Visiting Océanopolis, the best aquarium in Brittany
A highlight of Finistère
As a unique European center for the scientific promotion of marine ecosystems, Océanopolis, located in Brest, draws over 400,000 visitors every year, making it one of the top tourist destinations in the region. A must-see stop along the Breton coast, you will be struck by its shark tank featuring an impressive panoramic elevator, engaging interactive exhibits, and regular innovations like deep-sea animal displays, a world first, alongside rare species such as the Roscoff flatworm, honeycomb worm, and lugworm.
A marine park founded by two scientists
Created 30 years ago on the initiative of Eric Hussenot and Jean-Paul Alayse, two CNRS researchers, the aquarium museum originally named Maison de la Mer quickly proved popular with families and passing travelers alike. Expanded in the 2000s, it grew into a true marine park spanning 8,700 square meters, featuring sixty-eight aquariums housing 1,000 species representing more than 10,000 marine animals and plants.
4 areas to explore
The crab-shaped building is impossible to miss. It is divided into 4 areas: the otter trail, home to animals as touching as they are playful, alongside the polar, tropical, and Brittany pavilions. You will be amazed by the vivid colors of its 700 tropical fish, including clownfish made famous by the animated film Finding Nemo, blue-spotted stingrays, and Napoleon and mandarin fish. An exceptional bonus: you can even touch penguins or feed the seals!
A vibrant venue hosting various events throughout the year
All year round, Océanopolis hosts events like the oceanographic adventure film festival, the Science Festival, and Researchers' Night. Check the schedule in advance!
To fully experience everything it has to offer, plan for 3.5 hours or even a full day for your visit. On-site amenities include a restaurant, a sandwich shop, outdoor picnic tables, and children's play areas.
Opening hours
*Information subject to change
I had read that this was one of the most beautiful aquariums in France, and I was a little disappointed. I preferred the ones in La Rochelle and Le Croisic, which were better maintained and better laid out. The aquarium, divided into several pavilions, mainly features fish, rays, and sharks in somewhat cramped spaces. The viewing areas are small and sometimes quite dirty. I did enjoy the otters and the seals, which you don't see often.
Heads up, the place is currently undergoing renovations. A friend went there recently during the construction, and two buildings were closed. Sure, she got a discounted rate, but she couldn't see much. I recommend waiting for the whole site to reopen before you go.