The granite islands of the Seychelles showcase a unique combination of ancient rock formations, soft sands and coral reefs. These juxtapositions make for some stunningly beautiful beach settings. Here, the palm-shaded shoreline of Anse Patates creates a postcard-perfect scene. A short swim into the waters of the sheltered cove leads to fish-laden coral gardens, where dolphins sometimes join snorkelers exploring the reef. Photo: Chris Close/STB

At Anse Source D’Argent, large granite boulders separate the beach into a series of small, pink sand cul-de-sacs. This beach is famous for its weathered rock monoliths, some of which are the remains of 500 million year old mountain range that broke off from the continent of Asia. In addition to its unique scenic qualities, Anse Source D’Argent offers calm swimming and snorkeling conditions within the sheltered waters of an encircling coral reef. Photo: Gerard Larose/STB

One of the most popular beaches on the island of Mahe is Beau Vallon. This half-mile stretch of sand is known for panoramic views that also take in nearby Silhouette Island. The beach is flanked by a village of the same name, and a number of diving and water sports centers have cropped up along the waterfront. Another favorite attraction is the glass bottom boat tour of nearby reefs. Photo: Gerard Larose/STB

On the northwest corner of Praslin Island, Anse Lazio is known for its wide swath of powder fine sand. The headlands of Chevalier Bay shelter the beach from ocean swells, and palms and clusters of takamama trees provide shade. After sunning and swimming, beach goers in the know retire to a table at the nearby Chevalier Bay Guest House, which serves up unique and tasty seafood offerings such as garlic lobster, octopus burgers and prawn cakes. Photo: Gerard Larose/STB

The beach at Port Launey is the centerpiece of its namesake marine park. Tucked within a protected bay on the west coast of Mahe Island, this is the only marine reserve in the Seychelles that can be reached by both land and sea. The horseshoe-shaped arc of white sand is popular with locals and visitors alike, and a number of tour operators provide small boats for fishing, diving and snorkeling excursions. Photo: Raymond Sahuquet/STB

Beach goers seeking a bit of seclusion can follow a foot or cycling path to Grand Anse, which is the longest beach on the island of La Digue. If swimming is part of the plan, however, you’ll want to visit between November and March, when strong offshore currents created by seasonal monsoons have ceased, and seas are calmer. You’ll also need to bring your own refreshment, because there are no beach bars in sight. Photo: Gerard Larose/STB

Getting to one of the most pristine beaches in the Seychelles requires a bit of effort. From Grande Anse, which is itself remote, walkers will spend a half hour scrambling along a footpath to reach Anse Coco. The views alone are well worth the hike. Though not known as a swimming beach, bathers can take a refreshing dip in protected pools formed by encircling boulders at the far end of the beach. Photo: Gerard Larose/STB