In short
- Anse Marron requires a challenging 6 to 7-kilometer guided hike.
- Anse Source d'Argent is easily reached by bicycle via L'Union Estate.
- Anse Marron features zero crowds and a protected natural saltwater pool.
In this article
Choosing between these two La Digue beaches comes down to your physical fitness and tolerance for crowds. Both feature striking granite boulders and white sand, but the experience of reaching them is completely different. Anse Marron is wild and completely undeveloped.
Which beach is harder to reach?
Anse Marron is significantly harder to reach.
You must hike 6 to 7 kilometers over boulders and through water to reach Anse Marron. The round trip takes 6 to 7 hours. Anse Source d'Argent is easily accessible by bicycle through L'Union Estate in just 10 to 20 minutes from La Passe.
Is Anse Marron less crowded?
Yes, Anse Marron remains largely uncrowded.
Because the trail involves wading through tides and scrambling over rocks, fewer people make the journey. You will likely share the beach only with your small tour group. Anse Source d'Argent is highly famous and attracts large daily crowds.
Where is swimming safer?
Anse Marron features a fully enclosed natural saltwater pool.
Giant granite boulders protect the main pool at Anse Marron from the crashing open ocean. This creates waist-deep, calm water for swimming. Swimming on the open-ocean side of Anse Marron is strictly prohibited due to extreme currents.
Do I need a guide for both beaches?
You only need a guide for Anse Marron.
The Coastal Hiking Trail to Anse Marron uses unmarked paths that disappear at high tide. A local guide is practically mandatory for safety. Anse Source d'Argent requires no guide, just a 150 SCR park fee at L'Union Estate.
Can I visit both beaches in one day?
Yes, the guided hike usually connects both beaches.
The standard point-to-point hike passes Anse Pierrot and often ends near Anse Source d'Argent. You will usually pay the 150 SCR entrance fee for L'Union Estate during the route. Discuss the exact ending point with your tour guide.
Questions travellers ask
How much does the Anse Marron hike cost?
Guided group hikes cost around €40 to €50 per person. You must also pay a 150 SCR estate fee.
What shoes do I need for Anse Marron?
You must wear sturdy closed-toe shoes for climbing rocks. Bring water shoes for wading through sharp stones and water.
Is Anse Marron safe for kids?
The hike is generally not recommended for children under 8 to 10 years old due to the intense rock scrambling.
