Réunion Island is a French overseas department that offers a spectacular blend of natural beauty and rich culture. With its dramatic volcanic landscapes and vibrant Creole culture, Réunion stands out as a destination that caters not only to adventure seekers but also to families looking for an enriching, safe, and memorable getaway.
One of the island’s greatest appeals for families is the sheer variety of activities that can be enjoyed together.
Kids and parents alike will marvel at the lunar-like scenery of Piton de la Fournaise, one of the world’s most active volcanoes, or explore the stunning waterfalls and emerald forests of Cirque de Salazie.
Beach-loving families will find paradise along the calm, reef-protected shores of L’Hermitage Lagoon, ideal for swimming and snorkelling. Cultural experiences abound too, from sampling street-side samosas and Creole curries to visiting bustling markets and Hindu temples.
Réunion is also known for its safety and well-developed infrastructure, including modern healthcare, quality roads, and French-standard amenities. This makes it a reassuring choice for families travelling with young children or teens. We offer luxury and budget Reunion packages tailored to your preferences, ensuring an unforgettable tropical escape.
But what truly makes a resort family-friendly on Réunion? It’s more than just a pool and a kids’ menu. The best family resorts offer spacious accommodation and child-friendly facilities like shallow pools and playgrounds, and thoughtful extras like babysitting services, kids’ clubs, or flexible dining options. Proximity to beaches, nature trails, and family-friendly attractions can also make all the difference. In this article, we will discuss the best family-friendly resorts in Reunion.
Best Family-Friendly Resorts in Réunion
When it comes to travelling with children, choosing the right resort can make all the difference. We’ve rounded up five of the best family-friendly resorts in Réunion that go the extra mile to ensure comfort and convenience for every member of the family.
From spacious rooms and kiddie pools to nearby nature attractions and beach access, these resorts offer the perfect blend of adventure and relaxation.
1. Le Dina Morgabine Saint Gilles
Set above the seaside town of Saint-Gilles-les-Bains, Le Dina Morgabine is a colourful and contemporary resort known for its laid-back vibe and great value. Families will love the spacious rooms with kitchenettes, the outdoor swimming pool, and the panoramic views of the Indian Ocean.
- Family amenities: Family rooms, pool area, mini-golf, table tennis.
- Nearby attractions: L’Hermitage Lagoon (safe for swimming), Aquarium de La Réunion, and local markets.
- Dining: The on-site restaurant offers diverse cuisine with options suitable for children.
- Why it’s ideal: It’s well-located near one of Réunion’s calmest beaches and offers both fun and comfort for families on a budget.
2. La Villa Delisle
Situated right on the beachfront in Saint-Pierre, La Villa Delisle is a chic resort that blends Creole charm with modern comfort. Its central location makes it an excellent base for exploring Réunion’s southern coast.
- Family amenities: Comfortable family rooms, lagoon-style pool, and walkable location.
- Nearby attractions: Saint-Pierre Beach, local botanical gardens, and the lively Saturday market.
- Dining: A French-Creole fusion restaurant with kid-friendly menu options and flexible dining times.
- Why it’s ideal: Everything is within reach — beach, shops, restaurants — making this a highly convenient choice for families with younger kids.
3. Le Saint Pierre
A practical and centrally located hotel in the heart of Saint-Pierre, Le Saint Pierre is ideal for families wanting affordability, accessibility, and simplicity. While it may not have as many resort-style amenities, its location and comfort make up for it.
- Family amenities: Self-catering studios, small outdoor pool, and daily housekeeping.
- Nearby attractions: Saint-Pierre waterfront promenade, beach playgrounds, and easy access to nearby excursions.
- Dining: On-site café and numerous restaurants within walking distance.
- Why it’s ideal: Perfect for families who prefer to explore during the day and return to a calm, comfortable base at night.
What to Look for in a Family Resort in Réunion
Choosing a family-friendly resort goes beyond the surface appeal. Here’s what we recommend looking for:
- Family rooms or interleading suites. Spacious accommodation with multiple beds or connected rooms can greatly reduce travel stress.
- Childcare and kids’ activities. Look for resorts that offer supervised activities, kids’ clubs, or at least open spaces for play.
- Proximity to beaches or nature reserves. Easy access to safe swimming beaches or nature excursions is a huge plus.
- Safety and accessibility. Resorts with enclosed grounds, lifeguards at pools, and accessible facilities give parents peace of mind.
- On-site restaurants with kid-friendly menus. Dining becomes more enjoyable when there’s something on the menu for everyone — especially picky eaters!
Kid-Friendly Activities Near the Resorts
Réunion Island is bursting with adventure, nature, and culture, and many of its most memorable experiences are perfect for curious young minds. The best part? Many of these attractions are located close to the family-friendly resorts we’ve recommended, making it easy to plan fun-filled outings with minimal travel time.
Snorkeling at Hermitage Lagoon
Located along the western coast near Saint-Gilles-les-Bains, Hermitage Lagoon is one of Réunion’s most family-friendly beach spots. Protected by a coral reef, the calm, shallow waters here are ideal for kids who want to try snorkelling for the first time.
Brightly coloured fish, corals, and sea cucumbers can be spotted just metres from shore. With lifeguards on duty, nearby ice cream stands, and shady spots for a picnic, it’s a safe and enjoyable environment for a full family beach day. Resorts like Le Dina Morgabine Saint Gilles are just a short drive from this beautiful beach.
Visiting Kelonia Turtle Centre
A must-see for animal lovers, Kelonia Turtle Centre in Saint-Leu is part aquarium, part rehabilitation centre, and part educational exhibit. It offers a hands-on learning experience where children can see endangered sea turtles up close, understand the impact of plastic on marine life, and learn about ocean conservation efforts.
Interactive displays and viewing tanks keep younger visitors entertained, while older kids can appreciate the environmental message. This attraction is conveniently close to Iloha Seaview Hotel, making it a great half-day outing.
Volcano and Waterfall Adventures
Réunion’s volcanic landscape offers a natural playground for young explorers. A family-friendly drive up to Piton de la Fournaise takes you to lunar-like craters and scenic viewpoints that feel like stepping onto another planet.
There are several easy walking trails along the rim that are manageable even for children. In the south of the island, Cascade Langevin and Grand Galet Falls provide safe picnic areas and shallow pools where kids can splash around in a stunning natural setting. Families staying at Palm Hotel & Spa or La Villa Delisle have easy access to these southern highlights.
Forest Hikes and Wildlife Tours
For families who enjoy walking and wildlife, Réunion’s interior rainforests offer shaded trails, cool temperatures, and plenty of chances to spot birds, butterflies, and even chameleons.
The Bélouve Forest near Salazie has beginner-friendly trails through fern-filled woodlands and misty ravines. If your family is up for it, guided nature walks are available that include storytelling and identification of native plants and animals. These are particularly fun and educational for school-aged children and teens.
Cultural Sites with Educational Appeal
Réunion’s rich cultural tapestry is a blend of African, Indian, Chinese, and French influences — and there are many ways for families to explore this heritage.
In Saint-Denis, older children may enjoy visiting the Musée Léon Dierx or the Natural History Museum housed in colonial buildings. In Saint-Pierre, visit the Hindu temples adorned with bright statues, or stroll through local markets filled with exotic spices and Creole treats.
These experiences offer great opportunities to spark conversations about history, religion, and diversity in a hands-on way.
Tips for Travelling to Réunion as a Family
Planning a family holiday to Réunion is an exciting adventure. From what to pack to how to get around, here are some helpful tips to keep your family comfortable and safe while exploring this stunning island.
What to Pack
Réunion’s varied landscape means you’ll need to pack for both beach days and mountain adventures. Essentials for families include:
- Lightweight clothing for warm coastal areas and layers or jackets for cooler highland regions.
- Sun protection: sunscreen, wide-brimmed hats, sunglasses, and rash vests for water activities.
- Comfortable walking shoes or sandals for hikes and sightseeing.
- Swimwear and reef shoes for safe lagoon swimming and snorkelling.
- A basic first aid kit, mosquito repellent, and any necessary medications (pharmacies are well-stocked, but it’s good to be prepared).
- Reusable water bottles and snack containers, especially helpful during long car trips or nature excursions with kids.
Getting Around the Island with Kids
While Réunion has a decent public transport system, it’s not always convenient for families with young children or full itineraries. The best way to explore the island at your own pace is by renting a car — especially if you plan to visit inland areas like the Cirques or Piton de la Fournaise.
- Child car seats can be rented with your vehicle, but book them in advance.
- Roads are generally in good condition, but some mountain passes are winding — pack motion sickness tablets if needed.
- Plan your days with breaks at beaches, playgrounds, or scenic picnic spots to keep kids refreshed and entertained.
Health and Safety Tips
Réunion is considered a safe and healthy destination for families, but a few simple precautions can make your trip even smoother:
- Tap water is safe to drink across the island.
- No mandatory vaccines are required for travel, but it’s wise to ensure children are up to date with routine immunisations.
- There are occasional outbreaks of mosquito-borne illnesses like dengue — use repellent and sleep with a fan or air conditioning if available.
- Emergency services are efficient and hospitals offer French-standard healthcare.
- Always apply sunscreen generously and reapply after swimming — the tropical sun can be intense even on cloudy days.
Language and Cultural Considerations
Réunion is a French overseas territory, so French is the official language, and Creole is widely spoken. While English is not spoken everywhere, staff at major resorts and tourist attractions usually have some level of English. It’s helpful to learn a few basic French phrases, especially when navigating small towns or local eateries.
Culturally, Réunion is incredibly welcoming and diverse, with a peaceful blend of ethnicities and religions. Families will appreciate the island’s warm hospitality and easy-going atmosphere. Children are adored, and you’ll often find locals ready to offer help, directions, or a friendly smile.
