Plage de l'Étang-Salé, Volcanic beach in L'Étang-Salé, Réunion, France
Plage de l'Étang-Salé is a black sand beach on Réunion's southwestern coast with turquoise waters protected by coral reefs. The two-kilometer stretch is lined with Australian pine trees and features the volcanic sand typical of the island.
The beach was formed by Réunion's volcanic geology, with the southern section hosting a working harbor since the 1870s. This port continues to serve both fishing and recreational boats today.
The beach serves as a gathering place where locals swim, boat, and celebrate Creole traditions. The ocean and coast shape daily life and reflect how the community connects with the sea.
Marked swimming zones with buoys and anti-shark nets keep swimmers safe in designated areas monitored by lifeguards. Wear shoes as the volcanic sand becomes very hot in direct sun.
The volcanic sand heats up so intensely during the day that bare feet become uncomfortable within minutes. This feature makes the beach distinctive and affects how visitors actually experience their time there.
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