Seychelles beaches in the summer season: how the monsoon affects holidays from June to September

In this article, we will address the questions that most often concern travelers considering a vacation in the Seychelles between June and September:

• What is the Southeast Monsoon in the Seychelles?
• How does it affect your vacation?
• Is it possible to swim in the ocean during this season?
• Which beaches become dangerous?
• What are the advantages of the summer season?
• Alternative activities in the Seychelles: What to do on windy days?

The southeast monsoon, which blows over the Seychelles from June to September, is not a season of tropical downpours, but rather a time of dry, comfortable weather and steady winds.

During this period, the air becomes noticeably fresher, and humidity drops to around 70%. Air temperatures remain pleasantly within the range of 24–28°C, while the water stays warm at about 26–27°C.

However, the main changes brought by this season relate to the condition of the ocean and, consequently, the choice of beach for relaxation. In the first part of the article, we will look at which beaches are suitable for swimming and which are best avoided.

How the monsoon changes the beach map

The monsoon primarily affects the southern and southeastern coasts of the islands, which bear the direct impact of wind and ocean waves.

Here, the water becomes rough, and many beaches, especially exposed ones, see an accumulation of seaweed. At the same time, western and northwestern bays lie in the "wind shadow," turning into sheltered, calm havens that are ideal for swimming and snorkeling.

Therefore, our main recommendation for a comfortable vacation between June and September is to choose beaches on the western and northwestern coasts.

One of the most consistent and popular options is Beau Vallon Beach on the northwest coast of Mahé. This wide bay features relatively calm water, well-developed infrastructure, restaurants, and water activities. Beau Vallon is great for family vacations, swimming, paddleboarding, catamaran sailing, and relaxing in the evening while watching sunsets.

Another gem of the season is the Port Launay lagoon on the west coast of Mahé. This is arguably one of the best lagoons for snorkeling on windy days. Thanks to its layout, it is well protected from waves; the water here is often calm and clear, and the coral reef is stunningly beautiful. Locals often recommend Port Launay specifically during the southeast monsoon.

Of particular interest is Anse Royale Beach on the southeastern coast of Mahé. Although it lies on the windy side, part of its bay is sheltered by a coral reef, so on some days the water can remain surprisingly calm for swimming and snorkeling.

However, when choosing to stay at this beach, always check the current weather conditions, as conditions here during the monsoon season heavily depend on wind strength, tides, and wave direction. On one day, it may be perfectly calm; on another, there may be waves and seaweed.

If you are considering Eden Island for your Seychelles vacation—located on the eastern side of Mahé but within a sheltered marina—it is better to choose the island's small inner beaches or neighboring protected areas for swimming. The waves here are partially reduced by breakwaters, and the water is often calmer than on the exposed eastern beaches.

However, for that "postcard-perfect" experience and the best snorkeling, it is still worth heading to the western side—to Beau Vallon, Port Launay, Anse Soleil, or Petite Anse.

Beaches to avoid

During the monsoon season, some beaches become not just uncomfortable but also dangerous for swimming due to strong waves, powerful rip currents, and heavy surf.

This primarily applies to exposed southern and southeastern beaches such as Anse Intendance and Grand Anse on Mahé, as well as the southern beaches on the island of La Digue.

Anse Takamaka Beach also becomes rougher during the monsoon season, and its waters grow less clear.

However, even if you decide to swim at safer beaches, always pay attention to red flags on the beach. If red flags are flying, it is best to avoid swimming out into deep water and instead limit yourself to walking along the shore. If there are no warning signs, assess the wave conditions yourself.

It is important to remember that many beaches in the Seychelles do not have lifeguards, so vigilance and common sense are your best allies.

Seasonal advantages: snorkeling, diving, and water sports

Paradoxically, during the monsoon season, underwater visibility on the proper, leeward side of the island often improves. In some places, it can reach 20–25 meters.

However, on wind-exposed beaches, the opposite is true: strong currents stir up sand particles, making the water murky and uncomfortable for observing marine life.

For enthusiasts of active water sports, the southeast monsoon is the high season. Steady winds blowing at 15–25 knots create ideal conditions for kitesurfing and windsurfing. It is also a great time for sailing. As for deep-sea fishing, it depends on the weather: fish are noticeably less active, but fishing is still possible, especially if you go out with the Boombastic team.

For regular boat trips, the sea can sometimes be rough, particularly when crossing between islands. Those prone to seasickness should plan their trips for the morning, choose calm days, or stock up on motion sickness remedies in advance.

Weather and safety: what to expect and how to prepare

From June to September, the Seychelles also sees fewer tourists, and accommodation prices at some hotels become more attractive than during the high season.

By the way, with Boombastic Tours, you can easily book the best hotels and villas in the Seychelles that we have carefully selected specifically for our guests.

The winners during this season are the northern bays of Praslin, the western lagoons of Mahé, and the secluded beaches that are sheltered from the wind. On Anse Lazio Beach, located on the island of Praslin, the water is most often clear during the summer, offering excellent conditions for snorkeling.

It is important to note that the Seychelles Islands lie outside the main Indian Ocean cyclone belt. Therefore, the issue is usually not storms as such, but rather the heavy surf, lateral currents, and breaking waves near the shore, which can be dangerous.

For a comfortable and safe beach day during the monsoon season, it is helpful to follow a few simple tips.

• Plan your beach trip for the morning, before the wind picks up.
• Choose the sheltered side of the island.
• It is useful to bring along an umbrella or a beach shelter, reef shoes to protect your feet from sharp rocks and coral, as well as a mask and snorkel.

Alternative activities: what to do on windy days

In the summer in the Seychelles, when some beaches are windy, you can enjoy other activities with great comfort. Thanks to the dry and not overly hot weather, this is an excellent time to try hiking in the Seychelles.

Explore scenic trails such as Anse Major and Morne Blanc, or set off on a trek through the rainforest. Spa treatments, visiting Creole restaurants, and exploring local markets are also great options.

You can arrange a private boat excursion to sheltered lagoons or go fishing. For a romantic evening, a sunset cruise along the western side of the island is ideal.

To make your vacation as comfortable as possible, it makes sense to arrange in advance a private transfer with beach equipment (loungers, umbrella), a cooler bag for drinks, and even lunch delivery or a barbecue setup right on the shore.

Our team can arrange all of this for you. Get in touch with us, and we will be happy to help.