Lagon de l'Ermitage - Image 1
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Hermitage Lagoon Saint-Gilles

4.8
·58 reviews·Saint-Paul, Réunion

A tranquil lagoon protected by a coral reef, offering crystal-clear waters perfect for swimming and snorkeling amongst vibrant fish.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Early mornings

Best fish sightings & fewer crowds

CrowdLow
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Lagon de l'Ermitage - Image 1

Hermitage Lagoon Saint-Gilles

Best Time

Early mornings

Best fish sightings & fewer crowds

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A tranquil lagoon protected by a coral reef, offering crystal-clear waters perfect for swimming and snorkeling amongst vibrant fish.

4.8
(58 reviews)

"Beautiful beach where you can swim with a mask and see colorful fish."

Vertical photo
TIP

👟 Water Shoes Essential

Protect your feet from sharp corals! Water shoes are a must for swimming and exploring the lagoon.

🐠 Early Bird Gets the Fish

Visit early morning for the best chance to see diverse fish species in calm waters.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Crystal-Clear Snorkeling Paradise

Crystal-Clear Snorkeling Paradise

Hermitage Lagoon

Swim with vibrant fish in shallow, calm waters protected by a coral reef. A natural aquarium awaits!

Reddit
Shaded Beachfront Bliss

Shaded Beachfront Bliss

Along the lagoon's edge

Relax on a pleasant, albeit narrow, beach shaded by lush trees. Perfect for a leisurely day by the water.

Reddit
Local Flavors by the Sea

Local Flavors by the Sea

Lagoonfront cafes and shops

Enjoy fresh fruit cocktails and delicious crepes from local vendors right on the beach.

TikTok
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Planning Your Visit

Embrace the Coral: Footwear is Key

The crystal-clear waters of Hermitage Lagoon are teeming with colorful fish, making it a fantastic spot for snorkeling. However, the lagoon floor is covered in sharp corals. Pack or buy water shoes to protect your feet and fully enjoy swimming and exploring without discomfort. Reddit

Timing is Everything for Tranquility

While beautiful, Hermitage Lagoon can get busy. For a more serene experience and to spot the most fish, aim for early mornings. This also helps you avoid the midday sun and potential afternoon currents. Reddit

Best Times

When
Early mornings
Why
Best fish sightings & fewer crowds
Crowd
Low
When
Weekdays, mid-morning
Why
Quieter beach time
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Une 🥞crêpe gourmande et un 🍹cocktail de fruits frais avec Ti Délices ? Retrouvez Daryn et ces compositions à tomber sur la plage de l’Hermitage ! 🏬Les commerces, 🎨les activités, 🎡les événements et ℹ️l’actualité de Saint-Gilles : c’est sur 🔗 saintgilleslesbains.com ! #crepes #plage #hermitage #saintgilleslesbains #saintgilles #hermitage #troudeau #actusaintgilleslesbains #otélaréunion #iledelareu...
@saintgilleslesbains.com
15.2K likes • 174.7K views

👟 Water Shoes Essential

Protect your feet from sharp corals! Water shoes are a must for swimming and exploring the lagoon. Reddit

🐠 Early Bird Gets the Fish

Visit early morning for the best chance to see diverse fish species in calm waters. Reddit

#ermitage #bluelagon #blueocean #réunionisland #souslestropiques #naturephotograpy #paysagemagnifique 🏝🌴🌴🌴💙🌞
marie_ct_974_
1.5K likes • 0 views

🚗 Free Parking Available

Convenient and free parking is readily available near the lagoon. Reddit

🍹 Local Treats on the Beach

Don't miss out on fresh fruit cocktails and crepes from beachside vendors. TikTok

Tips

from all over the internet

👟 Water Shoes Essential

Protect your feet from sharp corals! Water shoes are a must for swimming and exploring the lagoon. Reddit

🐠 Early Bird Gets the Fish

Visit early morning for the best chance to see diverse fish species in calm waters. Reddit

🚗 Free Parking Available

Convenient and free parking is readily available near the lagoon. Reddit

🍹 Local Treats on the Beach

Don't miss out on fresh fruit cocktails and crepes from beachside vendors. TikTok

⚠️ Watch for Currents

Be aware of potential currents, especially if the wind shifts. Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.8
(58 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors rave about the crystal-clear waters and abundant fish at Hermitage Lagoon, making it a prime spot for snorkeling and relaxed swimming within its natural reef-protected confines. The convenience of free parking and nearby amenities like cafes and shops adds to its appeal, though the sharp corals underfoot necessitate water shoes for a comfortable experience.

"Nice lagoon where you can do snorkling. But be cautious to wear swim shoes, there have stone fishes in this area."

Sari Kapiainen

"Nice beach.
Shops and market close by."

Hashtagmystore GelistiQ Edenvale

"The water is crystal clear, and there are plenty of fish to observe at shallow depths. Plenty of restaurants and cafes dotted along the lagoon, and parking is easy and free.
What a joy!!!"

philippe marchand

What People Like

Crystal-clear water
Abundant fish
Calm swimming

What People Dislike

Sharp corals

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Hermitage Lagoon is easily accessible by car, with plenty of free parking available nearby. Reddit Public transport options might be limited, so driving is often the most convenient way to reach this beautiful spot. Consider using a navigation app for the best route.

Yes, there is ample and free parking available close to the lagoon, making it easy for visitors to access the beach and amenities. Reddit

Depending on your starting point in Saint-Gilles, walking might be possible, but it can be a significant distance. Driving or taking a short taxi ride is generally recommended for most visitors.

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

No, Hermitage Lagoon is a public beach and lagoon, so there is no entrance fee. You can enjoy the natural beauty and swimming for free. Reddit

As a natural lagoon and beach, there are no official opening or closing hours. It's accessible during daylight hours. However, visiting during daylight is recommended for safety and visibility. Reddit

No advance booking is necessary for general access to the lagoon and beach. You can simply show up. If you plan to dine at a specific restaurant, reservations might be advisable during peak times.

🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience

The main activities include swimming, snorkeling to see colorful fish, relaxing on the shaded beach, and enjoying local food and drinks from nearby vendors. TikTokReddit

Yes, it's an excellent swimming spot due to the protective coral reef creating a calm, shallow, wave-free natural lake. Reddit Just be mindful of the corals underfoot. Reddit

Absolutely! The lagoon is renowned for its clear waters and abundant marine life, making it a fantastic place for snorkeling. Reddit Remember to wear water shoes due to the corals. Reddit

Information regarding lifeguards is not consistently available. It's always best to swim cautiously and be aware of your surroundings, especially considering potential currents. Reddit

Definitely bring water shoes, sunscreen, a hat, swimwear, a towel, and perhaps a snorkel mask. Reddit Staying hydrated is also important.

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

Yes, there are numerous restaurants and cafes dotted along the lagoon, offering a variety of dining options. Reddit

You can find local specialties, fresh fruit cocktails, and delicious crepes from beachside vendors and cafes. TikTok

Prices can vary, but many visitors find the beachfront dining to be reasonably priced, offering good value for the location and experience. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

The crystal-clear turquoise water, the vibrant coral reefs (from above the water), and the lush tropical foliage provide stunning photo opportunities. Instagram

Early mornings offer soft, beautiful light and fewer crowds, making it ideal for capturing serene shots. Reddit The midday sun can be harsh but also creates striking contrasts.

Yes, the clear waters are perfect for underwater photography, especially if you have a waterproof camera or phone case. You'll capture amazing shots of the fish and coral. Instagram

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Hermitage Lagoon is a fantastic destination for families, offering a safe and shallow swimming environment thanks to the protective coral reef. Reddit The calm, wave-free waters are ideal for children to splash and play. However, it's absolutely essential to equip everyone, especially kids, with water shoes to protect their feet from the sharp corals on the lagoon floor. Reddit The abundance of colorful fish also makes it an exciting spot for little ones to discover marine life, turning a simple swim into an educational adventure. Instagram

🐠 Snorkel Enthusiasts

For snorkelers, Hermitage Lagoon is a dream come true. The crystal-clear waters and the natural aquarium effect created by the coral reef mean you'll be swimming alongside a dazzling array of fish. InstagramReddit Early mornings are your best bet for optimal visibility and to see the most active marine life. Reddit Remember to bring your snorkel gear and, crucially, water shoes to navigate the coral-covered seabed safely. Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

Understanding the Lagoon's Unique Environment

Hermitage Lagoon is a natural marvel, formed by a protective coral reef that shields it from the open ocean's waves and potential dangers like sharks. This creates a tranquil, shallow swimming area, akin to a natural swimming pool. Reddit The clarity of the water is exceptional, offering fantastic visibility for observing marine life. However, this same reef system means the lagoon floor is covered in corals, which can be sharp and pose a hazard to bare feet. Reddit

The presence of diverse fish species is a major draw for visitors, transforming the lagoon into a vibrant underwater spectacle. Early mornings are often cited as the best time to witness this activity, as the fish are more active and the water is calmer. Reddit While generally safe for swimming, visitors are advised to be aware of potential currents, especially if the wind conditions change. Reddit This unique ecosystem makes Hermitage Lagoon a must-visit for nature lovers and beachgoers alike.

Navigating the Lagoon: Safety and Comfort

The most crucial piece of advice for enjoying Hermitage Lagoon is to wear water shoes. The abundance of corals, while beautiful, means the lagoon floor can be treacherous for unprotected feet. Reddit Investing in a pair of sturdy water shoes will significantly enhance your comfort and allow you to explore the lagoon without worry. This is a tip frequently shared by locals and experienced visitors alike.

Beyond footwear, understanding the potential for currents is important. While the reef provides a buffer, shifts in wind or tides can create noticeable currents. Reddit It's always wise to stay aware of your surroundings and swim within your capabilities. For those looking to fully immerse themselves in the underwater world, bringing a snorkel mask is highly recommended to get up close with the colorful fish that inhabit the lagoon. Instagram

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