Félicité Island, Seychelles Travel Guide

Discover Félicité Island: A secluded paradise in Seychelles, perfect for luxury retreats, adventure seekers, and nature lovers alike.

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Félicité Island

Félicité Island is a stunning slice of paradise located in the Indian Ocean. This small, private island is part of the Seychelles archipelago and is known for its pristine beaches, crystal-clear turquoise waters, and lush tropical landscapes. The island is home to luxurious resorts, offering a secluded and peaceful retreat for visitors looking to escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life. The island's natural beauty is breathtaking, with dramatic granite boulders dotting the coastline and vibrant coral reefs teeming with marine life just offshore. Snorkeling and diving are popular activities here, allowing visitors to explore the underwater world and encounter colorful fish, sea turtles, and even dolphins. For those who prefer to stay above water, kayaking and paddleboarding are excellent ways to enjoy the calm, warm sea. Félicité Island is also a haven for nature lovers, with miles of scenic hiking trails that wind through the island's dense forests and offer spectacular views of the surrounding ocean. The island's unique flora and fauna, including rare species of birds and plants, add to its charm and allure. Whether you're seeking adventure, relaxation, or a bit of both, Félicité Island promises an unforgettable experience in one of the world's most beautiful destinations.

From Eve

Know before you go

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

Book your stay well in advance, as the island's resorts can fill up quickly, especially during peak seasons.
Bring reef-safe sunscreen to protect the delicate marine ecosystems while enjoying water activities.
Carry insect repellent for hikes and outdoor activities to stay comfortable and bite-free.
Plan for a mix of activities, including both relaxation and adventure, to fully experience the island's offerings.
Respect local wildlife and follow guidelines to ensure the preservation of the island's natural beauty.

Explore Félicité Island: Things to Do, Places to Eat, Hotels & More

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

Top Attractions & Sightseeing in Félicité Island

Top-rated picks

Best Attractions

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Sir Selwyn Selwyn-Clarke Market

Explore Sir Selwyn Selwyn-Clarke Market in Victoria, where local culture, fresh produce, and unique souvenirs come together in a vibrant atmosphere.

4.1

Victoria Botanical Gardens

Explore the lush beauty of Victoria Botanical Gardens in Seychelles, a tropical paradise showcasing unique flora and native wildlife.

4.2

Jardin du Roi Spice Garden

Explore the lush beauty and culinary delights at Jardin du Roi Spice Garden in Anse Royale, Seychelles – a serene botanical escape.

4.2

Arul Mihu Navasakthi Vinayagar Temple அருள்மிகு நவசக்தி விநாயகர் ஆலயம்

Discover the vibrant Arul Mihu Navasakthi Vinayagar Temple in Victoria, Seychelles—a colorful spiritual haven showcasing rich Hindu culture and artistry.

4.4

Best landmarks in Félicité Island

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Jardin du Roi Spice Garden

Explore the enchanting Jardin du Roi Spice Garden, a botanical haven in Anse Royale, showcasing Seychelles' rich spice heritage and delicious local cuisine.

4.2

Eden Plaza

Discover the vibrant shopping scene and local flavors at Eden Plaza, a must-visit destination in the heart of Seychelles.

4.1

Saint-Anne Marine National Park

Explore Saint-Anne Marine National Park: a tropical paradise with vibrant coral reefs, diverse marine life, and stunning landscapes for the ultimate Seychelles adventure.

4.7

Copolia Trail

Experience the stunning views and rich biodiversity of the Copolia Trail in Seychelles, ideal for hiking enthusiasts and nature lovers alike.

4.8

Best restaurants in Félicité Island

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Del Place Restaurant

Experience exquisite cuisine and breathtaking ocean views at Del Place Restaurant in Seychelles.

4.5

The Boat House Restaurant

Discover culinary delights at The Boat House Restaurant in Beau Vallon, Seychelles - where fresh seafood meets breathtaking ocean views.

4.3

La Gaulette Restaurant

Discover La Gaulette Restaurant in Mahé for an unforgettable culinary journey through Seychelles' rich flavors and stunning coastal views.

4.4

Perry's Grillz

Discover culinary delights at Perry's Grillz in Mahe - where fresh ingredients meet exquisite flavors amidst breathtaking island views.

4.9

Best bars in Félicité Island

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Gecko Bar

Discover the vibrant flavors and lively atmosphere of Gecko Bar in Beau Vallon, your perfect tropical retreat for food and fun.

4.0

The Boardwalk Bar & Grill

Experience vibrant dining and nightlife at The Boardwalk Bar & Grill, where fresh seafood meets lively entertainment on Eden Island.

4.3

Summer Bar

Experience the bliss of Summer Bar, a tropical retreat in Anse Intendance, where relaxation meets vibrant flavors and breathtaking views.

4.9

ＲＯＹＡＬＢＡＹＢＥＡＣＨＣＬＵＢ

Experience the perfect blend of relaxation and adventure at Royal Bay Beach Club in Seychelles, offering delicious grilled seafood and thrilling water sports.

4.9

Best nightclubs in Félicité Island

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Salon Vallee De Mai first, business class lounge

Discover the serene comfort of Salon Vallee De Mai, the premier travel lounge at Seychelles airport, perfect for relaxation before your flight.

4.1

Barrel Night Club

Discover the heart of Seychelles' nightlife at Barrel Night Club – a vibrant venue for dancing, drinks, and unforgettable memories.

4.1

Bourgeois Bar & Lounge at Eden Bleu Hotel

Experience the epitome of elegance at Bourgeois Bar & Lounge on Eden Island, where exquisite cocktails and stunning views await.

4.1

Katiolo

Experience the vibrant nightlife at Katiolo, Victoria's premier disco club, where local beats and a welcoming atmosphere meet.

4.0

Best shops in Félicité Island

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Craft Village

Explore the vibrant artistry and rich cultural heritage at Craft Village, a unique historical landmark in Seychelles.

4.3

Roots Seychelles

Explore the vibrant artistic culture of Seychelles at Roots Seychelles, where local talent shines through stunning artworks and creative events.

4.9

Kannus Supermarket

Experience local flavors and essentials at Kannus Supermarket, a vibrant hub for tourists seeking unique culinary delights.

3.7

Koral Souvenir Boutique

Explore Koral Souvenir Boutique in Beau Vallon for unique, handcrafted treasures that embody the spirit of the Seychelles, from art to jewelry and more.

4.5

Explore Félicité Island on the Map

A handpicked selection of must-see spots in Félicité Island, mapped for you.

Félicité Island Essentials

Félicité Island is part of the Seychelles archipelago and is accessible via boat or helicopter. The nearest international airport is Seychelles International Airport (SEZ) on Mahé Island. From Mahé, you can take a domestic flight to Praslin Island or La Digue Island, followed by a boat transfer to Félicité. Alternatively, private helicopter charters are available directly from Mahé to Félicité Island, providing a quick and scenic route.
Félicité Island is relatively small, and most attractions are within walking distance. The main mode of transportation on the island is walking or using golf carts provided by resorts. For exploring nearby islands, boat charters and ferries are available. If you plan to visit multiple islands, consider renting a boat or booking island-hopping tours.
The official currency in Seychelles is the Seychellois Rupee (SCR). Major resorts and restaurants on Félicité Island accept credit cards, but it's advisable to carry some cash for smaller establishments and tips. ATMs are available on Mahé, Praslin, and La Digue, so withdraw sufficient cash before arriving on Félicité Island.
Félicité Island is generally safe for tourists, with low crime rates. However, standard precautions are advisable. Keep an eye on your belongings, especially in crowded areas and during boat transfers. There are no specific high-crime areas targeting tourists on the island. Always follow the safety guidelines provided by your accommodation and tour operators.
In case of emergency, contact your resort's front desk for immediate assistance. Most resorts have medical facilities and trained staff. For more serious medical emergencies, you may need to be transported to Mahé Island. Ensure you have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies. The emergency phone number in Seychelles is 999 for police, fire, and medical services.
Fashion: Do wear light, breathable clothing suitable for a tropical climate. Swimwear is appropriate at the beach but should not be worn in town or restaurants. Religion: Do respect local customs and traditions, even though Félicité Island is less populated. Public Transport: Do use the transportation options provided by your resort. There is no public transportation on the island. Greetings: Do greet people with a friendly 'hello' or 'bonjour.' Eating & Drinking: Do try local Creole dishes and fresh seafood. Don't refuse food or drink offerings, as it can be considered impolite.
To experience Félicité Island like a local, take time to explore the natural beauty of the island. Enjoy activities like snorkeling, diving, and hiking. Engage with the staff at your resort, as they can provide valuable insights and recommendations. Don't miss the chance to visit nearby islands such as La Digue and Praslin for a broader Seychelles experience.

When is the best time to visit Félicité Island?

With Eve

Useful Local Phrases for Félicité Island

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 Félicité Island. Try a few—you'll be surprised how far they go! 😊
❤️

- HelloBonzur
  [Bohn-zur]
- GoodbyeAurevoir
  [O-rev-wahr]
- YesWi
  [Wee]
- NoNon
  [Nohn]
- Please/You're welcomeSilvouplé
  [Seel-voo-play]
- Thank youMersi
  [Mehr-see]
- Excuse me/SorryEskize
  [Es-kee-zay]
- How are you?Koman ou ete?
  [Koh-mahn oo eh-tay]
- Fine. And you?Byen. E ou?
  [Bee-ehn. Eh oo?]
- Do you speak English?Ou konn koz Anglè?
  [Oo kohn kohz Ahn-glay]
- I don't understandMwen pa konpran
  [Mwen pah kohn-pran]
- I'd like to see the menu, pleaseMon ti a kontan vwar meni, silvouplé
  [Mohn tee ah kohn-tahn vwar meh-nee, seel-voo-play]
- I don't eat meatMwen pa manz vyann
  [Mwen pah mahnz vyahn]
- Cheers!Santé!
  [Sahn-tay]
- I would like to pay, pleaseMon ti a kontan peye, silvouplé
  [Mohn tee ah kohn-tahn pay-ay, seel-voo-play]
- Help!Ede!
  [Eh-day]
- Go away!Ale!
  [Ah-lay]
- Call the Police!Apel polis!
  [Ah-pel poh-lees]
- Call a doctor!Apel in doktè!
  [Ah-pel in doh-kay]
- I'm lostMwen perdi
  [Mwen pair-dee]
- I'm illMwen malad
  [Mwen mah-lahd]
- I'd like to buy...Mon ti a kontan achte...
  [Mohn tee ah kohn-tahn ah-shtay...]
- I'm just lookingMon zis pe regard
  [Mohn zees pay reh-gard]
- How much is it?Konbyen i koute?
  [Kohn-byen ee koo-tay?]
- That's too expensiveSa tro expensive
  [Sah tro eks-pen-siv]
- Can you lower the price?Eski ou kapav redwir pri?
  [Es-kee oo kah-pahv red-weir pree?]
- What time is it?Ki ler i ete?
  [Kee lehr ee eh-tay?]
- It's one o'clockI ete enn ler
  [Ee eh-tay en lehr]
- Half past (10)Demi (10)
  [Duh-mee (10)]
- MorningMatin
  [Mah-tahn]
- AfternoonAprèmidi
  [Ah-preh-mee-dee]
- EveningSwan
  [Swan]
- YesterdayYer
  [Yair]
- TodayAujourd'hui
  [O-zhoor-dwee]
- TomorrowDemain
  [Duh-manh]
- 1En
  [Ahn]
- 2De
  [Duh]
- 3Trois
  [Trwah]
- 4Kat
  [Kaht]
- 5Sink
  [Sank]
- 6Sis
  [Sees]
- 7Set
  [Set]
- 8Huit
  [Wheet]
- 9Nef
  [Nehf]
- 10Dix
  [Dee]
- Where's a/the...?Kot i ete a/enn...?
  [Koh-t ee eh-tay ah/en...?]
- What's the address?Ki adres?
  [Kee ah-dress?]
- Can you show me (on the map)?Eski ou kapav montre mwan (lo kat)?
  [Es-kee oo kah-pahv mohn-tray mwahn (lo kah)?]
- When's the next (bus)?Kan i prosen (bwas)?
  [Kahn ee proh-sen (bwah)?]
- A ticket (to ....)En tiké (pou....)
  [Ahn tee-kay (poo....)]

History of Félicité Island

Félicité Island, like many islands in the Seychelles archipelago, was initially discovered and named by French explorers in the 18th century. The island was part of the broader colonial expansion in the Indian Ocean. The French named the island 'Félicité,' which translates to 'happiness' or 'bliss.' The island played a modest role within the French colonial framework, primarily serving as a plantation for coconuts and other tropical produce.
During the colonial era, the island saw the arrival of African slaves who were brought to work on the plantations. The history of slavery on Félicité Island is a somber chapter, reflecting the broader history of slavery throughout the Seychelles. The descendants of these slaves later became part of the diverse cultural tapestry that defines the Seychelles today.
In 1814, following the defeat of Napoleon, the Seychelles, including Félicité Island, were ceded to the British. Under British rule, the island continued its plantation activities. A significant milestone during this period was the abolition of slavery in 1835, which brought profound changes to the social and economic fabric of the island. Former slaves were granted freedom, and many left the plantations to form their own communities.
The mid-20th century saw a wave of decolonization across Africa and the Indian Ocean. The Seychelles gained independence from British rule on June 29, 1976. Félicité Island, like the rest of the archipelago, embarked on a new chapter of self-governance and national identity. The island's plantations were largely abandoned, and the focus shifted towards conservation and tourism.
Today, Félicité Island is renowned for its luxury tourism industry. The establishment of high-end resorts, such as the Six Senses Zil Pasyon, has transformed the island into a premier destination for travelers seeking exclusivity and natural beauty. The island's history is preserved through its culture and the stories told by the Seychellois people, making it a vibrant blend of past and present.
The cultural heritage of Félicité Island is a rich tapestry woven from its history of colonization, slavery, and eventual independence. The Seychellois people are known for their Creole culture, which is a fusion of African, European, and Asian influences. This cultural blend is evident in the island's music, dance, cuisine, and festivals, offering visitors a unique insight into the island's storied past.
Félicité Island is not only steeped in history but also blessed with natural beauty. The island's lush landscapes, coral reefs, and diverse wildlife have made it a focal point for conservation efforts. Organizations and resorts on the island are actively involved in protecting its unique ecosystem, ensuring that its natural wonders are preserved for future generations.