Plage des Roches Noires, Beach in Saint-Paul, Réunion Island, France.
Plage des Roches Noires is a white sand beach on the western coast of Réunion Island, where dark rocks rise from the water and shape the landscape. The seabed slopes down fairly steeply, allowing direct swimming access without coral barriers blocking the way.
The beach formed like much of Réunion's coastline through volcanic activity and was shaped over centuries by erosion and sand deposition. A major storm in 2007 caused significant changes to the shoreline and displaced large amounts of sand.
The beach serves as a gathering place where local families and residents come together, particularly during seasonal celebrations that mark the rhythm of community life. Walking here, you notice how the water and shoreline are woven into everyday gatherings and social moments.
The beach has a supervised swimming zone where lifeguards watch over swimmers daily and maintain safety standards. It is advisable to stay within the marked areas and follow rescue staff instructions for safe swimming.
Unlike many other beaches on the island, this one sits close to the busy town of Saint-Gilles-les-Bains, offering easy access to restaurants and shops. The proximity to town makes it a rare spot where you can enjoy both beach time and the rhythm of local activity.
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