Nosy Ve is a small, flat island about three kilometres southwest of Anakao, reachable in fifteen minutes by pirogue. It is one of the best snorkelling spots on Madagascar's southwest coast, with a healthy coral reef running along the shallower western side where you can see turtles, reef fish, and the occasional ray.
The island is also one of only a few nesting sites in the world for the red-tailed tropicbird — a striking white seabird with an elongated scarlet tail feather. Dozens nest here among the casuarina trees, and you can walk close enough to observe them without disturbing them. Pirogue trips to Nosy Ve can be arranged directly with local fishermen on Anakao's beach; the cost is modest and includes waiting time for snorkelling.