Desroches: Sea Turtles, Nature and Water Sports

If you’re looking for a hotel on Desroches, you can plan your trip around the island’s specific nature and activity highlights. These include sea turtle conservation, nature walks, cycling routes and water sports. Details vary by location: the turtle sanctuary and Native Tree Trail offer nature-focused visits, while water sports conditions differ from one beach to another.

Sea Turtles and Nature on Desroches

An article from April 2025 reports that visitors regularly visit the Desroches turtle sanctuary and can encounter more than 150 hatchlings there. The lagoon is home to a variety of marine life, particularly hawksbill and green sea turtles. The long beach that surrounds the island and its beach berm are also of national significance for green and hawksbill sea turtles, particularly along the south and northeast coasts.

Nearly 2,000 pairs of wedge-tailed shearwaters nest on Desroches each year. The water at Aquarium Beach is clear and sheltered; sea turtles and rays are often spotted there, though sightings can vary.

The Tortoise Sanctuary is home to the Native Tree Trail, which provides information about the island’s flora. The Island Conservation Society’s conservation team also offers informative nature walks for island guests. The trail is a specific point of reference for learning about the flora, while a nature walk offers another way to experience the island’s natural environment. If you’re planning to join a walk, check the dates in advance.

Beaches and Water Sports

Non-motorised water sports offered on Desroches include stand-up paddleboarding, kayaking, snorkelling, fishing, diving and surfing. The resort’s activity offerings may change; if a particular activity is important to your trip, check its availability in advance.

The calm conditions at Aquarium Beach are ideal for snorkelling. Trade winds can create gentle waves there that are suitable for beginner surfers. When the swell is right, La Passe Thérèse has strong, consistent waves and is popular with experienced surfers. Surfing is also offered at Bombay Beach. The distinction is clear when planning to surf: gentle waves at Aquarium Beach depend on trade winds, while strong waves at La Passe Thérèse depend on suitable swell conditions.

Cycling Routes, Scenery and Getting There

Desroches has more than 14 kilometres of cycling routes, and bicycles are provided to resort guests. A particularly steep wall lies on the atoll’s southeastern slope and is known as the “Desroches Drop.”

Desroches Island can be reached from Mahé on a 35-minute flight that operates daily. This connection is a practical factor when planning your journey. Flight schedules may change, so check the latest timetable before travelling and plan the rest of your trip accordingly.

Discover more destinations: Aldabra.

View the broader travel guide: Outer Islands.