Planning a Seychelles honeymoon is a dream for many newlyweds, and I totally get why. I’ve been lucky enough to visit these stunning islands several times, and each trip has left me more in love with this tropical paradise.
As of September 2024, Seychelles has welcomed around 258,000 visitors, with honeymooners making up a significant portion of that number. In this guide, I’ll share everything I’ve learned to help you plan the perfect Seychelles honeymoon.
From picking the best time to go to choosing which islands to visit and finding the most romantic activities, I’ll tell you all. I’ll be honest about the good and the not-so-good because I want your Seychelles honeymoon to be as amazing as possible.
Best Time for a Seychelles Honeymoon
From all my experiences, I’d say the best time for a Seychelles honeymoon is between April and May or September and November. During these months, you’ll get the best of everything – calm seas, warm temperatures, and less rain.
Plus, there aren’t as many tourists around, which means more privacy for you and your new spouse. You might even snag some good deals on hotels and activities. Here’s a breakdown of what you can expect throughout the year:
| Month | Season | Weather | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| January-February | Wet | Hot, humid, rainy | Not ideal for honeymoons |
| March-May | Transition | Improving | Good time, fewer tourists |
| June-September | Dry | Cool, less humid | Best time for honeymoons |
| October | Transition | Changing | Creole Festival month |
| November-December | Wet | Hot, humid, rainy | Holiday season, busier |
If you’re dreaming of a quiet, secluded Seychelles honeymoon, I’d suggest avoiding December-January and July-August. These are the busiest times for tourists, and prices for everything from hotels to activities tend to be higher. If you go during the less busy months, you’ll find fewer crowds and might even get some good Seychelles honeymoon deals.
One thing to note – while the Seychelles is generally a year-round destination, some smaller hotels and restaurants might close during the quieter months. It’s always a good idea to check ahead if you have your heart set on a particular place.
Which Island is Perfect for a Honeymoon in Seychelles?
One of the best things about a honeymoon in Seychelles is that you can visit different islands. Each island has its own special feel and things to do. Let’s look at some of the best Seychelles honeymoon destinations.
Mahé: Your Starting Point
Mahé is the biggest island and where the airport is, so it’s likely to be your first stop on your Seychelles honeymoon. It’s home to about 90% of the Seychelles’ population, so it’s busier than the other islands, but there’s also a lot to see and do.
On Mahé, you can visit beautiful beaches like Beau Vallon, which has a long stretch of white sand and calm waters. It’s great for swimming and sunbathing, but it can get crowded, especially on weekends when locals come to enjoy it too.
The capital city, Victoria, is worth a visit. It’s one of the smallest capital cities in the world, and you can walk around the whole thing in just a couple of hours. The Sir Selwyn Selwyn-Clarke Market is a bustling place where you can buy fresh fruits, spices, and souvenirs. Just be prepared for the strong fishy smell – it’s not for everyone!
For nature lovers, a hike in Morne Seychellois National Park is a must. The views from the top of Morne Blanc are amazing, but the hike can be tough in the heat and humidity. Make sure to bring plenty of water and start early in the morning.
I stayed at the Mango House Seychelles on Mahé, and it was really nice. We had a room with a view of the ocean and our own small pool. Watching the sunset while drinking champagne was so romantic! But I’ll be honest, it wasn’t cheap – a night there can cost around 500 EUR (about 6,810 Seychellois Rupee).
Praslin: Nature and Beauty
Praslin is the second-largest island in Seychelles and it’s more relaxed than Mahé. It’s a 15-minute flight or a 45-minute ferry ride from Mahé.
The star attraction on Praslin is the Vallée de Mai Nature Reserve, a UNESCO World Heritage site. It’s home to the rare Coco de Mer palm, which produces the largest seed in the world. The forest is beautiful and mysterious, but it can be hot and humid inside, and the entrance fee is quite steep at 350 Seychellois Rupee (about 26 EUR) per person.
Anse Lazio Beach on Praslin is often called one of the best beaches in the world, and I have to agree. The sand is soft and white, and the water is an incredible shade of blue. But its popularity means it can get crowded, especially in the high season.
Praslin is also a great base for snorkeling and diving. The waters around the island are full of colorful fish and coral. I went on a snorkeling trip to Curieuse Marine National Park, and it was amazing – we saw giant tortoises on the island and swam with sea turtles!
La Digue: A Romantic Honeymoon Spot
La Digue is my favorite island for a romantic Seychelles honeymoon. It’s small, quiet, and really pretty. You can reach it by ferry from Praslin (about 15 minutes) or Mahé (about an hour).
On La Digue, most people get around by bicycle. It’s fun and eco-friendly, but it can be tiring in the heat, especially if you’re not used to cycling. Electric bikes are available, but they’re more expensive to rent.
The most famous beach on La Digue is Anse Source d’Argent. It’s one of the most photographed beaches in the world, with its big granite rocks and clear water. It’s stunning, but it can get very crowded with day-trippers. I found that going early in the morning or late in the afternoon was best.
Another must-visit spot on La Digue is L’Union Estate, an old coconut plantation where you can see giant tortoises. It’s interesting, but the entrance fee (115 Seychellois Rupee, about 8.50 EUR) feels a bit high for what you get to see.
I stayed at Le Domaine de L’Orangeraie on La Digue, and it was amazing. Our room was up on a hill with a great view, and we had an outdoor shower under the stars – it was so romantic! But be prepared for lots of stairs if you stay in one of the hillside villas.
Private Islands for a Luxury Seychelles Honeymoon
If you want the fanciest Seychelles honeymoon possible, you might want to stay on a private island. These offer the ultimate in luxury and privacy, but they come with a hefty price tag.
North Island is where Prince William and Kate Middleton had their honeymoon. It’s absolutely beautiful, with pristine beaches and lush forests. But a night there can cost more than 5,000 EUR (about 68,100 Seychellois Rupee) per night! That’s way out of most people’s budgets, including mine.
Fregate Island is another luxury option. They do a lot to protect nature here, and the beaches are beautiful. You can even have a private dinner on the beach. But again, it’s very expensive, with rates starting at around 3,000 EUR (about 40,860 Seychellois Rupee) per night.
For a slightly more affordable private island experience, Denis Island is worth considering. It’s great for snorkeling and diving, and the island has its own farm that supplies fresh produce to the restaurant. But “more affordable” is relative – it’s still about 1,000 EUR (about 13,620 Seychellois Rupee) per night.
While these private islands offer an amazing experience, I think you can have just as wonderful a Seychelles honeymoon on the main islands for a fraction of the cost.
Best Places to Stay for Newlyweds in Seychelles
Where you stay can make your Seychelles honeymoon really special. There are fancy resorts, nice hotels, and cute guesthouses for all kinds of budgets. Let’s look at some options.
| Resort | Location | Features | Starting Rate per Night |
|---|---|---|---|
| Luxury Resorts | |||
| Four Seasons Resort | Mahé | Hillside villas, private pools, amazing spa | 1,000 EUR (13,620 SCR) |
| Constance Ephelia | Mahé | 5 restaurants, 6 bars, 2 beaches, many activities | 500 EUR (6,810 SCR) |
| Six Senses Zil Pasyon | Félicité Island | Incredible villas, ocean views, great food, sustainability program | 1,500 EUR (20,430 SCR) |
| Affordable Options | |||
| La Digue Island Lodge | La Digue | Beachfront, traditional chalets, friendly staff | 200 EUR (2,724 SCR) |
| Acajou Beach Resort | Praslin | On Côte d’Or beach, spacious rooms, nice pool, good restaurant | 250 EUR (3,405 SCR) |
| Treasure Cove Hotel | Mahé | Near Victoria, simple rooms, some with bay views | 150 EUR (2,043 SCR) |
One thing to keep in mind – even the “affordable” options in the Seychelles are more expensive than you might find in other destinations. But the beauty of the islands makes it worth it, in my opinion.
What Exciting Activities Can Couples Enjoy in Seychelles?
There’s so much to do on your Seychelles honeymoon! From relaxing on beautiful beaches to exploring nature, you’ll never be bored. Here are some of the best Seychelles honeymoon activities:
Beach Hopping Adventures
The Seychelles is famous for its beaches, and beach hopping is a must-do activity. Each beach has its own character, from the famous Anse Source d’Argent on La Digue with its huge granite boulders, to the long stretch of Beau Vallon on Mahé.
On Praslin, Anse Lazio is often called one of the world’s best beaches. The sand is incredibly soft and white, and the water is a beautiful turquoise color. But be careful of strong currents if you go swimming – always check for warning flags.
One of my favorite beaches is Anse Cocos on La Digue. It’s a bit of a hike to get there (about 30 minutes from Grand Anse), but it’s usually quiet and the natural pools formed by rocks are great for swimming.
Planning tip: bring plenty of sunscreen, water, and maybe some snacks. Most beaches don’t have facilities, so you need to come prepared.
Snorkeling and Diving
The waters around the Seychelles are full of colorful fish and coral, making it a great place for snorkeling and diving. You don’t need to be an expert – many resorts offer beginner lessons.
Ste Anne Marine National Park, near Mahé, is a great spot for snorkeling. You can take a boat trip there from Victoria. I saw so many different kinds of fish there, and even a sea turtle!
If you’re into diving, Shark Bank near Mahé is supposed to be amazing. I’m not a diver myself, but friends who’ve been there say they saw sharks, rays, and huge schools of fish.
One thing to note: while the snorkeling and diving are generally great, some areas have suffered from coral bleaching due to rising sea temperatures. It’s sad to see, but it’s a reality of climate change that’s affecting many tropical destinations.
Island Hopping Experiences
One of the best things about a Seychelles honeymoon is visiting different islands. You can easily take day trips from Mahé to Praslin and La Digue. The ferry ride can be a bit rough if the sea is choppy, so if you get seasick easily, you might want to consider flying to Praslin instead.
Smaller islands like Curieuse or Cousin Island are great for nature walks. Curieuse is home to a large population of giant tortoises that roam freely. It’s amazing to see these gentle giants up close.
If you’re feeling fancy, you can splurge on a private boat tour to see several islands in one day. It’s not cheap (expect to pay around 500 EUR or 6,810 Seychellois Rupee for a full day), but it’s a great way to see more of the Seychelles and have some privacy.
Nature Encounters in Seychelles
The Vallée de Mai on Praslin is a must-visit. It’s a prehistoric forest that’s home to the Coco de Mer palm, which produces the largest seed in the world. The forest is beautiful, but it can be hot and humid, so go early in the day if you can.
On Mahé, a hike in the Morne Seychellois National Park is a great way to see some of the island’s interior. The view from the top of Morne Blanc is incredible – you can see across to Praslin and La Digue on a clear day. But be prepared for a steep climb!
If you’re interested in birds, a trip to Aride Island is worth considering. It’s home to more seabird species than any other island in the Seychelles. You might see frigatebirds, tropicbirds, and even the rare Seychelles warbler.
One of my favorite nature experiences was watching sea turtles nesting on Bird Island. It usually happens between October and February.
Try Seychellois Cuisine
Trying local food is a big part of any honeymoon, and Seychelles cuisine is a tasty mix of African, French, Indian, and Chinese influences. Seafood is a big deal here – you’ll find fresh fish on pretty much every menu.
One dish you have to try is the Creole curry. It’s usually made with fish, but you can also find chicken or octopus versions. It’s spicy but not too hot, and full of flavor. I had an amazing one at Marie Antoinette Restaurant in Victoria – it’s one of the oldest restaurants in Seychelles.
For a romantic dinner, lots of resorts offer private beach dinners. My partner and I did this at the Constance Lemuria on Praslin, and it was magical – toes in the sand, candles, and great food. But be prepared to pay a premium for these experiences – ours cost about 200 EUR (about 2,724 Seychellois Rupee) per person.
If you’re on a budget, check out the takeaways in the local towns. They serve tasty Creole food at much lower prices than the resorts. Remember that many of these places close early, so don’t leave dinner too late.
Perfect Seychelles Honeymoon Itinerary
When it comes to planning your Seychelles honeymoon itinerary, I’d recommend spending at least 10 days if you can. This gives you enough time to visit a few different islands without feeling rushed.
| Day | Location | Activities | Estimated Duration |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Mahé | Arrive, settle in, relax on Beau Vallon beach | Half day |
| 2 | Mahé | Explore Victoria, local markets | Full day |
| 3 | Mahé | Hike in Morne Seychellois National Park | 4-6 hours |
| 4 | Praslin | Ferry/flight to Praslin, settle in | Half day |
| 5 | Praslin | Visit Vallée de Mai | 2-3 hours |
| 6 | Praslin | Relax on Anse Lazio beach | Full day |
| 7 | Praslin | Day trip to Curieuse Island, see giant tortoises | Full day |
| 8 | La Digue | Travel to La Digue, rent bikes, explore | Half day |
| 9 | La Digue | Visit Anse Source d’Argent | Half day |
| 10 | La Digue | Quiet time, prepare for departure | Full day |
Hey, this is just a suggestion – you might want to spend more time on one island or add in a stay on a private island if your budget allows.
Average Cost of a Honeymoon in the Seychelles Islands
Let’s be honest – a Seychelles vacation isn’t cheap. But with some careful planning, you can have an amazing trip without breaking the bank. Here’s a rough idea of costs (as of September 2024):
- Flights: Expect to pay around 800-1500 EUR (10,896-20,430 Seychellois Rupee) per person for a round trip from Europe or the US.
- Accommodation: Budget at least 150-200 EUR (2,043-2,724 Seychellois Rupee) per night for a decent hotel. Luxury resorts can easily cost 1000 EUR (13,620 Seychellois Rupee) or more per night.
- Food: A meal at a mid-range restaurant will cost about 30-50 EUR (409-681 Seychellois Rupee) per person. Eating at takeaways can cut this down to 10-15 EUR (136-204 Seychellois Rupee) per meal.
- Activities: Day trips and activities can range from 50-200 EUR (681-2,724 Seychellois Rupee) per person, depending on what you’re doing.
Sure, planning a Seychelles honeymoon can be pricey, but it doesn’t have to break the bank. For a 10-day trip in mid-range hotels, set aside about 5000-7000 EUR (68,100-95,340 Seychellois Rupee) for two people, not counting flights.
To keep costs down, think about going in the shoulder season (April-May or September-November). Also, try staying in guest houses instead of fancy resorts. When it comes to food, eat at local takeaways rather than expensive hotel restaurants.
Lastly, use public buses on Mahé and Praslin to get around. They’re way cheaper than taxis, even if they’re not as comfy. By following these tips, you can have an amazing Seychelles honeymoon without emptying your wallet.
How Do You Get To and Around the Seychelles Archipelago?
Planning your dream Seychelles honeymoon must also include understanding how to get there and move around the islands. Here’s everything you need to know about entry requirements, flights, and transportation options for your romantic getaway.
Entry Requirements for Your Seychelles Honeymoon
Before jetting off to paradise, make sure you have these essentials:
- Valid passport
- Visitor’s permit (obtained on arrival)
- Return or onward ticket
- Proof of accommodation booking
- Sufficient funds for your stay
Good news for most lovebirds – Seychelles doesn’t require a visa for stays up to 30 days. Just remember, your passport should be valid for the duration of your stay.
Flying to Seychelles
Your Seychelles honeymoon adventure begins at Seychelles International Airport (SEZ) on Mahé island. Brace yourselves for a long journey – flights from major US cities like New York or Los Angeles typically take 18 to 24 hours, including at least one stopover. Dubai is a common layover spot, so you might want to plan a mini-break there to break up the trip.
Pro tip: Consider booking your flights well in advance to snag the best Seychelles honeymoon deals. Prices can skyrocket during peak season (December to January and July to August).
Getting Around the Islands
Once you’ve landed in paradise, you’ve got several options for island-hopping and exploring:
| Travel Type | Options | Details |
|---|---|---|
| Inter-island | Ferries | Cat Cocos: Mahé, Praslin, La Digue. Book early. |
| Domestic flights | Faster but pricier. | |
| Private boats | Romantic, higher budget option. | |
| Mahé and Praslin | Rental cars | From 40 EUR/day. |
| Taxis | ~45 EUR/10-minute ride. | |
| Public buses | 0.70 EUR/trip. Unreliable weekends. | |
| La Digue | Bicycles | Often free from hotels. |
| Ox carts | Unique experience. | |
| Luxury | Helicopter | Offered by some high-end resorts. |
Remember that Mahé is larger and more developed, while La Digue is small and best explored by bike. Plan your Seychelles honeymoon itinerary with these differences in mind.
Practical Tips for Your Seychelles Honeymoon
Your Seychelles honeymoon should be as magical as your wedding day. Here are some special tips to ensure your romantic getaway is picture-perfect from start to finish.
- Book a couples’ spa treatment: Many resorts offer special honeymoon packages with massages for two.
- Arrange a private beach dinner: Ask your hotel to set up a candlelit meal on the sand for a truly romantic evening.
- Take a couples’ cooking class: Learn to make Creole dishes together, a tasty souvenir to bring home.
- Go island hopping: Visit multiple islands to experience different aspects of Seychelles romance.
- Capture the moments: Book a professional photoshoot on one of the stunning beaches for lasting memories.
- Seek out adults-only areas: Some resorts have secluded spots just for couples, perfect for quiet time together.
Pro tip: For a truly unique Seychelles honeymoon experience, consider booking a sunset cruise around Mahé. Many resorts offer private charters, complete with champagne and canapes.
A Seychelles honeymoon is a once-in-a-lifetime experience. Yes, it’s expensive, and yes, there might be a few hiccups along the way (like that time I got caught in a sudden downpour on La Digue and had to shelter under a palm leaf!).
But the memories you’ll make – of pristine beaches, crystal clear waters, and romantic sunsets – will last a lifetime. Happy planning, and enjoy your Seychelles honeymoon!
