Family Holiday Itinerary in Réunion Island
A first swim in a calm lagoon, a picnic beneath the casuarina trees and a drive into the highlands: this is the spirit of a successful family holiday.
This family holiday itinerary in Réunion Island covers ten days. It combines beaches, nature, local culture and genuine time to rest.
The island may look small on a map. However, its mountains, microclimates and winding roads encourage a slower pace.
When travelling with children, choose only a few main stops. Plan real breaks and keep the itinerary flexible.
This programme uses a holiday home as a comfortable base. You begin beside the western lagoon before exploring the island’s wilder landscapes.
In summary: for a successful family holiday in Réunion Island, choose a comfortable base, limit long journeys and alternate excursions with quieter days.
Family Holiday in Réunion Island: Find the Right Pace
Réunion Island offers a remarkable variety of experiences. Therefore, it is tempting to fit everything into a few days.
However, an overcrowded itinerary quickly tires both children and adults.
Ten days already allow you to discover several sides of the island. More importantly, you do not need to change accommodation every night.
Choose a Practical Base
The easiest option is to stay on the west or south-west coast. This keeps you close to the lagoon while offering access to the highlands.
Travel times remain manageable for many excursions. However, some longer outings require an early start.
At the end of the day, you can return home. A swim, a simple meal and a quiet evening are often enough.
Why a Holiday Home Makes Family Travel Easier
A villa or fully equipped house makes a real difference when travelling with children.
Everyone has their own space. In addition, meals can follow your family’s natural rhythm.
You can manage naps, relaxed breakfasts and sandy returns from the beach much more easily.
Finally, the house becomes a genuine retreat after each excursion. You enjoy the island without giving up everyday comfort.
Days 1 and 2: Settle In Beside the Lagoon
After arrival, keep the first day light.
Depending on your flight time, the journey to your accommodation may already take a while. Settle in, buy a few groceries and let the children explore the house.
If there is a garden, terrace or swimming pool, they will quickly feel at home.
The time difference from mainland France is limited. Even so, a peaceful first evening helps the whole family recover.
Enjoy Your First Swim
The following day, head to the western lagoon.
The beaches of L’Ermitage and La Saline-les-Bains are pleasant choices for a first family outing.
The water is often calm in areas protected by the reef. However, children must always remain under close supervision.
Always follow local signs and use authorised swimming areas. Conditions can change quickly.
Prepare for a Comfortable Beach Day
A mask and snorkel are enough to spot your first tropical fish.
However, do not step on or touch the coral. The reef is extremely fragile.
Bring the following:
- suitable sunscreen;
- a hat;
- drinking water;
- a UV-protection top;
- a towel and dry clothes.
During the hottest part of the day, return home for lunch. This break reduces sun exposure and makes the afternoon more enjoyable.
Day 3: Market, Creole Culture and a Free Afternoon
A morning at a local market immediately adds another dimension to the holiday.
Depending on your location, explore stalls filled with tropical fruit, spices, vanilla and local crafts.
This simple and colourful outing appeals to curious children and food-loving parents alike.
Choose a Few Local Products
Use the opportunity to buy ingredients for dinner.
You might choose Victoria pineapple, seasonal mangoes, samoussas or local spices.
The aim is not to fill the schedule. Instead, it is to create one simple shared experience.
A holiday home allows you to continue the discovery around the table, without fixed dining hours.
Keep the Afternoon Free
Leave the afternoon intentionally light.
Another swim, a nap or a book on the terrace may be the best possible plan.
In Réunion Island, active days are more enjoyable when they alternate with genuine rest.
Day 4: Head into the Highlands Without Going Too Far
To discover another side of the island, leave the coast and gain some altitude.
The roads into the highlands offer cooler air, wide ocean views and very different vegetation.
Bring a light jacket. Even in the tropics, temperatures drop quickly with altitude.
Choose an Outing Suited to Children
With younger children, choose a short, shaded walk.
A forest path, an easy viewpoint or a village in the highlands is enough to change the scenery completely.
Do not rely only on the journey time shown on a map. Breaks, bends and tired children often extend the outing.
Return before everyone becomes exhausted. The journey home will then remain pleasant.
Day 5: Choose Between the Sea and a Gentle Adventure
This day provides a welcome pause in the middle of the trip.
If the children want sand and water, return to the lagoon. On the other hand, if the family wants more activity, choose a guided experience.
A boat trip, wildlife observation or an easy nature walk can create a memorable family moment.
Adapt to the Weather
The weather varies greatly across the island.
One coast may be cloudy while another remains sunny. Likewise, any outing at altitude requires a weather check beforehand.
Accept changes to the plan. This flexibility improves the holiday rather than limiting it.
It also leaves room for spontaneous wishes and necessary rest.
Days 6 and 7: Discover the Wild South as a Family
The south reveals a greener and more dramatic side of Réunion Island.
Lava flows, cliffs and tropical forests impress children and adults alike.
Leave in the morning to enjoy softer light and allow time for unplanned stops.
Observe the Ocean Safely
Along the wild coast, the ocean is often better admired than entered.
Respect barriers, warning signs and safety distances. Take particular care near waves and volcanic rocks.
This day also offers a chance to explain the power of the ocean and the fragility of island landscapes.
Choose an Accessible Waterfall or Pool
The following day, select a waterfall or natural pool suited to the children’s ages.
Some sites require a walk. Others are easier to reach.
Bring supportive shoes, spare clothes and a towel in the car.
After rain, paths can become slippery. In addition, some pools may no longer be suitable.
In that case, change your plans without hesitation.
Day 8: Prepare for a Volcano Day
The Piton de la Fournaise is often one of the highlights of a family holiday.
Its mineral landscape creates a striking contrast with the lagoons of the first few days.
With children, you do not need to complete a long hike. Accessible viewpoints already offer an impressive experience.
Prepare Carefully
Leave early and bring everything you need.
- warm clothing;
- drinking water;
- a snack;
- sun protection;
- protection from the wind.
At altitude, the sun remains strong while the air can feel surprisingly cool.
Children will enjoy a shorter visit with regular stops and simple explanations.
Prepare an Alternative Plan
Volcanic activity and access conditions can change.
Before leaving, check opening conditions and current safety advice.
If the site is closed, explore Plaine des Cafres or enjoy a food stop in the highlands instead.
A change of plan does not spoil the day. The island offers many alternatives.
Days 9 and 10: Slow Down Before Departure
Keep the second-to-last day almost empty.
Return to your favourite beach, visit the market again or simply enjoy the house.
Children like revisiting places they already know. This calm day also helps everyone reflect on the trip.
Prepare for Departure Without Stress
On departure day, allow plenty of time to reach the airport.
Traffic, distance and flight times can all affect the journey.
Pack the day before. However, keep swimwear accessible in case there is time for one final swim.
Practical Tips for a Smoother Family Holiday
Choose the Right Vehicle
A car is almost essential for exploring Réunion Island as a family.
Choose a vehicle suited to your luggage and the number of passengers.
Also confirm child seats before arrival.
Finally, remember that mountain roads take time. Distances may look short, but bends and elevation change the reality of the journey.
Consider the Season
The austral summer is warmer and more humid. It can also bring heavy rain.
The austral winter is often drier. However, temperatures remain cooler in the highlands.
There is no perfect season for every family.
Families who love swimming may prefer warmer weather. Active families may enjoy milder temperatures for walking.
Choose a House That Simplifies Daily Life
A well-located character property adds another dimension to the trip.
A practical kitchen, comfortable spaces and a good location make family life easier.
At La Kaz Bourbon, the welcome is discreet and attentive. Each family can find its own balance between exploration and rest.
Book Your Family Holiday in Réunion Island
The best itinerary is not the one that fills every day.
It is the one that leaves time to observe, rest and share genuine moments together.
Are you planning a family holiday in Réunion Island? Explore the La Kaz Bourbon properties, check live availability and choose the accommodation that best suits your family.
