The Creole word for children is ‘marmailles’. Whether on land or in the water, Reunion is one enormous playground for them. The island’s relief and warm climate make it a paradise for fun outdoor activities. Its history is also packed with legends, opening up kids’ imaginations to a whole new world.

Reunion may be in the middle of the Indian Ocean, but it is French territory and has a modern sanitary infrastructure to go with it. You need no vaccinations and families can spend their holidays here in total security. The only real risk is sun burn!

On the beach and in the water...

The real playground for the kids kicks off on the beach and in the water, the quality of which has been certified as excellent. The water in the lagoon is shallow so they won’t go out of their depth, and all they need is a mask and snorkel to enter the realm of this huge natural aquarium. Triggerfish, tick fish, trumpet fish and even clownfish offer a myriad of colours and a world of underwater magic. If you want to put a name to all these funny fish, you can find little booklets in some bookshops.

It’s possible to do guided tours of the Aquarium in St-Gilles, an underwater tour of the lagoon at Ermitage or the Kelonia Turtle Sanctuary in St Leu. The more enthusiastic among you might like to have a go at diving (6 years and above).

All aboard! In the port of St Gilles, kids can take little boats out, take the helm and play pirates.

There’s also plenty of fun to be had at the Akoatys water park in Etang-Salé.