Reunion Island Coastline

Overview

The "coastline" is the narrow coastal strip that encircles the island. This is where 80% of Reunion’s population lives and where the department’s major towns, including Saint-Denis, are located. A road following the sea loops around the island, offering a chance to discover its varied landscapes and the striking contrasts between the West Coast and the wilder East.

Main towns

Four-fifths of Reunion’s population lives along the coast. Logically, this is where all the island’s towns are found, including the largest ones: Saint-Denis, Saint-Paul, Saint-Louis and Saint-Pierre on the west coast, and Saint-André in the east.

Tourist attractions

Towns and their heritage

Reunion is primarily a "nature" destination, and its towns and villages hold relatively little architectural or historical heritage by comparison.

Beaches and seaside

Reunion is not Mauritius, and its beach and seaside resort scene is far less developed despite the nearly 500 km of coastline. The majority of swimming and water-based activities are concentrated along the west coast, stretching from Saint-Paul to Saint-Pierre. The rest of the coast is largely unsuitable due to its configuration and currents in certain areas.

Nature and activities

Reunion’s coastline is remarkably diverse. Beyond the beaches and resorts of the northwest, the south and east reveal wilder landscapes, even "ravaged" ones, as seen in the ancient lava fields flowing into the sea between Saint-Philippe and Sainte-Rose. Throughout, the island’s interior reliefs loom in the background, hinting at another side of Reunion. To fully appreciate these landscapes, the best way is still to drive around the island—200 kilometers that will easily fill a day.