Cité de l'Océan A fun, experimental and sensational experience in Biarritz

At the Cité de l'Océan, every visit becomes a true adventure : fun, immersive, and educational. Thanks to virtual reality experiences and 3D and 4D films, dive into the mysteries of the ocean, explore its rich biodiversity, and understand the importance of its preservation. A must-visit destination to experience the ocean in a whole new way, starting from age 6.

The surf zone lets you step into the shoes of a surfer. With Surf Sensation 5D, feel the motion of the board, the wind, and the sea spray… an immersive experience where fiction meets reality. With Virtual Surf, take on seven legendary waves as you aim for a spot on the podium. For the most daring, a unique challenge awaits: face Belharra, the legendary Basque wave, reaching heights of 10 to 20 meters and speeds of up to 50 km/h, an XXL surfing thrill.

The journey continues in virtual reality and 4D with Virtual Trip 360°, an immersive voyage to meet the ocean's inhabitants. Swim among 700 sharks in the Fakarava reserve in French Polynesia. Then take off in a 360° helicopter flight over the Basque coast with Seaborg, an exhilarating and one-of-a-kind adventure in Europe. Finally, explore the polar regions aboard a bathyscaphe, thanks to the 4D dynamic cinema and its special effects, for an unforgettable journey through the North and South Poles.

In the 112-seat auditorium, the film Secret of the Sea 3D takes you on a 40-minute journey into the heart of marine life. It highlights fascinating symbiotic relationships between species, revealing astonishing behaviors that ensure survival in a sometimes-hostile environment.

The submarine and polar stations complete the visit with educational content accessible to all: Why is the sea salty? What animals live at the North Pole? Clear and engaging answers make learning fun for everyone.

The Cité de l'Océan is open all year round, except in January. Check opening hours and ticket prices.

Virtual reality experiences are available from age 6. The Seaborg experience is accessible from a height of 142 cm.