Your questions
QUESTIONS? YOU’RE NOT ALONE!
Have a question about your visit to the Aquarium de Biarritz? Find here answers to the most common inquiries: access, services, prices, activities… and much more.
Practical Information
How long does the visit last?
An average visit lasts about 1h30 (outside school holidays).
The visit is not time-limited. Take your time to enjoy the marine worlds, attend the seal feeding (10:30 am and 5:00 pm every day), or get mesmerized by the hypnotic jellyfish ballet.
Even more if you want to complete your collection on the Aquazoom app.
Please note: no re-entry is allowed once you leave. votre collection sur l’Application Aquazoom.
Toute sortie est définitive.
What are the Aquarium’s opening hours? Is it open on Sundays?
The Aquarium de Biarritz is open on Sundays and public holidays (except December 25th). For more details, please check the Opening Hours page.
Can I leave the Aquarium and re-enter later with the same ticket?
No. The visit must be completed in one continuous session. Re-entry with the same ticket is not allowed.
What payment methods are accepted at the ticket office and the shop?
At the ticket office:
- Cash
- Credit cards (Visa, Mastercard)
- ANCV / ANCV Connect
At the shop:
- Cash
- Credit cards (Visa, Mastercard)
Is the visit route entirely indoors?
Most of the visit is indoors. However, the seal pool (and the seal feeding) can be viewed from the outdoor terrace on the 3rd level.
From what age can a child visit the Aquarium alone?
Children aged 16 and over may visit alone. Children under 16 must be accompanied by an adult.
Can I visit behind the scenes at the Aquarium?
Yes, behind-the-scenes visits are possible (in French). For more info, see the Behind the Scenes Visit page.
With a combined ticket, do you have to visit the Aquarium and the Cité de l’Océan on the same day?
It depends on the type of ticket you have.
If your combined ticket is non-timed (outside school holidays), you can visit the Aquarium of Biarritz and the Cité de l’Océan on two different days, within one year of purchase (outside school holidays).
However, during school holidays or peak periods, tickets are time-stamped. You must then choose a date and time at the time of purchase for each visit, and show up at the date and time indicated on your tickets.
Prices and Reservations
What is the advantage of getting a combined ticket for the Aquarium of Biarritz + the Cité de l’Océan?
The combined ticket gives you access to both sites at a reduced price — a great way to save money and make the most of your visit to Biarritz!
It’s also the perfect opportunity to enjoy a complete edutainment experience focused on the ocean:
- At the Aquarium of Biarritz, dive into the living marine world, from the Basque coastline to tropical reefs,
- At the Cité de l’Océan, explore major ocean, climate, and surf issues through interactive and immersive experiences.
Two complementary approaches to learn, be amazed, and better understand the marine universe.
What is the price for children under 4 years old?
Entry is free for children under 4.
Are there special family rates?
Yes, family rates are available. See the Prices page for details.
Are group rates available and how to book for a group?
Yes, special rates are offered for groups. To book, please contact our dedicated team or visit the Groups page.
What are the benefits of an Aquarium subscription?
Subscriptions grant unlimited access for one year plus exclusive perks (5% discount in the shop). For details, see the Prices page.
Services
Is there parking at the Aquarium?
The Aquarium does not have private parking, but several public parking lots are nearby, plus shuttle and municipal parking options.
Can I eat on-site?
It is forbidden to eat along the visitor path.
For your comfort, a catering offer is available on site.
From April to November, Olatua welcomes you for lunch, snacks, or simply a drink or coffee… Ideally located, it offers a lovely view of the seal terrace and the ocean. No reservation needed.
The Rooftop restaurant is only accessible outside the visitor path. No reservation needed.
From December to March, the Negua restaurant remains accessible (12 pm–2 pm) from the seal terrace. Reservation required.
For more information, see the Food & Drinks page.
What payment methods are accepted on-site?
Ticket office accepts cash, Visa, Mastercard
The shop accepts cash, Visa, Mastercard.
Is there a souvenir shop?
Yes, the Aquarium has a shop with gifts and souvenirs. See the Shop page for details
Can I leave my belongings in a cloakroom?-on déposer ses affaires dans un vestiaire ?
No. Due to security regulations (Vigipirate plan), no cloakroom is available. Also, entry and exit are at different locations.
Are audio guides available?
No audio guides. However, “species fact sheets” are next to each tank, and the Aquazoom interactive app offers games, quizzes, and species info for a fun discovery.
Accessibility
Is the Aquarium stroller-friendly?
Yes, equipped with elevators for stroller access. However, since the building dates from 1933 with an Art Deco staircase, a baby carrier is recommended for easier movement.
Is the Aquarium accessible for people with reduced mobility?
Yes, adapted routes and elevators allow full access. See the Accessibility page for more.
Can I bring my dog or other pets?
No pets allowed due to living species and veterinary regulations. Only guide and assistance dogs are permitted under conditions.
For details, see Article 13 of the decree dated March 25, 2004, published in the Official Journal on April 1, 2004.
Is the signage understandable for non-French speakers?
Information is available in French, English, and Spanish throughout the visit.
Can I photograph the fish?
Photography is allowed, but flash is prohibited to protect the fish.
Where does the seawater come from?
Seawater is pumped directly from the ocean, then filtered and sterilized onsite before filling the tanks.
Around the Aquarium
What to do around the Aquarium?
Extend your visit by exploring the Port-Vieux district, one of Biarritz’s most iconic areas. Just steps away, enjoy ocean views from the impressive Rocher de la Vierge, stroll along Esplanade Sainte-Eugénie, or swim in the sheltered Port-Vieux cove. Continue your marine immersion at the Cité de l’Océan, where science and thrills meet. For cultural outings, the Biarritz History Museum, lighthouse, lively market halls, Grande Plage, and Côte des Basques beach are nearby.
Why Choose the Aquarium de Biarritz?
The Aquarium offers a unique experience in the heart of the city, with stunning views of the Atlantic Ocean. Known for its spectacular tanks and diverse species, it is committed to marine protection and public education. The free Aquazoom app enhances your visit with exclusive content, quests, and games. The Aquarium combines heritage, wonder, and awareness in a vibrant place where science, emotion, and natural beauty converge.
And you, who are you?
Discover the Aquarium of Biarritz according to your profile:
You are a family — what to do in Biarritz with children?
The Aquarium is an ideal activity to share with children.
Little ones are captivated by the jellyfish, turtles, and sharks, while older kids enjoy the quizzes on the Aquazoom app.Don’t miss the seal feeding, every day at 10:30 am and 5:00 pm.
The route is fully stroller accessible. At the exit, enjoy the Aquarium shop to bring home a souvenir of your visit.
You are a couple — what to do in Biarritz for a romantic outing?
Treat yourself to a moment suspended in a poetic setting.
The play of light in the tanks, the jellyfish ballet, the elegance of the rays, and the mystery of the depths create an atmosphere perfect for wonder.
The visit is ideally followed by a lunch with an ocean view on the Rooftop!
You are a senior and looking for a cultural outing in Biarritz?
The Aquarium welcomes you on a sheltered, comfortable route dotted with benches for breaks.
Take your time to observe, understand, and be surprised at your own pace.
You are alone and want to experience a rewarding visit?
L’Aquarium est un lieu parfait pour une exploration en solo. Vous vous laissez guider par votre curiosité, choisissez vos temps d’arrêt, et découvrez les espèces à travers l’application Aquazoom. C’est une visite apaisante et parfaitement adaptée aux visiteurs autonomes.
You’re coming with friends and looking for an activity in Biarritz?
Enjoy an original group outing: compare your answers in the Aquazoom app and take souvenir photos in the various areas.
After the visit, you can have lunch at Olatua or its Rooftop.
You are a group and looking for a fun outing?
Specific offers are available for groups (more than 20 people).
Preferential rates, personalized support, and the possibility of guided tours: our team is at your disposal to organize a tailor-made, educational, and friendly outing.
Visit the Groups page to learn more.