Get up-close to an array of sharks, watch animals being fed and learn about Biarritz’s whaling history at this museum and aquarium.
Enjoy a fascinating display of ocean life and maritime history at the Sea Museum (Musée de la Mer). Get within touching distance of sharks, spot multicolored fish and witness playful seals being fed. Learn about the various seas and oceans of the Gulf Stream.
The museum’s exhibits are spread over four floors. The first three floors showcase the fauna, flora and whaling history of the Bay of Biscay. Spot conger eels, giant octopus and seahorses on the first floor. See displays of model ships, navigational instruments, nautical charts and hunting equipment on the second floor. Check out the reconstructions of whale and dolphin skeletons. The third floor is where you can find a green sea turtle and loggerhead turtle.
The fourth floor is home to marine life from the Gulf Stream ocean regions: the Caribbean, Indo-Pacific and North Atlantic. Hold a starfish and watch seal feedings. Spot tropical fish such as the clown fish and the venomous red lionfish. Don’t miss the impressive shark tank, home to hammerhead, reef and zebra sharks, as well as barracudas, groupers and rays.
Situated in the Old Harbor (Port Vieux), the Sea Museum is a short walk from Biarritz’s city center. Parking is available for a fee at Place Sainte-Eugénie, which is a 5-minute walk from the museum. Present your car park ticket at the museum’s reception to receive a parking discount. A free shuttle bus stops close to the museum and connects with other city attractions, such as Côte des Basques beach.
The museum is open daily from April to October and has reduced opening times during the rest of the year. Seal feedings take place daily and shark feedings take place on Monday, Wednesday and Friday.A combined admission ticket is available for those that want to also visit the Cité de l’Océan (City of the Ocean) science center. Find the complete opening hours, admission fees and feeding times on the official Musée de la Mer website.
