Baie Lazare, Seychelles Travel Guide

Discover Baie Lazare: A serene coastal village in Seychelles, offering pristine beaches, crystal-clear waters, and lush hills perfect for nature lovers and beach enthusiasts.

Baie Lazare is a stunning coastal village nestled on the southwestern coast of Mahé, the largest island in the Seychelles archipelago. With its pristine white-sand beaches, crystal-clear turquoise waters, and lush green hills, Baie Lazare is a haven for nature lovers and beach enthusiasts alike. The village is named after the 18th-century French explorer Lazare Picault, who first explored the area. Today, Baie Lazare retains much of its natural beauty and charm, making it an ideal destination for those seeking a serene and unspoiled getaway. The tranquil atmosphere and the friendly locals add to the village's allure, offering an authentic Seychellois experience. Visitors to Baie Lazare can indulge in a variety of activities, from snorkeling and diving in the vibrant coral reefs to hiking the scenic trails that wind through the verdant hills. The Anse Soleil and Petite Anse beaches are particularly popular, providing perfect spots for sunbathing and swimming. For those interested in local culture, the Baie Lazare Church, with its unique architecture and historical significance, is a must-visit site.

From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Baie Lazare.

Visit Anse Soleil beach early in the morning to avoid crowds and enjoy the tranquil atmosphere.
Bring your own snorkeling gear to explore the vibrant coral reefs just off the shore.
Wear comfortable shoes if you plan to hike the trails, as some paths can be steep and rugged.
Check the local weather forecast before planning outdoor activities, as tropical rains can be sudden.
Try the local Creole cuisine at nearby restaurants for an authentic taste of Seychelles.

Explore Baie Lazare: Things to Do, Places to Eat, Hotels & More

Handpicked recommendations for top attractions, local dining, accommodations, and more

Best attractions in Baie Lazare

Top-rated picks

Best Attractions

Browse the full guide

All Attractions

Sir Selwyn Selwyn-Clarke Market

Discover the heart of Seychelles at Sir Selwyn Selwyn-Clarke Market, where local culture, flavors, and crafts come alive in a vibrant atmosphere.

4.1

Takamaka Rum Distillery

Explore Takamaka Rum Distillery in Pointe Au Sel, where the art of rum-making meets the beauty of Seychelles' natural landscape. Experience the taste of tradition.

4.6

Victoria Botanical Gardens

Discover the enchanting beauty of Victoria Botanical Gardens, a lush tropical haven showcasing Seychelles' rich biodiversity and stunning flora.

4.2

Victoria Botanical Gardens

Discover the vibrant flora and serene landscapes at Victoria Botanical Gardens in Seychelles, a must-visit for nature enthusiasts.

4.2

Best landmarks in Baie Lazare

Top-rated picks

Best Landmarks

Browse the full guide

All Landmarks

Kempinski Seychelles Resort

Discover luxury and serenity at the Kempinski Seychelles Resort, a tropical paradise on Mahé Island offering world-class amenities and stunning ocean views.

4.6

Jardin du Roi Spice Garden

Explore the lush Jardin du Roi Spice Garden in Seychelles, where nature meets culinary delight in a tropical paradise.

4.2

Anse Takamaka Beach

Discover the serene beauty of Anse Takamaka Beach, a tropical paradise in Seychelles, perfect for relaxation, adventure, and stunning sunsets.

4.6

Saint-Anne Marine National Park

Explore the breathtaking beauty and rich marine life of Saint-Anne Marine National Park, a true paradise for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike.

4.7

Best restaurants in Baie Lazare

Top-rated picks

Best Restaurants

Browse the full guide

All Restaurants

Kafe Kreol Cafe & Restaurant

Discover authentic Creole cuisine at Kafe Kreol Cafe & Restaurant in Anse Royale—where local flavors meet breathtaking views.

4.1

Jardin du Roi Spice Garden

Explore Jardin du Roi Spice Garden - A Unique Culinary Experience Amidst Lush Botanical Beauty in Seychelles.

4.2

Surfers Beach Restaurant

Experience exquisite seafood dining with stunning ocean views at Surfers Beach Restaurant in Takamaka.

4.3

La Gaulette Restaurant

Experience exquisite dining at La Gaulette Restaurant in Mahé, where local flavors meet international cuisine amidst stunning coastal views.

4.4

Best bars in Baie Lazare

Top-rated picks

Best Bars

Browse the full guide

All Bars

Surfers Beach Restaurant

Experience breathtaking views and delightful flavors at Surfers Beach Restaurant, a culinary paradise on the coast of Takamaka.

4.3

La Gaulette Restaurant

Experience the culinary delights of La Gaulette Restaurant, where local Creole flavors meet exquisite international cuisine amidst stunning coastal views.

4.4

Maria's Rock Cafeteria

Experience the vibrant flavors of the Seychelles at Maria's Rock Cafeteria, where interactive BBQ dining meets stunning island views.

4.6

The Boardwalk Bar & Grill

Experience the vibrant nightlife and exquisite dining at The Boardwalk Bar & Grill on Eden Island, where every moment is a celebration.

4.3

Best nightclubs in Baie Lazare

Top-rated picks

Best Nightclubs

Browse the full guide

All Nightclubs

Club Liberté Casino

Discover the excitement of gaming, exquisite dining, and lively entertainment at Club Liberté Casino in Anse Soleil, Seychelles.

4.2

5 Spices Restaurant @ Club Liberte

Experience the vibrant flavors and lively atmosphere at 5 Spices Restaurant in Petite Anse, Seychelles, where culinary delights meet unforgettable moments.

4.5

Barrel Night Club

Discover the heart of Victoria's nightlife at Barrel Night Club, where music, dance, and vibrant energy come together for an unforgettable experience.

4.1

Sunrise Beach Bar/Grill

Experience the perfect blend of delicious grilled cuisine and stunning seaside views at Sunrise Beach Bar/Grill in Mahe, Seychelles.

4.8

Best shops in Baie Lazare

Top-rated picks

Best Shops

Browse the full guide

All Shops

Kumar & Kumar Supermarket

Discover the flavors of Seychelles at Kumar & Kumar Supermarket, your one-stop grocery shop in Pointe Au Sel, offering local delights and international products.

4.4

Fruits and Vegetables Market (Bazar)

Discover the vibrant Fruits and Vegetables Market in Anse Royale, a hub of fresh produce and local culture that delights every visitor.

4.4

Pineapple Studio

Discover stylish beachwear and unique souvenirs at Pineapple Studio, the ultimate shopping destination for your seaside adventures in the Seychelles.

4.0

Koral Souvenir Boutique

Explore Koral Souvenir Boutique in Beau Vallon for handcrafted treasures, local art, and unique gifts that embody the spirit of Seychelles.

4.4

Explore Baie Lazare on the Map

A handpicked selection of must-see spots in Baie Lazare, mapped for you.

Baie Lazare Essentials

Baie Lazare is located on the southwestern coast of Mahé, the largest island in Seychelles. The nearest international airport is Seychelles International Airport (SEZ), which is approximately 20 kilometers away. From the airport, you can take a taxi or rent a car to reach Baie Lazare. The journey typically takes around 30 to 40 minutes by road.
Baie Lazare is a small area, and many of its attractions are within walking distance. For longer trips, local taxis are readily available and can be booked through your accommodation or via ride-hailing apps. Public buses operate within the region and are an economical way to get around. If you prefer more flexibility, renting a car is a convenient option for exploring Mahé at your own pace.
The official currency in Seychelles is the Seychellois Rupee (SCR). Credit cards are widely accepted in hotels, restaurants, and larger shops, but it is advisable to carry some cash, especially for smaller establishments and markets. ATMs are available in Baie Lazare, but it is wise to withdraw sufficient cash from major banks in Victoria before traveling to ensure you have enough funds.
Baie Lazare is generally a safe destination for tourists. However, like any travel destination, it is advisable to take standard precautions. Avoid walking alone at night in unfamiliar areas and keep an eye on your belongings in crowded places. There are no specific high-crime areas targeting tourists, but it is always best to stay vigilant and aware of your surroundings.
In case of emergency, dial 999 for immediate assistance. The local police station and medical facilities are available in Baie Lazare. It is recommended to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies. For minor health issues, there are pharmacies in the area where you can purchase over-the-counter medications.
Fashion: Do dress casually but modestly, especially when visiting religious sites. Avoid wearing overly revealing clothing. Religion: Do respect local customs and traditions. Always cover your shoulders and knees when entering churches. Public Transport: Do be respectful and give up your seat to elderly passengers. Don’t eat or drink on public transport. Greetings: Do greet people with a smile and a handshake. A polite 'Bonjour' is appreciated. Eating & Drinking: Do try local Creole cuisine and accept food offerings graciously. Don’t refuse hospitality, as it is considered impolite.
To experience Baie Lazare like a local, visit the local markets where you can buy fresh produce and traditional Seychellois goods. Engage with locals, as they are often friendly and willing to share stories about the area's history and culture. Don’t miss visiting the Baie Lazare Church, which offers panoramic views of the bay. For a unique experience, take a guided tour of the surrounding nature trails and enjoy the pristine beauty of the region.

When is the best time to visit Baie Lazare?

With Eve

Useful Local Phrases for Baie Lazare

You don't need to speak the language perfectly. Even learning a few simple words can make conversations warmer—and locals usually appreciate the effort.

— Eve

6 phrase groups English + pronunciation

Here are the phrases I use most often in Baie Lazare. Try a few—you'll be surprised how far they go! 😊
❤️

- 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]
- 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]
- 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]
- 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?]
- 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]
- 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

In 1742, French explorer Lazare Picault arrived at Mahé, the largest island of Seychelles, and anchored in the bay that would later be named Baie Lazare in his honor. Picault's exploration marked the beginning of European interest in the Seychelles, paving the way for future colonization and settlement.
Following Picault's initial exploration, the French began to establish a more permanent presence in the Seychelles. In 1770, the first French settlers arrived, bringing with them enslaved Africans to work on the plantations. Baie Lazare became an important settlement during this early colonization period, contributing to the agricultural development of the island.
Baie Lazare is steeped in local legends, one of the most famous being the tale of a hidden treasure. It is believed that the notorious pirate Olivier Levasseur, also known as 'La Buse,' buried a treasure worth millions somewhere in the area. Although no concrete evidence has been found, the legend continues to attract treasure hunters and adds a sense of mystery to the bay.
One of the architectural highlights of Baie Lazare is the St. Francis Church, built in 1853 by French settlers. This charming church is an excellent representation of colonial architecture and offers a glimpse into the religious and cultural life of the early inhabitants. Its simple yet elegant design, along with its historical significance, makes it a must-visit site in Baie Lazare.
In 1814, after the defeat of Napoleon, the Seychelles were ceded to the British under the Treaty of Paris. Baie Lazare continued to thrive as a plantation economy, with cinnamon, vanilla, and copra being the primary exports. The bay's fertile lands and strategic location made it an essential part of the island's economy during British rule.
Seychelles gained independence from British rule in 1976, becoming a sovereign nation. Baie Lazare has since evolved from a quiet plantation settlement to a thriving tourist destination. The area boasts pristine beaches, lush tropical landscapes, and luxurious resorts, attracting visitors from around the world while retaining its rich historical heritage.