The Sainte Anne Marine Park was created in 1973 for the preservation of wildlife, the first of its kind in the Indian Ocean. There is much to see in the Ste. Anne Marine National Park, which is set amid dazzling turquoise waters and is thus, a perfect snorkelling spot. Situated about 5km from the main island of Mahé, this picturesque Marine Park comprises 6 islands just off the coast of Mahe. These islands include Ste Anne, Ile Moyenne, Ile Ronde, Ile Longue, Ile Cachee and Ile aux Cerfs. It also has one of the largest areas of "seagrass meadows" in the Seychelles.

Sainte Anne Island is the largest of Sainte Anne Marine National Park’s eight islands, and it is full of stunning beaches. Ste.Anne island is the site of the first French settlement in 1770, a courageous undertaking as the island was surrounded by swamps teeming with crocodiles. Dominated by a hill rising to 246m and surrounded by thick tropical vegetation, Ste.Anne served as a base for the Royal Marines (during World War II), who assured the defence of Victoria, the capital of Seychelles. In the early decades of the 19th century it was also the base for whaling activity in the Seychelles.

Cerf Island is the second largest island in this Marine Park. Named after the frigate “Le Cerf” commanded by Corneille Nicolas Morphey, who took possession of the Seychelles in the name of the King of France in 1756. Lush vegetation, shallow water and beautiful reefs ensure superb snorkelling, swimming and scuba diving.

Moyenne Island just under half a kilometre long is privately owned. Amongst the lush vegetation of this wonderful tropical garden are the remains of early settler’s homes, pirates’ graves and a small thatched chapel.

This small rocky island The reefs and lagoons of the island offers a spectacular underwater world for exploration. Green sea turtles live on the very edges of the coral reefs, and they sometimes venture closer to the island. There are butterfly fish, eagle rays, moray eels and many other species of fish.

The tiny island is also known as Isle Cachée island. The name of the island in French means "hidden", and as its name suggests it appears ‘hidden’ either behind Cerf or appear to be part of Cerf Island. It is also rumoured that pirates once buried some of their stolen treasure on Isle Cachée and is classified as a nature reserve. The island has an area of 0.022 km², and it is a nesting site for seabirds.