

Best for beginner divers, 1-3m, shore entry, moderate current.
Plage Des Roches Noires is a shore-access snorkeling site located at Cap La Houssaye in Reunion. The site features a combination of reef and artificial reef structures, with depths ranging from 1 to 3 metres and an average of 2 metres. Visibility typically reaches 9 to 10 metres. Due to the open ocean exposure, snorkeling is restricted to periods of low swell and must be conducted within the designated shark net area. The site is suitable for beginners, though users should be aware of hazards including surf, strong currents, sharp coral, and sea urchins. Facilities available at the beach include parking, showers, changing rooms, and a cafe.
-21.05467, 55.22334
Get into the water to the far left of the beach, near the marina breakwater, to be closer to the rocky areas where there are the most fish.
Located in downtown Saint-Gilles-les-Bains, adjoining the north dike of the marina. Swimming and snorkeling are only allowed in the area protected by the shark net during supervised hours, generally 10 a.m. to 5.30 p.m.
Recorded at this site
Depth
Up to 3m
Visibility
9-10m
Skill Level
Beginner
Entry
Shore
Water Temp
24-28°C
Current
Moderate
Typical Dive
60 min
Yes, the site is rated as suitable for beginners with an average depth of 2 metres.
Yes, this is a snorkel site with a rating of 4 out of 5, provided conditions are calm and you remain within the shark net.
The depth ranges between 1 and 3 metres, with an average depth of 2 metres.
Access to the water is from the shore.
Divers and snorkellers should be cautious of surf, strong currents, sharp coral, and sea urchins.
A 3mm wetsuit is recommended for diving at Plage Des Roches Noires in Saint-Gilles-les-Bains. Water temperatures range from 24°C to 28°C.
Expect moderate currents at Plage Des Roches Noires in Saint-Gilles-les-Bains. Good buoyancy control and some drift diving experience is helpful.
Visibility at Plage Des Roches Noires in Saint-Gilles-les-Bains typically ranges from 9 metres to 10 metres. Conditions vary with weather, tides, and seasons.