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Zoos

Seaquarium Institut Marin

4.3 · 20,297 reviews
Educational and focused
Seaquarium Institut Marin, Av. du Palais de la Mer Hall Seaquarium, 30240 Le Grau-du-Roi, France
Interesting facts
1

The Requinarium houses the largest concentration of shark species on display in Europe.

2

The facility serves as a certified rescue and care center for stranded sea turtles found along the French Mediterranean coast.

3

Exhibitions include a 'Plastic Zone' dedicated to educating visitors on the impact of microplastics on marine ecosystems.

4

The onsite research team actively participates in regional monitoring programs for local Mediterranean fish populations.

Overview

Seaquarium Institut Marin is a major marine research and conservation center located in Le Grau-du-Roi, France. The facility houses over 2,000 marine animals representing 200 species across multiple themed exhibition zones. A central feature is the 'Requinarium', a two-level space dedicated to the observation and study of various shark species. The institute focuses on Mediterranean marine biodiversity and environmental education through its interactive 'Marine Institute' wing. Visitors can observe harbor seals and California sea lions in dedicated outdoor enclosures. The site serves as a rehabilitation center for rescued sea turtles in collaboration with regional conservation networks. It includes specialized zones for tropical reef fish, jellyfish, and deep-sea crustaceans. The architecture incorporates large-scale viewing tunnels that allow for immersion into the tank environments.

Photo spot

The shark tunnel in the Requinarium, which provides a 360-degree view of the tanks.

Insider tips

Check the daily feeding schedule for seals and sea lions upon arrival as these are the most popular demonstrations.

Visit the Requinarium levels slowly, as the lighting is dimmed to enhance visibility of the sharks, which requires eye adjustment.

The building is fully climate-controlled, making it a reliable indoor activity regardless of coastal weather conditions.

What to avoid

Do not rush through the initial 'sea bottom' sections; the most complex and large-scale habitats are located deeper within the facility.

Good to know

Open daily, including public holidays; typically remains open throughout the year with the exception of December 25th.

Plan your visit
Typical visit
2.5-3 hours
Best time to visit
Weekday mornings during the shoulder seasons (May, June, September) to avoid peak tourist crowds and school group surges.
Address
Seaquarium Institut Marin, Av. du Palais de la Mer Hall Seaquarium, 30240 Le Grau-du-Roi, France
43.527, 4.141
Get directions
Details
Key exhibitsRequinarium, Seal and Sea Lion enclosure, Sea Turtle rehabilitation unit

Frequently asked

Plan for about 2.5-3 hours to see the highlights.

The best time to visit is Weekday mornings during the shoulder seasons (May, June, September) to avoid peak tourist crowds and school group surges..

The shark tunnel in the Requinarium, which provides a 360-degree view of the tanks.

Close by you'll find Amigoland, Plage Nord, Plage de l'Espiguette.