Where to Stay in Réunion Island: 5 Best Areas for Your Holiday
Where to stay in Réunion Island? Your choice of accommodation can make a real difference to your holiday experience.
From beaches and lagoons to Creole villages and mountains, each region offers a different atmosphere.
Some areas are perfect for families. Others are better suited to couples, hikers or travellers looking for peace and quiet.
Discover five of the best areas to stay in Réunion Island and make the most of your holiday.
The 5 Best Areas to Stay in Réunion Island
Réunion Island offers a wide variety of accommodation and holiday experiences.
The West Coast attracts travellers who want to enjoy the sea and sunshine.
Meanwhile, the highlands offer a different experience, with mountain landscapes and cooler temperatures.
Here are five destinations worth considering for your stay.
1. Saint-Gilles-les-Bains: Beaches, Restaurants and Entertainment
Saint-Gilles-les-Bains is one of the best-known seaside resorts in Réunion Island.
Located on the West Coast, it offers beaches, restaurants, shops and water activities.
Its marina is also a departure point for various boat excursions.
The area is particularly popular for its lively atmosphere.
In the evening, restaurants and outdoor terraces allow visitors to enjoy the pleasant coastal climate.
Who Is It Best For?
Saint-Gilles is particularly suitable for:
- Couples who enjoy combining beach days with evenings out.
- Families looking for shops and services nearby.
- Groups of friends who appreciate a lively atmosphere.
- Travellers visiting Réunion Island for the first time.
However, the area can become busy during school holidays and weekends.
For greater tranquillity, consider a villa in a residential neighbourhood.
A holiday home with a garden and parking allows you to enjoy the local atmosphere while maintaining your privacy.
2. L’Ermitage-les-Bains: Stay Near the Lagoon
L’Ermitage-les-Bains is one of the most popular destinations for a seaside holiday.
Its lagoon, protected by a coral reef, offers generally calm swimming areas.
Beaches lined with casuarina trees are perfect for relaxing and enjoying picnics in the shade.
The neighbourhood has a more residential atmosphere than central Saint-Gilles.
However, restaurants and shops remain easily accessible.
Who Is It Best For?
L’Ermitage is particularly suitable for:
- Families with children.
- Travellers seeking peace and quiet.
- Swimming and snorkelling enthusiasts.
- Visitors who want to walk to the beach.
The West Coast generally enjoys warm and sunny weather.
A well-ventilated villa with a terrace or garden makes it easier to enjoy the warmer days comfortably.
A car is recommended for exploring the mountains and cirques.
3. La Saline-les-Bains: Peaceful Family Holidays
La Saline-les-Bains offers an excellent balance between tranquillity and access to activities.
Located on the West Coast, it is known for its beaches and lagoon.
Its atmosphere is generally more peaceful than that of Saint-Gilles.
Local shops also make everyday holiday arrangements easier.
Travellers particularly enjoy spending their days between the beach, terrace and garden.
Who Is It Best For?
La Saline-les-Bains is ideal for:
- Families who want to enjoy the lagoon.
- Couples looking for a peaceful atmosphere.
- Extended holidays.
- Travellers who enjoy organising their days independently.
La Saline is also a convenient starting point for discovering Maïdo and the landscapes of western Réunion Island.
Saint-Leu and Saint-Gilles are also accessible by car.
However, nightlife is more limited than in central Saint-Gilles.
It is therefore an excellent choice for peaceful evenings.
4. Saint-Leu: Authenticity and a Relaxed Lifestyle
Saint-Leu has a different identity from the other West Coast seaside resorts.
This coastal town combines Creole heritage, local life and open ocean views.
Its centre offers shops, restaurants and pleasant places to stroll.
Outdoor enthusiasts also appreciate the activities available nearby.
Paragliding is one of the area’s most iconic activities.
Who Is It Best For?
Saint-Leu is particularly suitable for:
- Travellers looking for an authentic local atmosphere.
- Couples who want to discover the West Coast differently.
- Nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts.
- Visitors planning an extended stay.
The town makes it easy to combine walks, cultural visits and excursions into the highlands.
Its market and shops also provide opportunities to discover local produce.
When swimming, always respect designated bathing areas and safety instructions.
5. Hell-Bourg: Stay in the Heart of the Mountains
Hell-Bourg is located in the Salazie Cirque, surrounded by the mountains of Réunion Island.
Recognised as one of the Most Beautiful Villages of France, it has remarkable Creole heritage.
Traditional houses, flower-filled gardens and lush green landscapes create a unique atmosphere.
The climate is generally cooler than on the coast.
Hell-Bourg therefore offers an opportunity to discover a different side of the island.
Who Is It Best For?
Hell-Bourg is particularly suitable for:
- Hiking enthusiasts.
- Travellers interested in Creole heritage.
- Visitors who enjoy mountain landscapes.
- Couples seeking a peaceful stay in the highlands.
The surrounding area offers numerous walking trails and magnificent views.
You can also discover the waterfalls of Réunion Island along the roads of Salazie.
However, travelling to the coast takes considerably longer.
If spending time at the beach is your priority, coastal accommodation may be a better choice.
How to Choose Where to Stay in Réunion Island
When deciding where to stay in Réunion Island, several factors are worth considering.
The length of your holiday, the season and your planned activities will influence your choice of accommodation.
For a One-Week Holiday
For a week in Réunion Island, staying on the West Coast is often convenient.
You can enjoy the beaches while organising excursions into the island’s interior.
Popular excursions include the mountain cirques, Piton de la Fournaise volcano and the Wild South.
Saint-Gilles, L’Ermitage and La Saline are all good bases for this type of holiday.
For a Holiday of Ten Days or More
For a longer holiday, consider staying in two different locations.
Start with a few nights on the West Coast to enjoy the lagoon.
Then continue your journey into the highlands to discover the mountain landscapes.
This arrangement allows you to enjoy different experiences while reducing some travel times.
Choose According to the Season
The season also influences your choice of accommodation.
During the austral winter, from May to October, the coast generally enjoys pleasant weather.
In the highlands, evenings can be cool.
During the austral summer, from November to April, temperatures rise and rainfall becomes more frequent.
Choose a holiday home suited to the climate of your preferred region.
Why Choose a Villa for Your Holiday in Réunion Island?
A villa offers more space and independence during your holiday.
You can organise meals, excursions and relaxation according to your preferences.
For families and groups, a holiday home provides a comfortable setting for spending time together while respecting everyone’s privacy.
A well-equipped kitchen, comfortable bedrooms and outdoor living spaces all contribute to an enjoyable stay.
Discover Réunion Island with La Kaz Bourbon
At La Kaz Bourbon, we offer distinctive villas and character holiday homes for exploring the island at your own pace.
Our accommodation provides a welcoming place to return to after a day of adventures.
You can prepare a Creole meal, enjoy the garden or simply relax on the terrace.
Our aim is to help you enjoy a personal and comfortable holiday experience.
Where to Stay in Réunion Island: Our Final Tips
The best area to stay in Réunion Island depends primarily on your holiday preferences.
Saint-Gilles-les-Bains is ideal for travellers seeking a lively atmosphere.
L’Ermitage and La Saline appeal to visitors who enjoy lagoons and tranquillity.
Saint-Leu offers an authentic local atmosphere, while Hell-Bourg allows you to discover the mountains.
Take time to compare locations, facilities and excursion opportunities.
This will help you find accommodation suited to your travel style.
Planning your next holiday in Réunion Island? Discover the distinctive villas and character holiday homes offered by La Kaz Bourbon.
Contact us before booking. We will be delighted to help you choose accommodation suited to your preferences and holiday plans.
