Origin and history of the San Sebastián Aquarium
The San Sebastián Aquarium, also known as Aquarium Donostia, was born from a passion for the sea and science at the beginning of the 20th century. The spark was lit in 1903 with the visit of Prince Albert I of Monaco, renowned oceanographer, whose enthusiasm for oceanography inspired the creation of an institution dedicated to the study of the ocean. Thanks to its influence, the Society of Oceanography of Gipuzkoa (SOG) was founded in 1908, laying the foundations for the future aquarium and promoting pioneering exhibitions such as the one in 1913, which fascinated the San Sebastian public.
The construction of the current building, then known as Palacio del Mar, began in 1925 next to the recently inaugurated New Walk, in the port of Donostia. The architect Juan Carlos Guerra designed an emblematic building at the foot of Mount Urgull. The San Sebastián Aquarium was inaugurated on September 1, 1928 by Kings Alfonso XIII and Victoria Eugenia, becoming the first museum dedicated to natural sciences in Spain. Its main objective: to promote education and oceanographic research, as well as to disseminate the marine wealth of the Basque Country.
For decades, the Aquarium combined a naval museum on its upper floors – with models of ships, nautical instruments and historical objects – with fish tanks that showed the fauna of the Cantabrian Sea. It established itself as one of the most visited attractions in the city, with more than 11 million visitors throughout the 20th century. The Provincial Council of Gipuzkoa supported it from the beginning, and the SOG received the San Sebastián Gold Medal in 1984 for its scientific and informative work.
Starting in 1996, the San Sebastián Aquarium underwent a thorough renovation. In 1998, the large Oceanarium with 360º tunnel was inaugurated, a revolutionary structure that allows visitors to walk underwater surrounded by sharks and other species. A second renovation, between 2007 and 2008, unified the historic building with the new facilities. The official reopening took place in 2009 with the presence of Kings Juan Carlos and Sofia, and Princess Carolina of Monaco, symbolically closing the cycle started by her great-uncle a century before.
Today, the Donostia Aquarium is managed by the Oceanographic Foundation of Gipuzkoa, successor to the SOG since 2002. In addition to its recreational role, it maintains a strong educational and scientific vocation, participating in research, captive breeding and environmental awareness activities.
Curiosities and anecdotes from the Aquarium
The history of the Aquarium is dotted with memorable episodes. The skeleton of a right whale captured in 1878 between Zarautz and Getaria has hung since 1934 in its main room, impressing generations of schoolchildren and visitors. Also noteworthy is the visit in the 70s by the famous commander Jacques Cousteau, which moved the center’s staff.
One of the most emotional anecdotes occurred in 2017, when a female common octopus gave birth to thousands of babies in captivity, a milestone in the history of the Donostia Aquarium. Also in 2024, three sea turtles (Achilles, Pirata and Portu), rehabilitated after being found badly injured on the coast, were released into the sea from Donostia, in an event full of emotion.
Another little-known facet is that the San Sebastián Aquarium produced some of the first scientific documentaries on fishing and marine life in the 1920s and 1930s. In addition, it hosted a fishing school for children of fishermen, reinforcing its connection with the local fishing community.
The main protagonists: outstanding wildlife of the Aquarium
The Aquarium houses more than 200 marine species, but some have become true icons that arouse the amazement and affection of the visiting public. One of the most emblematic elements is the skeleton of a right whale, suspended since 1934 from the ceiling of the main room. This impressive 12 meter long structure represents the last large cetacean hunted off the coast of Gipuzkoa, between Zarautz and Getaria, in 1878. Over the decades, it has been seen by generations of schoolchildren and tourists who, looking up as soon as they enter, are overwhelmed by its majestic presence.
But the true living protagonists of the San Sebastián Aquarium are found underwater. In the heart of the Oceanarium live the bull sharks Txuri and Kontxita, two impressive specimens that slide solemnly through the 360º tunnel. Their names, which evoke symbols of the city (Txuri means “white” in Basque and Kontxita refers to La Concha Bay), are already known by the aquarium’s regulars. These sharks, which reach three meters in length, have become the true stars of the enclosure. Their imposing teeth and hypnotic movement fascinate both children and adults, especially during public feeding sessions, which take place three times a week: Tuesdays, Thursdays and Saturdays at 12:00.
Along with them, another animal that attracts attention is the large loggerhead turtle (Caretta caretta), which navigates calmly among silver fish and manta rays. Many visitors wonder if it is the oldest turtle in the aquarium, because of the calmness with which it glides between the currents of the main tank. Their presence adds a serene dimension to the marine spectacle and offers a perfect opportunity to talk to the little ones about the conservation of these threatened species.
Furthermore, in the themed aquariums, there are real “celebrities” among the little ones. The colorful clownfish and blue surgeonfish, popularized by Pixar animated films, delight children, who stop to look for them among the anemones. The Mexican axolotls (axolotes) also stand out, amphibians with a friendly appearance and fascinating for their capacity for regeneration, which have been very well received recent additions. Their permanent “smiles” and almost fantastic appearance have made them one of the most photographed animals.
Of course, there is also space for local Cantabrian species: sea bass, groupers, scorpion fish, moray eels, starfish and octopuses, all perfectly contextualized in habitats that simulate the rocky environment of the Basque coast. In some tanks, stingrays glide across the bottom like sea kites, while phosphorescent jellyfish float with hypnotic beauty in darkened rooms that accentuate their magic.
Some animals have gained fame for their particular history. This is the case of the Petra seal, which lived for a season in the Donostia Aquarium after being rescued on the French coast, or the octopuses born in 2017, whose reproduction in captivity was a scientific and media event. And, more recently, the turtles Achilles, Pirata and Portu made their return to the sea after an emotional rehabilitation.
In short, the San Sebastián Aquarium not only houses animals: it gives them prominence, gives them names, assigns them stories. And by doing so, it allows each visitor to make a personal connection with them. Whether out of admiration, tenderness or pure curiosity, each marine being in the aquarium has the power to awaken emotions and leave an indelible mark on those who cross its underwater corridors.
Visiting the Aquarium: practical information and tips
Located in the heart of the port of San Sebastián, right where the emblematic Paseo Nuevo begins and a few meters from the famous La Concha Beach, the San Sebastián Aquarium enjoys a truly privileged location. This proximity to the sea and the historic center makes it a natural stop for both tourists and residents who enjoy a walk along the bay.
The building, which elegantly merges its historic stone façade with a modern glass entrance resulting from its expansion, represents a balance between tradition and architectural renewal. Its integration with the coastal and urban environment is harmonious, and it is part of the usual landscape of those who frequent this area of Donostia.
From the upper terrace of the Aquarium, located above the exhibition rooms, you can see some of the best panoramic views of the city. La Concha Bay opens up imposingly before the visitor, with Mount Igueldo in the background, Santa Clara Island in the center and the bustling promenade in the foreground. Even if one does not visit the interior of the aquarium, going to its terrace or cafeteria already justifies the visit due to the visual pleasure that this unique enclave offers.
Hours:
- 🕒 Winter: Weekdays from 10:00 to 19:00; weekends and holidays until 8:00 p.m.
- ☀️ Summer (July and August): Every day from 10:00 to 21:00.
- ❌ Closed: January 1, January 20 (San Sebastián) and December 25.
Prices (2024-2025):
- 👤 Adults: 13 €
- 👧 Children (4-12 years): 6,50 €
- 🧑🎓 Youth (Youth Card) and 👵 Over 65 years: 9 €
- 👶 Children under 4 years: Free
It is recommended to buy tickets online, especially in high season or on rainy days. There are discounts for groups and school visits.
What to see at the San Sebastián Aquarium: featured spaces
- Naval Museum and historical rooms: Exhibition of models, navigation instruments, maps and scenes of Basque seafaring life.
- The Oceanarium: 1.5 million liter tank with 360º tunnel. Bull sharks, manta rays, turtles, moray eels and schools of silver fish swim here.
- Thematic aquariums: More than 30 tanks dedicated to the Cantabrian Sea, the Atlantic and tropical habitats, with species such as clownfish, axolotls and phosphorescent jellyfish.
- Interactive zone: Ideal for families, it allows you to touch some marine species under supervision.
- Temporary exhibitions and workshops: From underwater photography to educational initiatives during school holidays.
Tips for families and special experiences
The San Sebastián Aquarium is fully accessible for baby strollers. To avoid crowds, it is recommended to visit early in the morning or during nap time. There are benches to rest and a cafeteria at the end of the route.
Among its most notable activities are:
- Sleeping with fish: Educational night camping for groups of children.
- Diving with sharks: For intrepid adults, under professional supervision.
- Feeding sessions: Especially the shark ones, at 12:00 on Tuesdays, Thursdays and Saturdays.
After the visit, you can walk through the Old Port, climb Mount Urgull or walk along Playa de la Concha. The Aquarium is part of the city’s main tourist attractions.
Conclusion
El Aquarium San Sebastián is much more than an aquarium: it is a window to the ocean, a museum with more than a century of history and an active scientific institution. From children marveling at “Nemo” to adults thrilling under the shark tunnel, every visitor finds an unforgettable experience here. On your next visit to Donostia, immerse yourself in this marine jewel: history, science and emotion in one place.
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
