Things to do · Destination Guide
Volcanic reef diving, serious apnea and carefully regulated lagoons on Reunion's west coast.
Pick an activity mode to compare signature sites, skill fit, and gear planning notes before you lock your trip.
Saint-Gilles is a practical base for supervised discovery dives, courses and certified diver boat trips. Searun lists introductory and guided profiles at its Saint-Gilles departure point. At Saint-Leu, Bleu Ocean advertises training and deeper dives including Pointe au Sel. Expect volcanic terrain, reefs, select wrecks and turtles as possibilities, not guaranteed sightings. The marine reserve says most sites need a boat and sanctuary zones are off limits.
Cap La Houssaye
Often highlighted by local tourism for approachable volcanic reef diving from the Saint-Gilles side; individual beginner suitability rests with the instructor and conditions.
Sec Jaune (Saint-Leu)
A west-coast reef described in the regional tourism dive selection; site choice and skill requirements vary with the exact mooring and sea state.
Pointe au Sel
Characteristic Saint-Leu deep volcanic drop-off, listed in operator exploration programs.
Antonio Lorenzo wreck
A well-known deeper Saint-Leu wreck in local operator material, not a default introductory or penetration dive.
Operator Checklist
Book with an established licensed Saint-Gilles or Saint-Leu operator, then reconfirm 24-48 hours ahead. Searun publishes example prices of EUR 85 for a baptism and EUR 65 for guided exploration, with gear and liability cover stated as included; these are not live availability promises or personal-accident insurance. Carry original certificate, log, medical declarations and previous dive history. Discuss orientation, partner/non-diver pickup, tank gases, appropriate course recognition, rescue oxygen, current reserve access, and postponement terms. Most dives are boat departures; do not infer shore access from a named reef.
Conditions Fallback
Avoid