Imagine stepping onto a stretch of shimmering black volcanic sand, the rhythmic pulse of the Indian Ocean in your ears, framed by the verdant greenery of L’Étang‑Salé’s coastal forest. As the sun dips, surfers carve graceful arcs in the twilight surf, while turtles glide through a hidden lagoon just steps away.

Nestled on Réunion’s southwest coast, L’Étang‑Salé offers a striking contrast of rugged shorelines and lush forest. Named after its original salt pond, this coastal commune has evolved into a laid‑back escape that blends seaside charm with outdoor adventure.

Here, black sand beaches meet a protected coral lagoon, and trails thread through a tamarind‑draped forest. It’s a place where the call of waves and the hush of nature invite travellers to slow down and savour the outdoors.

Outdoor Activities

The long crescent of dark volcanic sand is a renowned surf zone. When conditions align, surfers, kite‑surfers and windsurfers ride the rolling swells while onlookers cheer from the shore. Swimming is possible in marked, shark‑net protected zones, lifeguards and daily inspections ensure safety before opening.

Adjacent to the beach lies Bassin Pirogue, a semi‑lagoon cocooned by coral reef. Snorkelling here reveals black sand beneath a riot of coral, tropical fish, eagle rays and even hawksbill turtles gliding in the shallows. The calm, protected water is perfect for beginners and wildlife lovers.

Explore hiking loops such as the “Tour complet de L’Étang‑Salé‑les‑Bains” – a scenic 14 km trail weaving through coastal plains and upland vegetation, typically taking around three hours. Other paths lead to hidden waterfalls like Cascade de Bras Rouge, or viewpoints looked over by the iconic “La Chapelle” rock formation.

Behind the beach stretches the 922‑hectare Forêt de L’Étang‑Salé—dense with tamarinds, tamarinds‑d’Inde and filaos. Maintained by the Office National des Forêts, it hosts health trails, orientation courses and diverse fauna. It’s an ideal spot for bird‑watching and forest walks.

Electric MTB tours offer an exciting way to discover hidden corners and dramatic geology. Routes trace gentle forest tracks, passing natural chasms and leading to the pirogue basin. Tours typically end with a local aperitif amid eucalyptus trees.

Set within the forested fringe, the 18‑hole Golf de Bourbon provides a lush, leafy setting for a round, interwoven with the area’s restorative greenery.

Croc Parc presents a close encounter with crocodiles in themed enclosures, perfect for curious kids and families seeking an unusual wildlife fix.

Local Tips

Safety first: Swim only in flagged, net‑protected zones. Nets are inspected daily and conditions are evaluated hourly.

Gear to bring: Rash vest or lycra for the reef, sturdy trail footwear for hikes, insect repellent for forest paths.

Eco-conscious travel: Stick to marked trails, don’t touch coral, follow reef‑safety snorkelling tips, and avoid disturbing wildlife.

Sun-smart timing: Black sand intensifies heat, early morning or late afternoon are best for comfort.

Local flavours: Sample créole snacks at beach cafés, fresh samosas, rougail, or sugar‑cane juice, for a taste of Réunion’s unique heritage.

Transport: A car is useful for accessing forest trails and pirogue lagoon. Buses link the beach with nearby towns; parking is available near the shoreline.

Best Time to Visit

L’Étang‑Salé enjoys tropical savanna climate, with warm temperatures year‑round, averaging highs of 28 °C and rare lows around 18 °C.

• April–November (dry season): Quieter, with calmer seas perfect for beach time, snorkelling and biking. Evenings are drier in the forest.
• December–March (wet season): Occasional heavy rains and rough seas limit non‑protected watersports but the lagoon remains calm. Trails may be slippery and mosquitoes more active.

Avoid peak summer school holidays when beaches grow busier and prices rise.

How to Get There

• From Roland‑Garros airport (St‑Denis): Drive 1.5 hrs south via RN1 along the scenic coastline.
• From St‑Pierre (south island hub): L’Étang‑Salé is just a 15‑minute drive west, a convenient stop on a full‑island circuit.
• By public transport: Regional buses connect with St‑Pierre and Les Avirons; expect 20-30 minute trips.
• On a guided tour: Join a comprehensive Réunion island tour to include Cilaos, cirque hikes and L’Étang‑Salé all in one day .

Nearby Hidden Gems

• Cascade de Bras Rouge: A serene waterfall cloaked in greenery, reached via a short forest trek.
• Le Gouffre: A dramatic coastal chasm carved into the lava rim – best at low tide when waves erupt in sprays.
• Les Avirons & St‑Louis floors: Rustic hillside villages with artisan markets and vanilla farms en route further inland.

From black‑sand sunsets to turtle‑draped lagoons and forest‑fringed trails, L’Étang‑Salé invites you to unwind in nature’s theatre. Whether you're catching waves, snorkelling among coral gardens or riding through tamarind groves, this spot reveals a side of Réunion that feels both wild and welcoming. Extend your adventure inland or linger by the sea, and let the rhythm of Étang‑Salé set the pace.