Port Launay
Port Launay is a long west-coast bay on Mahé, sheltered by Cap Ternay headland to the north and the offshore Marine Park to the south. The water sits flat for most of the year, the snorkel reef is shallow and accessible, and the mangrove forest behind the beach is one of the last on the island.
The bay is split between three resorts (Constance Ephelia has most of it, plus the small Domaine de la Réserve and a couple of villa rentals) and a public stretch in the middle. Sea turtles nest here in season. The Cap Ternay Marine Park snorkel trips leave from the headland.
Best for
Snorkelling, calm-water swimmers, families, anyone interested in mangroves.
When to go
Year-round. The bay’s orientation shelters it from both monsoons. Best snorkel visibility April–November.
How to get there
From Victoria, take the Sans Souci road across the island (40 minutes) or the coastal route via Anse à la Mouche (50 minutes). The road ends at the bay; plenty of parking at the public middle section.
What’s nearby
Cap Ternay Marine Park (boat from the headland), Constance Ephelia’s restaurants, Sauzier Waterfall (a 10-minute drive south).
