Paddle and Kayak on Reunion Island: Paddle in a Volcanic Natural Setting

Want to explore Reunion Island in a different way, from the water? Whether you're a stand-up paddleboarder or kayaker, this volcanic island offers spectacular seascapes to explore by paddle.

From the turquoise lagoons of the west to the wild coves of the east coast, Réunion Island is a prime destination for gentle water sports, accessible to all.

Paddle and Kayak on Reunion Island

Why go paddleboarding or kayaking in Reunion Island?

Reunion Island combines a diversity of landscapes , warm waters all year round and well-developed tourist infrastructure . It is ideal for paddleboarding and kayaking, with:

• Protected lagoons for safe gliding

• Rocky and volcanic coasts to explore by sea kayak

• Varied experiences: walking, observing the seabed, exploring nature

• A tropical climate favorable to practice all year round

The richness of its ecosystems (corals, mangroves, birds, turtles) also makes it a privileged destination for immersion in the heart of Reunion's marine biodiversity.

The Best Paddle and Kayak Spots in Reunion Island

Paddle and Kayak on Reunion Island

🌴 1. The Hermitage Lagoon (Saint-Gilles-les-Bains)

Undoubtedly the most popular spot for renting a paddleboard in Reunion Island. Protected by the coral reef, this turquoise lagoon is ideal for:

• Paddle safely in a calm environment

• Observe tropical fish and corals

• Learn stand-up paddleboarding with family or as a couple

Beach clubs offer paddleboard and kayak rentals, sometimes with supervised excursions or sunset sessions.

🌊 2. Saint-Leu and Pointe au Sel beach

Less frequented than Saint-Gilles, Saint-Leu offers a larger and slightly more invigorating body of water:

• Paddle for intermediate level with light chop

• Sea kayaking to explore the rocky coast and waves

• Breathtaking views of the Indian Ocean and sunsets

Nautical clubs are well established there, with hourly or daily rentals.

🪷 3. Saint-Paul Pond: Preserved nature and a Zen atmosphere

The island's first RAMSAR site, the Étang de Saint-Paul is a gem for lovers of gentle nature . It's the perfect place to paddle away from the hustle and bustle of the sea:

• Kayak or paddleboard navigation in a mangrove setting

• Bird watching, water lilies and lush vegetation

• Peaceful atmosphere, accessible to all

🌅 4. The Saint-Pierre Lagoon: Paddle & snorkeling on the program

In the south of the island, the Saint-Pierre lagoon seduces with its clarity and tranquility. It's a perfect spot for:

• Rent a paddleboard for a solo or duo outing

• Kayaking in easy conditions

• Combine paddle and mask/snorkel (snorkeling)

There are many service providers around the marina and the beach.

🌋 5. Sainte-Rose and the Wild Coast: Adventure Kayaking

For those who love thrills and volcanic landscapes, head east. The wild coast of Sainte-Rose offers a unique kayaking experience:

• Exploration of volcanic coves inaccessible on foot

• Guaranteed thrills on a rougher sea

• Supervised outings highly recommended

This spot is reserved for the more experienced or as part of guided outings.

Where to rent a kayak or paddleboard in Reunion Island?

Throughout the island, specialized rental companies offer easy access to stand-up paddleboarding and sea kayaking . The best-equipped areas are:

• Saint-Gilles-les-Bains : numerous nautical clubs in the lagoon

• Saint-Leu : service providers near the port or the beach

• Saint-Pierre : free or supervised rental with city view

• Saint-Paul Pond : eco-tourism structures

• Sainte-Rose : supervised kayak trips

  
  

The majority offer rental by the hour, half-day or full day , with single paddle, tandem, single or double kayak .

Paddle & Kayak in Reunion: The tropical version of the water sports experience

Whether you dream of a gentle glide on a crystal-clear lagoon, a moment of serenity in the heart of a mangrove swamp, or a sporty exploration at the foot of volcanic cliffs, Reunion Island offers all the facets of paddleboarding and kayaking.

🎯 Solo, as a couple or with family, let yourself be carried away by the warm waters of the Indian Ocean and discover the intense island from a different point of view.

❓ Where can you paddleboard safely in Reunion Island for beginners?

The Hermitage Lagoon in Saint-Gilles-les-Bains is the ideal place for your first paddleboarding experience. Its calm, shallow waters are perfect for learning in peace and quiet.

❓ Where is the best place to rent a transparent kayak in Reunion Island?

In Saint-Pierre and l'Ermitage , some rental companies offer transparent kayaks to observe the corals and tropical fish directly under your boat.

❓ Can you paddleboard on the Saint-Paul Pond in Reunion Island?

Yes, the Étang de Saint-Paul is a peaceful nature destination ideal for stand-up paddleboarding in the heart of a nature reserve , among mangroves and exotic birds.

❓ Where to practice sea kayaking on the wild coast of Reunion Island?

The Sainte-Rose area, on the east coast of Reunion Island, is renowned for its volcanic cliffs and secret coves , ideal for a sea kayaking adventure.

❓ Which beaches are best suited for stand-up paddleboarding in Reunion Island?

The beaches of Saint-Leu , Saint-Gilles-les-Bains , L'Étang-Salé-les-Bains and La Saline offer calm waters ideal for practicing paddleboarding in complete safety.

❓ Where to rent a paddleboard for a sunset outing in Reunion Island?

The lagoon of Saint-Leu and that of Saint-Pierre are perfect for a paddleboard trip at sunset , with rental companies offering slots at the end of the day.

❓ Can you paddleboard in pairs (tandem SUP) in Reunion Island?

Yes, several providers in Saint-Gilles and Saint-Leu offer tandem paddleboard rental , perfect for couples or for paddling with a child.

❓ Are there guided kayak tours in Reunion Island?

Guided kayak tours are offered in the Étang de Saint-Paul , but also on the east coast towards Sainte-Rose , with experienced guides to discover the local flora and fauna.

❓ Where to observe sea turtles while paddleboarding in Reunion Island?

In the Saint-Leu lagoon , it is possible to see green turtles while paddling, especially early in the morning or at the end of the day.

❓ What is the average price to rent a paddleboard in Reunion Island?

Expect to pay an average of €15 to €20 per hour for a paddleboard rental on the beaches of Saint-Gilles , Saint-Leu or Saint-Pierre . Half-day packages are also available.

❓ Where is the best place to combine paddleboarding and snorkeling in Reunion Island?

The La Saline-les-Bains lagoon offers stand-up paddleboarding and snorkeling in a protected area rich in coral and fish.

❓ Where to go kayaking in the calm waters of Reunion Island?

Besides the lagoon, the Étang de Bois Rouge , near Saint-André , is a quiet and little-known alternative for a kayaking session in the great outdoors.

• Saint Rose.

• Salazie.

• Saint Peter.

• Piton de la Fournaise.

• Cilaos Circus.

• The Hermitage Baths.

• The Maido.

• The Saline les Bains.