The most beautiful beaches on Réunion Island to discover during your stay.

From the turquoise lagoon to rolling waves, here are the most beautiful beaches of La Réunion to add to your itinerary

In La Réunion, each day by the sea tells a different story. The West unfurls its calm lagoons lined with filaos, perfect for snorkeling and picnics in the shade. The South reveals coves edged with palms, with breathtaking panoramas and natural pools where you can splash about in complete tranquility. Along the coastline, you’ll move from the milky waters of black sand at Étang-Salé to the blond expanses of l’Ermitage, not forgetting the sunset spots at Boucan Canot. To prepare a balanced trip between safe swims, sunset walks, surfing, and Creole traditions, dive into this selection of must-see beaches, punctuated with practical tips and nearby stop ideas. And if you’re still unsure about the best time, the itinerary, or the vibe, find an initial overview in Why choose the island of La Réunion for your vacation.

The West lagoon: Ermitage, La Saline and Trou d’Eau

On the west coast, the coral reef draws shallow, protected lagoons whose reputation extends far beyond the Indian Ocean. The waters are calm, translucent, and teeming with multicolored fish, easy to observe with masks and snorkels to your lips. The atmosphere is family-friendly, Sunday picnics linger under the shade of the filaos, and sunsets are admired with your feet in the sand, never tiring of the orange palette that bathes the horizon.

To quickly locate the coves not to miss, take inspiration from the panorama set out by the tourist office with Most beautiful beaches in La Réunion: our top 8, a useful base for planning your beach stops.

Plage de l’Ermitage

Probably the most iconic of Réunion’s lagoon-side beaches. Long blond ribbon, generous shade, shallow bottoms: everything lends itself to swimming and lounging. At high tide, the sufficient depth allows for a great snorkeling session. At lower tide, put on water shoes to protect your feet and the coral. The beach is supervised in certain areas; stay within the marked perimeter for a serene swim.

La Saline-les-Bains

La Saline is the natural continuation of l’Ermitage, with a more intimate feel on certain stretches and waters often as clear as they are restful. It’s a lovely spot for stand-up paddleboarding on the lagoon, fin-mask-snorkel walks, and sunsets that set the horizon ablaze. The sand is fine, access is easy, and the nearby snack bars and beach huts make it easy to organize a full day by the water.

Trou d’Eau

Known for its waters of an almost milky blue when the sun is at its zenith, Trou d’Eau has a discreet charm that appeals to families as much as couples. The lagoon there is generally very calm; you can often spot damselfish and butterflyfish just a few meters from the shore. Try to be there early in the morning to enjoy a still-deserted lagoon, or in the late afternoon for a swim gilded by the low light.

Saint-Gilles-les-Bains and Boucan Canot: ocean spray and sunset atmosphere

Heading north-west, the action centers around Saint-Gilles-les-Bains and Boucan Canot. Here, the beach feels like a living postcard: blond sand, sometimes powerful breakers, beach huts and restaurants overlooking the shore. Boucan Canot has a natural pool of volcanic rocks much appreciated by families when there is swell offshore. The supervised area is generally well marked; follow the lifeguards’ instructions and the facilities (nets, breakwaters, pool) depending on the state of the sea.

The end of the day is magnificent: you come to walk, sip a guava juice, and wait for the sun to dive behind the horizon. If you like to compare your findings with inspiring selections, consult The 8 most beautiful beaches in Réunion for another look at the places where you can lay your towel.

L’Étang-Salé-les-Bains: black sand and forest

A change of atmosphere at L’Étang-Salé: the black volcanic sand absorbs heat and contrasts beautifully with the white foam of the waves. The beach, bordered by a filao forest, lends itself to shaded walks and bodyboarding sessions when conditions allow. For swimming, head to the Pirogue pool, a developed rocky area appreciated for safely splashing around with children. As always, stick to supervised areas and check the day’s conditions.

If you want an overview, don’t hesitate to browse The most beautiful beaches of Réunion, which highlights the atmospheres and strengths of each spot.

Grande Anse and the wild South: a life-size postcard

In the south, near Petite-Île, Grande Anse is among the island’s most photogenic settings. Vast lawns shaded by coconut trees slope down to a cove of blond sand lapped by the swell. Swimming takes place in the developed pool when the sea is rough, and caution is advised beyond that. It’s the perfect place for a Sunday picnic, a nap to the sound of the surf, and a spectacular sunset, when clouds catch on the reliefs.

To fuel your ideas for South escapes and round out your list, the inspirations of The most beautiful beaches of Réunion – Le Mag Voyageurs usefully complement your scouting, with a travel-journal tone that makes you want to go without delay.

Saint-Leu and its two faces: calm lagoon and offshore waves

Saint-Leu encapsulates the Réunion spirit on the seaside: a gentle, fish-filled lagoon for swimming, discovering the reef and paddle outings; and, beyond the barrier, one of the island’s surf culture hotspots, where riders wait for the big southern swells. Stay in the designated swimming areas on the lagoon side, very pleasant for families. And don’t forget this golden rule along the entire coastline: no improvisation outside supervised areas.

Saint-Pierre and the seafront: the charm of the South facing the ocean

In Saint-Pierre, the main beach enjoys near-constant activity thanks to the seafront, its terraces and its gardens. The lagoon here is smaller than in the West but pleasant, especially in the morning. People come to relax after a colorful open-air market, or for a sunset stroll, when the golden light turns the ocean into a shimmering mirror.

The best beaches according to your wishes

To help you choose according to your vacation style, here are some practical pointers:

For families with young children, the West lagoons (Ermitage, La Saline, Trou d’Eau) are must-sees. Shallow bottoms, generally calm sea, and shade possibilities almost everywhere. To organize a family stay in Réunion calm, plan to bring masks, UV-protection rashguards, and plenty of water (the sun is strong, even under clouds).

For snorkeling, favor the beaches of l’Ermitage and Trou d’Eau, in calm seas and avoiding rough conditions. Do not touch coral or sea urchins, do not feed the fish, and use a reef-safe sunscreen.

For sunsets, Boucan Canot, l’Ermitage and La Saline offer sumptuous panoramas, with the sea in the foreground and the reliefs as a backdrop. Dare a late-day swim in supervised areas to end the day in apotheosis.

For wave lovers, bodyboarding is practiced especially at l’Étang-Salé when conditions allow, while surfing takes place on dedicated spots outside the lagoon (and strictly respecting local regulations and signage). Always check before getting in the water.

Finally, for a nature vibe, Grande Anse and certain less-frequented segments of the West (off-peak hours) will offer you a sense of space and tranquility, conducive to rest as well as photography.

If you like to build an itinerary around the most beautiful shores, you’ll find other ideas in The most beautiful beaches of Réunion – Evaneos, which offers itineraries designed to maximize your swimming and lounging breaks.

Practical tips for successful beach days

Weather and seasonality: the austral summer (November to April) sees temperatures rise and sometimes humidity. Mornings are often clearer than afternoons. The austral winter (May to October) brings drier air and slightly cooler waters, but lagoons remain pleasant. Southern swells can make certain stretches more powerful: adapt your activities accordingly.

Swimming and safety: stick strictly to supervised areas, marked by flags and signs. In the lagoon, do not cross the coral barrier. On beaches without a lagoon, respect nets, natural pools and the directions of the lifeguards, especially at sites exposed to swell. If in doubt, refrain: the sea remains a living and changing environment.

Reef and environment: adopt simple gestures to preserve the lagoon. Do not walk on coral, avoid rigid fins if you are a beginner, and forgo harsh sunscreens in favor of formulas respectful of marine life. A bag for your trash and a reusable bottle are obvious allies, but essential.

Comfort: bring hats, polarized sunglasses, pareos, UV tents for children, and water shoes. The black sand at l’Étang-Salé heats up quickly: sandals may be necessary in the middle of the afternoon. And remember to check the tide for snorkeling sessions, often more comfortable around mid-high tide.

Where to stay to make the most of the beaches

The choice of accommodation plays a big role in your beach experience. Rentals close to the lagoon allow you to alternate morning swims, naps and return at sunset without transport constraints. Many travelers prefer the flexibility, space and conviviality of a self-catering accommodation rather than a hotel room, especially with family or friends. If you’re hesitating on the option, the article Why choose a seasonal rental in La Réunion rather than a hotel? details the practical benefits for a stay near the beaches.

If you like to extend the pleasure of swimming at home, look out for a seasonal rental with a pool in La Réunion: the complete guide will help you filter useful criteria (safety, depth, exposure, outdoor shower, etc.).

Want a well-located base to radiate along the West coast and the South? Seasonal Rental in La Réunion: Discover Le Jardin de Corail presents a proposal designed for ocean lovers, with suitable amenities and an ideal location for chaining together lagoon time, strolls, and sunsets.

During your stay, staying connected can prove essential, whether to work a few hours or to organize last-minute outings. The tips from Working remotely in La Réunion: everything you need to know help combine productivity and seaside pleasure, an increasingly popular option to extend your vacation while remaining operational.

Ready to move forward with the booking? The steps are detailed in How to book a seasonal rental on Réunion Island with ease. And to take action, check now Our Vacation Rentals in Réunion to find the house that will rhyme gentle living with proximity to the most beautiful beaches.

After the beach: Creole flavors, markets, and art of living

The day doesn’t end with the last swim. Between two lagoon outings, you can enjoy a culinary adventure that extends the discovery of the coastline. Rougail tomate after the sea, fragrant fish cari, crispy samoussas facing the sunset… Creole cuisine is a journey within the journey, rooted in the territory and drawing on local catches. To whet your appetite and learn to prepare a few classics, take a look at Introduction to Creole cuisine on Réunion Island: culinary discovery.

After swimming, stroll along the seafronts (Saint-Gilles, Saint-Pierre), spot the viewpoints for the sunset, and let yourself be carried by the music, the smell of carry and Réunionese conviviality. That is also the beach spirit in Réunion: a sweetness that extends far beyond the shoreline.

Multi-day beach itinerary: the art of alternating lagoon, nature, and villages

If you have a week or more, alternate the atmospheres. Start with two or three days on the lagoon (Ermitage/La Saline/Trou d’Eau) to acclimate gently. Add a day at Étang-Salé for a walk in the filaos forest and discovery of black sand, then head south to catch the photogenic Grande Anse at sunset. Slip in a stop at Saint-Leu to enjoy the lagoon and, if you’re curious, observe local life at day’s end when everyone gathers on the beach. Finish by returning to Boucan Canot and Saint-Gilles: between natural pool, seaside stroll, and choice of restaurants, you’ll be spoiled for choice to end your stay beautifully.

This alternation has an advantage: it allows for quiet times for lazing around, unforgettable panoramas for your photos, and bubbles of local life to savor Creole hospitality. It suits couples, groups, and solo travelers alike, with beach in the morning and discovery in the afternoon.

Beach logistics with children: simplicity and serenity

To enjoy without stress when traveling with children, plan the schedule (morning at the lagoon, nap at the accommodation, return late afternoon), prepare a dedicated bag (sunscreen, hat, water bottle, beach toys, first-aid kit) and keep the tide rotation in mind to optimize snorkeling sessions. The Ermitage lagoon and Trou d’Eau are often your best allies. On the accommodation side, a rental nearby shortens logistics and tempers the unexpected (nap, change, snack). The references shared in family stay in Réunion usefully complement these tips, from the suitcase to the activities.

Traveler’s ethics by the sea: preserve today, for tomorrow

Réunion’s lagoons and beaches are fragile ecosystems. Take your trash with you, favor zero-plastic picnics, don’t walk on coral heads, avoid stirring up sand in very shallow areas, and keep your distance from wildlife (turtles, fish, birds). In high season, prefer off-peak hours to limit pressure on the most popular sites and, in passing, discover their most peaceful face.

Final pointers to perfect your itinerary

If your time is limited, focus on this winning trio: a day on the Ermitage lagoon (snorkeling + sunset), a mixed day at Étang-Salé (black sand + forest + Pirogue pool), and an end-of-day postcard moment at Grande Anse. If possible, add a half-day at Boucan Canot for the briny atmosphere, and a morning in Saint-Leu for the gentle lagoon. You’ll then have a fine sample of the island’s seaside faces.

And if you like to validate your choices by cross-referencing several resources, complement your reading with editorial selections such as The 8 most beautiful beaches in Réunion or even the perspective of the tourist office via Most beautiful beaches in La Réunion: our top 8, two useful compasses to adjust your roadmap as your desires evolve.

Your perfect base near the beaches

Final touch for a seamless seaside stay: well-located accommodation, with the right amenities, and a frictionless booking. That’s exactly what a well-kept rental in the West or South offers, ideally with a garden for post-beach returns and a pool to improvise one last dip at dusk. To visualize it more concretely, browse Discover the Coral Garden, then move on to availability by consulting Our Vacation Rentals in Réunion. You’ll find inspiration there and the tools to quickly confirm your dates and start dreaming of that first swim in the lagoon.