it’s after 5:30 PM.
Q: Can I fly a drone at Anse Source d’Argent?
A: Yes, but with conditions. Seychelles requires registration of all drones over 200 g with the Civil Aviation Authority. As a visitor, you should register in advance. Do not fly over people, over the tortoise enclosure, or near airfields. Early morning is usually the least windy and most scenic time for aerial shots. Always respect privacy and wildlife (land birds and nesting sites).
Q: What wildlife or ecology can I see?
A: On land, L’Union Estate is known for the Aldabra giant tortoises in pens, and a small colony of free-roaming tortoises. You may also see tiny skinks, hermit crabs, and various seabirds (e.g. terns). In the water, snorkeling can reveal tropical reef fish (triggerfish, parrotfish, clownfish, etc.) and hard coral beds in the lagoon. The area is part of a marine reserve, so fishing is restricted – but you might spot sea urchins, rays or juvenile reef sharks at a safe distance.
Q: Are there facilities on the beach?
A: Facilities are basic. There is a small snack kiosk near the trail where local vendors sell water, fruit, and occasional barbecue. Restrooms exist at the estate entrance. There are a few shaded huts (palapas) and coconut palm groves for cover. It’s wise to bring your own water and any gear (snorkel, towels) as commercial facilities are limited.
Q: What photography gear is recommended?
A: A wide-angle lens is ideal for capturing the sweeping landscapes with boulders. Underwater cameras or a GoPro with snorkel gear are fun for lagoon shots. Polarizing filters can make the sky pop and reduce glare on water. For drone flyers, a GPS-enabled model is best; ensure it’s registered. Finally, bring a good smartphone – even your phone camera will do well in this clear, bright environment.
Q: Do I need a guide?
A: No guide is required to visit Anse Source d’Argent; the path is straightforward. However, a local guide or experienced cyclist can enhance the visit by pointing out hidden coves, interpreting history (Plantation House, vanilla cultivation) or arranging wildlife encounters (like taking you to see wild tortoises or birdlife). Guides can also ensure respectful snorkeling and remind group visitors not to disturb the reef.
