Aquarium La Rochelle A unique journey to dream and understand the sea

A dive into the heart of the oceans…

Located in the heart of La Rochelle, opposite the Old Port, the La Rochelle Aquarium is one of the largest private aquariums in Europe. Every year, 800,000 visitors, young and old, embark on a two-hour underwater journey to discover 12,000 marine animals and 600 marine species.

An experience to enjoy all year round

If you are planning to explore Charente-Maritime, Aquarium La Rochelle is a must-do indoor activity, whatever the season. Open all year round in the heart of the city, it offers around two hours of visiting time sheltered from rain and intense heat, making it an ideal outing in any weather.

The tour takes visitors on a true journey across the world's oceans, from the Atlantic coast to the distant horizons of the Indo-Pacific. Spread across five major biogeographical zones, the visit immerses visitors in a variety of atmospheres, where the diversity of species, the richness of forms and the intensity of colours invite a sense of escape. During the summer months, the regulated temperature also provides a welcome alternative to the heat outside.

Whether visiting alone, as a couple, with friends or as a family, everyone can explore the 84 aquariums at their own pace, suited to all ages. The gift shop and catering areas round off the experience, which can easily be extended with a stroll along the Old Port or through the historic city centre.

The venue is fully accessible to people with reduced mobility. Several municipal car parks are nearby, including the Encan car park, just a short walk from the Aquarium.

2026 highlights

To mark its 25th anniversary, Aquarium La Rochelle invites visitors to enjoy brand-new experiences. A captivating journey into the heart of the marine world awaits, with new universes to explore: coming face to face with the great species of the Atlantic through a sensory and immersive crossing, being mesmerised by the fluorescence of a coral reef, and going behind the scenes in a space dedicated to the work of keepers and biologists, where everyone becomes an actor in the preservation of the marine world.

A committed La Rochelle institution

The La Rochelle Aquarium is more than just an exhibition space. It plays a vital role in the protection of marine species and ecosystems. In particular, it houses a Sea Turtle Research and Care Center, the only one of its kind on the Atlantic coast. Since the center's creation, over 370 turtles have been treated and released back into the ocean. The aquarium also participates in numerous scientific projects in collaboration with national and international scientific communities to contribute to the advancement of knowledge about the marine environment. Finally, significant work on the reproduction of marine species is carried out at the Aquarium. Drawing on its expertise built up over the years, half of the 12,000 marine animals on display, such as jellyfish, corals, cuttlefish, and seahorses, have been bred on-site.

To extend the experience:

• The Mémoires d'Océans shop at the end of the visit.
• The Brasserie Là-Haut and its panoramic terrace on the second floor of the Aquarium.

Practical information

• Location: Quai Louis Prunier, La Rochelle.
• Visit duration: approximately 2 hours.
• It is strongly recommended to buy your tickets online, especially during school holidays.
• Accessible to people with reduced mobility.
• Animals are not allowed during visits.
• All exits are final.