Ocean and marine life enthusiasts will be delighted: near our Bidart campsite, in the heart of Biarritz, lies an aquarium that will enchant children and adults alike – the Sea Museum.
From sharks to jellyfish: Aquatic biodiversity showcased in Biarritz
7,000 animals from 500 different species thrive in the tanks of the Biarritz Aquarium. This must-visit tourist spot in the Basque Country features no less than 45 aquariums divided into multiple zones: the Indo-Pacific Ocean, the Caribbean, Australian species, sharks, and jellyfish. Among the species you can observe are the snipefish, long-snouted seahorse, Moorish idol, octopus, ocellaris clownfish, cuttlefish, and lionfish. You can even admire sharks (blacktip reef shark, zebra shark, and hammerhead shark), turtles (green turtle, loggerhead turtle), and rays. Don't miss the jellyfish tanks either. They gently drift along with the currents in basins illuminated with shifting colors, creating a mesmerizing spectacle. Throughout the day, 15-minute animations take place in the aquarium’s main areas:
- Hide and seek in the mangrove: A caretaker guides you through the mangroves, explaining their ecological role while helping you spot guitarfish, tarpons, and jacks hiding among the roots.
- Face-to-face with sharks: At the giant tank, an animator introduces the various species, including the iconic hammerhead shark.
- Meeting the turtles: Discover the differences between turtle species, learn what they eat, and understand how to distinguish a female from a male.
The seals of Biarritz: Rescue and entertainment
Few aquariums in France host seals, but at the Biarritz Sea Museum, these marine creatures are a visitor favorite. The museum’s uniqueness lies in its rescue center, which rehabilitates stranded harbor seal pups found along the beaches of the Pyrénées-Atlantiques and Landes. Caretakers nurse them back to health, releasing them once they regain their strength and recover from injuries. Some seals, however, remain as residents of the museum due to insufficient autonomy for survival in the wild. These decisions, made with the Ministry of Environment’s approval, ensure the well-being of these animals. Depending on the time of year, the museum houses an average of three to six seals. Don’t miss their feeding sessions, held daily at 10:30 AM and 5:00 PM on the panoramic terrace, which offers stunning views of Biarritz, the Atalaye Plateau, and the Virgin’s Rock. More than just feeding, this is a true spectacle, as the seals perform small tasks like swimming through hoops or climbing rocks to earn their mackerels. These entertaining shows are complemented by educational insights about these fascinating animals – a highlight of any visit!
The maritime heritage of the Basque Country at the Biarritz Aquarium
The Biarritz Aquarium was aptly named the "Sea Museum" in its early days. This space, dedicated to honoring the ocean and its wonders, goes beyond displaying fish and marine animals. It’s a full-fledged museum celebrating the ocean. During your visit, take time to observe whale skeletons, admire an 18th-century diving suit, and learn about the history of Basque Country whaling. You’ll also find an enormous narwhal tusk, harpoons, and ancient navigation instruments. While this section might captivate adults seeking historical and cultural insights, it tends to interest children less. For more information on the Sea Museum (pricing, schedules, activities), visit the aquarium’s website. Note that a combined ticket is available, granting access to both the aquarium and the Cité de l’Océan, another Biarritz attraction dedicated to the ocean. During your Basque Country holiday at our campsite, be sure to include a family visit to this unforgettable museum!