Anse Takamaka

Anse Takamaka curves along the southwestern coast of Mahé between two granite headlands, with the takamaka trees that give it its name growing right down to the sand and casting the shade that makes it usable through the middle of the day. A restaurant sits at one end. The water is generally calmer than Intendance round the point, though the southeast monsoon still brings surf, and the sunsets from here are the reason people stay late.

What you actually see

• The takamaka trees - the shade trees growing down to the sand.
• The granite headlands - the rock closing the beach at both ends.
• The sunsets - the west-facing aspect that gives the evening light.
• The curve - the sweep of sand between the two points.

When to go

April to October is the calmer window. The southeast monsoon from May brings surf and seaweed. Late afternoon is the best time here.

Honest expectations

Currents can be strong and there are no lifeguards. Seaweed accumulates in the monsoon months and is not cleared. Parking on the roadside is limited.

Nearby

Anse Intendance is east, and Baie Lazare is west.