Experience the Seychelles
Thérèse
A quick glance back towards the coast is enough to feel the distance. The island belongs to the group of inner islands and, as a subsidiary island, is an integral part of the geographical structure of the Seychelles.
Auf einen Blick
Inselgruppe: Inner Islands
Inseltyp: Sub-island
Fläche: 0,74 km²
Entfernung zu Mahé: 6 km
Anreise: boat
Bewohnt: nein
Geologie: granite
Besonderheiten: Granite mountains, short hiking trails, bays with rocks
📍 Thérèse in Google Maps öffnen ↗
The uninhabited photo opportunity and barbecue paradise off the west coast of Mahé
If you're lying on the soft sand on Mahé's west coast (for example, on the magnificent beach of Port Launay or at the Constance Ephelia Resort) and gazing out at the ocean, a striking silhouette will immediately catch your eye. Like a perfect, lush green volcanic cone, Thérèse Island rises from the deep blue water.
Thérèse Island is the complete opposite of Eden Island: there are no houses, no roads, and no infrastructure. The island is entirely uninhabited and a prime example of a tropical, wild Robinson Crusoe island, perfect for an unforgettable half-day trip!
A striking shape and untouched jungle
With its 160-meter-high, densely wooded peak (the Thérèse Peak), the island is one of the most photographed subjects on the west coast.
Jungle Adventure: The island is covered by a dense, almost impenetrable carpet of coconut palms and endemic trees. While there are no official, developed hiking trails all the way to the top, those with a sense of adventure can explore the edge of the jungle and enjoy the wild, untouched nature.
Habitat for tortoises: As on many of the uninhabited Seychelles islands, giant tortoises feel at home here, leisurely roaming through the undergrowth. The dense forest also provides a protected nesting site for various seabirds.
Dreamy sandy beach and Creole barbecue
Thérèse Island is the perfect destination if you want to experience the feeling of a truly deserted island without spending hours on a boat. From Port Launay, the crossing often takes only 10 to 15 minutes in a small boat.
The perfect beach: On the side facing Mahé, a long, wonderfully fine, white sandy beach stretches out. Because the island is protected by reefs, the water slopes gently and shimmers in the most beautiful turquoise hues. An absolute dream for swimming and relaxing!
Picnic under palm trees: Many local boat operators and guides use the pristine beach of Thérèse Island to host authentic Creole barbecues for their guests. Grilled fish fresh from the sea, accompanied by Creole sauces and a cold drink, served directly on the soft sand. Pure island bliss!
Snorkeling and water sports paradise
Not only the beach, but also the water around Thérèse Island attracts many day-trippers.
Colorful reefs: The coral reefs surrounding the island are a fantastic spot for snorkelers. Colorful reef fish abound, and the rocky coastline offers countless hiding places for octopuses and small moray eels. With a bit of luck, you might even spot a sea turtle or an eagle ray gliding past.
Action on the water: Since the water in the channel between Mahé and Thérèse Island is often very calm, it's a popular spot for water sports enthusiasts. Whether stand-up paddleboarding, kayaking, or snorkeling tours, there's no chance of getting bored here.
The verdict: Thérèse Island is the epitome of a wild, uninhabited tropical island. Anyone spending their holiday on the west coast of Mahé should definitely not miss a short boat trip to this striking beauty, followed by a barbecue on the beach. It's the perfect, easy-going excursion for the whole family!