The Top 7 Saint Leu Reunion Tours & Things To Do

Saint Leu on Reunion Island is a fantastic spot for those who love the water and the outdoors. Its proximity to vibrant coral reefs, marine wildlife, and inviting bays makes it a prime location for memorable marine excursions. We particularly enjoy the Cetaceans and marine animals outing—a relaxed, small-group experience to see dolphins, whales, and other marine life in their natural habitat.

Plus, if you’re curious about trying your hand at diving, there’s a variety of options suitable for all comfort levels, from introductory courses to guided dives for certified divers.

Whether you’re a snorkeler eager to explore coral reefs or a foodie wanting to learn Creole cooking, Saint Leu offers something authentic and exciting.

Quick Overview

This list covers a range of experiences in Saint Leu—from marine wildlife tours like cetacean outings, to introductory and guided scuba dives (see here, guided dives), to fun snorkeling trips (more info). Food lovers can enjoy a Reunion Island Cooking Workshop that dives into Creole flavors (details here). Read on for a detailed look at each activity to find the perfect fit for your trip.

1. Cetaceans and marine animals outing

At number one, the Cetaceans and marine animals outing offers a 3.5-hour adventure in the water with a small group—max six people—focused on spotting whales, dolphins, and other ocean wildlife.

This tour stands out because of its personalized attention and relaxed atmosphere, perfect for animal lovers who want a calm, educational experience. The crew emphasizes safety and training, making it suitable even for those new to marine excursions.

Guests are treated to a close-up look at the coral reef and are taught about the local ecosystem by instructors with a friendly approach. The intimate group size means you’ll receive plenty of personalized guidance. It’s a favorite among travelers who enjoy up-close marine animal encounters without the crowds of larger tours.

The reviews highlight the expertise of the guides and the “unforgettable wildlife sightings.” Expect to see dolphins leaping alongside the boat and possibly even whales during peak season.

Bottom line: If you’re after an intimate, educational, and wildlife-focused experience, this tour offers excellent value and a memorable day at sea.

2. Introductory dive, to get started!

Next is the Introductory dive, which provides a 20-minute supervised exploration in the bay of Saint Leu. For just $120 per person, you’ll get a taste of what it’s like to breathe underwater and see the vibrant marine environment up close, at a depth of up to 6 meters. This experience is perfect for absolute beginners who want to see if diving might become a new hobby.

Led by experienced instructors, the class emphasizes safety and teaching, making sure you’re comfortable before entering the water. The luminous waters are home to a variety of fish and marine mammals, and you’ll get to learn about the local ecosystem firsthand.

This tour is ideal for travelers with limited time or those nervous about full certification. Reviewers mention the “friendly guides” and the relaxed atmosphere as big highlights.

Bottom line: For a quick, safe, and fun introduction to scuba, this tour delivers an authentic experience and is great for those curious about diving without a big commitment.

3. One-hour introduction to scuba diving!

For those ready to experience the underwater world more fully, the One-hour introduction is designed for beginners eager to try diving in a group or with a partner. Priced at $160, this course introduces you to basic scuba techniques and guides you through exploring the Nature Reserve around Saint Leu.

The SSI Basic Diver course is structured to provide safety training and hands-on discovery—your instructor will share methods used to ensure confidence in the water. The immersion in luminous waters full of colorful fish and coral formations makes this a favorite for first-timers.

The lively, friendly atmosphere ensures you’re comfortable throughout, and many participants say it’s a “great way to start diving.”

It’s a perfect choice if you want a guided, half-day experience that gives you a real feel for underwater exploration. It’s also suitable for travelers with some swimming experience but no prior diving certification.

Bottom line: If you’re curious about diving and want a safe, guided, short introduction, this option offers a memorable taste of the underwater world.

4. Snorkeling trip with fins, mask, and snorkel on the coral reef

Number four is the Snorkeling trip that takes you into the St-Leu lagoon, a protected Marine Nature Reserve. For just $80, you’ll be guided by an instructor who shares teaching methods that make snorkeling accessible to all levels. The tour promises an unforgettable moment exploring vibrant coral formations and swimming among schools of colorful fish.

This trip is designed for anyone comfortable in the water; no certification needed. The instructors focus on safety and enjoyment, offering tips that help even beginners feel confident in the water. The reef itself is a breathtaking sight, with clear waters perfect for observing marine life.

What makes this trip appealing is its value—affordable, short, and full of fascinating sights. The reviews mention the friendly atmosphere and the beautiful reef as standout features. It’s ideal for families, couples, or solo travelers wanting a relaxed, hassle-free experience.

Bottom line: Snorkeling here offers an easy, affordable way to enjoy the marine biodiversity of Reunion’s protected waters without the need for extensive training.

5. Reunion Island Cooking Workshop Enjoy the heart of Creole flavors.

Number five takes you into the gourmet world of Reunion Island with an authentic Cooking Workshop. For $76 per person, you’ll learn how to prepare iconic Creole dishes guided by a passionate local chef. This hands-on experience is perfect for food lovers who want to connect with the island’s culinary traditions.

Under the chef’s watchful eye, you’ll pass on ancient knowledge and skills, learning about traditional ingredients and cooking techniques. The workshop offers an authentic activity that balances education with fun, and many participants mention the warm, friendly atmosphere. It’s a great way to take home a taste of Reunion, both literally and figuratively.

While it doesn’t include a full meal, you’ll get to enjoy the dishes you prepare, making this a delicious highlight of your trip. The focus on passion and tradition makes it stand out from more touristy cooking classes.

Bottom line: If you love food and want an immersive experience that highlights Creole flavors, this workshop offers delicious memories and new skills.

6. Guided exploration for certified divers (N1, PE20, Open Water min.)

For certified divers, the Guided exploration is designed to take you to 20 meters depth in Saint Leu’s waters. Costing $87, it provides an expert-guided dive through the local marine environment, perfect for those with N1, PE20, or Open Water certification.

The emphasis here is on safety and discovery. Your instructor will guide you past fish, marine mammals, and coral formations, helping you get the most out of your underwater experience. Many divers appreciate the personalized guidance and the chance to explore less crowded spots than larger dive tours.

This is an excellent option for divers looking to see the marine biodiversity without the constraints of a full certification course. The reviews reflect the quality of instruction and the memorable underwater sights.

Bottom line: For experienced divers wanting a guided exploration, this tour delivers safety and discovery at a reasonable price.

7. Independent exploration for certified divers (N2, PA20 min.)

Finally, if you’re a certified diver with N2 or PA20, the Independent exploration lets you dive without a guide. At $60, it’s the most budget-friendly option for experienced divers confident in navigating reefs on their own.

You’ll explore at your own pace within the safety parameters, as instructors supervise the safety and training aspects. The reef is home to various fish and marine mammals, making it a worthwhile dive for those comfortable with independent navigation. Many divers enjoy the freedom this offers, especially if they’ve visited the spot before and want to revisit specific areas.

This tour is suited for experienced divers who prefer autonomy but still want some supervision for safety reasons. It’s a cost-effective way to enjoy the marine environment.

Bottom line: If you’re a confident diver seeking independence, this dive provides a flexible, affordable experience in Reunion’s waters.

How to Choose

When selecting the best activity in Saint Leu, consider your budget, experience level, and what kind of experience you’re after. For a relaxed, wildlife-focused outing, the cetacean tour is ideal—especially in whale season. If you’re new to diving, the introductory or one-hour courses will give you a safe taste of underwater exploration.

Snorkelers will love the coral reef trip, which requires minimal skills. Food lovers should not miss the Cooking Workshop.

Certified divers who want guided exploration or independence have excellent options with the guided dives or the self-guided dive. Think about how much time you have, your skill level, and your interests.

Booking early is recommended, especially during peak whale season (typically July through October) and for popular activities like diving and whale watching.

Final thoughts

Saint Leu offers a wide range of activities that cater to water lovers and cultural enthusiasts alike. For those seeking a personalized wildlife experience, the cetaceans outing is unmatched.

If underwater exploration appeals but you lack certification, the introductory courses and snorkeling trips give you a safe and affordable taste of the ocean. Foodies should savor the Creole cooking workshop to connect with local flavors.

No matter your interests, Saint Leu is a place where water-based adventures come with the added bonus of stunning scenery and warm local hospitality. Be sure to plan ahead and book early, especially if you’re traveling during busy seasons—these experiences are well worth the effort.