Grand Anse (La Digue)

Grand Anse runs along the southeastern side of La Digue as a broad open beach with no reef in front of it, backed by palms and takamaka, and it is where the island's cycle paths lead when people ride across from the village. The swell arrives unbroken and the current running along the shore is strong enough that swimming is often unwise. It is wide, bright and frequently almost empty compared with the west coast.

What you actually see

• The open beach - a broad exposed sweep with no reef offshore.
• The cycle route - the ride across the island from La Passe.
• The emptiness - far fewer people than the western beaches.
• The palms and takamaka - the trees backing the sand.

When to go

April to October is the calmer window. The southeast monsoon from May brings heavy surf. Mornings are best before the wind builds.

Honest expectations

The rip current here is genuinely dangerous and people have drowned; swimming is often not advisable. There are no lifeguards. Facilities are one or two seasonal kiosks.

Nearby

Anse Cocos is north, and Anse Marron is west.