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Aquarium · Biarritz, Nova Aquitânia
Aquarium de Biarritz
The aquarium of Biarritz, in an Art Deco building opposite the Rocher de la Vierge: fish from the Bay of Biscay, the Caribbean and the Indo-Pacific, sharks, turtles and the seals' feeding on the terrace.
Illustrative images. The pictures in this guide are illustrations based on the real place, not photographs, and may differ from it.
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About Aquarium de Biarritz
The Aquarium de Biarritz occupies the Art Deco building of the former Musée de la Mer, on the esplanade opposite the Rocher de la Vierge. The museum began in the 19th century as a natural history cabinet and, after an extension completed in 2011, came to present the ocean in three major parts: the Bay of Biscay, which bathes the Basque Country, the Caribbean and the Indo-Pacific.
In the North Atlantic section are the fish and invertebrates of the Basque coast and the Landes, those familiar to the fishermen of Biarritz and Saint-Jean-de-Luz. In the tropical sections, the tanks display corals, sea turtles and rays, and a large shark tank, one of the highlights of the visit. There are also jellyfish tanks.
On the terrace, outdoors, is the seal pool, where the staff feed the animals at scheduled times, and there is an open view of the coast. The aquarium also takes in seals found stranded on the Basque and Landes coastline. Together with the Cité de l'Océan, about 3 km away, it forms the Biarritz Océan complex, with a combined ticket.
Before you go
Practical information
Cidade Turismo reviews its information regularly, but something may have changed. Check with the place before planning your trip.
How much time to set aside
About an hour and a half; longer if you want to see the seals being fed.
Best time
On rainy days, when the promenade loses its appeal, and early at opening to avoid queues during French school holidays and in summer. Check the seals' feeding times before you go.
How to get there
It is on the esplanade by the Rocher de la Vierge, about a 10-minute walk from the centre of Biarritz. City buses stop near the promenade.
Tip
Buy tickets via the official website during busy periods. Combine the visit with the Rocher de la Vierge and the fishermen's port right next door. Those who want to learn more about the ocean and surfing can add the Cité de l'Océan, near Milady beach.
Official website
Get your questions answered
Frequently asked questions about Aquarium de Biarritz
Is the Aquarium de Biarritz the same as the Musée de la Mer?
Yes. The aquarium operates in the art-déco building of the former Musée de la Mer, opposite the Rocher de la Vierge, and now uses the name Aquarium de Biarritz.
How long does a visit to the Aquarium de Biarritz take?
About an hour and a half, including the seals' terrace. Check the seals' feeding time to fit it into your visit.
Is there a combined ticket with the Cité de l'Océan?
Yes. The aquarium and the Cité de l'Océan form the Biarritz Océan complex and sell a combined ticket. The Cité is about 3 km away, near the Milady beach. Check the official website for conditions.