The Surf Window

L'Hermitage

West Coast, Reunion Island

Reef breakIntermediate

A sheltered reef break inside Réunion's lagoon at L'Hermitage, one of the island's safest surfing options, protected by the outer reef and set within a stunning tropical lagoon environment.

Typical Conditions

The Surf Window

Swell Window

N
OptimalW (270°)
WindowSSW–NNW (210°–330°)

Wind

NE

Offshore

Tide

mid-high tide

LowMidHigh

Season

June–August

JFMAMJJASOND

The Wave

Type

Right (primarily)

Bottom

Coral reef

Shape

Softer, rolling reef waves, the outer reef attenuates the swell energy, producing more manageable waves

Length

50–150m

Skill Level

  • •Who it's for: Intermediate
  • •Why: The lagoon setting provides natural protection and the wave is less intense than Réunion's outer reef breaks.

Hazards

  • •Coral reef throughout, booties recommended
  • •The outer reef break (outside the lagoon) is shark territory
  • •Boat traffic inside the lagoon

Local Tips

  • •L'Hermitage lagoon is one of Réunion's most beautiful snorkelling and kite-surfing areas, bring a mask and explore after your surf.
  • •The turtle nesting beach at the south end of the lagoon is a protected natural heritage site.

Location

Map showing the location of L'Hermitage in West Coast, Reunion Island

-21.0167, 55.3167