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Baie Lazare
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Baie Lazare, Seychelles, pairs granite-framed beaches, Creole heritage, forested hills and Indian Ocean views on Mahé’s southwest coast for relaxed island sightseeing.

Granite, Forest and Sea

Baie Lazare occupies a broad, green district on Mahé’s southwest coast, where steep granite slopes descend towards coves of pale sand and clear Indian Ocean water. It is less a conventional town than a collection of villages, beaches, hillside roads and small residential communities spread between the coast and the island’s interior. The setting gives the area a spacious, unhurried character, with forested mountains rising behind the shoreline and changing light across the bay throughout the day.
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A District Shaped by the Coast

The best-known beaches include Baie Lazare Beach, Anse Soleil and Petite Anse, each offering a different coastal experience. Baie Lazare Beach has a wide, open outlook and an appealingly local atmosphere, while Anse Soleil is a smaller cove framed by granite and vegetation. Petite Anse, associated with one of Mahé’s luxury resorts, is a particularly attractive stretch of coast where swimming conditions can vary with the season and surf. Inland roads lead through palms, fruit trees and tropical woodland, revealing occasional viewpoints over the bay.

Creole Mahé

Baie Lazare’s identity is rooted in Seychelles’ Creole culture: French and British colonial influences, African and Malagasy heritage, maritime traditions and a cuisine built around fish, rice, coconut and local spices. The district’s church, village roads and coastal homes provide a glimpse of everyday Mahé beyond Victoria, while nearby beaches and nature trails bring the island’s geology and vegetation into close focus. Visitors should expect limited urban infrastructure rather than a busy resort centre; shops and services are scattered, and a car, taxi or bus is useful for exploring the spread-out coastline.

When is the best time to visit Baie Lazare?

Best: June–August · 28°C
Average daytime high and rainfall by month
MonthHigh (°C)Rainfall (mm)
January30363
February30276
March30244
April29263
May29222
June (best)2889
July (best)2874
August (best)2876
September2897
October29148
November29172
December30333

Getting to and around Baie Lazare

How to get there

Baie Lazare is on Mahé, Seychelles’ principal island, and is reached from Seychelles International Airport near Victoria by road. The airport receives international services, while domestic flights and boat connections link Mahé with other islands; these do not arrive directly in Baie Lazare. From the airport or Victoria, visitors can continue by taxi, hired car or public bus along Mahé’s coastal roads. There is no railway or intercity coach network. Because Baie Lazare lies on the southwest side of the island, journeys involve winding roads and can take longer than the distance on a map suggests.

Transportation

Baie Lazare is best explored by a combination of walking, bus, taxi and car hire. Seychelles Public Transport Corporation buses serve routes on Mahé, although stops and service frequency are more useful on the main roads than on every beach access road. Taxis and rental cars offer greater flexibility for reaching Anse Soleil, Petite Anse and hillside viewpoints, but driving requires care on narrow, bending roads and in wet weather. Walking is pleasant along selected quiet roads and beach approaches, yet distances between coves can be substantial and some routes are steep. There is no metro, tram or local rail system.

Best attractions in Baie Lazare

Baie Lazare’s attractions are primarily coastal and natural rather than urban. Baie Lazare Beach offers a broad sweep of sand backed by palms and granite scenery, while the smaller Anse Soleil is known for its sheltered cove, clear water and intimate scale. Petite Anse presents another striking beach setting beneath steep forested slopes, with access associated with the resort area beside it. Inland, quiet roads and footpaths reveal tropical vegetation, hillside views and the everyday life of Mahé’s southwest communities. The local church provides a cultural counterpoint to the beaches, and the district’s shoreline is well suited to photography, gentle exploration and sea-facing picnics where permitted. Conditions vary between coves and seasons, so swimming and snorkelling should follow local advice rather than appearance alone. Baie Lazare also makes a useful starting point for seeing this less urbanised side of Mahé, where granite geology, dense vegetation and small coastal settlements remain closely connected.

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Best landmarks in Baie Lazare

Baie Lazare’s most significant landmarks are modest in scale but closely linked to the district’s history and landscape. The local Catholic church is a visible community landmark, representing the importance of parish life within Seychelles’ predominantly Creole and Christian cultural tradition. The bay itself is also historically resonant: its name recalls Lazare Picault, the French navigator whose 1742 expedition surveyed the Seychelles. Baie Lazare Beach, Anse Soleil and Petite Anse are natural landmarks defined by the meeting of pale sand, dark granite and densely vegetated slopes, while the surrounding mountain roads reveal how geography has shaped settlement on Mahé. Unlike Victoria, Baie Lazare has few monumental civic buildings or formal squares; its identity is expressed through coastal scenery, village architecture, religious life and the relationship between homes, roads and forest. The shoreline and named coves therefore carry both visual and historical significance.

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Best restaurants in Baie Lazare

Dining in Baie Lazare reflects the Creole character of Seychelles, with fish and seafood commonly paired with rice, lentils, vegetables, coconut and chilli-based sauces. Grilled fish, octopus curry and chutneys made with local fruit are among the flavours visitors may encounter, while takeaway counters and small local eateries offer a more informal introduction to island cooking. Resort restaurants provide a broader range of international dishes and polished waterfront settings, whereas smaller establishments tend to emphasise uncomplicated Creole plates and fresh ingredients. The district is spread out rather than organised around a single restaurant quarter, so evening dining often depends on accommodation location or a taxi. Markets and shops elsewhere on Mahé can supplement meals with tropical fruit, bread and snacks, but opening patterns and availability vary. Vegetarian visitors will usually find rice, vegetable curries and lentil dishes, although it is wise to explain dietary needs clearly.

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Best bars in Baie Lazare

Baie Lazare has a restrained evening scene centred on hotel and resort bars, small restaurants and informal drinks near the coast rather than a dedicated nightlife district. Visitors can usually find cocktails, Seychellois rum, beer and wine in hospitality venues, often accompanied by views of the bay and occasional local music or themed entertainment. Evenings are generally suited to conversation and sunset rather than late-night clubbing, and the rural layout means venues are separated by winding roads. Victoria offers a wider selection of bars, music and late entertainment, but returning to Baie Lazare requires a planned taxi or other transport arrangement. Local etiquette favours moderate behaviour around residential areas, and visitors should not assume that every beach or road is well lit after dark. Cultural performances and Creole music may appear through organised hotel programmes or community events, though schedules are not guaranteed.

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Best nightclubs in Baie Lazare

Baie Lazare has a restrained evening scene centred on hotel and resort bars, small restaurants and informal drinks near the coast rather than a dedicated nightlife district. Visitors can usually find cocktails, Seychellois rum, beer and wine in hospitality venues, often accompanied by views of the bay and occasional local music or themed entertainment. Evenings are generally suited to conversation and sunset rather than late-night clubbing, and the rural layout means venues are separated by winding roads. Victoria offers a wider selection of bars, music and late entertainment, but returning to Baie Lazare requires a planned taxi or other transport arrangement. Local etiquette favours moderate behaviour around residential areas, and visitors should not assume that every beach or road is well lit after dark. Cultural performances and Creole music may appear through organised hotel programmes or community events, though schedules are not guaranteed.

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Best shops in Baie Lazare

Shopping in Baie Lazare is limited and local in character rather than concentrated in a formal retail district. Small shops and provisions outlets serve residents and visitors with drinks, snacks, basic groceries and everyday necessities, while resort boutiques may offer clothing, beach items, crafts and souvenirs. For a wider choice, visitors generally travel towards Victoria, where markets and shops provide Seychellois products, artwork, clothing and practical goods. Typical souvenirs include locally made crafts, spices, coconut-based products, tea, rum and designs inspired by the islands, although provenance and quality vary. Visitors should distinguish genuine local products from imported souvenirs and should never buy coral, shells, protected wildlife products or other natural materials whose collection may be restricted. Because Baie Lazare is spread along the coast, it is sensible to buy essentials before heading to quieter beaches or remote hillside areas.

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Baie Lazare essentials

Currency and Payment
The currency is the Seychellois rupee, abbreviated SCR. Hotels, larger resorts, car-hire businesses and many established restaurants generally accept major cards, while smaller shops, takeaways and informal vendors may prefer cash or have limited card facilities. ATMs are more common in larger settlements and commercial areas than around secluded beaches, so carrying a modest amount of Seychellois rupees is sensible. Some tourism businesses quote or process payments in euros or US dollars, but visitors should check the currency and exchange rate before paying. Avoid carrying large amounts of cash and keep cards secure.
Safety
Baie Lazare is a quiet coastal district, but ordinary precautions remain appropriate. Keep phones, cameras and bags within sight on beaches and in parked vehicles, particularly when visiting less busy coves. Use care on slippery rocks, uneven paths and steep roads, and ask locally about swimming conditions because currents, swell and seasonal sea conditions can change. Coral, shells and marine life should not be handled unnecessarily. After dark, visibility on rural roads and beach approaches can be limited, so reflective clothing and a torch are useful for those walking. Use licensed or reputable transport and follow local advice around the sea.
Emergency Situations
Seychelles uses 112 as a general emergency number from mobile phones, while 999 can reach emergency services, including police, fire and ambulance assistance. State the location as precisely as possible, using the district, nearby beach, resort, road or recognised landmark, since Baie Lazare is spread across a large area. For non-urgent medical needs, ask accommodation staff or a local health provider about the nearest appropriate facility; serious cases may require transfer towards Victoria. Travel insurance with medical and evacuation cover is prudent, particularly for visitors planning remote walks, diving or other activities away from main services.
Do's and Don'ts
Wear modest clothing away from the beach and remove hats or beachwear when entering the church or other places of worship. Ask permission before photographing residents, private homes or community activities, and respect signs protecting vegetation, wildlife and coastal areas. At beaches, avoid touching coral, collecting shells or leaving litter. Swim only where conditions are suitable and do not assume that every cove has lifeguard supervision. Tipping is not compulsory, though a discretionary amount may be welcomed for good service. Keep voices and music moderate near residential areas, especially in the evening, and remember that Seychelles’ beaches are public spaces even when adjacent to resorts.
Local Tips
Baie Lazare rewards an unhurried approach: combine a beach visit with a drive through the surrounding hills rather than treating each cove as a quick stop. Stock water and snacks before heading to quieter coastal areas, where facilities may be limited. The southwest coast can feel particularly exposed to seasonal swell, so retain flexibility when planning swimming or snorkelling. Buses are economical but may not suit travellers carrying beach equipment or returning late. Local advice from accommodation staff is useful for current road, sea and weather conditions, while early morning and late afternoon provide gentler light and cooler temperatures for exploring.
Eve, your Evendo local guide

From Eve

Local phrases worth knowing

You don't need to get them perfect. A few words go a long way, and locals appreciate the effort.

6 phrase groups · English, local and pronunciation

Basics
EnglishLocalSay it
HelloBonjou[Bon-joo]
GoodbyeOrevwar[O-rev-wahr]
YesWi[Wee]
NoNon[Non]
Please/You're welcomeS'il vous plait[Seel voo pleh]
Thank youMersi[Mehr-see]
Excuse me/SorryEksiz mwa[Eks-ez mwa]
How are you?Ki manyer ou byen?[Key man-yer oo byen?]
Fine. And you?Byen. E ou?[Byen. Ee oo?]
Do you speak English?E ou kapab pale Angle?[Ee oo ka-pab pal an-glay?]
I don't understandMwan pa konpran[Mwan pa kon-pran]
Eating & Drinking
EnglishLocalSay it
I'd like to see the menu, pleaseMwan voudre wariye menu, silvouple[Mwan voo-dr wa-ree-yeh meh-noo, seel-voo-pl]
I don't eat meatMwan pa manz kari[Mwan pa manz ka-ree]
Cheers!Sante[San-tay]
I would like to pay, pleaseMwan voudre peye, silvouple[Mwan voo-dr pay-yeh, seel-voo-pl]
Emergencies
EnglishLocalSay it
Help!Sekour![Seh-kooer]
Go away!Al twa![Al twah]
Call the Police!Phone Lasanble![Fohn La-sahn-bluh]
Call a doctor!Phone en dokter![Fohn en dok-ter]
I'm lostMwan pe perdi[Mwan peh pehr-dee]
I'm illMwan malad[Mwan mah-lahd]
Shopping
EnglishLocalSay it
I'd like to buy...Mwan voudre aste...[Mwan voo-dr ast...]
I'm just lookingMwan siplemant gade[Mwan see-pleh-mant gahd]
How much is it?Sa kout kantite?[Sa koo kan-tee-teh?]
That's too expensiveSa tro dispenziv[Sa troh dees-pen-ziv]
Can you lower the price?E ou kapab redwi pri?[Ee oo ka-pab red-wee pree?]
Time & Numbers
EnglishLocalSay it
What time is it?Ki ler il et?[Key lai eel ay?]
It's one o'clockIl et en zeur[Eel ay on zehr]
Half past (10)Zeur et demi (10)[Zehr ay deh-mee (10)]
MorningLamaten[Lah-ma-ten]
AfternoonLapremidi[Lah-prem-ee-dee]
EveningLaser[Lah-sehr]
YesterdayYer[Yehr]
TodayOzordi[O-zor-dee]
TomorrowDemin[Deh-meen]
1Enn[En]
2De[Deh]
3Troa[Twa]
4Kat[Kaht]
5Sank[Sahnk]
6Sis[Sees]
7Set[Set]
8Wit[Weet]
9Nef[Nef]
10Dis[Dees]
Transport & Directions
EnglishLocalSay it
Where's a/the...?Ki kote i ena...?[Key ko-te ee en-nah?]
What's the address?Ki adres?[Key ad-res?]
Can you show me (on the map)?E ou kapab monstre mwan (sou lap)[Ee oo ka-pab mon-str mwahn (soo lap)]
When's the next (bus)?Kanla prochen (bis)?[Kan-la pro-shen (bees)?]
A ticket (to ....)En billet (vers ....)[En bee-yeh (ver)]

History of Baie Lazare

Early Island Settlement

Before permanent European settlement, Mahé was visited by seafarers moving through the western Indian Ocean, although the Seychelles had no established indigenous population. The island’s sheltered bays, freshwater sources and fertile valleys later made it suitable for small settlements. Baie Lazare developed as part of Mahé’s scattered coastal pattern rather than as a planned town, with homes, plantations and paths linking the shore to the interior. The physical geography remained decisive: granite ridges limited large-scale expansion, while coves provided landing places for small boats and access to coastal resources.

Lazare Picault and French Exploration

The bay takes its name from Lazare Picault, the French navigator whose expedition reached the Seychelles in 1742 while surveying the islands for the French East India Company. The expedition’s presence forms part of the wider French discovery and mapping of the archipelago, then largely uninhabited by permanent settlers. France later claimed the Seychelles in 1753, and Mahé began to be occupied by colonists, enslaved Africans and workers from other parts of the Indian Ocean. Baie Lazare’s name preserves this early colonial chapter, although the modern district emerged gradually through settlement rather than a single foundation event.

Plantations and Colonial Mahé

During the French period and, after 1814, British administration, Mahé’s economy centred on small plantations and coastal agriculture. Coconut, cinnamon, vanilla and other tropical products were cultivated alongside food crops, while fishing remained important to communities around the bays. Enslaved people and later freed labourers, together with migrants from Africa, Madagascar, India and Europe, shaped the Creole society that defines Seychelles today. Baie Lazare’s roads, village communities and cultivated hillsides reflect this dispersed plantation landscape more than any formal urban plan.

Creole Society and Island Life

The nineteenth and early twentieth centuries saw the consolidation of a distinctly Seychellois culture, expressed through Catholic traditions, Creole language, music, food and seafaring knowledge. Communities on Mahé were connected by coastal routes and narrow tracks over the hills, and local life remained closely tied to fishing, gardens and family land. Churches and small settlements became important social anchors. In Baie Lazare, the combination of coastal villages, steep wooded terrain and ocean-facing homes continues to convey the human scale of Mahé outside the capital, Victoria.

From Rural District to Visitor Coast

Seychelles became independent from Britain in 1976, and improved roads, air connections and tourism gradually changed Mahé’s southwest coast. Baie Lazare retained its residential and rural character while gaining guesthouses, restaurants and resort development aimed at visitors seeking beaches and seclusion. Tourism brought new employment and infrastructure, but the district’s physical limits and protected natural setting have discouraged dense urbanisation. Today, its identity rests on the coexistence of local communities, established religious and cultural traditions, forested mountain slopes and a carefully developed coastal hospitality sector.

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Prepare for an unforgettable journey to Baie Lazare, Seychelles with Evendo, your ultimate travel companion. This 100% free app-based travel guide offers comprehensive details on the best attractions, landmarks, shops, bars, nightclubs, restaurants, hotels, tours, experiences, and activities in Baie Lazare.

Explore the stunning Anse Soleil beach, visit the historic Baie Lazare Church, or take a hike through the lush Morne Seychellois National Park. Evendo provides rich information, including images, descriptions, local tips, maps, and contact details, making it easy to plan and organize your trip.

Relish delicious Creole cuisine at Maria's Rock Cafe or enjoy a romantic dinner at the renowned Lazare Picault Restaurant. With Evendo, you can effortlessly book hotels, tours, tickets, and experiences, ensuring you don't miss out on any must-see spots.

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