The Reunion Island's climate is tropical with 300 day of sunshine and warmth throughout the year. The air temperature varies between 24º and 35º. The water temperature varies between 23º and 29º throughout the year. At the west coast or “leeward coast” of the Island the climate is drier and warmer than at the east coast or “windward side” of the island.
The tropical climate of Reunion Island is softened by the influence of the Indian Ocean and the trade winds. The omnipresent mountains, separate the island into two parts: "high" where the temperature is cool, and "low" where the temperature is warm.
The seasons are reversed compared to the Metopolitan France: from May to October, and summer from November to April. The months of January to February are peak seasons for the summer (hurricane season), the months of July to August are the coolest in the winter. The shoulder seasons are particularly pleasant. From April to September it is dry and cool and therefore the ideal time for hiking. The wet season (October to March) is warmer and more humid, it is also called flowering period, or bathing season.
