Felicite Island Seychelles: A Pristine Paradise in the Indian Ocean

The island’s white sandy beaches, lush vegetation, and crystal-clear waters create a stunning backdrop for relaxation and adventure.
Once a coconut plantation with a modest population, Félicité has transformed into a sought-after destination for those seeking seclusion and natural splendor. Its rich history includes a period as the exile home of Sultan Abdullah of Perak in the late 19th century, adding an intriguing layer to its allure.
Natural Splendor of Félicité
Félicité Island captivates visitors with its pristine beaches, striking granite formations, and diverse ecosystem. This tropical paradise showcases the raw beauty of the Seychelles archipelago.
Beaches and Granite Boulders
Félicité boasts stunning white sandy beaches that stretch along its coastline. The island’s shores are adorned with massive granite boulders, creating a dramatic landscape unique to the Seychelles.
These iconic rock formations, smoothed by time and the elements, provide a striking contrast to the turquoise waters lapping at their base. Visitors can explore hidden coves and secluded spots nestled between the boulders.
The beaches offer perfect spots for sunbathing, picnicking, or simply admiring the scenery. Crystal clear waters invite swimming and snorkeling just steps from the shore.
Diverse Marine Life
The waters surrounding Félicité teem with vibrant marine life. Coral reefs fringe the island, providing habitats for numerous species of fish, crustaceans, and other sea creatures.
Snorkelers and divers can observe colorful tropical fish, sea turtles, and occasional reef sharks. The island participates in coral reef restoration projects, aiming to preserve and enhance these fragile ecosystems.
Félicité’s waters form part of a marine park, ensuring protection for the diverse aquatic inhabitants. This conservation effort helps maintain the island’s reputation as a prime spot for underwater exploration.
Endemic Fauna and Flora
Félicité’s lush interior harbors a rich variety of plant and animal species, many of which are endemic to the Seychelles. The island’s forests provide sanctuary for rare birds, including the Seychelles paradise flycatcher.
Visitors might spot the Seychelles fruit bat or the diminutive Seychelles skink while exploring the island’s trails. The vegetation includes coco de mer palms, takamaka trees, and various exotic flowers.
Conservation initiatives on Félicité focus on protecting these unique species and their habitats. Nature walks and guided tours offer opportunities to learn about the island’s biodiversity and ongoing preservation efforts.
Activities and Experiences
Felicite Island offers a diverse range of activities for adventure seekers and nature lovers alike. Visitors can immerse themselves in thrilling water sports and other things to do, explore lush hiking trails, and indulge in exquisite culinary experiences.

Water Sports and Adventures
The crystal-clear waters surrounding Felicite Island provide the perfect playground for aquatic activities. Diving enthusiasts can explore vibrant Seychelles coral reefs teeming with tropical fish and marine life. The island boasts several dive sites suitable for both beginners and experienced divers.
Snorkeling is another popular activity, allowing visitors to observe the underwater world without the need for scuba gear. Equipment rentals are readily available at the resort.
For those seeking more excitement, kayaking and stand-up paddleboarding offer unique ways to explore the coastline. Guided kayak tours are available, providing insights into the island’s ecology and history.
Sailing enthusiasts can charter boats for day trips to nearby islands or enjoy sunset cruises along Felicite’s picturesque shores.
Hiking and Guided Walking Trails
Felicite Island’s lush interior beckons hikers and nature lovers. Well-maintained trails wind through tropical forests, offering stunning views of the surrounding islands and ocean.
Guided walking tours led by knowledgeable local experts provide insights into the island’s unique flora and fauna. Visitors can learn about native plant species and spot endemic birds.
For a more challenging experience, hikers can tackle the island’s highest point, which rewards climbers with panoramic vistas of the Seychelles archipelago.
Conservation-minded travelers can participate in turtle monitoring activities, contributing to the island’s ongoing efforts to protect these endangered species.
Culinary Delights and Dining
Felicite Island’s culinary scene combines fresh local ingredients with international flavors. The island’s main resort offers multiple dining venues, each with its own unique atmosphere and menu.
Guests can savor Creole-inspired dishes featuring locally caught seafood and tropical fruits. Cooking classes allow visitors to learn traditional Seychellois recipes and techniques.
For a truly memorable experience, private beach dinners can be arranged, offering romantic sunset views and personalized menus.
The island’s organic garden supplies fresh herbs and vegetables, ensuring farm-to-table freshness in every meal. Visitors can tour the garden and learn about sustainable farming practices.
Island Connectivity
Félicité Island is well-connected to nearby islands in the Seychelles, offering visitors various options for exploration and travel. Its strategic location enables easy access to surrounding islands and expert-guided itineraries.

Access to Nearby Islands
Félicité Island serves as an excellent base for island-hopping adventures in the Inner Seychelles. La Digue, just 4 kilometers away, is easily accessible by boat. Praslin, another popular destination, is also within reach. Visitors can explore the satellite islands surrounding Félicité, including Ile Coco, Grande Soeur, and Petite Soeur (collectively known as Les Soeurs).
These granite islands offer unique landscapes and attractions. Boat services operate regularly between Félicité and nearby islands, allowing for day trips or extended stays. Some resorts on Félicité provide private boat transfers for guests.
Favourite Spot of Many Itineraries
Travel experts specializing in Seychelles vacations can create tailored itineraries that include Félicité Island. These professionals have in-depth knowledge of the region and can recommend the best routes and activities. They often suggest combining a stay on Félicité with visits to other Inner Islands like Mahé or Praslin.
Customized itineraries may include:
- Snorkeling excursions to Coco Island
- Hiking trips on La Digue
- Beach-hopping tours of the satellite islands
Travel experts can also arrange transportation, accommodations, and activities, ensuring a seamless island-hopping experience. Many itineraries incorporate Félicité’s natural beauty, such as Anse Peniche beach, with the diverse offerings of nearby islands.
Frequently Asked Questions
Félicité Island offers visitors a range of activities, accommodations, and dining options. Guests can explore the island’s natural beauty and enjoy luxury amenities during their stay.
Where is Felicité Island located?
Felicité Island is located in the Indian Ocean, approximately 55 kilometers northeast of Mahé, the largest island in Seychelles. It is part of the inner islands of the Seychelles archipelago.
How do I get to Felicité Island?
Felicité Island is accessible by boat or helicopter from the main island of Mahé. Helicopter transfers are often arranged from Mahé’s international airport, providing a scenic view of the surrounding islands.
What is Felicité Island known for?
Felicité Island is renowned for its pristine natural beauty, including granite boulders, lush tropical forests, and stunning white-sand beaches. It is a paradise for nature lovers and those seeking peace and tranquility.
What are the top activities to do when visiting Félicité Island in Seychelles?
Snorkeling is a popular activity on Félicité Island. Visitors can explore the underwater world and see a variety of coral and marine life.
Hiking trails allow guests to discover the island’s lush flora and fauna. Water sports such as kayaking, paddle-boarding, and sailing are also available for those seeking adventure on the ocean.
Can you provide a map of Félicité Island highlighting key attractions?
Félicité Island is approximately 3 kilometers long and 1.5 kilometers wide. The island features white sandy beaches along its shores.
Key attractions include the resort, pristine beaches, and hiking trails through the island’s interior.
Written by: Weareai