Behind the scenes tour
Discover the backstage of the Aquarium de Biarritz with our behind-the-scenes tour. For the first time since the Aquarium’s creation, you can join one of our aquarist technicians and experience the daily life of those who care for our residents.
Discover the teams’ daily work
During one hour, enter restricted areas usually closed to the public and explore the behind-the-scenes work of our teams. You will have the opportunity to discover:
Animal quarantine area
The quarantine zone is a specially designed space to care for animals needing special attention. It is essential for welcoming new arrivals before integrating them into the main tanks, isolating sick or injured animals for treatment, and monitoring individuals under stress.
Meal preparation in the kitchen
Our aquarist technicians work daily to feed hundreds of animals. Each species has its own diet: fish, crustaceans, mollusks, vegetables… Meals are prepared carefully according to each animal’s nutritional needs.
Feeding the green turtles
A highlight of the tour, feeding the green turtles offers a unique chance to observe these majestic marine reptiles up close. These herbivores especially enjoy salads and certain vegetables. Visitors can participate in feeding and learn more about the turtles’ dietary habits and lifestyle.
Coral propagation
Coral propagation is a vital conservation method: by taking small fragments of healthy coral, we can grow and reintroduce them into tanks or even their natural habitats. This technique helps preserve fragile coral reef ecosystems.
XXL filtration systems
Located near the ocean, the Aquarium de Biarritz pumps seawater directly at the cliff’s base. Huge filtration systems run 24/7 to ensure optimal water quality.
Jellyfish laboratory
The Aquarium houses a lab dedicated to jellyfish breeding. These fascinating and delicate creatures are raised in a closed circuit using special tanks called “kreisels” that mimic ocean currents. Their complex life cycle is closely monitored by aquarists.
Shark feeding from above
From above the tank, visitors watch an aquarist feed the sharks. Contrary to popular belief, sharks are not voracious predators constantly eating; they are fed several times a week with carefully selected fish.
Book a visit
Tours run twice a month, on Wednesdays and some Sundays until December 2025. Places are limited to 10 people per tour and accessible from age 8. Tickets must be purchased online in advance.
Tours depart at 3 pm from the Aquarium boutique on the Atalaye plateau.
Behind the scene tour tickets : € 15
Behind the scene + Aquarium pass :
- Adult : € 29
- Reduced price : € 26
- Child (8 years and older) : € 24