The sand arc
White around turquoise water.
So Seychelles — CC BY 2.0 · So Seychelles — CC BY 2.0 · So Seychelles — CC BY 2.0 · Fabio Achilli — CC BY 2.0 · NOTE: This image is a panorama of Seychelles consisting of multiple frames that were merged or stitched in Panorama Studio. As a result, this image necessarily underwent some form of digital manipulat — CC BY-SA 3.0
Port Launay Marine Park is a protected bay on the north-west coast of Mahe in the Seychelles, ringed by thick green hills and calm turquoise water. The Seychelles Parks and Gardens Authority manages it together with nearby Baie Ternay. It suits anyone wanting a sheltered beach and a quiet swim away from the busy northern shore at Beau Vallon. The bay belongs to the network of marine parks run by the authority, which charges non-residents over 12 an entry fee that goes towards protecting these places. The site has no notable written history, as its value is mainly natural, with mountain forest meeting the sea directly. Parts of the coast remain lightly built, alongside a large resort. From the hill you see a long arc of white sand wrapping pale blue water dotted with small boats. Forest slopes down to the beach, coconut palms lean over the sand and small islands stand at the mouth of the bay. The water is usually clear, so it suits snorkelling when the sea is calm, especially in the months between the monsoons. It is about 7 km in a straight line from Victoria, but the road crosses the mountain, so take a car or local bus. Pay the fee by card on site or through the authority's website. Bring water and sunscreen, do not step on the reef and do not take shells. Keep swimwear to the beach, not the villages.
White around turquoise water.
The whole bay from above.
Clear water on calm days.
North-west coast of Mahe Island, Seychelles
Non-residents over 12, according to the parks authority, at 200 rupees.
The authority lists both bays under one fee, so ask when paying.