Marine Wildlife of Seychelles: A Complete Guide

The Seychelles archipelago is one of the world's richest marine ecosystems, with over 1,000 species of fish, vibrant coral reefs, sea turtles, rays, dolphins, and seasonal whale sharks. Surrounded by the warm, crystal-clear waters of the Indian Ocean, the islands offer exceptional opportunities for snorkelling, diving, fishing, and wildlife photography.

Sea Turtles

Hawksbill Sea Turtle

The critically endangered hawksbill sea turtle is one of the most iconic marine animals in the Seychelles. It is commonly seen around coral reefs and often visits beaches to nest.

Where to Spot Them

• Curieuse Island

• St. Pierre Island

• Coco Island

• Cousin Island

• Anse Lazio

  
  

Best Time: October to February is the main nesting season, although turtles can be seen year-round.

Green Sea Turtle

Green turtles are larger than hawksbills and are often seen grazing on seagrass meadows or swimming over shallow reefs.

Best Places

• Curieuse Marine National Park

• Sainte Anne Marine National Park

• Port Launay

• Praslin reefs

  
  

Whale Sharks

The whale shark is the largest fish in the world and visits the Seychelles seasonally.

Quick Facts

• Length: Up to 12 metres (39 feet) or more

• Diet: Plankton

• Completely harmless to humans

  
  

Best Time August to November

Best Locations

• Waters around Mahé

• Outer islands

• Offshore dive sites

  
  

Dolphins

Several dolphin species inhabit the Seychelles' waters.

Common Species

• Bottlenose Dolphin

• Spinner Dolphin

• Indo-Pacific Humpback Dolphin

Dolphins are often seen during island-hopping trips and sunset cruises.

Rays

Spotted Eagle Ray

Recognisable by its white spots and graceful swimming style.

Frequently seen around:

• St. Pierre Island

• Coco Island

• Curieuse Marine Park

Stingrays

Usually found resting on sandy seabeds in shallow lagoons.

Remember to shuffle your feet gently when walking in shallow water to avoid startling them.

Reef Sharks

Several harmless shark species inhabit the Seychelles' coral reefs.

Common Species

• Blacktip Reef Shark

• Whitetip Reef Shark

• Nurse Shark (occasionally)

They are shy and generally avoid human contact.

Coral Reefs

Seychelles features extensive coral reef systems that support an extraordinary variety of marine life.

Common corals include:

• Brain coral

• Staghorn coral

• Plate coral

• Boulder coral

• Soft coral

Healthy reefs can be found around:

• St. Pierre Island

• Coco Island

• Curieuse Marine Park

• Baie Ternay

• Port Launay

  
  

Reef Fish

More than 1,000 species of fish inhabit the Seychelles' waters.

Popular species include:

• Parrotfish

• Butterflyfish

• Angelfish

• Surgeonfish

• Triggerfish

• Moorish Idol

• Clownfish

• Wrasse

• Snapper

• Sweetlips

  
  

Octopus

The common reef octopus is frequently spotted hiding among rocks and coral reefs.

They are famous for:

• Colour-changing camouflage

• Intelligence

• Excellent hunting skills

  
  

Moray Eels

Moray eels usually hide in crevices during the day.

Although they may appear intimidating, they rarely pose a danger when left undisturbed.

Lobsters and Crustaceans

Marine life also includes:

• Spiny lobster

• Hermit crabs

• Reef crabs

• Cleaner shrimp

• Pistol shrimp

  
  

Sea Stars and Sea Cucumbers

Often seen in shallow lagoons:

• Blue sea stars

• Cushion stars

• Sea cucumbers

These animals play an important role in maintaining healthy marine ecosystems.

Best Places to See Marine Wildlife

Location	Highlights
Curieuse Marine National Park	Sea turtles, rays, reef fish, coral gardens
St. Pierre Island	Colourful reef fish, turtles, and eagle rays
Coco Island Marine Park	Coral reefs, reef sharks, turtles
Port Launay Marine National Park	Calm waters, reef fish, turtles
Baie Ternay Marine National Park	Healthy reefs and diverse marine life
Anse Lazio	Shore snorkelling with tropical fish

Best Time for Marine Wildlife

Monthsl	Wildlife
April–May	Calm seas, excellent snorkeling, reef fish
August–November	Whale sharks, clear water
October–February	Turtle nesting season
October–November	Outstanding underwater visibility

Responsible Wildlife Watching

To help protect Seychelles' fragile marine environment:

• Never touch or stand on coral reefs.

• Keep a respectful distance from turtles, dolphins, and other marine animals.

• Avoid feeding wildlife.

• Use reef-safe sunscreen to reduce chemical damage to coral.

• Do not collect shells, coral, or other marine life from protected areas.

• Follow your guide's instructions when snorkelling or diving.

  
  

Photography Tips

• Bring an underwater camera or waterproof housing.

• Shoot in the morning for the best natural light.

• Avoid using flash on marine animals at close range.

• Stay buoyant to prevent accidental contact with coral.

  
  

Why Seychelles Is a Marine Paradise

From graceful sea turtles and playful dolphins to vibrant coral gardens and the seasonal arrival of whale sharks, the Seychelles offers some of the most rewarding marine wildlife experiences in the Indian Ocean. Whether you're snorkelling off St. Pierre Island, diving around Coco Island, or exploring the protected waters of Curieuse Marine National Park, you'll discover an underwater world that is as unforgettable as the islands themselves.