Seychelles Family Holidays

Overview

An archipelago of 115 granite and coral islands that span miles of azure Indian Ocean, the Seychelles is one of those rare places that surpass even the cliché-laden glossy brochures; the sand really is that white, the sea that clear, the sky that blue. Expect turquoise seas, rugged peaks, lush vegetation, incredible wildlife and mile upon mile of beautiful beaches, with luxury resorts that are small pieces of paradise built not just for honeymooners but increasingly for those here for family holidays too. Swim, paddle, kayak, snorkel and explore the interior, then book the little ones in a kids’ club if you fancy some time to yourself. Everything moves at a slower pace here, so why shouldn’t you?

Enquiries

Let us tailor-make the perfect holiday for you.

Call us on 020 3633 0653

Enquire online

Things to do with kids in Seychelles

Pick your sandy spot depending on whether you want an isolated Crusoe moment or something with a bit more going on – they don’t do bad beaches in Seychelles. Lots are perfect for children, with gently sloping sands down to shallow waters – Anse Source d'Argent on Praslin is fabulous. Some have great facilities including refreshments close to hand – try Beau Vallon, also on Mahé. Spy on the turtles as they go about their egg-laying business at Anse Forbans on Mahé, but be warned that turtle-espying requires the utmost patience and smaller kids may squirm and squeal too much. Or try Anse La Mouche, Port Launay or Anse Royale beaches.

Get out and about on the water, snorkelling, diving and kayaking or in a glass-bottomed boat.

Go island-hopping. Cousin Island is a popular stopping place with simply thousands of birds shrieking and squawking. Once you’ve all mastered the difference between a tern and a noddy, head to Curieuse Island for a glimpse of the giant tortoises, part of a conservation program. Have a picnic on the beach and a snorkel before heading back. There are no jetties so be prepared for everyone to have a wet landing.

Horse-ride on Mahé, where the stables have horses to suit all ages and levels of ability. There are also plenty of walks to choose from around the islands, all marked according to ease.

Head for the famous Jardin du Roi in Anse Royale on Mahé, to wander around the tropical garden, smell Seychelles’ spices or enjoy a Creole meal in the lovely restaurant, with a fantastic view of Anse Royale Bay.

Venture to Port Launay Marine National Park, famous for its whale-shark sightings.

Check out the urban delights of Victoria with its Natural History Museum, Botanical Gardens, Selwyn Clarke Market with its local produce and even its own Big Ben, close to the post office.

Photo: Torsten Dickmann STB

Take a sailing trip and explore the coastline.

Eat

The earliest settlement here was French, and the cuisine is French with an Oriental twist – think croissants for breakfast, grilled fish with ginger and garlic, exotic curries with coconut milk and local fruit, and barbecues on the beach.

Photo: Michel Denousse STB

Make friends with the locals.

When to go to Seychelles

Generally speaking, temperatures in the Seychelles vary little, with an annual daily average of 32°C and water temperature a delicious 28–30°C. The best time to go to the Seychelles with kids is April and October. Dec–March is the wettest time.

Photo: Michel Denousse STB

Discover beautiful coves with soft beaches, perfect for sandcastles.

Cost

A stay at a 4-star family-friendly hotel starts at about £1,700 for 7 nights and flights start at about £400-500 per person. Most 4- and 5-star hotels have a half board option, often with a choice of restaurants so you can vary where you eat. Some also have an all-inclusive option, which is a particularly economical option when you have older children.