Anse Takamaka is in the south of Mahé, between Baie Lazare and Anse Royale, and is one of the beaches where our guests spend the most time. It's scheduled for one hour in the daily plan, and that's no accident: there's shade here, food and toilets, and everything you need for a proper break.
What it looks like
A long, open sandy beach, with takamaka trees behind it, which give it its name, and their roots running into the sand. Granite rocks at both ends, plenty of space in between. The beach faces south west, and you notice it in the water: from May to September the south east trade wind pushes in a swell, so it's more of a beach for walking and taking photos. From December to March the water is often calm.
Swimming
There are no lifeguards here and there is sometimes a current pulling away from the beach. Your guide will look at the water before you go in and tell you where it's good that day and where it's not. That's why we come along and don't just park the car.
Food and shade
There's a restaurant and a small shop right on the beach, plus toilets. If you prefer to sit under trees, you'll find shade all day long, more than on most other beaches on Mahé. You don't need to bring a lounger, but you should bring a towel.
When it's worth it
It's quiet in the morning, and at weekends families from Victoria come here. Late afternoon is the most beautiful time: the light becomes soft, the beach empties out, and the takamaka trees cast long shadows over the sand.
How to get there
By rental car via the south road, by bus from Victoria to Takamaka, or with us. Anse Takamaka is a regular stop on our island tour and on the beach tour, and how long you spend there is up to you: on the tour page you can put together your own day using the daily plan.
Nearby
Anse Intendance is less than ten minutes drive away, just over the next hill. The Takamaka Rum Distillery and on to Anse Royale on the east coast are each about twenty minutes away.
