Limited space to rig on sand covered with abrasive dead coral. The launch area is small, bordered downwind by a stone wall and shared with beachgoers: extreme caution is required. The riding area in the lagoon doesn't allow for very long runs. Additionally, it's dotted with coral heads, and near the reef barrier the water becomes very shallow, which considerably reduces the depth. For these reasons, learning kitesurfing at this spot is strongly discouraged. A marine reserve prohibited to all human activity adjoins the riding area. It is marked by yellow landmarks. All information is available on the association's website. We share the riding area with windsurfers, canoes and more recently, a sailing school and even some swimmers: caution and respect required!!!
Photo gallery of Petit Trou d'Eau - Saline-les-Bains Site
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Technical details of Petit Trou d'Eau - Saline-les-Bains Site spot
Spot functioning map
Local association recommendations
FFVL certified spot
Spot functioning
Leaving La Saline les bains, heading toward St Leu, the spot is on the right at the place called "Petit trou d'eau", before the roundabout of the dancers (steel sculpture). The parking lot also serves 2 identifiable restaurants: "La petite vague" and "La marmite". Bus stop 50m away.
Required level
Advanced
Spot opening date
Open all year round
Spot currently open :-)
Hazards
Launch area bordered by a wall, coconut trees and a restaurant terrace... downwind! The area is also frequented by beachgoers. For these reasons, extreme caution is necessary when launching, especially in very gusty wind conditions! While riding: shallow lagoon depth and presence of coral. This area is dedicated to water activities but swimmers can be found. As beaches are limited in Reunion (lagoon), it is necessary to take these swimmers into account at least within a 25m band (one line length). This problem is particularly present in summer when beach attendance is high. It's appropriate to courteously inform the reckless of the danger (especially with blinding sun reflections in late afternoon). For freestyle, practice in the few coral-free areas!
Wind specificities
The optimal conditions at La Saline (trou d'eau) are in South-Southeast winds. In winter, the wind is often gusty and very strong (35 knots). The more Southeast it is, the more likely it is to be irregular (on/off mode). In summer, the wind, outside of cyclonic conditions, is weak (breezes of 12 to 18 knots).
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