Saint-Leu is one of Réunion's better small coastal bases: relaxed enough for a beach day, but with more to do than simply stare at the lagoon. It spreads along the island's sunny west coast, backed by dry slopes and old agricultural land that once grew coffee, sugar cane, and geranium.
The town is best known for surf. Saint-Leu's left-hand wave is famous in Réunion, and the waterfront still has a working, local feel between the beach, fishing, and small restaurants. Even if you do not surf, the coast is good for a slow walk and a sunset.
Saint-Leu also has a useful cluster of sights. Kélonia turns the old turtle-breeding station into a sea-turtle observatory and rescue centre. South of town, Musée du Sel explains the island's last salt works, while Musée Stella Matutina gives the deeper story of sugar and plantation life on Réunion.