Réunion, an island paradise in the Indian Ocean, promises adventure, relaxation, and natural beauty. The Vanilla Coast, located along the island's western shoreline, is one of the most scenic regions of Réunion, offering a variety of pristine beaches, impressive waterfalls, and stunning lagoons. If you want to relax on the beach, hike to a breathtaking waterfall, or enjoy marine activities in a tranquil lagoon, the Vanilla Coast offers something for everyone.
In this blog, we’ll guide you through the top spots along the Vanilla Coast, showcasing must-see beaches, stunning waterfalls, and beautiful lagoons. We’ll also explain why renting a car in Réunion is the ideal way to explore this beautiful region.
Réunion’s Vanilla Coast is often regarded as one of the most stunning parts of the island, providing a unique combination of natural wonders and vibrant culture. This part of the island is known for its lush vegetation, dramatic landscapes, and diverse wildlife. From golden sandy beaches to powerful waterfalls, every corner of the Vanilla Coast offers something new and exciting.
Beyond its natural beauty, the Vanilla Coast is also home to a fascinating mix of cultures, with French and Creole influences shaping the region's food, language, and architecture. Whether you want to relax by the sea, indulge in local delicacies, or explore the island's hidden treasures, the Vanilla Coast offers an experience like no other. The best way to make the most of your trip is by renting a car in Réunion, which lets you explore the region at your own pace.
Located near Saint-Gilles-les-Bains, Boucan Canot is one of the most popular and vibrant beaches on the Vanilla Coast. With its golden sand, clear blue waters, and consistent waves, Boucan Canot is perfect for relaxation and adventure. If you’re looking to sunbathe, swim, surf, or bodyboard, this beach has something for everyone.
The beach is protected by a natural coral reef, creating calm waters ideal for swimming. Boucan Canot has a lively atmosphere, with plenty of nearby restaurants, cafés, and shops offering delicious Creole cuisine and refreshing drinks. Whether you’re looking for a quick snack or a full meal, you’ll find something to suit your taste. As one of the most popular beaches on the island, Boucan Canot is a perfect spot to enjoy Réunion’s beach culture.
If you’re after a quieter, more relaxed beach experience, L'Hermitage Beach is the place to go. Located just west of Boucan Canot, this beach is known for its calm, shallow waters, making it ideal for families and those looking for a peaceful spot to unwind. The beach is lined with lush palm trees and features a long stretch of soft sand, perfect for strolling or relaxing. One of the highlights of L'Hermitage Beach is its lagoon, which is sheltered by a coral reef and teeming with colourful marine life.
The lagoon is an excellent spot for snorkelling, where you can observe tropical fish, sea turtles, and vibrant coral formations. You can swim, snorkel, or enjoy a peaceful afternoon by the sea—L'Hermitage Beach provides a relaxing experience amidst beautiful surroundings.
For those seeking a more secluded beach experience, Grande Anse is a hidden gem along the Vanilla Coast. Situated near the village of Petite-Île, this beach is less crowded than the more famous Boucan Canot and L'Hermitage, making it a perfect escape for travellers looking for peace and tranquillity. The beach is surrounded by dramatic cliffs, dense vegetation, and a stunning natural landscape, offering a serene and scenic setting.
Though the waves at Grande Anse can be powerful and make swimming challenging, the beach is perfect for sunbathing, taking photos, or enjoying a picnic. The area is home to a few local food stalls serving fresh seafood and traditional Creole dishes, so you can enjoy an authentic taste of Réunion as you relax by the sea. Grande Anse is an excellent choice if you're looking for a quiet spot to enjoy nature and unwind.
Réunion is known for its dramatic waterfalls, and the Vanilla Coast is no exception. The island is often called the Island of Waterfalls, and there are several stunning cascades that you can visit along this part of the coast. Some waterfalls require a short hike, while others are easily accessible by car, making them perfect for a day trip.
Located in the south of Réunion, near Saint-Pierre, the Cascade de Takamaka is one of the island’s most beautiful waterfalls. You’ll need to take a short hike through the lush rainforest to reach the waterfall, but the effort is well worth it. The waterfall plunges into a large natural pool, and the surrounding area is filled with tropical plants and towering trees, creating a serene atmosphere.
The waterfall is perfect for a refreshing swim, and the surrounding forest offers an excellent opportunity for nature walks. The Cascade de Takamaka is a fantastic spot to spend the day in nature, enjoying the sights and sounds of one of Réunion’s most scenic spots.
Another must-see waterfall on the Vanilla Coast is the Cascade de Grand Galet. Situated in the Plaine des Palmistes region, this spectacular waterfall features multiple tiers of cascading water, creating a dramatic and scenic view. The waterfall is surrounded by lush forests, making it an excellent spot for nature lovers and photographers.
To reach the Cascade de Grand Galet, you’ll need to drive through scenic mountain roads. Renting a car in Réunion makes it easy to access this remote location. The best time to visit is during the rainy season, as the waterfall’s flow is at its most impressive, making for a powerful and breathtaking sight.
Located near Cilaos, the Cascade de la Rivière des Roches is another popular waterfall on the Vanilla Coast. This waterfall is known for its large pool at the base, where visitors can swim after a short hike. The surrounding forest is full of exotic flora and fauna, making the hike to the waterfall an enjoyable and scenic journey.
The Cascade de la Rivière des Roches is ideal for a peaceful day in nature. The waterfall is in a quiet area, away from the crowds, and offers a chance to experience Réunion’s wild beauty at its best.
The Vanilla Coast is home to some of the most beautiful lagoons in Réunion, where visitors can enjoy swimming, snorkelling, and other water activities. The coral reefs surrounding these lagoons are teeming with marine life, making them a paradise for underwater enthusiasts.
The Lagoon of Saint-Gilles is among the most popular and easily accessible lagoons in Réunion. Protected by a coral reef, its calm, clear waters make it ideal for swimming, snorkelling, and enjoying vibrant marine life, including coral, tropical fish, and occasional sea turtles.
In addition to snorkelling and swimming, the lagoon provides options for water sports like kayaking and paddleboarding. For those eager to dive deeper, scuba tours let you uncover more of Réunion’s incredible underwater world.
Just a short distance from L'Hermitage Beach, the Lagoon of L'Hermitage is another ideal spot for snorkelling and swimming. The shallow waters are perfect for families and beginners, and the lagoon is home to various marine species, including colourful fish and coral. The water is calm and clear, offering excellent visibility for snorkelling.
The Lagoon of L'Hermitage is ideal for a relaxing boat ride or paddleboarding. If you’re seeking a peaceful spot to enjoy the beauty of Réunion’s coastline, this lagoon is the perfect place.
One of the best ways to explore the Vanilla Coast is by renting a car. While public transport is available, having your vehicle allows you to visit all the key attractions at your own pace. With a rental car, you can conveniently drive between beaches, waterfalls, and lagoons and uncover hidden spots that may be hard to reach by bus or taxi.
Renting a car is also cost-effective, as it lets you plan your itinerary without worrying about public transport schedules. You can stop wherever you like, take scenic routes, and make the most of your time on the island. Whether visiting remote beaches, hiking to waterfalls, or exploring the island’s natural beauty, a rental car makes it easy to enjoy everything Réunion offers.
At Finalrentals, we offer a wide range of vehicles to suit every type of traveller. From compact cars for short trips to larger vehicles for family adventures, we have the perfect car for you. Renting a car with Finalrentals is simple, affordable, and hassle-free. Book online today and get ready to explore Réunion's stunning Vanilla Coast in comfort and stle!
By following this itinerary and taking full advantage of a rental car, you can experience the best of Réunion's Vanilla Coast, from its serene beaches and impressive waterfalls to its colourful lagoons and lush landscapes. With freedom and flexibility, the Vanilla Coast awaits, ready to provide you with unforgettable memories.
