Beacon Island (Île Sèche)

Beacon Island, locally known as Île Sèche, is a small granitic island within the Sainte Anne Marine National Park, northeast of Mahé. The island is uninhabited and serves as an important sanctuary for various seabirds, including Fairy Terns and Noddies. Beneath the water's surface, the surrounding coral reef provides a vital habitat for reef sharks, rays, and a vast array of tropical fish species. The geological structure of the island consists of massive granite, shaped by erosion over millions of years. Although the island itself is small, it plays a strategic role in the marine ecosystem of the inner islands. Divers and snorkelers frequently visit the waters around Île Sèche due to the high visibility and biological diversity found there. Access to the island is strictly regulated to protect the sensitive flora and fauna from human interference. Scientists occasionally utilize the island for ecological studies on the impacts of climate change on small island ecosystems.

History & landmarks

Denis Island Lighthouse

A historic lighthouse dating back to 1910, serving as a guide for ships at the northern edge of the Seychelles Bank.

More places

Mamelles Island Seabird Colony

An isolated granitic island hosting one of the most significant sooty tern breeding colonies in the Inner Seychelles.

Île aux Vaches Marines Habitat

An important bird and marine habitat west of Mahé, named after the dugongs (sea cows) that used to frequent these waters.

Cousin Island

An important nature reserve and a sanctuary for endangered bird species and nesting sea turtles.

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Recif Island Bird Sanctuary

A small granitic island hosting a significant colony of sooty terns and other tropical seabirds.

Aride Island

The northernmost of the granitic islands and home to one of the most important seabird colonies in the Indian Ocean.

Silhouette Island

The third largest island in the Seychelles, almost entirely protected as a national park and known for its mountainous, jungle-like lands…

Silhouette Cinnamon Forest

Extensive forests on Silhouette Island where wild cinnamon grows, a relic from the era of cinnamon production.

North Island

A private island known for its ambitious ecological restoration project called 'Noah's Ark'.