Réunion Island offers families a perfect mix of natural beauty, adventure, and cultural experiences. While famous for its dramatic volcanic landscapes, it also features peaceful beaches, lush forests, and quaint villages. Réunion offers a variety of family-friendly activities for all ages, from children to grandparents. Whether you're seeking outdoor adventure, cultural experiences, or a relaxing beach escape, this island has something unique for everyone.
This guide highlights the best family-friendly activities on Réunion Island. From taking in the panoramic views of volcanic craters to cooling off on the beaches, there is no shortage of things to do. Plus, with the convenience of renting a car in Réunion, you’ll have the flexibility to visit the island’s diverse attractions at your own pace.
Réunion Island’s varied landscapes provide endless opportunities for families to connect with nature. The island’s diverse geography, including volcanoes, mountains, waterfalls, and forests, makes it an ideal destination for families who love the outdoors.
One of the island's most famous landmarks, Piton de la Fournaise, is an active volcano that offers families the chance to marvel at one of the world’s most active volcanoes. While the summit is only accessible to experienced hikers, the surrounding area offers plenty of easier trails to explore the volcanic landscape and observe the effects of frequent eruptions.
Children will be fascinated by the craters, lava flows, and the sheer power of nature. The scenic trails are surrounded by lush flora and fauna, making it a perfect spot for a walk. For families with young children, consider visiting the Maison du Volcan, a museum that provides an interactive and educational experience about the island's volcanic origins.
Another must-see destination for families is The Cirque de Mafate, a remote valley surrounded by towering cliffs, only accessible by foot or helicopter. This UNESCO World Heritage site lets families disconnect and experience the island's pristine wilderness. While Mafate can be challenging to reach, there are several starting points where you can go on shorter hikes. Children can enjoy exploring the lush, green landscapes and discovering the small, rural villages dotted throughout the cirque. Alternatively, families can take a helicopter ride for a more leisurely experience and breathtaking aerial views of the dramatic landscape.
Réunion Island’s coastline is another highlight, offering some of the most beautiful and family-friendly beaches in the Indian Ocean. Whether you're looking for calm waters or peaceful spots to unwind, Réunion's beaches have it all.
One of the best family beaches is La Saline-les-Bains, a charming beach located on the west coast of the island. With calm, crystal-clear waters, this beach is ideal for young children and families who want to spend a day swimming, playing in the sand, or enjoying a beachside picnic. The shallow waters are perfect for little ones to splash around while parents can relax under the sun or enjoy nearby cafés. La Saline-les-Bains also offers a variety of water sports, including snorkelling, kayaking, and paddleboarding, so families can choose the activity that best suits their interests. A short drive from the beach, you will find plenty of restaurants serving local Creole cuisine, so you can enjoy a delicious meal while overlooking the ocean.
For those seeking a unique beach experience, Étang-Salé Beach, with its famous black sand, is a must-visit. Located on the south coast of Réunion, this beach offers a different vibe with its stunning volcanic sand and calm lagoon. It's an excellent location for families who want to enjoy a more peaceful day by the sea. Encircled by lush greenery, the beach offers a calm and serene atmosphere. Nearby, families can explore the Étang-Salé Forest, where walking trails provide an opportunity to connect with nature.
Réunion’s natural parks and wildlife reserves offer a fantastic opportunity for families to experience the island’s flora and fauna up close. From hiking through dense forests to visiting animal sanctuaries and exploring botanical gardens, there are plenty of ways for families to learn about the island's diverse ecosystems.
Réunion National Park, one of the island's most important protected areas, is perfect for families who want to explore the island's natural beauty. The park features various trails that cater to all fitness levels, making it suitable for families with children. Along these trails, you can discover the island’s endemic plant species, observe colourful birds, and enjoy panoramic views of the mountains and coastline. A highlight of the park is the Cascades de Takamaka, a beautiful waterfall in the heart of the national park.
Families can hike to the waterfall, swim in the natural pools, and enjoy a picnic in the serene surroundings. For families interested in learning more about Réunion's biodiversity, a visit to the Jardin de l'État in Saint-Denis is recommended. This botanical garden, established in the 19th century, is home to a diverse range of tropical plants, many of which are native to Réunion. The garden offers a peaceful setting to stroll, observe the island’s unique flora, and enjoy the lush greenery. Children can participate in educational activities, and there are also several playgrounds within the garden, making it a fun stop for younger visitors.
Réunion Island is a natural wonder and a cultural hub with a rich blend of French, African, Indian, and Chinese influences. Exploring the island's towns and markets allows families to experience its unique heritage.
The capital city of Saint-Denis is a great place to start. Strolling through its colourful streets, you’ll see a mix of Creole houses, colonial buildings, and bustling markets. Families can walk through the Marché Forain, where you can sample local produce, spices, and delicious street food. The market is lively, filled with sights and smells that captivate children and adults alike. The Musée Léon Dierx, located in Saint-Denis, provides an excellent introduction to the island’s history and art. The museum houses a collection of works from Réunion’s colonial period and contemporary art that reflects the island’s diverse cultural influences.
For a more interactive experience, consider visiting the Musée de la Saga du Rhum, in Saint-André. This museum provides an engaging look into the history of rum production on the island, which has played a key role in Réunion’s economy for centuries. The museum is family-friendly and offers tastings for adults, while younger visitors can enjoy learning about the process of rum-making through interactive exhibits.
While Réunion Island is small enough to explore, renting a car is one of the most convenient ways to get around and see the island’s top attractions. Public transport on the island is limited, and the best way to explore Réunion's varied landscapes, hidden beaches, and remote locations is with the freedom and flexibility of a rental car.
Renting a car in Réunion is simple and budget-friendly with Finalrentals. We offer a wide range of vehicles, perfect for families of all sizes. From compact cars ideal for city tours to larger 4x4s for off-road adventures, you will find the perfect ride to suit your needs. With your rental car, you can plan your days however you like, whether hiking a volcano in the morning or unwinding on the beach in the afternoon.
One of the biggest advantages of renting a car is the freedom to explore Réunion at your own pace. With attractions scattered across the island, having a rental car makes it easy to visit multiple locations in one day. The well-maintained roads and scenic routes add to the enjoyment of the journey, making the trip as memorable as the destinations themselves.
Whether driving through the lush forests of the west coast or along the coastal roads with panoramic ocean views, every drive on Réunion offers a new adventure. To rent a car in Réunion, visit Finalrentals and select the perfect vehicle for your family. Finalrentals provides various options, affordable prices, and simple booking, guaranteeing a hassle-free car rental experience.
Réunion Island is the perfect destination for families looking to enjoy various activities in a beautiful, natural setting. With volcanoes, waterfalls, serene beaches, and quaint villages, Réunion offers something for everyone. Whether you're after adventure, culture, or relaxation, renting a car lets you explore at your own pace and enjoy it all.
Plan your family-friendly adventure in Réunion today and create unforgettable memories on this stunning island. Don't forget to rent a car in Réunion to make the most of your time there and to discover the island's hidden treasures.
