Seaquarium du Grau-du-Roi
Explore a vibrant underwater world with over 200 species, from sharks to seals, in this popular marine life center.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, calmer experience
Seaquarium du Grau-du-Roi
Best Time
Fewer crowds, calmer experience
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Explore a vibrant underwater world with over 200 species, from sharks to seals, in this popular marine life center.
"One of the best oceanariums in France, offering a cozy and attractive experience for all ages."
🚗 Parking Pointers
Parking can be tricky, especially during peak season. Arrive early or consider alternative transport if possible.
💧 Beat the Heat
A great indoor escape from the summer sun. Perfect for a hot day when the beach is too much.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Shark & Ray Tanks
Main exhibition halls
Marvel at diverse species of sharks and graceful rays gliding through expansive tanks.
Seal & Sea Lion Show
Dedicated show area
Enjoy entertaining and educational shows featuring playful seals and sea lions.
Diverse Marine Life
Various themed exhibits
Discover over 200 species, from tiny seahorses to impressive large marine creatures.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Beat the Crowds
Plan Your Visit Duration
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚗 Parking Pointers
Parking can be tricky, especially during peak season. Arrive early or consider alternative transport if possible.
💧 Beat the Heat
A great indoor escape from the summer sun. Perfect for a hot day when the beach is too much.
🦭 Seal Show Fun
Don't miss the seal and sea lion show; kids absolutely love it!
📸 Selfie Spot Alert
Be mindful of others; some visitors focus heavily on selfies, which can be disruptive.
Tips
from all over the internet
🚗 Parking Pointers
Parking can be tricky, especially during peak season. Arrive early or consider alternative transport if possible.
💧 Beat the Heat
A great indoor escape from the summer sun. Perfect for a hot day when the beach is too much.
🦭 Seal Show Fun
Don't miss the seal and sea lion show; kids absolutely love it!
📸 Selfie Spot Alert
Be mindful of others; some visitors focus heavily on selfies, which can be disruptive.
📱 WiFi Woes
Don't rely on the WiFi; it reportedly doesn't work well.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise the Seaquarium for its diverse marine life, including impressive shark and ray tanks, and the entertaining seal shows, making it a hit with families. However, some express concern over the welfare of larger animals and note that the venue can become extremely crowded, impacting the overall experience.
"Large aquarium with lots of different areas and break out rooms.
We have been to aquariums all over but this one is very good with the variety of fish and sharks to see.
The kids loved it, there is lots of toilets and lifts available throughout the whole experience.
It took us around 1 hour and half to get around the whole tour followed by a gift shop and cafe at the end."
Liam Stone
"One of the best oceanariums I have visited in France. I think it’s pretty cozy and definitely can be an attractive touristic spot in summer."
Kirill Maksimkin
"Nice way to get out of the heat. But apparently everyone else in the entire south France has the same idea.
Parking a car was not the easiest.
Saw lots of fish. Some very large things. Some tiny things. The shop was good. WiFi didn't work."
Douglas Silverstone
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Seaquarium is located in Le Grau-du-Roi. If driving, follow signs for the town center and the aquarium. Parking can be challenging during peak times, so arriving early is recommended. Public transport options might be limited, so checking local bus routes in advance is advisable.
Yes, parking is available, but it can be difficult to find, especially during the busy summer months. Visitors have noted it's not always easy to park.
For families, driving might offer the most convenience, but be prepared for parking challenges. Consider checking local shuttle services or taxis if available, especially if you're staying nearby.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Ticket prices can vary, and it's best to check the official Seaquarium website for the most up-to-date pricing for adults, children, and any potential family packages. Booking online in advance might save time.
Opening hours can change seasonally. It's crucial to check the official Seaquarium website for current operating times before your visit, especially if planning a trip during holidays or off-season.
Tickets are generally available for purchase at the door, but during peak season, buying online in advance is a good strategy to avoid long queues and ensure entry.
The Seaquarium may offer discounts for groups, students, or families. Inquire directly with the aquarium or check their website for specific offers and eligibility criteria.
The Seaquarium is generally accessible, with lifts available throughout the experience, making it easier for visitors with mobility issues.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
You can see a wide variety of marine life, including over 200 species, sharks, rays, seals, and sea lions. There are also dedicated break-out rooms and exhibits to explore.
Most visitors spend around 1.5 hours to complete the entire tour, including the gift shop and cafe.
Yes, there is a show with seals and sea lions that is worth visiting, especially for children. Check the daily schedule upon arrival for showtimes.
Absolutely! Children often love the variety of fish, sharks, and the entertaining seal show. The aquarium is designed to be engaging for younger visitors.
The aquarium is described as cozy and can be an attractive spot, though it can get very crowded, leading some visitors to feel sadness for the larger animals in captivity.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, there is a cafe located at the end of the tour, near the gift shop, where you can grab refreshments.
Information on bringing outside food and drinks is not readily available. It's best to check the Seaquarium's policies on their official website or inquire upon arrival.
The cafe typically offers snacks, drinks, and light meals suitable for a quick break during your visit.
📸 📸 Photography
Photography is generally allowed, but be mindful of flash usage, as it can disturb the animals. Some areas might have specific restrictions.
The large shark and ray tanks offer dramatic photo opportunities. The colorful fish exhibits also make for vibrant shots.
While generally permitted, avoid using flash photography, especially in darker exhibits, to protect the animals' well-being.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
With lifts available throughout, navigating the aquarium with strollers is manageable. While it can get crowded, visiting on a weekday morning can offer a more relaxed experience. The 1.5-hour tour duration is also ideal for keeping children engaged without them getting too tired.
💰 Budget Travelers
Look for potential family packages or group discounts if applicable. Bringing your own snacks and drinks might be a way to save money, though it's best to confirm the aquarium's policy on outside food.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Marine Life & Conservation
However, some visitors have expressed concerns about the welfare of larger animals, such as sea turtles and sharks, feeling that their confinement in smaller spaces is disheartening and not in line with modern conservation ethics. This perspective suggests a tension between the educational and entertainment aspects of the aquarium and the ethical considerations of keeping large marine animals in captivity.
Despite these concerns, the variety of species and the engaging displays, particularly the shark and ray tanks, remain a significant draw for many visitors, offering a glimpse into the underwater world that is otherwise inaccessible.
Visitor Experience & Crowds
However, the popularity also means that parking can be a considerable challenge, and the aquarium can feel overcrowded, with some visitors noting that 'everyone else in the entire south France has the same idea.' This can detract from the experience, with some feeling the focus on selfies by other visitors is disruptive.
Despite the potential for crowds and parking issues, the aquarium is generally considered a good experience, especially for families, offering a solid 1.5-hour tour followed by a gift shop and cafe.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit