Cap Méchant
A black basalt headland on the 'Wild South' coast, where giant waves crash and screw pine groves provide shade. It is the emblem of the island's untamed shoreline.
Cap Méchant lies west of Saint-Philippe and is the most iconic stretch of Réunion's 'Wild South' (Sud Sauvage). Black basalt headlands formed by recent lava face the Indian Ocean, where swells from the south crash against the reef and send spray several metres high, contrasting sharply with the bright green vacoa (screw pine) groves inland. The site has a free car park, picnic areas and a coastal trail, and nearby restaurants are known for Creole cooking. Swimming is prohibited. When taking photos near the cliff edge, keep well back from slippery rocks and surging waves. It can be combined with the spice garden and the Grand Galet waterfall.
Opening hours
All day
Nearby sights
- Jardin des Parfums et des Épices
- Cascade de Grand Galet
- Piton de la Fournaise
- Plaine des Sables
- Grand Brûlé & Route des Laves
- Grande Anse
- Cité du Volcan
- Anse des Cascades