The West Coast of Réunion, nicknamed the “leeward coast,” is the true seaside gem of this vibrant island. Sheltered from trade winds by mountain ranges, this region enjoys a dry and sunny climate almost year-round, making it the preferred destination for those seeking relaxation and water activities. From Saint-Paul to Saint-Pierre, passing through the renowned coastal resorts of Saint-Gilles-les-Bains and Saint-Leu, the West Coast unveils its turquoise lagoons protected by coral reefs, white sandy beaches lined with casuarina trees, and spectacular volcanic landscapes.
This unique region offers a perfect balance between tropical relaxation and oceanic adventures, where every visitor can find their bliss, whether for a romantic getaway, family vacation, or authentic cultural discovery. The Exsel Group enhances this exceptional experience with its iconic establishments, such as the Exsel Alamanda, Exsel Ermitage, and Exsel Floralys, perfectly positioned to fully enjoy the wonders of this preserved coast.
The most beautiful beaches of the West Coast
The West Coast of Réunion boasts a string of paradisiacal beaches that contribute to the island’s reputation in the Indian Ocean. Each beach has its unique character and distinct attractions, offering a diverse range of exceptional seaside experiences.
Hermitage Beach: The jewel of Réunion’s lagoons
Hermitage Beach is undoubtedly the most famous and photographed beach in Réunion. Located in Saint-Gilles-les-Bains, this stretch of pristine white sand extends over eight kilometers, bordered by a lagoon with crystal-clear, dazzling turquoise waters. The coral reef that naturally protects this beach creates a natural basin with a maximum depth of two meters, ideal for family swimming and gentle water activities.
The generous shade of centuries-old casuarina trees provides natural resting areas, particularly appreciated during the hottest hours of the day. These iconic trees, with their long, drooping needles, create a unique and authentically tropical atmosphere. The beach is equipped with comprehensive facilities: restrooms, showers, lifeguard stations, designated picnic areas, and ample parking.
The water activities are particularly varied: transparent kayaking to observe marine life, stand-up paddleboarding, pedal boats, beginner windsurfing, and, of course, snorkeling to discover the tropical fish thriving in the lagoon. The Exsel Group, with the Exsel Alamanda and Exsel Ermitage located nearby, allows visitors to fully enjoy this exceptional setting.
La Saline-les-Bains: Authenticity and conviviality
La Saline-les-Bains Beach captivates with its more intimate and authentic atmosphere. Less crowded than Hermitage, it offers an ideal setting for those seeking tranquility without sacrificing the beauty of coastal landscapes. Fine white sand stretches in front of a lagoon with calm, warm waters, protected by the coral reef.
This quintessential family beach offers optimal swimming conditions year-round. Children can play safely in the shallow waters, while adults enjoy deeper areas for swimming. The relaxed atmosphere here perfectly reflects the Réunionnais art of living.
The beachfront restaurants serve authentic Creole cuisine and freshly caught seafood. It’s the perfect spot to savor a fish carry paired with a flavored rum while admiring spectacular sunsets that set the Indian Ocean horizon ablaze.
Saint-Leu: The capital of water sports
Saint-Leu establishes itself as the mecca of water sports in Réunion. This vibrant coastal resort attracts thrill-seekers with its world-renowned surf spots. The Saint-Leu left, a legendary wave breaking over the reef, regularly hosts world-class competitions.
Beyond surfing, Saint-Leu offers a remarkable variety of water activities: scuba diving in volcanic crevices, paragliding from the heights with beach landings, jet-skiing, wakeboarding, and deep-sea fishing. The modern marina provides all necessary services for boaters and water sports clubs.
The developed Saint-Leu Beach features a natural seawater pool, cleverly created by the coral reef’s configuration. This unique feature allows non-swimmers and families with young children to safely enjoy water activities.
Roches Noires: Volcanic landscapes and authenticity
Roches Noires offers a striking geological spectacle with basalt formations sculpted by marine erosion. This beach of pebbles and black sand contrasts beautifully with the deep blue of the ocean, creating landscapes of wild and authentic beauty.
The area particularly attracts photography enthusiasts and visitors seeking authenticity. Sunsets here are spectacular, with volcanic rocks standing out as dramatic silhouettes against the fiery sky. Shore fishing is widely practiced in the natural pools formed by the rocks, home to sea urchins, hermit crabs, and small tropical fish.
Must-do activities on the West Coast
The richness of the West Coast extends beyond its paradisiacal beaches. This region offers an exceptional range of activities catering to all tastes and adventure levels.
Water sports and aquatic activities
Scuba diving: Exploring exceptional marine life
The crystal-clear waters of the West Coast harbor extraordinary underwater treasures. Diving spots, accessible to all levels, reveal multicolored coral gardens teeming with vibrant tropical marine life. Butterflyfish, angelfish, moray eels, stingrays, and sea turtles thrive in this preserved natural aquarium.
Certified dive centers offer tailored outings: introductory dives for beginners, exploration dives for experienced divers, and full training courses for various certification levels. Iconic sites like Pointe au Sel or the Hermitage coral gardens provide exceptional diving conditions with visibility often exceeding 30 meters.
Surfing and water sports: Guaranteed thrills
Saint-Leu reigns supreme in Réunion’s surfing scene. The Saint-Leu left, a world-class wave, offers exceptional surfing conditions from May to September. This powerful, tubular wave attracts surfers from around the globe and regularly hosts stages of the world surfing championship.
Professional surf schools provide lessons for all ages, with suitable equipment and certified instructors. Beginner spots allow for gentle learning, while more technical waves challenge experienced surfers. Windsurfing and kitesurfing also benefit from excellent conditions, particularly in the La Saline-les-Bains area.
Stand-up paddleboarding is gaining popularity due to the tranquility of the protected lagoons. This accessible activity allows exploration of coral reefs while engaging in a complete and relaxing sport.
Land-based and cultural discoveries
Hiking and nature exploration
The West Coast offers diverse hiking opportunities, from family-friendly walks to more athletic treks. The coastal trail reveals the diversity of coastal landscapes, from white sandy beaches to basalt cliffs and wetlands where mangroves thrive.
The Saint-Paul highlands offer exceptional views of the Indian Ocean and the coast. The Maïdo, accessible by car, provides one of the island’s most stunning viewpoints at 2,200 meters altitude. Hikers can admire the Mafate Cirque, iconic peaks, and, on clear days, Mauritius on the horizon.
The Étang-Salé forest offers shaded trails in a unique ecosystem blending tropical and temperate vegetation. Ornithological observatories allow sightings of endemic species like the tec-tec or the zoizo blanc.
Cultural heritage and gastronomy
Traditional markets in Saint-Paul and Saint-Pierre are must-visit stops to experience the Creole soul of Réunion. The Saint-Paul market, held every Friday and Saturday, is one of the island’s most authentic. Colorful stalls offer tropical fruits, spices, local crafts, and Creole culinary specialties.
Réunionnais gastronomy is showcased in authentic restaurants like La Marmite and family-run guesthouses. Fish carry, prepared with fresh Indian Ocean fish, is a must-try. Local ingredients like turmeric, ginger, chilies, and aromatic herbs create unique and fragrant flavors.
Rum distilleries open their doors for fascinating guided tours. Tasting flavored rums, crafted from family recipes passed down through generations, offers an authentic cultural experience.
Charming accommodations: The excellence of the Exsel Group
The Exsel Group offers a selection of exceptional establishments perfectly integrated into the West Coast’s stunning environment. Each hotel has its unique personality while upholding the group’s renowned standards of quality and hospitality.
Exsel Alamanda: Cozy and ideally located
The Exsel Alamanda Hotel stands out for its prime location in the heart of Saint-Gilles-les-Bains, just steps from the iconic Hermitage Beach. This strategic position allows guests to fully enjoy seaside activities while benefiting from high-quality accommodations.
The property offers an ideal setting for family or group vacations, with its heated pool during the southern winter ensuring year-round relaxation. The cozy atmosphere and warm welcome create a relaxed ambiance perfectly suited to the vacation spirit.
The immediate proximity to shops, restaurants, and activities in Saint-Gilles-les-Bains makes the Alamanda an ideal base for exploring the West Coast. Guests can easily alternate between lounging under the lagoon’s casuarina trees and discovering local treasures without transportation constraints.
Exsel Ermitage: Boutique hotel at the lagoon’s doorstep
The Exsel Ermitage perfectly embodies the boutique hotel concept with its 37 carefully designed rooms. Its immediate proximity to the beach and commercial area offers total freedom to tailor your stay to your desires.
The property is characterized by its subtle blend of refinement, accessibility, and 3-star comfort. This philosophy allows each guest to experience their stay at their own pace, whether for shared relaxation or individual escapes in complete tranquility.
Its strategic location, less than a 5-minute walk from the beach, water activities, and shops, makes the Ermitage a preferred choice for those wanting to be at the heart of Saint-Gilles’ vibrancy while enjoying an intimate and personalized setting.
Exsel Floralys: Creole authenticity in a tropical haven
The Exsel Floralys Hotel offers a unique accommodation experience with its 48 rooms spread across single-story bungalows nestled in a lush tropical park. This architectural design respects the natural environment while ensuring privacy and tranquility.
Each bungalow features modern amenities: air conditioning, private bathrooms with walk-in showers, and flat-screen satellite TVs. The design prioritizes contemporary comfort in an authentically tropical setting, creating a perfect harmony between modernity and local traditions.
The tropical park surrounding the bungalows is a true haven of peace, where endemic and introduced plant species create a rich and colorful ecosystem. This immersion in tropical nature offers a completely rejuvenating stay while remaining close to the beaches and activities of the coast.
Local gastronomy: Authentic Indian Ocean flavors
The West Coast of Réunion is a true culinary laboratory, blending Creole, French, Chinese, Indian, and Malagasy influences. This gastronomic richness perfectly reflects the cultural diversity that defines the vibrant island.
Seafood specialties: Freshness and authenticity
Indian Ocean fish form the basis of many local specialties. Fish carry, prepared with freshly caught redfish, tuna, or dorado, stands out for its fragrant and spiced flavors. Slow cooking allows local spices—turmeric, ginger, kaffir lime, chili—to reveal their full aromatic richness.
Bichiques, small fry caught at river mouths, are a highly prized delicacy, typically prepared as crispy fritters. Octopus is enjoyed in carry or salad form, offering a unique texture and intense iodized flavors.
Lobsters and crabs from the Indian Ocean are prepared according to traditional recipes passed down through generations. Stuffed crab, an iconic specialty, combines the delicate flesh of the crustacean with a blend of spices and local aromatic herbs.
Restaurants and culinary experiences
The Exsel Group offers diverse gastronomic experiences through its various restaurants.
The beachfront restaurants in Saint-Gilles and La Saline provide a unique atmosphere for enjoying local specialties. These establishments prioritize fresh ingredients and authentic recipes, allowing visitors to discover true Creole cuisine in a paradisiacal setting.
Rougails, essential accompaniments, come in multiple variations: rougail saucisse, rougail cod, rougail tomato, each adding a personal touch to the traditional Creole meal.
Climate and the best time to visit
The West Coast enjoys the most favorable climate in Réunion due to its natural protection from trade winds. This privileged geographic position ensures exceptional sunshine and limited rainfall, making this region the ideal destination for seaside stays.
Seasons and weather conditions
The dry season, from May to November, offers the most pleasant conditions with temperatures ranging from 20 to 28°C and moderate humidity. This period, the southern winter, is characterized by sunny days, cool nights, and moderate trade winds bringing a refreshing breeze.
The hot and humid season, from December to April, features higher temperatures (25 to 32°C) and significant humidity. Tropical showers, typically short but intense, refresh the atmosphere and nourish the lush vegetation. This period also corresponds to the cyclone season, requiring extra vigilance.
Seasonal activities
Humpback whale watching is one of Réunion’s most moving natural spectacles. From June to October, these giant marine mammals come to breed in the warm waters of the Indian Ocean. Whale-watching excursions allow visitors to admire their spectacular acrobatics while respecting their natural environment.
Deep-sea fishing enjoys its best conditions from November to April, when large pelagic fish—marlins, tuna, dorado—frequent Réunion’s waters. Sport fishing clubs organize guided outings for all skill levels.
Practical tips for your stay
Transportation and accessibility
The West Coast is well-served by the coastal road and the new sea road, ensuring easy access from Roland Garros Airport. Car rental remains the most convenient way to explore the region freely, with numerous agencies available in the main coastal resorts.
Public transportation (Car Jaune network) efficiently connects the various towns along the coast, offering an economical and eco-friendly alternative. Taxis and ride-sharing services complement the transport options for short trips.
Equipment and recommendations
Sun protection is essential for your stay. The intensity of UV radiation in the tropics requires high-protection sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat. Light cotton or linen clothing is recommended for comfort and breathability.
Snorkeling gear (mask, snorkel, fins) can be rented on-site, but enthusiasts may prefer bringing their own for optimal comfort. Water shoes are advised for walking on coral reefs and protecting against sea urchins.
Environmental respect
Preserving the lagoon and coral reefs requires adhering to simple but essential rules. Using coral-safe sunscreens (free of oxybenzone and octinoxate) helps protect this fragile ecosystem. Avoid walking on corals, feeding fish, or removing anything from the natural environment.
Waste management is a key issue for preserving this natural beauty. Visitors are encouraged to use provided trash bins and participate in local environmental awareness initiatives.
Plan your exceptional stay
The West Coast of Réunion offers an unforgettable tropical experience, harmoniously blending seaside relaxation, water adventures, cultural discoveries, and gastronomic pleasures. This unique destination captivates with its diversity, authenticity, and warm Creole hospitality.
The Exsel Group enhances this exceptional discovery with its charming establishments perfectly integrated into this paradisiacal setting. Whether you choose the Exsel Alamanda for its conviviality, the Exsel Ermitage for its refinement, or the Exsel Floralys for its authenticity, each stay becomes a personalized and memorable experience.
Book your stay now and let yourself be enchanted by the magic of Réunion’s West Coast. Between turquoise lagoons, fiery sunsets, and the Creole art of living, your next tropical escape awaits in this corner of paradise in the Indian Ocean.
The memories you create on this exceptional coast will remain etched forever, a testament to a unique encounter between humanity and nature, tradition and modernity, adventure and serenity. Réunion awaits to write the most beautiful chapters of your tropical vacation.
