The west of Réunion Island is an ideal destination to fully enjoy the summer holidays. With its pleasant climate, this region offers sunny days and mild temperatures, perfect for exploring beaches, nature, and family activities. Along the coast, temperatures range between 22 and 24°C (rarely dropping below 20°C at night), with sea temperatures around 22°C and lush, evergreen vegetation, while in the highlands they vary between 5 and 15°C. Whether you enjoy relaxing, thrill-seeking, or cultural discoveries, the west of the island promises an unforgettable stay.
Located in the heart of Saint-Leu, the Iloha Seaview Hotel is a strategic base for discovering all the wonders of western Réunion Island. With ocean views, a tropical setting, and close proximity to beaches and activities, it is the ideal place for a successful holiday.
Enjoy the most beautiful beaches of the West coast.
Relax at L’Hermitage Beach.
L’Hermitage Beach is renowned for its protected lagoon and calm waters, making it perfect for families. Ideal for snorkeling, the lagoon lets you safely discover the rich marine life of Réunion Island: brightly colored tropical fish, diverse coral formations, crustaceans, aquatic plants, and sometimes even turtles or rays. During your swim, try spotting fish with unique shapes and features: the trumpetfish with its elongated body, the Moorish idol straight out of Finding Nemo, or the butterflyfish often seen swimming in pairs. For curious young explorers, the boxfish with its white or black spots and rounded shape is always a delight, while the small but tough Picasso triggerfish fiercely defends its sandy nest at certain times of the year. Blending wonder and relaxation, L’Hermitage Beach immerses you in a true natural aquarium.
Discover Boucan Canot Beach
At Boucan Canot, the atmosphere is both friendly and lively, making it ideal for fully enjoying the west coast. The beach is highly appreciated for its setting and spectacular sunsets, and it also features a natural seawater pool formed by volcanic rocks and protected from waves, allowing safe swimming, especially for families and children. Lined with restaurants, Boucan Canot charms visitors with its warm ambiance, blending relaxation, swimming, and shared moments facing the ocean.
Must-do water activities
- Snorkeling in the lagoon: explore the underwater flora and fauna of the west coast of the island, especially at L’Hermitage.
- Snorkeling in the lagoon: explore the underwater flora and fauna of the west coast of the island, especially at L’Hermitage.
- Dolphin and whale watching: take advantage of the winter season to admire these majestic animals in their natural habitat.
Thrill-seeking and nature activities
Paragliding in Saint-Leu
For thrill-seekers, paragliding in Saint-Leu is an unmissable experience. This internationally renowned spot offers spectacular views over the coastline. To enjoy this adventure safely with experienced professionals, trust our partner Addict Paragliding, who will guide you from takeoff to landing for an unforgettable moment. The hotel’s concierge service is also available to help you book this activity and arrange your flight with ease.
Hikes in the highlands of the West Coast
The hiking trails in Réunion Island offer spectacular views of both the ocean and the mountains. Accessible to all levels, they are a great way to fully enjoy the island’s natural beauty. Among the most popular routes are the Chemin Pavé, the Chemin des Anglais, and the Bassin Vital loop, each offering a unique experience combining landscapes, lush vegetation, and breathtaking viewpoints.
Excursion to Piton Maïdo
Piton Maïdo offers a breathtaking panorama over the Mafate cirque. Best experienced at sunrise, it is a must-do for nature lovers and photography enthusiasts.
Discover local culture and gastronomy
- The markets of Saint-Paul and Saint-Leu are ideal for immersing yourself in Réunionese culture and tasting local specialties such as fruits and vegetables, spices, and samosas. You can extend this culinary experience at Kotémer, the hotel’s restaurant, open daily from 12:00 PM to 2:00 PM and from 7:00 PM to 9:00 PM. Kotémer offers a weekday lunch menu (Monday to Friday): the dish of the day alone for €24 per person, or the dish of the day with dessert and coffee for €29 per person. The menu is renewed weekly, ensuring fresh and varied flavors.
- Saint-Paul Market – 10 Quai Gilbert, 97460 Saint-Paul
Opening hours: Friday from 6:00 AM to 3:00 PM and Saturday from 6:00 AM to 12:00 PM - Saint-Leu Market – 112 Rue du Général Lambert, 97436 Saint-Leu
Opening hours: Saturday from 5:00 AM to 12:45 PM
Family activities during the summer holidays
- Kélonia is a unique center dedicated to the protection of sea turtles, where both children and adults can observe these fascinating creatures and learn more about their conservation.
Located at 46 Rue du Général de Gaulle, 97436 Saint-Leu, the center is open daily from 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM. Admission is €9 for adults, with a reduced rate of €6 for children aged 4 to 12, students, people with disabilities, and groups of 10 or more. Entry is free for children under 4.
A visit to Kélonia is both fun and educational—an ideal family activity to discover Réunion’s marine life while raising awareness about environmental protection. - Aquarium de La Réunion is the perfect place to discover the richness of the island’s marine biodiversity.
Located at 166 Rue du Général de Gaulle, 97434 Saint-Gilles-les-Bains, it is open daily from 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM. Admission is €9.90 for adults, €6.90 for children aged 4 to 12, and free for children under 4.
A visit to the aquarium allows you to observe tropical fish, corals, and other marine species up close, offering a fun and educational experience for the whole family. - From L’Hermitage to Saint-Leu, passing through Le Port, the Réunion coastline offers ideal spots for relaxing walks and friendly picnics, suitable for the whole family. Take the opportunity to unwind by the water, admire the scenery, breathe in the sea air, and share delicious meals in nature, while discovering the unique charm of Réunion’s coastline.
Where to stay in the west of Réunion Island?
Stay at Iloha Seaview Hotel
Choosing Iloha Seaview Hotel ensures a stay in a unique tropical setting with breathtaking ocean views. Ideally located for easy access to beaches, water activities, and nature excursions, the hotel suits both couples and families, offering comfort and close proximity to everything the west of Réunion Island has to offer. The rooms and accommodations are varied to meet all needs: standard rooms, Tropique bungalows, Kitchenette bungalows, Guétali rooms, and modernized Family bungalows. For the ultimate relaxation, the Cas’Akéa spa, open daily from 9:00 AM to 7:00 PM, offers tailor-made treatments such as Baby Soon, Zen Équilibre, and Coquillage by Akéa, for a complete wellness experience in the heart of the hotel.
A week in the west of Réunion Island
Day 1: Check-in and discovery of Saint-Leu – Take advantage of your arrival to explore the charm of the town and visit emblematic places such as Kélonia, the sea turtle conservation center.
Day 2: Beach and lagoon – Relax at L’Hermitage lagoon, ideal for snorkeling and observing marine life.
Day 3: Water activity – Try scuba diving or other water sports to discover the ocean from a different perspective.
Day 4: Local market and gastronomy – Immerse yourself in Réunionese culture by visiting the Saint-Leu market and tasting local specialties.
Day 5: Nature excursion – Head out on an adventure to Piton Maïdo to admire spectacular views over the Mafate cirque and the surrounding mountains.
Day 6: Thrills or relaxation – Treat yourself to an activity such as paragliding in Saint-Leu, or simply enjoy some relaxing downtime.
Day 7: Rest and discovery of the surroundings – End the week gently, with walks, beach time, and discovering the hidden gems of the region.
A week in the west of Réunion Island
Jour 1 : Installation et découverte de Saint-Leu – Profitez de votre arrivée pour explorer le charme de la ville et visiter des lieux emblématiques comme Kélonia, le centre dédié aux tortues marines.
Day 2: Beach and lagoon – Relax at L’Hermitage lagoon, ideal for snorkeling and observing marine life.
Day 3: Water activity – Try scuba diving or other water sports to discover the ocean from a different perspective.
Day 4: Local market and gastronomy – Immerse yourself in Réunionese culture by visiting the Saint-Leu market and tasting local specialties.
Day 5: Nature excursion – Head out on an adventure to Piton Maïdo to admire spectacular views over the Mafate cirque and the surrounding mountains.
Day 6: Thrills or relaxation – Treat yourself to an activity such as paragliding in Saint-Leu, or simply enjoy some relaxing downtime.
Day 7: Rest and discovery of the surroundings – End the week gently, with walks, beach time, and discovering the hidden gems of the region.