The West coast holds the finest beaches of Reunion Island. Here is our beach-by-beach guide to choose according to your wishes — swimming, snorkelling or relaxing in the shade of the filaos.
Boucan Canot
The island’s iconic beach: light sand, a chic vibe and a lively seafront. A swimming area is protected by a net. Ideal for swimming and sunsets.
Roches Noires (Saint-Gilles-les-Bains)
Right in the heart of the resort, a practical, supervised beach, steps from the restaurants and marina.
L’Hermitage-les-Bains
The island’s largest lagoon, lined by a long filao-shaded beach. Calm, fish-rich waters: the family snorkelling spot par excellence.
La Saline-les-Bains & Trou d’Eau
A peaceful lagoon with clear waters, known for its relaxed, family-friendly atmosphere.
Our tip
For a stay right by the water, choose a home close to the lagoon. See our selection Lagoon-side & beach rentals.
Swimming: what to know
On Reunion Island, swimming takes place inside the lagoon or in designated, supervised areas. That rule shapes how you plan a beach day on the west coast: you pick a spot according to the reef’s protection, not only the look of the sand.
The lagoon beaches — L’Hermitage, La Saline, Trou d’Eau — offer shallow, calm water. Boucan Canot and Roches Noires, open to the ocean, have designated swimming areas. Always follow the signs and the instructions posted on site.
Snorkelling: where and how
The west-coast lagoon is the best snorkelling ground reachable from the shore. Coral seabed lies a few metres from the sand, with no boat or special equipment needed: a mask and snorkel are enough.
L’Hermitage is the richest stretch, with parrotfish, butterflyfish and shoals of small reef fish. Coral is fragile: swim above it without touching or standing on it, and avoid sunscreens that damage it.
When to go to the beach
Mornings generally bring the calmest sea and the softest light for looking at the seabed. Late in the day, the coast’s due-west aspect makes the beaches an excellent place to watch the sunset.
At weekends the lagoon beaches fill up: Réunion families set up their picnics under the casuarinas, particularly at L’Hermitage. It is an atmosphere worth experiencing, but arrive early for a spot and some shade.
Access and parking
The west-coast beaches are reached via the RN1 and the coast road. Parking is free but limited right by the busiest beaches, particularly at Boucan Canot and L’Hermitage at the end of the week.
Staying within walking distance of the lagoon noticeably changes the experience: no hunting for a space, and the option of going in early in the morning or at the end of the day without getting back in the car.
Want to stay in the West of Reunion Island?
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