Marineland of Antibes

Zoo Marine park and aquarium on the Côte d'Azur

A coastal marine park near Antibes combining aquaria, seal and dolphin presentations, and themed exhibits; families and school groups visit for close encounters with marine species.

Marineland of Antibes is a marine-themed zoological park and aquarium on the Antibes headland of the French Riviera, opened in 1970. It is a purpose-built leisure park focused on captive marine species and visitor exhibitions.

The site features large aquarium galleries, an underwater tunnel with sharks and reef displays, and dedicated arena spaces for marine-mammal presentations. There are multiple exhibit zones for different species and a family amusement area with seasonal shows and play facilities.

The park was developed and expanded from its opening in 1970 with successive installations to house large aquaria and animal arenas. Over the decades it has added visitor facilities and exhibit halls to accommodate tourism on the Côte d’Azur.

The park sits on the Mediterranean coast at Antibes on the Côte d’Azur, approximately 20 km west of Nice and adjacent to Antibes town and beaches.

Opening and location: The park opened in 1970 and sits on the Antibes headland on the Côte d'Azur, making it easy to combine with nearby beaches and the town of Antibes.
Best time to visit: Shows and animal presentations are scheduled throughout the day; arriving for early sessions reduces crowding and gives better photo opportunities.

What to See #

Aquarium and shark tunnel: Large aquarium galleries include a tunnel with sharks and tropical fish displays, with multiple themed tanks showing coastal and pelagic species.
Dolphin and sea-lion arenas: Arena spaces used for marine-mammal presentations and demonstrations, including a purpose-built dolphin/sea-lion arena and visitor seating.
Family and visitor area: Family and amusement area with playgrounds and seasonal shows, adjacent to the park's animal exhibits.

How to Get to Marineland of Antibes #

From Antibes train station take the local bus (often advertised as Line 200) toward Marineland or drive west on the A8 and follow signs for Antibes/Marineland. There is on-site parking; shuttles operate from some nearby towns in high season.

Tips for Visiting Marineland of Antibes #

Arrive early for the orca and dolphin shows - seating fills fast and morning light is better for photographs.
Take the bus from Antibes train station (local Line 200) or drive along the A8; there is ample parking but traffic on summer weekends can be heavy.
Visit the marine mammal enclosures in the morning when animals are most active; the aquarium exhibits are better later in the day if daily shows create crowds.